ABHA exfoliantis ideal for normal to oily or combination skin prone to bumps and blemishes. Its oil-soluble nature clears pores and improves texture.  AHA exfoliantsare great for normal to dry skin, as they focus on surface hydration and sun damage reduction.

Yes, alternating orcombining AHA and BHAcan address multiple skin concerns like sun damage, wrinkles and clogged pores. Experiment to see what works best for your skin and adjust usage as needed. 

BHA can sometimes temporarily causeskin purgingdue to its oil solubility, which allows it to penetrate deep into pores and break up trapped skin cells. This speeds up cell turnover, bringing clogs to the surface, indicating the exfoliant is working properly.

Our 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, commonly known as an exfoliating toner, has the lightweight, liquid texture of a toner and the benefits of a chemical exfoliant, which include removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, revealing a brighter complexion. Other Paula’s Choice tonersare used after cleansing to remove residual makeup and sunscreen, hydrate and deliver targeted ingredients like antioxidants. While both are beneficial, they serve different purposes in your skin care routine.

Though fragrance free, the product may have a subtle scent from its ingredients, which dissipates quickly. Individual scent perception varies. Many users adjust to it, finding the benefits outweigh any minor scent. Learn more aboutfragrance-free skin care. 

Paula’s Choice currently offers four liquid BHA exfoliants including:

SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant:  

• Most potent, deep exfoliation. 
• pH 3.5, for fast results.  

CLEAR Extra Strength 2% BHA:

• Same formula as SKIN PERFECTING. 
• Targets stubborn acne, part of a 3-step system.

CLEAR Regular Strength 2% BHA:

• Gentle, lightweight formula. 
• pH 3.9, suitable for sensitive skin and mild breakouts. 

RESIST 2% BHA:

• Light, water-like texture. 
• For combination/oily skin, with added antioxidants for anti-aging. 

Our 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is gluten free, vegan, fragrance free and alcohol free. Note: All Paula’s Choice are cruelty free.

1-2% BHA (salicylic acid) is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Use it in small areas like the face, neck and chest. Before use, consult your healthcare provider.

Results can vary but 2% BHA is clinically proven to promote smoother, clearer, glowing skin in as little as 48 hours.

Yes, although we recommend avoiding contact with the lash line and eyelids.

There are no specific products to strictly avoid.BHA can be paired with ingredientslike niacinamide, vitamin C, peptides and retinoids and in fact, it enhances absorption of other skin care ingredients. 

You can apply amoisturizerdirectly after your 2% BHA but in general, we recommend that you follow BHA with treatments (layering thinnest to thickest), then moisturize and protect (SPF) in that order.

Whether or not you can use 2% BHA daily depends on your individual skin type and how your skin tolerates it. We recommend applying it to clean skin. First, use every other day and note skin’s response, then use up to twice a day. For daytime, always follow withsunscreen. For nighttime, follow with the rest of your routine.

Paula’s Choice 2% BHA is generally suitable for sensitive skin but start slowly (every other day) and increase use only if tolerated. Reduce frequency if irritation occurs.

Teenagerscan use our 2% BHA Liquid, but they should also start slowly. Regardless of age, daily sunscreen is essential due to increased sun sensitivity.