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Fast absorbing liquid formula removes built-up dead skin cells and fights blackheads.
Fights breakouts and blackheads
Fast-absorbing liquid formula
Removes built-up dead skin cells
Our iconic global bestseller, this clinically proven daily leave-on liquid exfoliant with salicylic acid quickly unclogs pores and controls oil for clear, glowing skin
What is it? BHA (aka salicylic acid) works within the pore lining where congestion, breakouts & blackheads begin. Our formula is clinically proven to visibly reduce pores & support the skin barrier for a healthy glow. This leave-on exfoliant (also sometimes known as a toner) has an optimal pH range of 3.2-3.8 for maximum effectiveness without irritation. Benefits: Skin becomes dull and congested when dead skin cells build up on its surface. Unlike harsh exfoliator scrubs, our gentle BHA mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping to shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing out pores. This not only makes your skin look brighter, it also allows the rest of your routine to absorb and work better. Apply consistently for a smooth, make-up ready complexion.
Clinically proven to visibly reduce pores & control oil*
Clinically proven to improve skin barrier*
Because skincare works best when it suits your skin type.
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and wait 15-30 minutes. Select what you see and how you feel.
Salicylic Acid/BHAConcentrated BHA penetrates deep into pores to clear congestion.
Green Tea Extract Quickly calms redness & soothes skin barrier.
Methylpropanediol Can enhance the absorption of ingredients such as salicylic acid. It also has hydrating properties that can leave a smooth, dewy finish on skin.
Ingredients: Aqua, Methylpropanediol (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid, exfoliant), Polysorbate 20 (stabilizer), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (skin calming/antioxidant), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancer), Tetrasodium EDTA (stabilizer).
How to use an exfoliant
Lightly soak a cotton pad and gently apply over the entire face and neck, including the eye area (avoid lash line and eyelids). Do not rinse. At first, apply every other day and note skin’s response. Then use up to twice daily. For daytime, follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or greater.
Start slowly: Apply every other day and note skin's response. Then use up to twice daily. For daytime, always finish with a sunscreen rated SPF 30 or above. For nighttime, follow with the rest of your routine.
Given our 2% BHA Liquid’s fluid texture, many people think of it as a toner but its formulation isn’t meant to do what traditional toners do. Instead, the toner consistency of this liquid exfoliates built-up dead skin, unclogs pores and hydrates to boost glow. Paula’s Choice toners add vital skin-replenishing ingredients immediately after cleansing (and before exfoliating) to hydrate, refresh and rebalance. Our toners also work to remove any last traces of make-up and SPF that may have been missed during cleansing.
If our 2% BHA Liquid feels sticky, you may be using too much. Try using a pearl-sized amount applied in a thin layer. The greasy feel can be attributed to the high levels of glycol in the formula (which works as a water-binding agent and to help BHA penetrate the skin's surface layers).
Learn more in our skin purging article.
AHAs are generally preferred if you have normal to dry skin. They are water soluble and work on the skin surface to enhance hydration, fight crepey texture & visibly reduce sun damage. BHA is the preferred option for normal to oily or combination skin that is prone to bumps & breakouts. BHA is oil soluble, meaning it works both on the skin surface and within pores to quickly shed clogging build-up. It's also naturally calming and gentle enough for skin that's sensitive, prone to redness or rosacea.
Yes, you can use AHA and BHA together, but most people do just fine using one or the other. Using AHA and BHA together can provide advanced results if you’re experiencing multiple skin concerns (like signs of sun damage, deep wrinkles, stubborn clogged pores, bumps, dullness or flaky skin). There’s nothing wrong with experimenting to see which one works best for you or alternating both. Just monitor how your skin responds and adjust usage if needed.
The 2% BHA Liquid penetrates deeper into the pore and has a pH of 3.5. It’s designed for those with more stubborn or persistent breakouts. Our CLEAR Regular Strength 2% BHA has a nearly weightless feel on your skin and a pH of around 3.9, making it better for those with mild and occasional breakouts or sensitive skin.
The 2% BHA Liquid has the exact same formula as our CLEAR Extra Strength 2% BHA, which is sold within the convenient 3-step CLEAR collection.
2% BHA Liquid is a more potent exfoliant for all skin types, thanks to its lower pH and the inclusion of additional penetration enhancing agents in its formula which allow it to exfoliate quickly. The RESIST 2% BHA has a lighter, water-like texture for combination/oily skin and in addition to unclogging pores, it also contains additional antioxidants to help gently but effectively address signs of ageing.
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How does a BHA exfoliant work?
Journal of European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology, September 2016, issue 9, pages 1480-1490 General Physiology and Biophysics, September 2013, issue 3, pages 347-59 Archives of Dermatology, August 2000, issue 8, pages 989-994 Journal of Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015, volume 8, pages 455-461