Which scores higher with the experts?
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment holds a Guru Score of 65%, ahead of The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution at 58%. The first draws on 17 independent expert reviews, the second on 23. On the experts' own numbers that puts Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment in Mixed territory and AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution in Mixed.
What do the experts say about Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment?
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment carries a Guru Score of 65% from 17 independent experts. This lactic acid treatment earns consistent praise for delivering visible smoothness and smaller-looking pores, especially for those new to exfoliating acids or with sensitive skin. Gurus repeatedly note its gentleness compared to stronger exfoliants, though several flag the lemongrass essential oil as potentially irritating and caution against daily use despite the label's claim, most who had issues dialed back to three or four times weekly. The price draws pushback from multiple reviewers as steep for what is essentially a straightforward lactic acid serum.
What do the experts say about AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution?
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution carries a Guru Score of 58% from 23 independent experts. This is a potent formula that splits experts sharply. Some find it transformative for texture when used sparingly (once a week at most) but many dermatologists and creators warn it's so strong that people frequently overuse it and damage their skin barrier, even causing burns and irritation. Those with sensitive skin or skin of color face particular risk; dermatologists note that for skin of color, even minor irritation can trigger hyperpigmentation. The formula has been banned in Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe due to its intensity. Best patch-tested first and reserved for resilient, non-sensitive skin only, used no more than once weekly and never left on longer than 15 minutes.
Which should you choose?
On the experts' scores Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment comes out ahead, 65% to 58%, a gap of 7 points. It has 17 experts behind it against 23 for The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is most often recommended for oily and acne-prone skin. Both are independently verified on the Guru Index, so either is a sound pick; let the use case and your budget settle it.