A good exfoliator can work wonders for your skin, whether it's in the form of a toner [1], face wash, serum, or wash-off face peel [2]. They can brighten, tighten, and smooth the surface area of your skin, no matter if your skin type [3] is acne-prone [4], oily, or dry, or whether you experience dullness, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines. Using a chemical peel with a generous concoction of AHAs and BHAs can be a beneficial addition to any skin-care routine.
I like to get my exfoliation from chemical peels, whether it's in a dermatologist's office or trying out at-home versions. While I would describe my skin type as normal and not particularly reactive, I've tried potent formulas like the Obagi Clinical Blue Brilliance Peel [5] and the viral favorite The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, and have found them effective but very strong. Knowing that peels can cause more harm than good if used incorrectly, I knew I needed something more forgiving and gentle but just as effective. I came across the Pacifica Clean Shot BHA/AHA 25% Peel Solution + Mandarin [6] on my weekly Target [7] browse and had to try it out, especially since my skin has been looking dull and congested.
After just one use, I immediately noticed a difference in my skin's texture and tone — it was subtle but still quite telling. The best part? It's on the gentle end of the spectrum, given the strength of the ingredients in the formula. I had a slight tingle that went away after a few minutes, unlike its stronger counterparts that make your skin feel sensitized. Keep reading for my in-depth review.
Pacifica Clean Shot BHA/AHA 25% Peel Solution + Mandarin
Once I took the day off and cleansed my skin, I applied two full dropper's-worth of the Pacifica Clean Shot BHA/AHA 25% Peel Solution + Mandarin [9] ($12) to my face and used the excess on my neck and chest.
At first I felt a slight tingling sensation, but it disappeared after a few minutes and felt like nothing was on my skin. I left the peel on for 15 minutes as directed and washed it off with cool water. Immediately, I noticed my skin looked brighter and less congested. It felt softer and smoother, yet not dried out or overly sensitive. A big difference between this peel and something like The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution that I have noticed is that this one focuses more on decongestion and preventing acne.
Pacifica Clean Shot BHA/AHA 25% Peel Solution + Mandarin
Lately, I have been getting tiny whiteheads on my cheeks, and the area around my nose looks more congested and clogged. I wasn't sure if it was due to that time of the month or because of trying and testing out new products, but these pesky little bumps and clogged pores were becoming a nuisance. I've been using the Pacifica Clean Shot BHA/AHA 25% Peel Solution + Mandarin [10] ($12) twice a week, although you can use it up to three times a week. It has worked wonders in diminishing said congestion, making my skin look radiant and smoother after every use.
After consistently using the peel in my routine, I noticed that I barely get those tiny whiteheads on my cheeks, and my skin doesn't look or feel congested.
Pacifica Clean Shot BHA/AHA 25% Peel Solution + Mandarin
The whimsical, teal-tinted Pacifica Clean Shot BHA/AHA 25% Peel Solution + Mandarin [11] ($12) contains glycolic acid, vegan lactic acid, salicylic acid, willow bark extract, aloe, turmeric, basil, Azadirachta flower, and eggplant that work together to reveal radiant and smooth skin. It even has a fresh, citrus scent.