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Max Complexion Correction Pads

Max Complexion Correction Pads

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

Dual-action exfoliating pads saturated with maximum-strength 2% Salicylic Acid and a potent 10% Glycolic Acid Complex to clear breakouts, unclog pores, smooth texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Double-sided pads offer gentle cleansing on one side and superior textured exfoliation on the other.

2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) 10% Glycolic Acid Complex (AHA) Sulfate-Free (SLS/SLES) Phthalate-Free Double-Sided Pads Botanical Soothing Complex
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Format
Pre-Soaked Pads
Count
60 Pads
Price
$49.00
Cost/Pad
$0.82
Skin Type
Oily / Combo
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Dual Acid Exfoliation

Combines 2% BHA (salicylic) to penetrate pores with 10% AHA (glycolic) to exfoliate the skin surface for a comprehensive chemical peel in one swipe.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Liquid-Soaked Pad
Scent
Peach Bellini
Absorption
30–60 seconds
Finish
Matte / Clean

Dual Acid Exfoliation

Combines 2% BHA (salicylic) to penetrate pores with 10% AHA (glycolic) to exfoliate the skin surface for a comprehensive chemical peel in one swipe.

Double-Sided Pad Design

Smooth side delivers gentle cleansing action; textured side provides superior physical exfoliation for deeper pore refinement.

Botanical Soothing Complex

Aloe vera, chamomile, green tea, and allantoin help calm potential irritation from the potent acid blend, leaving skin balanced.

Swipe-and-Go Convenience

No mixing, no rinsing required. Simply swipe across the face after cleansing for instant chemical exfoliation in seconds.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Formula is free of fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and ferments that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. No pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Designed for oily and acne-prone skin types.

High Alcohol Content

Contains approximately 46% Alcohol Denat. Can be very drying, especially for dry or sensitive skin. Always follow with moisturizer.

Contains Fragrance

Includes Fragrance/Parfum and multiple fragrance allergens (Linalool, Limonene, Citral, Geraniol). May irritate sensitive or reactive skin.

Sun Sensitivity

Both glycolic acid and salicylic acid increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential when using this product.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Salicylic Acid 2%Proven

A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve the sebum and dead skin cells that cause blackheads, whiteheads, and acne breakouts.

  • Mechanism: Keratolytic action loosens the bonds between skin cells inside pores, clearing blockages from within.
  • Clinical Data: Multiple studies confirm 2% salicylic acid significantly reduces acne lesion count, sometimes outperforming benzoyl peroxide with less irritation.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Structurally related to aspirin, salicylic acid also reduces redness and swelling around blemishes.
Maximum OTC strength. Start with once daily and increase gradually. Not recommended during pregnancy.

Glycolic Acid Complex 10%Proven

An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane that exfoliates the skin surface by dissolving the bonds holding dead cells together, promoting cell turnover and revealing brighter, smoother skin.

  • Mechanism: Water-soluble acid that works on the skin surface to remove dull, dead cells and stimulate collagen production over time.
  • Anti-Aging: Clinical studies show 10% glycolic acid improves fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and overall skin texture with regular use.
  • Synergy: Combined with BHA, provides both surface and within-pore exfoliation for a comprehensive treatment.

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice —Proven

A natural soothing and hydrating agent that helps counterbalance the drying and irritating effects of the dual-acid formula.

  • Benefit: Contains polysaccharides and vitamins that calm inflammation, provide mild hydration, and support skin healing.
  • Role in Formula: Acts as a buffer to reduce potential irritation from the high-concentration acid blend.

Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract —Proven

A powerful antioxidant rich in EGCG polyphenols that protects skin from free radical damage while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollutants.
  • Anti-Sebum: Studies suggest green tea extract can help regulate sebum production in oily skin types.

Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract —Promising

A gentle botanical extract known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties, helping to calm redness and irritation caused by exfoliating acids.

  • Active Compounds: Contains bisabolol and chamazulene, both recognized for anti-irritant and calming effects on the skin.

Allantoin —Proven

A skin-conditioning agent that promotes cell regeneration, soothes irritation, and helps maintain the skin barrier during chemical exfoliation.

  • Wound Healing: Stimulates fibroblast activity and cell proliferation, supporting skin recovery after exfoliation.
  • Keratolytic: Provides mild additional exfoliation and smooths rough texture.

28 ingredients

Salicylic Acid 2%, Alcohol Denat., Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Arginine, Sodium Hydroxide, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Fragrance/Parfum, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract, Allantoin, Triethanolamine, Amyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Limonene, Benzoic Acid, Geraniol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citronellol, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol, Citral, Benzyl Benzoate.

FREE FROM: Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Phthalates, Parabens, Mineral Oil, Silicones, Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Formaldehyde
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
This Product
3
Toner
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Use after cleansing on bare skin, before any serums or moisturizers. Best used in the PM routine. Always apply sunscreen the following morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Wash your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Apply only to clean, bare skin.

2

Choose Your Side

Use the smooth side for gentle cleansing action. Flip to the textured side for superior exfoliation and deeper pore refinement.

3

Swipe Across Skin

Gently wipe the pad across the entire face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Do not scrub. Use light, even pressure.

4

Let It Work

Allow the product to absorb and dry completely. Do not rinse off. Follow with your regular serum and moisturizer.

5

Build Tolerance Gradually

Start with once daily. Gradually increase to twice daily as tolerated. If dryness or peeling occurs, reduce to every other day.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily or combination skin with frequent breakouts
  • You struggle with blackheads, enlarged pores, or rough texture
  • You want both AHA and BHA exfoliation in one convenient step
  • You prefer a quick, no-rinse treatment pad format
  • You are addressing early signs of aging alongside acne
  • You have built up some acid tolerance in your skincare routine

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have very dry or dehydrated skin (high alcohol content will worsen dryness)
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains 2% salicylic acid)
  • You have very sensitive or reactive skin prone to redness
  • You are a complete beginner to chemical exfoliants (start gentler)
  • You are sensitive to fragrance or fragrance allergens
  • You are already using retinoids or other strong actives daily
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Ideal match. Salicylic acid controls oil, glycolic acid refines pores, and the alcohol base helps cut through excess sebum without leaving residue.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Great for targeting the oily T-zone. Focus the textured side on congested areas and use the smooth side on drier cheeks.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Dual BHA/AHA action clears existing blemishes while preventing future breakouts.

Normal Skin
Good

Effective for maintenance exfoliation and preventing congestion. May only need to use 2–3 times per week rather than daily.

Dry Skin
Poor

The high alcohol content (approx. 46%) combined with dual acids can be overly drying. If used, limit to once or twice weekly and follow with a rich moisturizer.

Sensitive Skin
Moderate

Potent formula with fragrance and alcohol may irritate. Patch test first. Some sensitive-skin users report success by limiting use to 2–3 times per week.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 2–3
Day 1–3

Immediate Cleansing & Clarity

Skin feels deeply cleansed after first use. You may notice a slight tingling sensation as the acids begin working. Visible dirt and oil residue on the pad confirms deep cleansing action.

85% noticed cleaner skin immediately
Week 1–2

Reduced Oiliness & Smoother Texture

Oil production begins to normalize. Skin texture feels noticeably smoother. Some users may experience mild purging as trapped congestion surfaces — this is temporary and normal.

70% reported smoother skin
Week 3–4

Visible Pore Refinement & Fewer Breakouts

Pores appear visibly smaller and less congested. Breakout frequency begins to decrease significantly. Skin tone starts to look more even and radiant.

75% saw fewer breakouts
Month 2–3

Clear Complexion & Anti-Aging Benefits

Full acne-clearing benefits are realized with consistent use. Fine lines appear softer thanks to ongoing glycolic acid stimulation of cell turnover. Post-inflammatory marks start to fade.

80% reported significantly clearer skin
09

Ratings by platform

5K+ REVIEWS
Sephora
4.3
Rating
1,600+
Reviews
Main complaint: Strong alcohol smell upon first application; can sting sensitive skin
Ulta Beauty
4.4
Rating
365+
Reviews
Main complaint: Price is high for the 60-pad count; was previously available in 90-pad size
Amazon
4.4
Rating
2,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Concerns about counterfeit products from third-party sellers; some received already-opened jars
Brand Website
4.5
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can be too drying if used twice daily; some users wished for a fragrance-free version
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Highly effective at clearing breakouts and preventing new ones
  • Visibly minimizes pore appearance with consistent use
  • Convenient swipe-and-go pad format saves time
  • Dual AHA/BHA formula addresses acne and aging simultaneously
  • Pleasant peach bellini scent replaces medicinal smell
  • Double-sided design allows customizable exfoliation intensity
  • Impressive at removing leftover dirt and residue after cleansing
  • Helps smooth texture and fade post-acne marks over time

Criticized

  • High alcohol content (~46%) is very drying for non-oily skin
  • Expensive at $49 for 60 pads ($0.82 per pad)
  • Contains fragrance and multiple fragrance allergens
  • Can cause significant stinging and burning on first use
  • Jar packaging is not the most hygienic (fingers dip into product)
  • Previously available in 90-pad count; downsized to 60
  • Too potent for beginners with no acid tolerance
  • Can trigger purging in the first 1–2 weeks of use
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
65% Match
Stridex Maximum Strength Pads (Red Box)
$5.49
Budget Pick

Contains 2% salicylic acid like the PTR pads but lacks the 10% glycolic acid complex. Alcohol-free formula is gentler but less exfoliating. 90 pads for a fraction of the price. No anti-aging benefits, but excellent for pure acne control on a budget.

60% Match
One Step Original Clear Pad
$22.00
Budget Pick

Uses betaine salicylate (a gentler BHA derivative) instead of salicylic acid. Much milder formula without glycolic acid or alcohol. Better for sensitive skin but significantly less potent. 70 pads per jar.

70% Match
Glycolic Fix Night Pads Extreme
$13.49
Budget Pick

Contains glycolic acid for surface exfoliation plus hyaluronic acid for hydration. Lacks salicylic acid so it won't penetrate pores as deeply. More affordable option if your primary concern is texture rather than active acne. 60 pads per jar.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength

Key Actives 7 AHA/BHA Acids + Retinol
Count 30 Treatments (2-step)
Cost Per Treatment $2.93
Alcohol Contains Alcohol Denat.
Fragrance Yes
Best For Advanced Anti-Aging + Peel

First Aid Beauty Acne Clearing Pads

Key Actives 2% Salicylic Acid
Count 60 Pads
Cost Per Pad $0.65
Alcohol Alcohol-Free
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Best For Sensitive Acne-Prone Skin

Stridex Maximum Strength (Red Box)

Key Actives 2% Salicylic Acid
Count 90 Pads
Cost Per Pad $0.06
Alcohol Alcohol-Free
Fragrance Light Fragrance
Best For Budget Acne Treatment
13

Storage & shelf life

24 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

24 months after opening

Storage

Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ensure the lid is sealed properly after each use to prevent the pads from drying out.

Packaging

Screw-top jar with foil safety seal. Double-sided textured pads stacked inside.

Travel Friendly

Classified ORM-D due to high alcohol content. May require ground shipping only. Not ideal for air travel carry-on due to liquid-soaked pads.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

No. These pads contain 2% Salicylic Acid, a beta hydroxy acid that is generally recommended to avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While topical application of low-concentration salicylic acid is considered lower risk than oral intake, most dermatologists and OB-GYNs advise caution. Consult your healthcare provider before using this product if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Yes. The formula does not contain common fungal acne triggers such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. The high alcohol content and acid-based formula actually create an inhospitable environment for yeast overgrowth, making these pads a suitable choice for those dealing with fungal acne.

Use caution when combining with other actives. These pads already contain both AHA (glycolic acid 10%) and BHA (salicylic acid 2%), so layering additional acids on top can cause over-exfoliation, irritation, and a damaged skin barrier. If you use retinol, alternate nights — use the pads one evening and retinol the next. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is best used in the morning if you use these pads at night. Never layer additional AHA/BHA products directly over these pads.

These pads are best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The dual-acid formula combined with high alcohol content is specifically designed to cut through excess oil, clear congested pores, and prevent breakouts. Those with dry or very sensitive skin should exercise caution, as the formula may be too drying and potentially irritating. Normal skin types can benefit from using the pads 2–3 times per week.

Most users report noticeably cleaner, smoother skin within the first 1–2 weeks. Visible pore refinement and reduced breakout frequency typically appear by weeks 3–4. Full acne-clearing and anti-aging benefits (fading of fine lines and hyperpigmentation) generally require 2–3 months of consistent use. Some users may experience a brief purging period in the first 1–2 weeks as congestion surfaces, which is normal with AHA/BHA products.

Use these pads as your second step, immediately after cleansing and before any other products. Swipe across clean, dry skin, then allow to absorb. Follow with toner (optional), serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). These pads replace any separate toner or exfoliant step in your routine. Best used in the evening to avoid daytime sun sensitivity issues.

No. These pads have a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning they carry very low risk of clogging pores. The formula contains no oils, heavy emollients, or known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the product is designed to do the opposite — the salicylic acid actively dissolves pore-clogging sebum and debris, while glycolic acid removes dead skin cells from the surface that can contribute to congestion.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 24 months. However, because the pads are soaked in a liquid solution, it's important to keep the jar tightly sealed between uses to prevent them from drying out. If the pads begin to feel less saturated or the solution has noticeably evaporated, it's time to replace the jar. With daily use, one jar of 60 pads typically lasts 1–2 months.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Peter Thomas Roth Max Complexion Correction Pads are a powerhouse exfoliating treatment that delivers on their promise of clearer, smoother skin. The dual-action combination of 2% salicylic acid and 10% glycolic acid is genuinely effective for oily, acne-prone skin, and the convenient pad format makes daily chemical exfoliation effortless. The main drawbacks are the high alcohol content, the presence of fragrance, and the premium price point. If you have oily or combination skin and can tolerate the potent formula, these pads are one of the most effective OTC acne-fighting and pore-refining treatments available. For sensitive or dry skin types, consider gentler alternatives like the First Aid Beauty Acne Clearing Pads or COSRX One Step Clear Pads instead.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Salicylic Acid Glycolic Acid Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Arginine Allantoin Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Salicylic Acid Glycolic Acid
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2 2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
16% 33% 50%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 30 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
4 B
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
Pores
0 Unknown
Alcohol Denat.
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
4 B
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS