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PHA Hydration Peel
Peel AM/PM
Sensitivity often develops when the barrier weakens and can no longer regulate exfoliation, hydration, and environmental stress. PHA Hydration Peel fills that gap as a peel for sensitive skin that is designed to resurface gently while reinforcing comfort, making exfoliation accessible even when your skin feels reactive or easily overstimulated.
This formula comprises Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs), which are exfoliating acids known for their larger molecular structure. They work closer to the skin’s surface, where they loosen buildup without aggressive penetration.
The result is a hydrating exfoliant for sensitive skin that refines texture and clarity without triggering the cycle of irritation associated with traditional acids.
This peel balances renewal with replenishment, as it pairs controlled exfoliation with moisture-binding ingredients, and maintains hydration levels during and after use. Your skin feels softer, uneven areas smoothen, dullness fades, and clarity improves.
We approach exfoliation through a barrier-first philosophy, where results should never come at the cost of long-term resilience. PHA Hydration Peel aligns with that approach by supporting the skin as it renews, rather than overwhelming it.
Use it as part of your evening routine after cleansing. Apply a thin, even layer across dry skin, avoiding the immediate eye area. Allow it to sit briefly, then either leave it on or remove it, depending on your skin’s tolerance and routine. Follow with a barrier-supportive moisturizer to seal in hydration. Frequency can be adjusted based on how your skin responds, although consistency matters more than intensity.
- Gently exfoliates away dull, dead skin for a more even-looking skin tone
- Helps soften, smooth and brighten the complexion for a post-facial glow look
- Locks moisture into the skin for ultra-soothing hydration
- Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
AM - Apply a thin layer all over to freshly cleansed skin, avoiding the eyes and lips. Recommended usage is once a week. Allow the product to rest on the face for up to 10 minutes and then rinse off completely with water.
Sun Sensitivity: Please wear sunscreen when using this product, as it contains ingredients that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
Cautions: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep out of reach of children. Store product away from heat or direct sunlight.
PM - Apply a thin layer all over to freshly cleansed skin, avoiding the eyes and lips. Recommended usage is once a week. Allow the product to rest on the face for up to 10 minutes and then rinse off completely with water.
1. What makes PHA Hydration Peel suitable as a peel for sensitive skin?
Traditional peels often rely on AHAs or BHAs that penetrate quickly and can overstimulate compromised skin. Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs), on the other hand, have a larger molecular size, which slows their absorption, allowing for surface-level exfoliation that is far less likely to trigger irritation.
2. Is this really a hydrating exfoliant for sensitive skin?
Yes, and that balance is the point of the formulation. Many exfoliants focus only on removing dead skin, which can leave the surface dehydrated and reactive.
This peel combines gentle exfoliation with moisture-supportive components, helping the skin retain hydration as it renews. The result is softer and smoother skin that does not feel stripped.
3. Can it help with uneven skin tone?
Yes, by removing buildup gradually and evenly, the peel enables the skin to reflect light more uniformly. Over time, areas that appear dull or inconsistent begin to blend more smoothly into the surrounding complexion.
4. Will I feel tingling or discomfort during use?
Most users experience little to no tingling, as the formula is designed to avoid triggering inflammation. If you do feel mild activity, it typically settles quickly.
5. How often should I use it?
Start with one to two times per week in the evening. If your skin responds well, frequency can be adjusted. The goal is consistency without pushing the skin into a reactive state. Overuse will not accelerate results and can, in fact, interrupt barrier recovery.
6. Can I use this alongside other active treatments?
Yes, but it should be integrated thoughtfully; avoid layering it on the same night as strong retinoids or other exfoliating acids. Alternating nights allows each product to work effectively without overwhelming the skin. This aligns with a barrier-first approach to uneven skin tone treatment.
7. Is it suitable for post-procedure or sensitized skin?
PHA Hydration Peel is often well tolerated by sensitized skin due to its gentle profile. However, immediately post-procedure skin needs guidance from a skin professional. Once the skin is ready for exfoliation again, this formula is a good option for reintroducing renewal without stress.
8. How long before I see results?
Initial improvements in texture and softness can appear within the first couple of uses. More noticeable changes in clarity and tone develop over several weeks.
Around four to six weeks of consistent use is typically where the full effect becomes more visible, especially in how evenly the skin appears in natural light.
Aqua/Water/Eau, Gluconolactone, Lactobionic Acid, Phytic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Menthyl Lactate (L), Sodium Gluconate, Proline (L), Madecassoside, Isopropyl Alcohol, Citric Acid.
Benefits & Usage
Botanical Hero
Radish Root (root vegetable)
Radish root is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, helping to brighten the skin, minimize the appearance of pores, and promote a smooth, even complexion.
How to Apply
AM - Apply a thin layer all over to freshly cleansed skin, avoiding the eyes and lips. Recommended usage is once a week. Allow the product to rest on the face for up to 10 minutes and then rinse off completely with water.
Sun Sensitivity: Please wear sunscreen when using this product, as it contains ingredients that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
Cautions: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep out of reach of children. Store product away from heat or direct sunlight.
PM - Apply a thin layer all over to freshly cleansed skin, avoiding the eyes and lips. Recommended usage is once a week. Allow the product to rest on the face for up to 10 minutes and then rinse off completely with water.
Transformative Ingredients
Clean. Clinical. Luxurious
Clinically Proven Efficacy
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A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides a kinder, gentler exfoliation for all skin types
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A naturally derived polyhydroxy acid from sugar that provides gentle exfoliation and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
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An alpha hydroxy acid derived from cereal seeds that helps provide antioxidant support for the skin and helps to increase moisturization in the skin
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This gentle Level 1 exfoliant uses PHA, Lactobionic, and Phytic acids to refine skin texture and boost hydration. Customers praised how it leaves skin "soft," "smooth," and "brighter" without irritation. Most found it "gentle enough for sensitive skin," though a few experienced reactions at full 10-minute application. Some noted the small bottle size relative to price.
- My skin was SIGNIFICANTLY brighter and clearer the days after using
- My skin feels so amazing and looks incredible after!
- My skin feels much smoother and brighter with less acne scars
- 5 stars: 83 (63%)
- 4 stars: 38 (29%)
- 3 stars: 8 (6%)
- 2 stars: 2 (2%)
- 1 star: 0 (0%)
Wow! This PHA Hydration Peel by Cosmedix is such a great pick for anybody with sensitive skin but wants to exfoliate their skin! Using once a week, this exfoliating peel has clearly made my skin so much smoother, soft, and a little brighter in a mere 2 weeks of usage. Since I used it one time a week on Sunday, that means in just two 10 minute easy rinse-off exfoliation sessions, my skin has noticeably started changing! PHA, Lactobionic Acid, Phytic Acid, and various antioxidants help defy aging skin and treats for fine lines and wrinkles. The dull and dead skin will peel off gently with this exfoliant, revealing fresh new soft skin that gives you a youthful look. The texture is very lightweight and leaves skin feeling hydrated after use. The citrus noted scent is so refreshing and lovely! I love fresh fruity citrus scents for my skincare:) I love how it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin, amazing!!
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
Working in the beauty industry for over six years, I'm seeing more and more at home peel options like this one. As someone with super sensitive skin, I do get worried about the strength of at home peels. However, I also know what great benefits peels offer to someone with dry skin. I am happy to report that my sensitive and dry skin could handle this one! Simply follow the instructions, and use it once a week (also remember not to mix with other acid based products during your routine after using this peel, such as an acid based toner). If you use more often than suggested, it can lead to irritation. Too much of a good thing can be bad, as they say. It has three different types of acid in it, which I actually really appreciate in acid based products. I feel like the ingredients can compliment one another, and my skin reaped the benefits from this. Immediately after first use, my skin felt smoother to the touch after rinsing this off. My only complaint about this is is a super small bottle, so I don't feel that I will get as many uses out of this (but it is similarly priced to other at home peel options on the market). 
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
Working in the beauty industry for 10+ years I have tried many different products and treatments. I read other reviews about the PHA Hydration Peel by COSMEDIX to cause irritation on some user's skin so I was sure to follow the 10 minute suggested time on the directions. I had no reaction to the product at all. I sensed a slight tingle but nothing uncomfortable and removed after 10 minutes. I have used many different peels at home and during spa treatments and I'm sad to say this peel didn't do much for my skin. I have used the entire bottle and have noticed no change in texture or clarity. This may be perfect for someone with more sensitive skin but I seem to need something a little bit stronger. The product did glide on quite nicely and felt good when applied to the skin. It was easily washed off with water or a dampened wash cloth.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
With my oily skin ive been into more liquid exfoliations rather than physical exfoliants because i dont necessarily need to slough of dry patches. The cosmedix pha hydration peel surprised me because it didnt burn like i usually expect from chemical peels but it felt nice and cooling on my skin and then washing it off after 10 minutes had my skin feeling squeaky clean. Just like with any exfoliation my skin was smooth immediately afterwards and my serums and moisturizers absorbed nicely into my skin. I definitely had to wait til my skin did not have any open acne wounds to use this because it will burn if it gets into them. Other than that its nice use only once a week you can use while brushing your teeth etc. I also liked how my skin still felt soft immediately after washing off and not like a sponge rapidly losing water.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
When it comes to improving the appearance of your skin, there are few products on the market that can match the COSMEDIX PHA Hydration Peel. This powerful peel helped me to achieve a much more even skin tone, by helping to soften, smooth and brighten my complexion. Not only did it help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but it also locked moisture into the skin for ultra-soothing hydration. If you are looking for a product that can help improve the overall appearance of your skin, the COSMEDIX PHA Hydration Peel is definitely worth considering. Not only does the COSMEDIX PHA Hydration Peel help improve the overall appearance of your skin, it also ensures that you get the most out of each other of your daily skincare products.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
When I saw this round had a PHA peel, I had to join in. I'm obsessed with at home peels because I like to see which ones give the better results. When I say I love love love this PHA hydration peel! Many of the other at home peels I've tried didn't give me that spa feeling of a chemical peel. Cosmedix made me feel like I brought the spa home with me. The peel gives you that tingle sensation that you get with professional peels. It's a level one peel so it's not super intense but it does it's job. Because it's gentle, your skin won't actual peel. You won't need a lot of product using this. Literally a little goes a long way. I wish I had before and after pictures when I started using it but I was so excited I completely forgot. The acids used includes gluconolactone, lactobionic acid and phytic acid (PHA and AHAS) that exfoliates and used as antioxidants in the product.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
We love a good peel and the COSMEDIX PHA Hydration Peel was simply that amazing product. This product contains PHA, Lactobionic Acid , and Phytic Acid. These ingredients along with others help to soften the skin as well as brighten and help with texture. My skin has been in the sensitive side lately and I do have some breakouts. I was able to use this product without any sensitivity or irritation. I was worried since this is a peel but using this product 1-2x per week really did the trick for me. Immediately after use, my skin felt super soft and hydrated. My nose which tends to be a problem for me was very smooth after this product. I really like how this product made my skin feel all while not irritating it in any way. Therefore, I believe this product is great for most skin types but Ofcourse you should always do a patch test incase. After using this product, my serums and creams applied beautifully. My serums absorbed so well into the skin and my face overall had a nice glow to it. I've also noticed that my texture in my skin is getting a little better as well. With prolonged use, I think this product is amazing and will continue to use it. Stellar product!
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
This product was beautiful. It was a very gentle exfoliating product that was effective. I used it about 2 times a week at night time. After washing my face with the cleanser, I then would use this and gentle rub it around my face and also remembering to avoid my eyes. I would leave it on my face for 10 minutes and then after 10 minutes, I would then rinse it off my face with lukewarm water. My skin felt so smooth after and it was more radiant! It almost gave an instant glow from with in as well! What this product does is helps rejuvenate your skin by exfoliating it and helps reduce fine lines as well as brightening your skin. I have more darkness around my mouth so I did like to use it more in that specific area. Overall, the packaging was gorgeous and sleek. I absolutely love the minimalistic look.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
This PHA Hydration Peel from Cosmedix is amazing and just what I needed to add to my skincare collection. I really do enjoy being able to rotate between different peels for a gentle but effective exfoliation. This one is definitely gentle, but has absolutely exfoliated away dead skin, leaving my skin feeling smooth and my complexion is illuminated. This one is made from multiple acids (PHA, Lactobionic Acid and Phytic Acid) at a level 1 exfoliant, so it's still gentle on your skin and can be used on all skin types. The formulation is a skincare cocktail that helps exfoliate and condition skin with rich antioxidants that are meant to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Cosmedix has quickly become a staple in my beauty routine and this one is the BIGGEST game player.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
This PHA Hydration Peel has been one of my all-time favorite exfoliant products to use! In my opinion, it's gentle enough with PHA's to use up to 3x a week if your skin can handle it, and of course, if your skin really needs it (note it also contains AHA's which can be a little stronger). I have pretty strong and resilient skin and because I already use different acids in my routines depending on the day, my skin doesn't react in any bad way. This Peel has a serious cooling sensation that is uplifting and awakening and it's something I have never experienced in an exfoliating product. It's honestly one of my favorite parts! It's not too minty cooling to where it stings your eyes or feels like you have to wash it off right away so if you're someone who typically doesn't like that strong sensation, you might actually like this! Another cool thing about this peel is that it actually dries down and looks like you can peel it off (but of course you can't). It has a slight menthol smell, but nothing too harsh. With just one use, my skin felt softer & smoother, and it looked even brighter than before! It washes off easily and the pump dispenser makes it easy to use if you want to apply it directly on your face or onto your fingertips first. This peel doesn't feel like it's stripping the skin either. Overall, this is a great peel for those into luxury skincare and looking for anti-aging, hydrating, and/or exfoliating products. - Desiree Singh (Professional Beauty Influencer, Content Creator, & Educator with 6 Years of Education & Experience)
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
This is a very nicely formulated peel. It is designed to be used once a week. I appreciate the use of poly hydroxy acids as other acids can be very sensitizing or stimulatory. I found the sensation level of this treatment to be very minimal however, my skin is accustomed to aggressive peeling treatments and more. Some of the ingredients within the formulation appear to be drying, however I found that peel had a great effect on the overall radiance of my skin. The product had little to no smell, was low in sensation and easy to use. I do wish; however, this was formulated with an acid slightly stronger to get a complete transformation after use. This product might be great for those just getting use to exfoliation within their skin care regimen.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
This is a super gentle and skin soothing exfoliating treatment that helps to refine and soften your skin texture. The packaging is simple and sleek with a pump to dispense the treatment serum. The formula of this serum contains gentle ingredients like phytic acid, lactobionic acid, and pha to help remove dull dead skin cells as well as reduce the looks of any fine lines and wrinkles to give you a brighter and smoother  skin texture and complexion. The texture is gel like and goes on really thin and clear, it feels super refreshing and has no graininess or physical exfoliants in it. It's safe for all skin types and super easy to use. You just apply it and leave it in for about ten minutes avoiding eye area of course and then rinse it off and use it once a week to maintain glowing skin.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
The results after first use are remarkable! As a medical aesthetician, I've used a fair amount of different types of peels, both consumer and pharmaceutical grade. Believe me when I tell you that this at home peel is worth the hype! Chances are you've heard about PHA and physic acids. Together, along with Lactobionic acid, this concoction eats away dead skin cells at the surface level leaving an immediate glow. I have not seen much improvement with my fine lines and wrinkles, but am hopeful to see them become softer over time as I certainly will continue to use this. I do worry about at home peels and the propensity for over exfoliation as a result. However, with this PHA peel by Cosmedix, I've found it to be gentle and hydrating while also effective. Once a week use is the perfect indication for use.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
The PHA hydration peel from cosmedix is a great exfoliant! "Peels" seem to make people think deep and harsh. NOT THIS! I contains Lactobionoic acid from sugar that is gentle. The Phytic acid that is a AHA to support the skin and help increase moisture. I used this once a week and after my 3rd time really results. The first time I had a slight tingle, mainly noise area where all the dead skin sits. It went down right away other times. No sensation. Just soft, fresh skin! I applied it to my neck and decollate and really got that skin glowing as well. Never experience any redness! There is also no "down time" like you get with deep peels. Please as an Esthetician, make sure you do this at night for you don't want to increase sensitivity from the sun after doing this treatment.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
The PHA Hydration Peel is a gentle exfoliator that does not leave your skin dry or irritated. I use it once a week during night time after applying the Cosmedix cleanser. It leaves your skin feeling clean, smooth and brighten. For best results use once a week preferably at night. Start with applying a small amount on your palm and gently using your fingertips apply exfoliator to face and neck. Leave on the skin for 10 minutes before rinse off. This product doesn't have a strong scent and is very lightweight, it's great for people with sensitive skin. You won't experience your skin peeling off roughly, you probably won't even notice your skin peeling off. The PHA does a great job keeping your skin healthy and radiant. You will wake up the next morning with hydrated skin. However, I will suggest you to not combine this product with others that may dry your skin. I totally recommend the PHA Hydration Peel by Cosmedix.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
The packaging is very clean, and the bottle is easy to use. Application is very easy and reading the instructions is a must. The peel didn't wow me as much as i expected but it may work better for other skin types. I have a combination skin type, and usually have no acne, and after using the peel to instructions use my skin broke out very bad. I didn't experience any rashes or chemical burns, but when it was processing on my skin it did seem to burn a little which you'd think is normal for a chemical peel. And then upon washing it was a relief to get it off but i didn't notice any glamorous differences immediately. The product was a smooth consistency and smelt nice and clean which is always nice, i do look forward to trying other products and hoping for better results!
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
The COSMESIX PHA Hydration Peel is AMAZING! I really like the sleek packaging and pump delivery. I was skeptical by the size of the product...only 0.5 fl oz for a treatment seems quite small. However, the super light-weight gel texture can be applied in a very thin layer, as directed to do in the instructions. It has a cooling sensation once applied and minimal flushing, no burning or tingling. Since this is a level 1 peel, very gentle, I left the treatment on for the entire 10 minutes before rinsing off. My skin 100% feels softer and smoother after using and I have had no consequential peeling or flaking afterwards. I feel I will probably use this treatment more than once a week, if I start feeling dull or textured. I would give it a perfect score if there were more product.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
The Cosmedix PHA Hydration Peel really helps to revive dull skin!  I have been a Licensed Cosmetologist for over 17 years and skincare is one of my specialties.  As I have aged over the years, I have noticed that skin gets very dull at different times of the year.  I had been looking for a product to give my skin a revamp. This peel really does the trick.  It gently exfoliates and then smooths and brightens your skin.  I loved how my skin felt really hydrated and fresh afterwards. It only takes 10 minutes once a week which makes it really easy to add into your weekly skincare routine.  I used this peel for a few weeks and noticed that after each treatment my skin was feeling even better than the last.  I can't wait to continue using this each week and see how my skin improves going forward.  I would recommend this for all ages and skin types.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
The COSMEDIX PHA Hydration Peel is the perfect peel for everyone, especially for those with sensitive skin. I found it to be so gentle on my skin and loved how soft and smoothie my skin looked after a couple of uses. I have always loved chemical peels and as an esthetician I have learned a lot about the different ingredients used in peels so I knew it was going to be good once I saw Lactobionic Acid and Phytic Acid listed. Lactobionic Acid moisturises the skin, helps to exfoliate dead cells and can reduce fine lines and scars. Phytic Acid can help with shrinking pores. I let my mom try it as well since her skin tends to be more sensitive than mine and now she wants her own bottle! Definitely give it a try if you're looking for a gentle but effective at home peel.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
The Cosmedix PHA Hydration Peel is my new favorite home peel treatment for my combination skin type. This hydration peel contains a multi-acid Level 1 exfoliant that is gentle for all skin types. It is formulated with PHA, Lactobionic Acid, and Phytic Acid which helps exfoliate and condition the skin. Also, this peel helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This is an easy-to-use rinse-off once-a-week treatment. I use this peel at night time after cleansing my face as recommended. I apply a thin layer through my face and leave it for up to 10 minutes then wash it off. My skin feels slightly tighter upon application. The next morning I can see my skin had peeled lightly, and it goes away after applying serum and moisturizer. I love it doesn't irritate my skin at all. Little goes a long way, I noticed my skin feels smoother, softer, and brighter. I love it.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
Thank you so much for reading my review. I have over 10 years in the beauty industry and thank you so much to Beautytap for sending me this product for my honest review and opinion. To preface, I have not had a lot of experience with facial peels. I was a bit nervous but excited as the results posted on Beautytap looked amazing. I was not disappointed in the least. Cosmedix has made use of this product so incredibly simple and non-intimidating. I believe I used about two pumps to cover my entire face. I avoided my eyes, eyebrows, and lips (per the instructions). After ten minutes, I rinsed the product off with warm water. I had the tiniest bit of redness on my forehead that disappeared about 10 minutes after rinsing. My skin felt so smooth and just had a look of refreshment. I am in love with this product.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
Some can be sensitive to grainy exfoliants. I am one of those humans. I found that this was a very nice exfoliant that wasn't too harsh on my skin.There is no smell from what I can tell. When pumping this. The texture is almost like a serum. A little goes a long way. You don't need to pack this on your face with a thick layer. I did a thin layer as it was on my skin I felt my skin feel hydrated which was quite interesting. Because most exfoliants that I have used like this end up almost being tightening as it dries. This one made my skin feel hydrated the entire time it sat on my face and had a cooling feel as well. In the picture you can see a Nice sheen giving a dewy look.  After 20 min I rinsed this off my skin felt baby soft.I definitely recommend this for all skin types especially those who have a sensitivity to Exfoliants on the harsh side.
**This review was created through an educational promotional event hosted between the brand and beauty experts.**
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