Skintific 12% AHA BHA PHA LHA Peeling Solution Versus The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Updated on March 04, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both cruelty-free and reef safe exfoliators. They have a total of 4 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain AHA and BHA
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, dry skin, brightening skin, oily skin, reducing pores, scar healing and better texture
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
Skintific 12% AHA BHA PHA LHA Peeling Solution 26 ingredients
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution 11 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Skintific 12% AHA BHA PHA LHA Peeling Solution 26 ingredients
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution 11 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningGlycolic Acid
Buffering
Lactic Acid
Buffering
Succinic Acid
BufferingSodium Hydroxide
BufferingSalicylic Acid
Masking
Niacinamide
Smoothing
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid
Exfoliating
Gluconolactone
Skin Conditioning
Lactobionic Acid
Buffering
Glycerin
Humectant
Xanthan Gum
Emulsifying1,2-Hexanediol
Skin Conditioning
Hydroxyacetophenone
Antioxidant
Butylene Glycol
Humectant
Propylene Glycol
Humectant
Enantia Chlorantha Bark Extract
Skin ConditioningGardenia Florida Fruit Extract
Skin ConditioningGlycerophosphoinositol Choline
Skin ProtectingBacillus Ferment
Skin Conditioning
Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract
HumectantPhenoxyethanol
Preservative
Potassium Sorbate
Preservative
Ethylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningOleanolic Acid
Skin ConditioningCyclodextrin
AbsorbentWater, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Succinic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Gluconolactone, Lactobionic Acid, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Enantia Chlorantha Bark Extract, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Glycerophosphoinositol Choline, Bacillus Ferment, Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Oleanolic Acid, Cyclodextrin
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is a well-known ingredient for treating skin that struggles with acne and clogged pores. It exfoliates both the skin's surface and deep within the pores to help clear out buildup, control oil, and reduce inflammation.
Unlike AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This allows it to penetrate into pores which makes it especially effective for treating blackheads and preventing future breakouts.
Salicylic acid is also known for its soothing properties. It has a similar structure to aspirin and can calm inflamed or irritated skin, making it a good option for acne-prone skin that is also sensitive.
Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.
It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing this ingredient into your routine.
While salicylic acid does not increase sun sensitivity, it’s still important to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.
Learn more about Salicylic AcidSodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.
In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.
Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.
"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.
Learn more about Sodium HydroxideWater. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterIngredient Ratings
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When to use
Skintific 12% AHA BHA PHA LHA Peeling Solution 26 ingredients
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution 11 ingredients
Reviews
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