To use the Beauty of Joseon Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel, apply a small amount to clean, dry skin, massage gently in circles, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Most people only need it once or twice a week. Because it is an exfoliating product, avoid using it on the same night as retinoids or other exfoliants, and always wear sunscreen the next day.
Always follow the directions printed on your tube, since instructions can be updated. Here is a full guide to getting smoother-looking skin without irritation.
What is a peeling gel?
A peeling gel is a gentle exfoliating product. Many peeling gels form small rolls or flakes as you massage them over skin; these are typically made mostly of the gel itself, not only dead skin. The gentle massage helps lift dull surface buildup, leaving skin feeling smoother. The Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel follows this format with a Korean-inspired apricot blossom theme.
Who is it for?
- Skin that looks dull or feels rough.
- People who want a gentler alternative to grainy scrubs.
- Those whose makeup sits unevenly on dry patches.
Be more careful if you have very sensitive skin, active eczema, sunburn, broken skin or you are in a flare-up. In those situations, pause exfoliation.
Step-by-step: how to use it
- Cleanse first. Use a gentle cleanser such as the Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser, or a double cleanse if you wore sunscreen or makeup.
- Pat skin dry. Peeling gels typically work best on dry skin unless the label says otherwise.
- Apply a small amount, about a coin-sized dollop for the whole face.
- Massage gently in small circles for 30 to 60 seconds. Avoid the eye area and lips.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Hydrate. Follow with Ginseng Essence Water, the Calming Barrier Serum and moisturizer.
How often should you use it?
| Skin type | Suggested frequency |
|---|---|
| Oily or combination | 1 to 2 times a week |
| Normal | 1 to 2 times a week |
| Dry | Once a week |
| Sensitive | Every 1 to 2 weeks, or skip if reactive |
Start at the lowest frequency and increase only if your skin stays comfortable.
What not to combine it with
On the night you exfoliate, avoid:
- Retinoids, including the Revive Eye Serum around the eye area.
- Other exfoliating acids or scrubs.
- Facial waxing, shaving immediately before, or other treatments that make skin sensitive.
Instead, end the night with soothing hydration: Calming Barrier Serum and a moisturizer like Dynasty Cream.
Signs you are over-exfoliating
- Stinging when you apply normally gentle products.
- Redness or a shiny, tight look.
- Flaking that gets worse, not better.
- New sensitivity to sunscreen or water.
If you notice any of these, stop exfoliating for at least one to two weeks and switch to a simple routine of gentle cleanser, Calming Barrier Serum, moisturizer and sunscreen.
Exfoliation and sunscreen
Freshly exfoliated skin can be more sensitive to the sun. Apply sunscreen such as Relief Sun every morning, and especially the day after exfoliating. This matters in winter as well: UV reflects off snow, and cold wind can make sensitive skin feel worse.
Where it fits in a weekly routine
A simple plan for most people:
- Saturday night: double cleanse, Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel, Calming Barrier Serum, moisturizer.
- Other nights: your usual routine, with retinal or brightening serums on separate nights.
See our night routine for a full weekly schedule.
Common mistakes
- Using it daily. More is not better with exfoliation.
- Pressing hard. Light pressure is enough.
- Using it on wet skin when the instructions say dry skin, which can reduce the peeling action.
- Skipping moisturizer afterward.
- Exfoliating over pimples or broken skin. Work around them.
Can men use it before shaving?
It is better not to exfoliate right before shaving, as both can irritate the skin. Try exfoliating on a non-shaving day or at least several hours apart.
Choosing the right night to exfoliate
Pick a quiet evening when you have no big event the next day, in case your skin looks a little pink afterwards. Avoid exfoliating just before sun-heavy plans such as a ski day or beach outing, and skip it if your skin is windburned or sunburned. Consistency at a low frequency usually gives better results than occasional intense sessions.
Where to buy in Canada
See details and current Canadian buying options on our Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel page. Pair it with the Calming Barrier Serum for after-care.
FAQ
Are the little rolls dead skin?
With most peeling gels, the rolls are mainly the gel itself combining as you massage, possibly with some surface buildup. The smoother feel afterwards comes from gentle exfoliation.
Can I use it with vitamin C?
Yes, but on different times. Use vitamin C such as Light On Serum in the morning and the peeling gel at night, or on separate days if you are sensitive.
Can I use it on my body?
It is designed for the face. Follow the label and use body-specific exfoliants for larger areas.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
Some sensitive-skin users tolerate gentle exfoliation once every week or two. Patch test first, and skip it during flare-ups.