I used the internet’s favorite acid mask. My face felt like it was hosting a tiny, fizzy war.
The real test? Waking up the next morning and touching skin that felt like chilled silk.
It’s a 25% AHA / 2% BHA blend from Drunk Elephant. $80 for 1.69 oz. They claim it’s a “facial in a bottle.” Bold.
The 20-Minute Rule
You only leave it on for 20 minutes max — a timer is mandatory.
The Buffer
It comes with a mini serum to “buffer” the acid — a cute safety blanket.
The Schedule
Once a week. Tempted to do more? Don’t.
This is serious chemical exfoliation. The acids dissolve dead skin glue. The rest soothes the burn.
- Glycolic Acid: Dissolves surface gunk
- Salicylic Acid: Dives into pores
- Tasmanian Pepperberry: Supposedly calms redness (debatable)
- Milk Thistle & Apple: Antioxidant fluff
Texture is thick, pink, and smells vaguely chemical. It tingles immediately — not a gentle tickle, a proper “I’m working” sting.
Week 3: My foundation went on differently. No clinging to dry patches. But I also got a random, deep pimple. Purge or protest? Unclear.
My texture improved. Pores looked airbrushed. But redness? It didn’t magically vanish. This isn’t a gentle brightener.
The hype is real, but it’s not for everyone. This is a powerful tool, not a weekly pamper session.