Can I use a mask on only one part of my face?

[el0023]

I have blackheads on and around my nose that I want to get rid of, but I don’t want to damage or sensitize my skin. I was looking into The Ordinary’s aha bha peel mask ( The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Resurfacing + Exfoliating Peeling Solution 1 oz/ 30 mL ) because it’s known to be very effective, but with all the acids in it and my being very new to face masks, I’m too scared to put it on my whole face. Could I just put it on my nose area to get rid of the blackheads? Will it upset the balance of my skin by just putting it on one part??

[LilaMJ]

@el0023 You absolutely can! 💕

[greeneyedgirl107]

@el0023 It is OK to use a mask only on certain parts of your face.  The product you are referencing, though, is a high concentration of AHA.  So, it might be strong for a beginner AHA user.  I think a BHA product would be a better bet for addressing blackheads.  Try a leave-on BHA product.  Paula's Choice makes some excellent ones, including a 2%.  Good luck!  🙂

[el0023]

Thank you so much! Would an exfoliant work?

[greeneyedgirl107]

@el0023 BHA is a chemical exfoliant, as is AHA.  You could try a mechanical exfoliant (i.e. a scrub) but I think chemical exfoliation works best.  Esp for blackheads.

[danielledanielle]

@el0023 , that's spot testing, which is what you should do when you aren't certain how you'd react to a product.   I think putting it on a small area first for a few days won't harm your face.

[el0023]

Oh I see! I think I’m going to try to look for gentler masks because I don’t want to overwhelm my face too much if that makes sense haha. I will keep that in mind when trying other masks!