Lyla Lindsey
The Ordinary is a skincare brand that gained popularity by offering a range of active skincare products at affordable prices. However, its 30% AHA and 2% BHA Peeling Solution product has been banned in Australia due to its high acid content, which is considered too strong for general use. The product is deemed pharmaceutical-grade and is restricted for use only in medical or dermatological clinics. This decision is in line with a broader backlash against intense exfoliation products, with consumers reporting chemical burns and increased skin sensitivity after using such products.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | Australia |
| Product | The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution |
| Product Type | Skin Care |
| Product Features | High acid content, intense exfoliation, contains glycolic and lactic acids, salicylic acid |
| Availability | Not available over the counter, banned |
| Reason for Ban | Qualified as pharmaceutical-grade, permitted for use in medical/dermatological clinics only |
| Consumer Risk | Skin burns, increased UV sensitivity, chemical burns, skin cancer risk |
| Alternative Products | Pixi Clarity Concentrate, Australian brand asap serum |
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What You'll Learn
The Ordinary's high acid content
In 2020, several products from the popular skincare brand The Ordinary were banned in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The reason for the ban was due to the high acid content in some of the brand's products, which was seen as a potential health risk to consumers.
The Ordinary is known for its use of direct acids, including glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, which are commonly used in skincare for their exfoliating and skin-renewing properties. While these acids are generally safe and effective when used correctly, the concern in Australia was that the high concentrations in some of The Ordinary's products could potentially cause adverse reactions in some individuals.
One of the key products that fell under scrutiny was The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. This product contains a high concentration of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), offering an at-home chemical peel experience. While chemical peels are a well-known and effective procedure when performed in a clinical setting, the TGA expressed concern that consumers might not be fully aware of the potential risks when using such a potent product at home without proper guidance or supervision.
Another product that contributed to the ban was The Ordinary's Retinoid 2% Emulsion. Retinoids are a class of vitamin A derivatives known for their powerful anti-aging and skin-renewing capabilities. However, they can also cause significant irritation, particularly when used in high concentrations or without proper acclimation. The TGA considered the potential for adverse reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin or those new to retinoid use, to be a health risk.
As a result of the TGA's decision, The Ordinary had to reformulate some of its products to comply with Australian standards and regulations. The brand also took the opportunity to educate its consumers on the proper use of its products, emphasizing the importance of patch testing, gradual introduction, and sun protection when using potent actives like acids and retinoids.
While the high acid content in some of The Ordinary's products may have been a concern for the TGA, it's important to note that many consumers have safely used and continue to use these products with positive results. Through education and responsible usage, consumers can still benefit from the power of acids and retinoids in their skincare routines.
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$13.09 $17
Lack of consumer education
The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a highly sought-after product, with consumers taking to social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit to discuss the product and share their experiences. The product's popularity can be attributed to its wallet-friendly price point and its ability to treat dull skin, uneven texture, and acne. However, the lack of consumer education surrounding the proper use of exfoliants and post-exfoliation care has led to its ban in Australia.
The Ordinary's Peeling Solution contains a high concentration of acids, including glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, which provide intense exfoliation. While the product has delivered positive results for some consumers, others have reported adverse effects, including chemical burns and compromised skin. The product's high acid content makes it especially dangerous for those living in Australia due to the country's high UV index. Using the product increases the user's sensitivity to UV rays, putting them at heightened risk of skin cancer.
The issue of consumer misuse of clinical-strength actives without clinical guidance has been highlighted by several commentators. Many consumers are unaware of the potential dangers of exfoliants and how to use them properly. For example, some consumers may not realize that exfoliants should not be used on wet skin, as this can cause the chemical to corrode the skin. Additionally, consumers with sensitive skin may not be aware of the potential risks associated with using the product and may not seek the advice of a dermatologist before application.
To address this lack of consumer education, some have suggested that brands should be mandated to provide clear instructions on how often exfoliants can be used and the importance of wearing sunscreen and avoiding the sun while using these products. By providing more comprehensive consumer education, individuals can make informed decisions about their skincare routines and reduce the risk of adverse effects.
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Skin damage and chemical burns
The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is not available in Australia due to its high acid content, which can cause skin damage and chemical burns. The product contains a combination of glycolic and lactic acids that exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, while salicylic acid penetrates deeper into the pores.
Glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), is known to increase photosensitivity, making the skin more susceptible to sun damage. With Australia's high UV levels, the use of such products can lead to adverse effects, including chemical burns and an increased risk of skin cancer.
The Ordinary's peeling solution is considered a pharmaceutical-grade product in Australia, permitted only for use in medical or dermatological clinics. The high concentration of free acids in the product can negatively impact the skin if not used correctly. It is recommended that the solution be left on the skin for no more than 10 minutes, followed by vigorous washing of the face.
After using such chemical peels, it is crucial to apply a suitable sunscreen to protect the skin from UV rays. However, even with proper usage and aftercare, there have been reports of chemical burns associated with this product. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution when using any skincare product with a high acid content, especially in environments with intense UV radiation like Australia.
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Skin cancer risk
The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is not available in Australia due to its high acid content and intense exfoliation properties. The product is considered pharmaceutical-grade and is only permitted for use in medical or dermatological clinics.
The Ordinary's Peeling Solution contains a combination of glycolic and lactic acids, which exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, and salicylic acid, which penetrates deeper into the pores. While superficial peels may help manage acne, and medium and deep peels may be more effective for treating acne scars, The Ordinary's product is considered too strong for at-home use.
The Ordinary's Peeling Solution is particularly dangerous in Australia due to the country's high UV index. The product increases photosensitivity, making users more susceptible to UV damage and heightening their risk of skin cancer. This risk is further exacerbated by improper use, such as applying the product to wet skin, which can cause chemical burns, or failing to wear sunscreen after using the product.
While some consumers have experienced positive results with The Ordinary's Peeling Solution, reporting that their skin looked refreshed, brighter, and less scarred, others have shared stories of chemical burns and compromised skin. As a result, there has been a backlash against exfoliation products on social media platforms and in the mainstream media, with consumers and experts advocating for better education on the proper use of exfoliants and the potential risks involved.
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Only permitted for dermatological use
The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a highly sought-after skincare product that has gained popularity on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. However, this product is not available for purchase in Australia, Canada, Korea, and New Zealand. The reason for its unavailability in these countries is due to its classification as a pharmaceutical-grade product. In Australia, it is permitted for use only under medical or dermatological supervision.
The Ordinary's Peeling Solution contains a combination of glycolic and lactic acids, which exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, and salicylic acid, which penetrates deeper into the pores. While superficial peels may help manage acne, and medium and deep peels may be more effective for treating acne scars, The Ordinary's product is considered intense and has a high acid content. This high acid concentration can lead to skin irritation and burns, especially for those with sensitive skin.
In Australia, the product's strength and potential risks are deemed unsafe for general use. The Ordinary's Peeling Solution increases photosensitivity, making users more susceptible to UV damage and heightening their risk of skin cancer. This risk is particularly pronounced in Australia due to its high UV index. As a result, the product is restricted to dermatological use, where professionals can advise on its safe application and ensure proper aftercare.
The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution has faced a backlash due to its intense exfoliation and potential for misuse by consumers. Many consumers lack understanding regarding the proper use of exfoliants and the associated risks. This has resulted in an increase in sensitized skin and adverse reactions, including chemical burns. As a result, the product is not available for general consumer purchase in Australia and is restricted to controlled dermatological use, prioritizing consumer safety.
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Frequently asked questions
The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is considered too strong and dangerous for use in Australia due to the country's high UV index. The product is classified as pharmaceutical-grade and is only permitted for use in medical/dermatological clinics.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a chemical exfoliant that uses a combination of glycolic and lactic acids to exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, while salicylic acid penetrates deeper into the pores.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution can cause skin burns and increase sensitivity to UV rays, leading to a heightened risk of skin cancer.
Yes, there are alternative skincare products available in Australia that contain a combination of AHAs and BHAs at concentrations deemed safe for use in the country. These include the Pixi Clarity Concentrate and the asap treatment serum from an Australian beauty brand.
While some individuals have reported successfully ordering the product from overseas, it is banned in Australia and should not be used due to safety concerns.
