Good to try
I had high hopes for this BHA product for my blackhead, but so far my blackheads are still there. I Perhaps I need to try the 2% next time. Other than that, it smelled like glue for a while but then I guess I got used to it. However whenever any part of my skin felt itchy, I used this and it relieves the itch.
—Bazli
Happy
I am very happy with the results this product did for my skin. When I first started using this along with Purpose cleanser, I would apply the BHA after washing and wait 10 minutes and apply my acne.org benzoxyl peroxide 2.5% and then wait 10 minutes and apply cetaphil moisturizer. My skin texture improved dramatically, but then i found out that this may have been to harsh as my skin went flaky again, so then I decided to be brave and just apply the BHA in the morning and the BP at night. And it is a perfect fit! My skin has never looked and felt better. I am no longer suffering from dry flaky skin bc of the BP, and makeup goes on beautifully with this. And my skin feels balanced and not oily after a long day. And my skin continues to remain clear :)
—Happy
Disappointed
I got this BHA gel in November of 2011 and used it up until last month. There was never a change in the size of my pores or the smoothness and redness of my skin. After a couple months of using it, it even made my skin feel sticky when I put it on. I am very disappointed. Customer Care Response: Thank you for taking the time to review this product. We are sorry to hear the product did not produce more favorable results for you personally. We understand that each person will respond differently to products and ingredients. Regarding your purchase with us, we will be sure to credit your account for the purchase price of the product. We do encourage you to try the 2% strength and the Skin Balancing Pore Reducing Toner to see how they work for you. Please contact customer care with any questions, we are happy to help.
—Dana
I like it
My mom recommended Paula's Choice products after hearing about it from her dermatologist. When I started using the 1% BHA, I was a little skeptical (and worried after some of the negative reviews). I think sometimes we are hoping some kind of a miracle, and mass media advertising promotes those kind of ideas. While I haven't awoken looking like Angelina Jolie or anything, I am quite happy with this product. My skin is noticeably clearer and smoother, and while I used to experience occassionaly breakouts, I have had none. It was a subtle and gradual change for the better. I will for sure buy this product again!
—Christina
Wanted to like...
I wanted to like this and thought I would love (have used the 1% lotion with success), but unfortunately experienced a reaction on my chin/cheek, like a rash. A little annoyed as initially tried to order samples of this online, but was going to be charged 2.00 for shipping several sample packets which seemed excessive (later learned that the system should not have done this).So went ahead and placed an order for full size which now have to go through hassle and expense to return. On a positive note, I ordered the Hydralight Moisturizer which is fabulous and actually felt very soothing on my rash. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear of your experience with this product. While the response you have indicated is not typical, we do understand that each customer is uniquely different in how they will respond to products or ingredients. This along with everyday environmental factors can sometimes play a part in how someone will ultimately respond to a product or combination of products. We will credit you for the product and are happy to hear the other products you have tried work better for you! Please contact customer care with any questions or concern.
—Anna-Marie
Didn't work for me
I don't know what it was about this product, but it didn't work for me at all! Combined with the skin balancing toner, it only made me break out like crazy on my forehead! Took weeks to clear! I'm not a fan of the smell of this gel either. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear of your experience with this product. While the response you have indicated is not typical, we do understand that each customer is uniquely different in how they will respond to products or ingredients. This along with everyday environmental factors can sometimes play a part in how someone will ultimately respond to a product or combination of products. We will credit you for the product. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Janice
Great range, but I might need a change
I love PC products, they definitely cleared up the problem skin I had always experienced. I have been using the 1% BHA for about 2 years now and I thought it was doing the trick because from the outside the skin looked pretty clear, however I recently has a facial and the esthetician seemed to suggest that I wasn't even using an exfoliator and the days following the treatment by chin broke out with dozens of spots...perhaps my skin became immune to the product? I will try the 2% and see if it clears up those beneath the surface bumps. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. Skin does not become immune to products. You will notice a more noticeable difference in the skin when you first start using well formulated products such as a BHA but the skin will still continue to be exfoliated with ongoing use. It also depends on what was applied to your skin right before the breakout in order to narrow down the cause. We may discuss your options more if you would like to contact customer care. Feel free to contact us at any time.
—Jenn
good stuff
Is this new packaging?
I've been using this product from paula's choice for over 2 years..it's been consistently great at keeping my skin as normal as it can be. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. Yes, this is new packaging but the formula remains the same. Please contact customer care via email, live chat, or over the phone with any questions, we are happy to help!
—amy
1% BHA GEL Exfoliant
Please, never stop making this. This was my first time to try 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel, recomended from a friend. I absolutely love this product. I have been using it for 2 months now and I can notice huge difference in my skin. The texture appears nicer and best of all I am not having any breakouts at all. Question to customer care: do you think I should try the 2% gel, or since I am happy with this one to stick to it for now?
—Silviya
Sebaceous Hyperplasia
As an add-on to my last comment, I use the BHA1% after toning, but I let the toner dry thorougly and then wait about 2 mins before using this product. I also let the 1% BHA product dry thoroughly after applying only with my clean fingers. I wait for it to dry thouroughly plus an extra 2 mins before using the serum. I don't have any negative interaction this way-- no tingling or irritation of any sort. My skin is sensitive in the winter, especially when the weather turns dry and cold and the indoor heating kicks in everywhere I go.
—Carolyn
Sebaceous Hyperplasia
After using 3 sample packs, I noticed the bumps that were diagnosed as Sebaceous Hyperplasia have diminshed to a great extent. No longer can I feel a raised bump above the surface of my skin.
Some bumps have disappeared completely.
My dermatologist stated that many women opt for laser or chemical peels but he did not recommend them in my case. I thought it was hopeless until I tried the samples. Of course I bought the full size bottle to keep them in check and prevent any further "breakouts" that I was told plague women who are going through menopause. I wonder what his response would be about using 1% BHA and PC?
—Carolyn
Smooth skin
I love this product - when I use it consistently twice a day with benzoyl peroxide, my skin gets an amazingly smooth, soft, and silky texture, and I am virtually acne-free. I used to use Neutrogena's 2% salicylic acid product, but for some reason it didn't work as well as the Paula's Choice 1% product. I highly recommend this - it isn't irritating but it is so effective.
—Anjanette
Awesome!
I love this product, I use the gel instead of the liquid because you need cotton pads for the liquid and it gets used up so quickly. Although the bottle size was small for the price. You only need a little bit to smooth over the entire face but I always use a bit too much, because it coms out so easily. All in all, an awesome product.
—annika
Finally Uncongested
Exfoliating 1% BHA Gel is the first product to actually loosen and "empty" the clogged pores I've battled my whole life. It's utterly amazing to use it before bed and then, when I'm doing my A.M. skin care regime, WOW! The clogs (blackheads)are actually loose and bits of them are hanging out! Makes them easier to remove and remain clear.
Thanks, Paula.
—Barbara
tacky
I got the gel as part of the skin balancing pack and I found it gentle and effective. However I found the texture of the product tacky, and I had to wait a little while after applying my toner before using this gel as otherwise the gel would slightly lather/foam. I did not find this effective with my mild blackheads and have had greater success with the 2% liquid.
—Siobhan
Good and Bad
Used on its own this product is wonderful. It really does make your pores look smaller and even out skin tone dramatically. However, trying to blend a moisturizer or foundation over top of it is impossible. The product starts to ball up and clump and just made me want to wash it off so I just use it before I go to bed.
—Kimberley
Great product
I am 24, and have always had skin problems. Normally it is under control but I flared up again 6 months ago with cystic acne on my chin. I also have problems with flakiness. However I started using this product 5 weeks ago and my skin is great. I have gotten a few blemishes, but they have all been small and have gone away quickly. No more cysts on my chin! This formula does not dry my skin up, and the gel is non-greasy and dries within a minute. I use it with Paula's Skin balancing toner, Skin balancing moisturizer, and Extra Strength acne cream, and am very pleased.
—Christina
Just okay
I used this after trying the 2% and getting irritation from it. While this was very gentle on my skin I didn't see any improvement in my mild acne from it. For those looking for tighter pores it may be great for you. Overall, Paula's Choice is the best BHA and AHA lines I've ever used in terms of irritation so I would still recommend them to others.
—Sarah
LOVE IT!!!
Absolutely LOVE this product. I use it at night for about a week and my skin is smoother and blackheads reduced. The only issue is I will not wear this item during the day because its slightly 'tacky' texture makes my foundation not blend as well as it should. But using it at night solves this problem. I LOVE IT!!!
—Nina
Thanks
I'm 24, and I purchased this product a few weeks ago. I already see marked improvements in my skin's texture. I have been able to skip my tented moisturizer, in favor of a simple under-eye concealer. This is a big deal for me, because my skin is very sensitive--downright snobby! I think that products I had tried previously were perhaps too strong or too harsh. Thank you for keeping it simple. Though I am on a tight budget, I will continue to buy this product.
—Allison
Does not work for me
After using this product twice a day, I see no improvement in the blackheads on my nose. Only bigger pores.
Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear that you are unhappy with this item. Please contact our Customer Service Team for further assistance.
—Esther
Great!
My skin is getting better and better! I have been using this twice a day for about a week, and I can see that my blackheads are beginning to disappear and my skin is so soft and smooth!
—Erica
1% BHA gel
For 2 months i have been afflicted with a dermatitis on my face that itched and even hydrocortisone would not heal. I had dry rough patches on the right side of my face. After 1 application of the 1% bha gel my face itched pretty badly and i almost washed it off, but in the am my face has not itched at all and there for the first time ni months feels soft and I can see signs of healing after only 2 applications. Great product!
—robyne
yeah!
when I first tried this i didnt really like it because of the smell and the texture. But when I came home from a vacation loaded with acne, i decided to try it. In two days...my skin has never...i repeat never been clearer. FINALLY!
—chloe
Works, but takes getting used to
When I first started using this my skin burned a little. But then that went away. But I have to use this every day---if I stop using it the stinging will return. It makes my sensitive skin look flawless, all of Paula's Choice skin-care products have been wonderful!
—Margaret
Leaves my skin smooth
I love how smooth my skin is after using this product. It helps maintain my skin clear of breakouts. My tip for it not balling up is to allow it to completely dry on its own. Don't keep rubbing it in after it starts to dry and your moisturizer and makeup just glides on perfectly.
—Dinah
Can't Live Without It!
I've been using this product for years now, and it is an absolute staple for me.
I apply it nightly to my extremely oily, breakout-prone 45-year-old face, and it really helps to smooth and "decongest" my oily skin, without the slightest hint of irritation or dryness.
I regularly have people guess me to be 10 years younger than I am, and my friends make wistful remarks about my "creamy skin."
Some of it is genetic, I'm positive, but this product certainly helps!
I'll keep buying it as long as it's on the market.
—CNo64
Disappointed
The consistency of this product makes it ball up after I apply it and impossible for me to wear it during the day.
Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear of your experience with this product. Please contact Customer Service via email, Live Chat, or phone for return assistance.
—C.G.
Problem Eliminated
My nose and surrounding area has large pores that fill up daily. I am constantly fighting blackheads even at 45 and with a dermatologist's help. Within 3 days, no exaggerating, this product has almost completely eliminated this problem that has plagued me for years. I just put in my order for the entire sensitive line (Skin Balancing System) and can't wait to see if I love all the products as much as this one.
—Andrea Buchan
WONDERFUL!!!!!
I thought this was the best. The first time I tryed it I didn't believe how wonderful my face felt and how small the pore on my nose were. Thank you Paula!
—Hannah
love this product
At first when I tried this it was sticky, but you have to give it time to absorb and I had no problem putting my moisturizer. After only 2 weeks of using it at night I notice how smooth my skin was. I'm hooked on this product. Will try the 2% one next order.
—Denise H.
Best Product Hands Down
I have been using the Exfoliating 1% BHA Gel for half a year now. I am a 19 year old female with persistent acne due to good ole hormones but, this gel has at least removed every blackhead on my face, particularly my nose. It's wonderful!
—Shelby
Can't stop touching my newly smooth skin!
Thank you Paula! Not even through a sample packet, and already noticing great change in texture, and without a doubt smaller pores. Completely amazing product!
—Lori
wow!
Tried this once with the skin balancing system. No improvement. Stopped, now trying it again along with presciption Retin-A. One day I look in the mirror and my blackheads are GONE. I am amazed and happy.
—Cristina
Excellent product
I have used Clinique products for over 20 years, including their exfoliating toners. Tried the 1% BHA Gel 6 weeks ago - the difference was immediate. My pores are much smaller, blackheads on my nose hardly noticeable any more.
—Diane
Keeps rosacea bumps at bay
This stuff is great for my 40+ rosacea skin. I keeps my rosacea papules under control while calming redness and smoothing the flaky skin my rosacea also causes. I only use a small amount to do the job and the gel formula is the best for me (the liquid and lotion did not work as well). Thank you Paula for this winner :)
—Erika
"Of a certain age" in Indiana
I'm 56; have been using the 1% beta hydroxy acid gel for a couple years. Has calmed my rosacea and reduces the eruption of milia.
—Connie Bilyeu
Skin Balancing System!
I just got the entire skin balancing system yesterday. In one day - ONE DAY - my skin is less red, I have no flakes or dryness, and my skin seems less oily. In ONE DAY. I'm a believer. Paula, thank you for all that you do. I can't wait to see what my skin looks like in a month. THANK YOU!!!!
—Sharon J.
Great Product!
Although my skin is pretty clear, I've had some stubborn acne bumps on my forehead. I've used this product twice a day for 3 days and tme bumps are becoming fewer and fewer. They've even dried up and have "flaked" off. This is a great product for persistent acne or those "small enemies" that tend to flare. Paula's Choice is a skin care regime I tend to follow forever!
—Kim
No reaction at all
I've been using this product morning and night for a week and I don't see any change whatsoever. Are the blackheads supposed to just wash out on their own or do you have to squeeze them out? I live in southern cal and don't even see any sensitivity to the sun.
—Maria
Better than benzoyl peroxide
This stuff cleared up 97% of my acne without causing dryness/flakiness. Outperforms Proactiv at a fraction of a cost.
—marina
Love It!
I love this BHA gel. Before I was using BHA products from the drugstore, but my oily sensitive skin couldn't take the higher concentrations. This is perfect and does the job well. Thanks!
—Erin
this really works
i've tried other exfoliants out there like aveda's brand which irritated and dried my skin. i've been using it for a week and my husband looked at me one early morning and said that my face looked clean. he said that my blemish spots faded and my skin is smooth. wow! i was surprised he noticed...he was amazed that now he wants to use my regimen. i definitely recommend to use the whole paula choice line to see true results. this is the best stuff i have tried in 20 years and i have struggled with oily acne skin. you have nothing to lose.
—t.b
BHA 1%
Effects are good but it peels when I put make-up over the top of it. Due absorption and blending with other topical products I have to give it a 3.
—Kerry
Sucks
Hopeless and expensive. You should be ashamed.
Customer Care: We regret that our product was not what you may have expected. Our Customer Service will be more than happy to assist you in finding another product that will work better for you. Please note that Paula's Choice also has a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy within 60 days of purchase.
—Jup
Wonderful!
I don't exactly how this stuff works, but it has made a big difference!! I have oily/combination skin and when I put this on at night on my problem areas, in the morning my face is totally smooth and my pores are much less visible. Highly recommended!!!
—Laura
Finally!
Finally a product to clear my skin gently. It looks and feels amazing. Thank you!
—Alexis Corbin
Thank you!
I had a bad reaction to a very popular mineral foundation (should've read your review first), and I used the 1% BHA gel after I cleansed my face. My skin cleared up within 2 days. I love your products because I can truly see a difference in my skin since I've started using them. Thanks!
—Julie
This was my first time to try your 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel. I absolutely love this product. I have only been using it for two weeks now but I can notice a difference in my skin. The texture appears nicer and best of all I am not having as much breakouts. My skin is finally starting to clear up. I can't wait to try more of your products.
—Jennifer S.
I feel compelled to write and let you know how absolutely thrilled I am with my new Paula's Choice skincare regime. I've been using the One Step Cleanser, 1% BHA Gel and Blemish Fighting Solution for six weeks on my normally very breakout-prone skin and, without a doubt, my complexion has never looked better! I'm also wearing "Barely There" foundation on a daily basis and can't believe it has SPF and doesn't cause me to break out! Thank you so much for offering such effective products at reasonable prices!
—Avery K.
I have been using your products for 2 years now and my skin just keeps getting better. For the past 20 years I have been plagued by rosacea along with thick, oily, large-pored skin which always looked angry. I can't give enough praise to your 1% AND 2% BHA products and your Barely There Sheer Matte Tint SPF 20. I wear these products every single day and couldn't imagine life without them! My friends thought I'd had photo facials the improvement was so dramatic...until I explained to them it was all the result of your skin care program. Thanks once again, your products are awesome!!
—Sharon E.
I finally took the leap of faith and ordered up some of your products online (living in Canada puts some of us off for purchasing from US due to Customs duty etc). Well, I think I will pay the duties on your products in future; it is well worth the extra cost. The 1% BHA gel is doing wonders to my skin; I wish I hadn't held out so long. My skin has never looked so better!
—Anna K.
The 1% Beta-Hydroxy Acid Gel is like a gift from God! I had great skin all through my teen years, then once I hit my early 20's my skin went nuts...zit here, blemish there, acne, acne everywhere! I am 22 and for the last 2 years tried everything I could get my hands on that promised clear skin. I was even considering going on the pill to tame my breakouts. I bought this product and the NEXT DAY my skin looked better, within 2 weeks my skin was smooth, clear and gorgeous. I can't thank you enough for creating this product, it not only gave me my completion back, but confidence as well!
—Amber M.
My favorite part about this product is that it actually eliminates my blackheads that I have had on my chin for ages. No matter how hard I've tried, I have not been able to get rid of those blackheads! Now, every time I use it, I notice they're gone! And my skin is getting progressively smoother! I'm finding less and less things to worry about when I look in the mirror!
—Siiri S.
What makes this product unique?
Our water-based Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Gel exfoliates both the skin's surface and inside the pore, reshaping the pore lining to unclog pores and improving skin cell turnover rate. This creates a dramatic improvement in the skin's appearance, feel, and function and overall leads to healthier skin. There is a great deal of research indicating that BHA (beta hydroxy acid) increases collagen production and drastically smoothes the surface of skin. Additionally, BHA has antibacterial properties that attack blemish-causing bacteria. The silky gel consistency is a great option for oily to very oily skin and also provides light hydration.
This product is 100% fragrance- and colorant-free with a pH range of3.2-3.6 for superior exfoliating properties. Every Paula's Choice BHA product is formulated with additional soothing agents.
Who is this product for?
Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Gel works well on all skin types, but the texture is especially suited for those with normal to very oily skin.
NOTE: Those allergic to aspirin (acetylsalicylate) should not use products containing salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid).
How should this product be used?
Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Gel can be used once or twice daily after cleansing and toning. You can apply a moisturizer or sunscreen over it as well.
Apply a dime-sized amount to clean skin and massage over face, including around the eyes (do not apply to eyelids or along lower lash line). Do not rinse off. Follow with Paula's Choice CLEAR Acne Fighting Treatment (if needed), moisturizer, and/or specialty product. For daytime, wear under a product rated SPF 15 or higher.
What Makes Paula's Choice Products Unique?
Created by world renowned skin care expert and author Paula Begoun
Proven effectiveness based on hundreds of published scientific studies
Targeted systems for wrinkles, acne, rosacea, sensitive skin, oily skin, dry skin and more
Fragrance-free, color-free, free of harmful skin irritants, and never tested on animals
Sources to support the claims made for Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Gel
International Immunopharmacology, August 2009, pages 1,126–1,130; Chemical Research in Toxicology, January 2008, pages 53–69; Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2007, pages 124-135; Journal of Cosmetic Science, November-December 2004, pages 519-531; Archives of Internal Medicine, July 2002, pages 1531–1532; Annals of Dermatology and Venereology, January 2002, pages 137–142; Archives of Dermatology, November 2000, pages 1390–1395; Dermatology, 1999, volume 199, number 1, pages 50–53; and Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, volume 175, issue 1, pages 76–82.
Directions: Apply a dime-sized amount to clean skin and massage over face, including around the eyes (do not apply to eyelids). Follow with a Paula's Choice Blemish Fighting Solution (if needed), moisturizer, and/or specialty product. For daytime, wear under a product rated SPF 15 or higher. Note: Persons allergic to aspirin should not use a product containing salicylic acid.
Your AHA (glycolic acid) products have a higher percentage than your BHA (salicylic acid) products. Does this mean AHA is a stronger exfoliant?
AHA products are most effective at a 5% to 10% concentration and BHA at 1% to 2% concentration. Think about it like making bread, the amount of yeast you need is tiny in comparison to the amount of flour you use but equally important to get the results you want. The percentage of effectiveness varies depending on the ingredient. Rest assured that the BHA products are not any less effective due to lower concentrations of the exfoliant.
How does Paula's Choice 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel compare to the 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion?
The main difference lies with each product's texture. The 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion has a light lotion base with a touch of moisture. Our 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel has a water-light base that also has hydration benefits. Those with oily to very oily skin may prefer the gel's texture.
Is Paula's Choice 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel stronger than the 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion?
From a percentage of active ingredient standpoint, no. However, because the 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel has a glycol base, it is better able to penetrate the skin, which may produce faster (but not necessarily better) results.
I have tried Paula's Choice 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion and did not care for the texture, and Paula's Choice 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Liquid was too strong for my skin. Will the 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Gel work for me?
Quite possibly, yes. If you're looking for a BHA exfoliant whose texture is lighter than our 1% BHA Lotion but not as strong as our 2% BHA Liquid, the 1% BHA Gel should be an ideal "happy medium" for your skin.
