Product Overview
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant has earned its place as a cult favorite among beauty editors and skincare experts worldwide for its ability to deliver visibly smoother, clearer, and more refined skin. Known for its lightweight, fast-absorbing texture and results-driven formula, it effectively targets concerns like clogged pores, breakouts, and uneven texture. This brand iconic exfoliant is the go-to solution for achieving visibly healthier skin and has been incorporated into countless skincare routines.
Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble exfoliants that work deep within the pores to remove dead skin cells and dissolve excess sebum, making them ideal for tackling acne and blackheads. Paula’s Choice has selected salicylic acid as the hero ingredient for its proven efficacy in reducing visible pores, controlling oil production, and calming inflammation. Unlike many other exfoliants, salicylic acid offers soothing benefits, making it suitable for those with breakout-prone skin.
The pH level of a BHA exfoliant is crucial in determining its effectiveness. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is expertly formulated within an optimal pH range of 3.2–3.8, allowing salicylic acid to perform at its peak while minimizing irritation. This ideal pH ensures the active ingredient clears away pore buildup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. The result is a balanced, clarified complexion with a refined texture and tone.
Without regular exfoliation, the skin can become rough, dull, and prone to congestion, as dead skin cells accumulate on the surface and clog pores. For those with combination to oily skin types, opting for a BHA exfoliant can help keep these issues at bay.
Note: The following alternatives focus only on 2% BHA (salicylic acid) products in a toner-like format that are free of alcohol and fragrance. These formulations include booster ingredients to complement the active salicylic acid. For instance, Paula’s Choice incorporates methylpropanediol, which provides antimicrobial properties, acts as a solvent, and boosts hydration, along with antioxidant-rich green tea to help soothe and condition the skin.
Dupes
| Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant | Farmacy Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner | Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2% | ISNTREE Chestnut BHA 2% Clear Liquid | Revolution Skincare 2% Salicylic Acid Tonic | PanOxyl Clarifying Exfoliant | Alpyn Pore Perfecting Liquid | St. Ives Unfragranced BHA Exfoliating Toner | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Active | 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) | 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) | 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) | 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) | 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) | 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) | 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) | 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) |
| Booster | Methypropanediol, Green Tea | Papaya Enzyme, Moringa, Chlorella | Bioactive Fruit Acids | Chestnut Shell Extract, Hyaluronic Acid | Marshmallow | Blue Algae, Antioxidants | Borage, Tremella Mushroom, Vitamin C | – |
| Contains | – | – | – | – | – | – | Tea Tree Leaf Oil | – |
| pH | 3.2-3.8 | – | 3.5-4.0 | 4±1 | – | – | – | – |
| Size | 118ml | 120ml | 120ml | 100ml | 200ml | 118ml | 120ml | 197.5ml |
| Price | $35 | $34 | $19 | $21 | €11.99 | $16.44 | $39 | $7.99 |
| Find Offer | Amazon | Amazon | Amazon | Amazon YesStyle | Amazon | Amazon iHerb | Amazon | Amazon |
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