The $14 face-clearing solution going viral on TikTok

Gen Z’s favourite social media platform TikTok is a place for funny videos, choreographed dances, movie character impersonations, pranks and now it seems, beauty advice.

When TikTok user @kaelynwhitee uploaded a video of her skin after using The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, her review went completely viral with the brand reporting the video triggered the sale of a whopping 55,000 units of the product within two weeks.

Whoa.

In the TikTok video, @kaelynwhitee shows before and shots of her face and the footage shows a dramatic reduction in her acne scarring as well as an improvement in overall skin tone and clarity.

So, how does this stuff work?

The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is formulated with an extreme 30 per cent alpha-hydroxy acids along with 2 per cent beta hydroxy acid to slough away dead surface skin cells and reveal brighter, clearer skin.

For that reason, it’s not suitable for beginners inexperienced with chemical peels. In fact, the product’s packaging warns:

“This formula contains a very high concentration of free acids. We recommend use only if you are an experienced user of acid exfoliation and your skin is not sensitive.”

If you're looking for some other at-home peel options to try, we've got some recommendations.

For something a little less concentrated, try The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. Or, for a gentle option that even sensitive types can use, we love Skinstitut Enzymatic Micro Peel. And, if you're a fan of multitasking products, Biossance Squalane + Glycolic Renewal Facial Mask exfoliates, smooths and hydrates in one step.

If you’re looking for more product recommendations for dealing with acne scarring, check out some of our faves.

Main image credit: @romeestrijd