The weekly BHA reset.

— § 01

The steps.

1. 01

   Step 1

   Kaolin clay mask

   10 minutes, do not let dry fully

   A 10-minute clay mask draws sebum and surface debris without the over-drying that comes from leaving it on until cracking. Apply to clean, slightly damp skin. The mask should still feel cool when you remove it.

   L'OréalTier A

   Pure Clay Detox Mask

   Default

   InnisfreeTier A

   Volcanic Pore Clay Mask

   Premium

2. 02

   Step 2

   BHA 2% leave-on

   15-minute dwell, do not rinse

   After the clay mask is removed, apply a thin layer of 2% salicylic acid to dry skin. Allow it to dwell for 15 minutes — this is the active step that delivers the actual exfoliation. Do not stack with retinoids on the same night.

   Paula's ChoiceTier A

   Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid →

   Default

   The OrdinaryTier A

   Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

   Budget

3. 03

   Step 3

   Barrier seal moisturiser

   Generous, ceramide-rich

   After the BHA dwell, apply a thicker-than-usual layer of ceramide moisturiser. The night of the reset is not the night to add anything else — no retinoid, no acid serum, no fragrance. The point is recovery as much as exfoliation.

   CeraVeTier A

   Moisturising Cream

   Default

   BiodermaTier A

   Atoderm Cream

   Premium