2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

A BHA exfoliant is ideal for normal to oily or combination skin prone to bumps and blemishes. Its oil-soluble nature clears pores and improves texture.  AHA exfoliants are great for normal to dry skin, as they focus on surface hydration and sun damage reduction.

Yes, alternating or combining AHA and BHA can 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 cause skin purging due 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 toners are 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 skincare 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 about fragrance-free skincare.

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 aren’t specific ingredients that are universally off-limits. BHA can be paired with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, peptides, retinoids, glycolic acid (AHA), hyaluronic acid, and azelaic acid. In fact, BHA enhances the absorption of other skincare ingredients. Just introduce combinations gradually and adjust frequency based on your skin’s tolerance.

You can apply a moisturizer directly 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.

How often you use 2% BHA depends on your skin type and tolerance. Start every other day, then increase as your skin adjusts. Some people do well using it daily, while others prefer a few times per week. If you notice dryness or irritation, reduce frequency and focus on moisturizing. For daytime use, always follow with sunscreen.

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.

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

Apply BHA after cleansing and toning, then follow with serums and moisturizer. You can use it morning or night, though many prefer nighttime use. Start with a few times per week and gradually increase to once or twice daily as your skin adjusts. For daytime, always finish with a SPF 30 or higher.