Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel
Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, daily-use triple acid facial peel featuring 5.5% AHAs (Glycolic + Lactic Acid), 0.18% BHA (Salicylic Acid), and 3.0% PHA (Gluconolactone) to reduce the appearance of pores, smooth skin texture, and boost radiance. Balanced with soothing Copper Gluconate to minimize discomfort.
Triple Acid Technology
Combines AHA, BHA, and PHA to target three surface layers of skin for comprehensive exfoliation without irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Acid Technology
Combines AHA, BHA, and PHA to target three surface layers of skin for comprehensive exfoliation without irritation.
+26% Smoother Texture
Clinically proven to visibly smooth skin texture in just 4 weeks of consistent use.
Copper Gluconate Soothing
Balanced with Copper Gluconate to minimize redness and discomfort from acid exfoliation.
Daily-Use Formula
Gentle enough for twice-daily use, making it ideal for building a consistent exfoliation routine.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.18% salicylic acid. While below the 2% threshold, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. Glycolic and lactic acids are generally considered safe.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 60 and Arginine which may feed malassezia yeast in the presence of lipids.
Oil-free, water-based formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ during the day when using this product, even on cloudy days.
Contains soothing Copper Gluconate, Panthenol, and Allantoin to calm potential irritation from acids.
Initial purging or slight flaking may occur as skin cell turnover increases. This typically resolves within 2-4 weeks.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid ~4%Gold Standard
The smallest AHA molecule, derived from sugar cane, that penetrates deeply to exfoliate dead skin cells, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin texture and tone.
- Source: Sugar cane derived alpha hydroxy acid
- Benefit: Smooths fine lines, fades hyperpigmentation, boosts radiance
- Research: Proven to increase hyaluronic acid production in skin
Lactic Acid ~1.5%Gentle AHA
A gentler AHA with larger molecules that exfoliates the skin surface while also providing hydrating properties. Helps diminish fine lines and even skin texture.
- Source: Naturally occurring in milk, synthetically produced for skincare
- Benefit: Gentle exfoliation + hydration, ideal for sensitive skin
- Research: Also functions as a humectant to draw moisture to skin
Salicylic Acid 0.18%BHA
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum and debris, helping to unclog pores and prevent acne breakouts.
- Source: Derived from willow bark, related to aspirin
- Benefit: Unclogs pores, controls oil, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Oil-soluble nature allows deeper pore penetration than AHAs
Gluconolactone 3.0%PHA
A polyhydroxy acid with larger molecules that exfoliates more gently than AHAs while providing antioxidant benefits and attracting moisture to the skin.
- Source: Derived from gluconic acid
- Benefit: Gentle exfoliation, humectant properties, antioxidant
- Research: Studies show PHAs do not increase sun sensitivity like AHAs
Copper Gluconate TraceSoothing
A copper salt known for promoting cellular regeneration and wound healing. Gives the formula its natural blue color while soothing acid-induced irritation.
- Source: Copper cation + gluconate anion
- Benefit: Reduces redness, calms discomfort, promotes healing
- Research: Copper peptides have been shown to support skin barrier repair
23 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Glycolic Acid, Gluconolactone, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water, Propanediol, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Panthenol, Allantoin, Salicylic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Copper Gluconate, Coco-Betaine, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Arginine, Disodium Phosphate, Polysorbate 60, Sodium Phosphate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing on dry skin. Wait 2-3 minutes if using toner first. Follow with serums and moisturizer. Always use SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with your regular cleanser. Pat dry completely.
Dispense Product
Shake gently, then dispense 3-4 drops onto your fingertips or saturate a cotton pad with the liquid.
Apply Evenly
Apply all over face and neck, avoiding the immediate eye area. Do not rinse off - this is a leave-on treatment.
Continue Routine
Follow with your serum (like Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution), moisturizer, and SPF 30+ in the morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without harsh peeling
- You have dull skin that needs a radiance boost
- You're concerned about enlarged pores and texture
- You're new to chemical exfoliants and want to start gentle
- You want to prep skin for better serum absorption
- You have dark spots or hyperpigmentation
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 60)
- You're pregnant and haven't consulted your doctor
- You want a stronger, weekly-use peel for dramatic results
- You have extremely sensitive or compromised skin barrier
- You're already using prescription retinoids at high doses
- You have active rosacea flare-ups
- You're looking for a budget-friendly option
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESBHA penetrates oil to unclog pores. Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Helps control excess sebum.
Triple acid blend addresses both oily T-zone and drier areas effectively. Balances well across different face zones.
Perfect for maintaining healthy skin. Boosts radiance and prevents dullness. Can use twice daily without issues.
PHA provides gentle exfoliation with hydrating properties. May need richer moisturizer on top. Start once daily.
Copper Gluconate soothes irritation. Fragrance-free formula. Patch test recommended. Start every other day.
Low-dose BHA helps unclog pores. Non-comedogenic formula. May cause initial purging. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate Radiance Boost
Skin feels smoother to the touch. Surface dead skin cells begin to shed. Some may experience mild tingling or initial purging.
92% noticed brighter complexionTexture Improvement
Visible reduction in rough patches. Pores appear less congested. Skin absorbs other products more effectively. Purging may subside.
88% saw improved hydrationVisible Transformation
Clinically proven 26% smoother skin texture. Minimized appearance of pores. More even skin tone and enhanced radiance.
91% agreed skin appears smootherLong-Term Benefits
Continued improvement in fine lines and dark spots. Skin appears more youthful and refined. Optimal results with consistent use.
88% saw minimized poresRatings by platform
750+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle enough for daily use without over-exfoliating
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture and radiance
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight, non-sticky formula absorbs quickly
- Copper Gluconate effectively soothes irritation
- Works well as a pre-serum to boost product absorption
- Helps minimize appearance of pores over time
- Clean formula free from parabens and harsh ingredients
Criticized
- High price point for the 1 oz bottle size
- Results require patience - not instant
- Initial purging or flaking may occur
- Not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 60
- Glass dropper bottle not ideal for travel
- Lower acid concentration than some competitors
- Must use sunscreen daily due to increased sensitivity
- Some find it too gentle for stubborn concerns
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESMuch stronger formula (30% AHA vs 5.5%). Use only 1-2x weekly, not daily. More dramatic results but higher irritation risk. No PHA or soothing ingredients. Best for experienced acid users.
BHA-only formula (no AHA or PHA). Better for purely oily/acne-prone skin. Larger 4 oz size. More focused on pore clearing than overall resurfacing. Can be used daily.
Lower acid concentration, more like a prep toner. Contains natural AHA from apple water. Gentler introduction to acids. Larger 5.07 oz size. K-beauty favorite.
Pre-soaked pads for convenience. Contains glycolic and lactic acid. Also includes licorice root and lemon peel. 60 pads per jar. Good for travel and beginners.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEKiehl's Triple Acid Peel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Mark your open date on the bottle for reference.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required but can extend shelf life.
Glass dropper bottle with blue-tinted formula. Protects actives from light degradation.
Yes, TSA-compliant at 1 oz / 30ml. Glass bottle may require extra padding for protection.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This product contains 0.18% salicylic acid, which is below the 2% threshold generally considered safe during pregnancy by ACOG. However, glycolic and lactic acids are generally considered safe for topical use. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before using any acid-based products during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If approved, avoid applying to areas that may come in contact with your baby's skin.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 60 and Arginine, which can potentially feed malassezia yeast when used in the presence of lipids (oils/fats) that naturally occur on skin. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant or products verified as fungal acne safe.
Use caution when combining with other actives. Avoid using with additional AHA/BHA products in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. If using retinol, apply them at different times (peel in AM, retinol in PM) or on alternate nights. Vitamin C can be used in the morning after the peel has absorbed, but if irritation occurs, use them at different times of day. Always introduce new combinations gradually.
This product is excellent for oily, combination, and normal skin types. It's also good for dry and sensitive skin when used once daily with proper moisturization. The gentle formula makes it suitable for acid beginners. However, it's not recommended for those with fungal acne, severely compromised skin barriers, or active rosacea flare-ups.
Most users notice an immediate radiance boost within the first week. Significant texture improvement typically appears by weeks 2-3. Clinical studies show 91% of users agreed their skin appeared smoother after 4 weeks, with 26% measured improvement in skin texture. For best results, use consistently for 8+ weeks. Initial purging may occur in the first 2 weeks.
Apply after cleansing on dry skin, before serums and moisturizer. If using a toner, wait 2-3 minutes after toner application. This is a leave-on treatment - do not rinse. Follow with your serums (it pairs well with Kiehl's Dark Spot Solution), then moisturizer, and always finish with SPF 30+ in the morning.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's an oil-free, water-based formula that's unlikely to clog pores for most skin types. In fact, the BHA component actively works to unclog pores by dissolving sebum. However, individual reactions vary, so patch test first if you're prone to congestion.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain efficacy. The glass dropper bottle helps protect the active ingredients from light degradation. If the formula changes color significantly or develops an off smell, discontinue use.
Verdict: Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel is an excellent gentle-yet-effective daily exfoliant that delivers on its promises of smoother texture and enhanced radiance. The unique combination of AHA, BHA, and PHA with soothing Copper Gluconate makes it suitable for most skin types, including those new to chemical exfoliation. While the price point is higher than some alternatives and it's not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin, the fragrance-free, clean formula and clinically-proven results make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a sophisticated daily peel that won't compromise their skin barrier.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|







