Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Triple Acid Peel Serum — 1 fl oz, Gentle Daily Exfoliating AHA/BHA to Smooth Texture & Minimize Pores

Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel Serum is a gentle daily chemical peel that blends glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids to refine texture, minimize the look of pores and enhance skin radiance.

This lightweight, leave-on serum is formulated for daily use and aims to resurface skin gently without physical abrasion. The combination of an AHA (glycolic), a PHA-like/lactic acid, and a BHA (salicylic) targets roughness, excess oil and uneven tone while remaining suitable for a range of skin types. It can be applied morning and/or evening as part of a regular skincare routine to prime skin for serums and moisturizers.

How does this triple-acid peel improve skin texture?

The three acids work together on different layers of the skin: glycolic exfoliates surface cells, lactic hydrates while smoothing, and salicylic penetrates pores to help clarify. The formula is designed to loosen dull surface build-up and promote a more even-looking finish without scrubbing.

• Glycolic acid helps disperse dead skin cells for visible smoothing.
• Lactic acid supports gentle resurfacing and moisture balance.
• Salicylic acid helps reduce excess surface oil and refines pores.
• Leave-on serum format primes skin for subsequent products.

Is this safe to use every day and how should I apply it?

This peel is formulated for daily application and can be used once or twice a day depending on tolerance. Apply a thin layer to clean skin with palms or a cotton pad, then allow it to absorb; there is no rinsing step. Adjust frequency if you experience sensitivity and always follow with sunscreen in the morning.

• Dispense into palms or onto a cotton pad for easy application.
• Apply a thin, even layer to cleansed skin; do not rinse off.
• Suitable for AM and/or PM use—reduce frequency if irritation occurs.
• Follow morning use with broad-spectrum SPF for protection.

Will this product help reduce the appearance of pores and uneven tone?

The formulation targets the factors that make pores and tone look uneven—surface congestion, excess oil and buildup of dead cells. Regular use aims to make skin appear smoother and more radiant, though individual results vary based on skin condition and consistency of use.

• Helps clear surface congestion that accentuates pores.
• Visibly smooths texture for a more uniform tone.
• Boosts radiance by promoting surface renewal.
• Can be used before makeup to create a smoother canvas.

What skin types is this suitable for, and are there any precautions?

The serum is formulated for all skin types, including oily and combination skin, and is intended to be gentle enough for daily use. If you have very sensitive skin, active dermatitis, or are using strong prescription exfoliants, patch testing and consulting a dermatologist is advised. Always use sun protection while using acids.

• Formulated to be gentle for a wide range of skin types.
• Patch test if you have sensitivity or use other actives.
• Avoid combining with other strong exfoliants without guidance.
• Use sunscreen daily to protect newly revealed skin layers.

Who is this for: This product is for anyone seeking a daily chemical exfoliant to smooth texture, reduce the visual prominence of pores and create a brighter-looking complexion without physical scrubs. It’s a good fit for those who want a leave-on, lightweight peel to layer under serums and moisturizers as part of a routine aimed at refining skin surface and priming skin for makeup or treatments.

Ingredients

AQUA / WATER / EAU, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, GLYCERIN, GLYCOLIC ACID, GLUCONOLACTONE, CENTAUREA CYANUS FLOWER WATER, PROPANEDIOL, LACTIC ACID, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, PANTHENOL, ALLANTOIN, SALICYLIC ACID, TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, COPPER GLUCONATE, COCO-BETAINE, CARICA PAPAYA FRUIT EXTRACT / PAPAYA FRUIT EXTRACT, CITRIC ACID, POTASSIUM SORBATE, ARGININE, DISODIUM PHOSPHATE, POLYSORBATE 60, SODIUM PHOSPHATE