IOPE PRO Peeling Soft Gel: The Gentle Physical-Chemical Exfoliation Gel From Amorepacific

IOPE is Amorepacific's dermatologist-adjacent brand, with a positioning slightly above innisfree and slightly below Sulwhasoo. The PRO Peeling Soft Gel is the brand's signature exfoliation product: a peeling gel that visually "rolls" off the skin as it exfoliates, combining the sensory experience of physical peeling with mild chemical exfoliation active content. The 100ml tube delivers about 15 to 20 treatment uses at recommended dosing.

"Peeling gel" is a K-beauty category Western markets have been slow to adopt. The gel contains cellulose fibers that clump up as you rub, carrying away dead surface skin cells through mechanical action. Unlike harsh physical scrubs (apricot shell, microbead), the fibers are soft and non-abrasive. IOPE adds mild AHAs and botanical exfoliants to the gel, making this a dual-mechanism gentle exfoliant.

What It Does

Cellulose fibers clump mechanically as you rub, removing dead surface skin physically. Mild AHAs (likely glycolic or lactic acid at low concentration) dissolve the bonds holding dead cells. Centella and botanical calming extracts prevent irritation during exfoliation. The result: smoother texture, brighter tone, and improved product absorption for the next steps of skincare.

Who It's For

• Exfoliation beginners: Gentler than acid-only exfoliation.
• Sensitive skin wanting exfoliation: Less stinging than strong AHAs.
• Dull, rough texture: Weekly or biweekly texture reset.
• Pre-mask or pre-serum prep: Better product absorption after exfoliation.
• K-beauty texture enthusiasts: Peeling gel sensory experience.

Key Specs

• Volume: 100ml
• Price: $33.28
• Hero ingredients: cellulose fibers, mild AHAs, centella
• Texture: clear gel that pills/clumps on skin
• Frequency: 1 to 2 times per week

How to Use

On clean, dry skin, apply a small amount of gel. Gently massage in circular motions for 30 to 60 seconds. The gel will clump into fibers as it lifts dead skin. Rinse with lukewarm water. Follow with toner and routine. Use 1 to 2 times per week.

FAQ

Are the clumps actually dead skin?

Partially. The clumps are mostly cellulose from the gel itself plus some dead skin cells and sebum. The visual is exaggerated; the exfoliation is real but less dramatic than the "look" suggests. The mechanical + mild-chemical combination is the real benefit.

How does this compare to Paula's Choice 2% BHA?

Different mechanism and purpose. Paula's Choice BHA is leave-on, targets deeper in pores. IOPE peeling gel is wash-off, works on surface texture. For pore-specific concerns: BHA. For surface smoothing and texture: peeling gel. Some users use both (BHA daily, peeling gel weekly).

Can sensitive skin use this?

Yes, this is one of the gentler exfoliation methods. Start with 1x weekly use and increase if tolerated.

How often should I use it?

1 to 2 times per week. More frequent use can over-exfoliate and damage the barrier.

Does it replace my acid exfoliator?

For sensitive skin: can be a standalone exfoliation method. For more aggressive concerns (acne, pigmentation): pair with a chemical exfoliant used on different days.

Related Products

Pair with IOPE serums and creams or browse Korean exfoliators.