So I bought the Dr. G Brightening Peeling Gel fully expecting it to be overhyped. I’ve seen it on so many “best of K-beauty” lists, but you know how those go—everyone copies everyone, and sometimes a product gets popular for no real reason. I didn’t have high hopes.

⁠⠀

For context, I’m in my early 30s, combo skin, slightly sensitive, and dealing with dullness + hormonal breakouts around my chin. I already use a prescription tret once a week, so I don’t like to mess around with harsh exfoliants. But I do need something that keeps my skin from looking like a tired gray film under makeup.

⁠⠀

Here’s what surprised me: this product isn’t “strong,” but it’s very… satisfying. You apply it on dry skin, and the second you start rubbing, it forms little white balls that feel like you’re literally scrubbing your skin clean. I’m fully aware it’s mostly cellulose clumping, not dead skin, but whatever it is, it makes your skin look better instantly. No redness, no tightness, no sting. Just smooth.

⁠⠀

That said, I’m still a little skeptical about how much actual exfoliation is happening. There are enzymes and acids listed (papaya, glycolic acid, salicylic acid), but the concentrations aren’t strong. I’d classify this as a very light surface-level treatment. It’s not going to help with deeper clogs or closed comedones.

⁠⠀

Where it really shines is texture improvement. My forehead gets tiny bumps that are hard to see but annoying to feel, and after two uses per week for a few weeks, they’re mostly gone. Not completely, but definitely reduced. My makeup is sitting way better now—my foundation doesn’t pill or catch on patches anymore.

⁠⠀

What I didn’t love: I felt a bit misled by the name “Brightening Peeling Gel.” It doesn’t brighten in the way I expected. It doesn’t fade dark spots or do anything major for pigmentation. Yes, your skin looks more polished after using it, but it’s more of a glow from smoother texture, not true tone correction. So if you’re buying this for post-acne discoloration, don’t expect miracles.

⁠⠀

The scent is another thing. It’s mild, but definitely there—kind of a clean floral? Not terrible, but not fragrance-free, which might be a dealbreaker if you’re super sensitive. On my skin it didn’t cause any irritation, but I do wish they’d left it out.

⁠⠀

As for value, it’s solid. I paid around $19 on Amazon, and I’ve been using it twice a week for six weeks and still have half the tube left. You don’t need a lot. A nickel-sized amount spreads easily across your face and neck. Also: I’ve used it on my hands and elbows when they feel rough, and it works like a charm there too.

⁠⠀

Here’s how I would recommend using it:

Only on dry skin. If there’s even a little moisture left, it won’t pill properly.

Go gentle—this isn’t a scrub, so no need to grind it into your face.

Don’t expect it to replace actives like AHA/BHA or retinol. Think of it as a maintenance product between harsher treatments.

⁠⠀

Who this is good for:

▪ People with texture issues, dry flakes, or dullness

▪ Beginners who are scared of acids

▪ Those who like immediate results (even if they’re mostly superficial)

⁠⠀

Who might not love it:

▪ People targeting acne, scars, or melasma

▪ Fragrance-sensitive skin

▪ Anyone expecting this to replace stronger exfoliants

⁠⠀

Final thoughts: I went from skeptical to pretty impressed. It’s not the “miracle peel” that some TikToks make it out to be, but it has a permanent spot in my routine now. I’ll still rely on my stronger products for deep exfoliation, but this is perfect for days when I want a glow without the gamble.

⁠⠀

Rating: 7.5/10.

Understated, reliable, not revolutionary—but definitely useful.