Available to buy here:
Welcome back to Beautyistic! Ever feel like your skincare routine just needs a bit of an upgrade? Maybe something that targets all the signs of dull, tired skin—like those pesky blemishes, uneven texture, or lackluster glow? Well, today we have something that promises to brighten, smooth, and hydrate—sounds like magic, right? But let’s take a closer look and see if this duo delivers on its promise.
We’re diving into The Ordinary Bright & Hydrated Skincare Duo Set. This set includes two powerhouse products: the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution and the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum. Together, they’re designed to exfoliate, hydrate, and target those blemishes. Now, these products come in a 1-ounce size each and are vegan and cruelty-free—always a win in my book.
First, let’s talk about the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. This is a chemical exfoliant that’s not for the faint of heart—it’s powerful, with 30% AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) to help slough off dead skin and reveal smoother, more radiant skin underneath. And the 2% BHA (beta hydroxy acid), which works deeper to clear out pores, can really help with acne-prone skin or those stubborn blackheads. But don’t let the strong percentages intimidate you—this product’s exfoliation is meant to give you that fresh, new-skin feeling without any harsh scrubbing.
I’ve personally used this a couple of times in my routine, and let me tell you, it’s a bit of a wake-up call for your skin. The tingling sensation is strong, which I appreciate because it tells me it’s working, but if you’ve got sensitive skin, you might want to patch-test first or use it less frequently. The formula is thick but glides on nicely, and it rinses off easily with warm water. Afterward, my skin feels incredibly smooth, and any texture from dry patches or small blemishes starts to look less noticeable.
Now, onto the second product in the duo: The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. This serum is a hydration hero, especially if you have dry or dehydrated skin. Hyaluronic acid is a superstar ingredient when it comes to drawing moisture into your skin, and this formula pairs it with B5 for added skin-soothing benefits. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and leaves your skin feeling plump and moisturized without that greasy residue.
I’ve been applying this in the morning after my peeling solution, and it’s been the perfect follow-up to lock in moisture. My skin looks hydrated and feels soft to the touch. It’s also fragrance-free, which is great for those who are sensitive to scents or prefer minimalist skincare. I’ve noticed a difference in how my skin holds moisture throughout the day, and that healthy glow is definitely more noticeable.
Let’s get into the pros and cons of these products. On the plus side, both products live up to their claims—my skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and definitely more hydrated after using these regularly. The packaging is simple, functional, and easy to use. I also love that these products are vegan and cruelty-free, which makes them a solid option for conscious consumers.
But, like any product, they’re not without their downsides. The Peeling Solution can be a little intense for sensitive skin, so you’ll need to be cautious with how often you use it. Also, if you have any active breakouts or compromised skin, this might feel a little harsh. The Hyaluronic Acid serum is pretty standard for what you’d expect from a hydrating serum—it’s effective, but there’s nothing that really sets it apart from other products in this category.
Now, as for value for money, these products aren’t breaking the bank, which is always a good thing. The quality of the ingredients and performance really justifies the price, especially for those looking to add chemical exfoliation and hydration into their routine without going overboard. I wouldn’t say it’s an absolute steal, but it’s a great investment if you’re looking for results that match the price.
If you’re wondering how this duo compares to others on the market, well, there are a few similar exfoliating products from brands like Paula’s Choice and Drunk Elephant, but those tend to be a bit pricier. What sets The Ordinary apart is its straightforward formulas at a more affordable price. You’re getting high-quality ingredients without the heavy markup that comes with some of the more luxurious brands.
As for build quality, the packaging is simple but sturdy. The glass bottles feel high-end for a brand that’s so affordable, and the droppers make application easy and controlled. These products are small enough to be travel-friendly but still provide a solid amount of product for consistent use over time. You can expect to get several weeks out of each, which isn’t bad for the price.
Customer service-wise, The Ordinary has built a strong reputation for customer support, and their online presence is well-established. In case you have any issues or questions, they’re quick to respond and make things right, which is always reassuring when you’re purchasing skincare.
In terms of alternatives, you could look into products like the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant for a similar salicylic acid-based option or the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel as a more budget-friendly alternative for hydration.
Wrapping up, the The Ordinary Bright & Hydrated Skincare Duo Set is a solid choice for anyone looking to elevate their skincare routine with effective exfoliation and hydration. It’s especially great for those with oily, combination, or blemish-prone skin who need something that can clear out pores while keeping skin hydrated. While the peeling solution might be a bit too intense for those with sensitive skin, the duo as a whole delivers on its promises for smoother, more radiant skin.
Is this review helpful to you? If so, please like, subscribe, and click the bell icon so other beauty lovers can find this video too. Your support helps us keep making honest reviews like this!
Thanks for watching, and if you’ve tried this duo, let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget—stay beautiful inside and out!
Available to buy here:
