2% BHA Liquid

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Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Combination, Oily Skin
Item #: 201
  • Effective for: Acne Breakouts, Anti-Aging, Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Keratosis Pilaris, Redness, Wrinkles
  • Liquid formula exfoliates to reveal smoother, firmer, younger-looking skin
  • Calms redness and builds collagen
  • Gentle yet still effective on the most stubborn acne and blackheads
  • Unclogs and diminishes enlarged pores
  • Creates radiant, clear, even-toned skin
  • Anti-inflammatory ingredients reduce signs of rosacea
  • Clinically proven non-irritating
  • 100% fragrance free, no added dyes
  • No animal testing
  • View the research and studies showing the benefits of using this exfoliant here.

PLEASE NOTE: Do not use if you are allergic to aspirin or its derivatives.

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Customer Ratings:

84 out of 100
(Based on 365 Reviews)
Page of 15 Next »
  1. ROSIE N.
    Reviewed on Wednesday, June 19, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Keeps my skin clear like nothing else has
    • I've been using this product for about 7 years, possibly longer, and it has kept my oily-to-combination skin free from blemishes. Recently I thought I no longer needed it and streamlined my skincare routine. BIG mistake. I broke out horribly. After 2 months or foolishness, I reintroduced this into my routine, applying only at night as I've always done. I experienced 3 weeks of 'adjustment' / purging, but thankfully now my skin has returned to its previous blemish-free state. It's a keeper!

  2. Anonymous
    Reviewed on Wednesday, June 19, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Natalie4242
    • I LOVE THIS PRODUCT!!! The first night I used it on my Keratosis Pilaris (KP) which is on the backs of my upper arms and starting to spread to my lower arms (which is really embarrassing and depresses me)..... I noticed results the very next morning. My skin was definitely alot smoother and now I just need something for the redness. I was given a sample lotion for redness relief. I still have to try that out.

  3. Lucy A
    Reviewed on Tuesday, June 18, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Best product ever for acne prone skin
    • I've been using this pdt for more than 10 years and thought I should give a review in my lifetime. ;) this pdt works perfectly for me with extremely oily skin that needs blotting every few hours. For those that are irritated by it you shld get a lower concentration. PC has the best bha pdt ever.

  4. Kathryn H
    Reviewed on Sunday, June 09, 2013
    40 out of 100
    • Rating
      Poor / 4
    Did nothing for clogged pores after 11 months
    • I heard a lot of great things about this product, and I was convinced it would help me get rid of the clusters of clogged pores I have on my forehead and temples. Other than these patches, I have good skin that doesn't really break out into actual pimples. I never went through a purging period with this product, which I guess is good, but after using it daily for almost a year I cannot say that it did anything to help my clogged pores.

  5. Elle W
    Reviewed on Saturday, June 08, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Best Ever
    • Been using for over a year. Also tried the 2% gel and prefer the liquid. The gel is stickier, thicker and better for body parts. I put this on a cotton ball, twice a day after washing my face. Use it on my Tzone, whole chin area, and anywhere that is prone to being oily and breaking out. It keeps my face 90% completely clear but I still get hormonal breakouts on my chin. I have SUPER sensitive pale skin and this doesn't burn or cause dryness. THIS IS AN ESSENTIAL FOR SMOOTH HEALTHY SKIN. BUY IT!

  6. Veronica D.
    Reviewed on Friday, June 07, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    LOVE
    • The "Skin Perfecting" part of the 2% BHA Liquid's title really is no joke! I have struggled with acne, blackheads, large pores, and keratosis pilaris along my jaw line as well as red, rough texture in general, and I can honestly say that this BHA exfoliant has reduced if not eliminated pretty much all of these issues. My skin has never been so smooth and clear of redness and enlarged pores. I use this every other night alternating with an AHA night product and I am so happy with the results!!

  7. Zachary
    Reviewed on Friday, June 07, 2013
    60 out of 100
    • Rating
      Neutral / 4
    Irritated Skin
    • After using this product for about 2 months, I noticed that it began to irritate my skin. I have quite sensitive and acne prone skin and this product caused extreme redness and stingy/burning sensation.

  8. JACQUELINE M.
    Reviewed on Thursday, June 06, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    My Favorite PC Product
    • I apply this two or three nights a week on my ultra sensitive skin before bed. When I wake up, my skin is radiant and glowing and my pores appear smaller. If I use it nightly my skin gets a little flakey. Less is more. Really, every second night does the trick.

  9. Ann M.
    Reviewed on Saturday, June 01, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    OMG!!!
    • I use this just like a toner a.m. and p.m. My skin looks AMAZING. No, seriously, AMAZING. I have oily, combination skin and use a prescribed retina-A product so dryness/flakiness coupled with shine has been a big issue for me. Also, I'm 50 and haven't had a day since puberty without acne. Well, when I started using 2% BHA Liquid all that ended. I've finally found the perfect Paula's Choice routine and this is one of the stars of the show! Thank you, Paula!!

  10. Michelle L.
    Reviewed on Wednesday, May 22, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Amazing!!!!
    • Ok, for years, I have had such an issue with very stubborn blackheads on t-zone, and very enlarged pores which I am very self-conscious of. I have tried numerous products, ranging from the very expensive to simple over the counter products......getting regular facials. I am soooo happy with this product which I have been only using for 2 weeks!!!! I've noticed a huge difference in the texture of my skin, reduced pore size and less congestion already!!! I follow with the moisture boost toner....

  11. mhg
    Reviewed on Saturday, May 18, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    In love!
    • I'm 50 years old and have suffered with cystic acne and oily skin my entire adult life. I've used retin-A ever since going off Accutane at age 25. Recently I started having cystic break-outs like I hadn't had in 25 years. Dermatologist suggested antibiotics - I declined. They'd never helped me and I don't like them. An acne website recommended this and PC AHA product. Not only have these 2 products helped my breakouts, but they have improved my overall skin condition. Totally love!

  12. kate m.
    Reviewed on Saturday, May 18, 2013
    60 out of 100
    • Rating
      Neutral / 4
    Too sticky for a.m. use
    • I received this product after consultation with PC's customer care. My skin concern is stubborn blackheads (I already use the BHA 9 in the evening), and this product was recommended for additional, maximum strength help; unfortunately, I don't believe it is going to work for me. An hour after applying all over per instructions, my face is still too sticky to apply makeup. I can only see using this in the evening; even then, I have concerns about the product rubbing off onto my pillowcase.

    Customer Service Response
    Replied on: Sunday, May 19, 2013
    Thank you for your review and we are sorry that this product hasn't been working out for you. If the BHA is feeling sticky, you are probably using too much product. The average amount necessary for facial application of the 2% BHA is less than the size of a dime. The product is best applied in a thin layer, and has great spreading properties. The "greasy" feel can be attributed to the high levels of glycol in this product (glycol helps the BHA penetrate the surface layers of skin and also works as a water-binding agent). If you live in a humid, moist climate, this effect will be more pronounced and, if too much product is used, can create a "greasy" feel on the skin.
    —Admin
  13. Trina S
    Reviewed on Sunday, May 12, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Can't say enough about this product!
    • I'm using a whole line of Paula's products but believe this one is the "magic bullet".I've had acne prone skin for my whole adult life and tried countless products.With the exception of one particular benzol peroxide product ,which in turn made my skin look dried out, this is the only product that has worked like a miracle. I have been getting compliments on my skin which has never happened before. Not only has my skin cleared up, It looks glowing and younger.I can't recommend this product more!

  14. Terry L.
    Reviewed on Tuesday, May 07, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Good Stuff for Enlarged Pores
    • I have very oily and breakout-prone skin. This was one of the first PC products I tried, because unfortunately my skin is oily and my pores WERE pretty ugly. I also get huge, cyst-like pimples that leave scars and red marks. Even after one week, my skin felt smoother and somehow cleaner. After months of using this toner my pores have gotten smaller. Even my sister, who lives across the country, noticed that my pores were smaller on her last visit. I highly recommend this product!

  15. Mary G.
    Reviewed on Sunday, April 28, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Miracle product!
    • I am 30 years old, and I have oily, combination skin. I saw results the first night I used it! I use this product along with the Paula's choice skin balancing moisture gel. When I wake up in the morning my husband says my skin looks AMAZING!! This is a miracle product! Thanks Paula!

  16. Mariah T.
    Reviewed on Tuesday, April 23, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Has worked very nicely!
    • I decided I would use this long enough to give an accurate review, and I have to say I am very pleased with my purchase. It has nearly eliminated ALL of my blackheads, & in turn helped eliminate pimples. I read several reviews complaining about it leaving a "film" or "sticky feeling" on their skin. Let me tell you, if that happens to you, it's because you are using TOO MUCH! I highly recommend you use a moisturizer with this, and start out using it once a day and build up to two if you like.

  17. Northstar5
    Reviewed on Tuesday, April 16, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Holy grail for skin that breaks out
    • This was the first PC product I ever tried, some 15 years ago. It's still a staple. Now that I'm in my 40s and have dryer skin I use it only two or three days a week (more than that and I flake and dry) but when I broke out and got oiler in my youth I used it once every day. It was the very first thing I ever used that made a HUGE difference. It normalized my skin and essentially ended my breakouts. I have sensitive skin and react super well to this. It also works for bikini-line razor bumps!

  18. ELC
    Reviewed on Thursday, April 11, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Unbelievable!
    • I ordered this product after reading a chrono on someone who had struggled with acne, oily skin and scars on her face since she was a teen and again as an adult. She recommended using Paula's BHA liquid. I tried everything for as long as i can remember. Im 43 and i just received this product 4 days ago and have been using it twice a day. I cannot say what an amazing difference it has made on my skin. My face has cleared tremendously and has a more smooth texture!! It started working from day 1!!

  19. Tashia J.
    Reviewed on Tuesday, April 09, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    WOW
    • All I can say is...WOW. I am 47 years young, I have VERY oily skin and EXTRA large pores. I did try Paula's Choice BHA about 10 years ago. I was like "meh, whatever". I probably didn't give it a chance or maybe it's been reformulated, whatever the case may be, the BHA 2% liquid has changed my life! I've only been using it a week and I see a HUGE difference! I am also using the other recommended products and between all of them my skin hasn't looked this good since I was 2.

  20. Anonymous
    Reviewed on Tuesday, April 09, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    An outstanding exfoliant
    • This is an exceptional exfoliant that WILL give you smoother skin after just a few uses. There really is no better BHA exfoliant out their! As for the sticky feeling - (after applying with a cotton pad) just massage the product into your skin using your fingers for a few seconds. Also, try pairing it with Paula's Shine-stopper. This product is a staple in my skincare regimen and I would not be without it - period.

  21. Ev C
    Reviewed on Sunday, April 07, 2013
    40 out of 100
    • Rating
      Poor / 4
    Did not work
    • I have used the product for over 3 month daily. My blackheads continue to persist and theres no sign of my pores diminishing in size.

  22. marlene h.
    Reviewed on Thursday, April 04, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    I love this product!
    • Out of all theproducts I bought from PC, this is my favorite. It really keeps my skin clean and acne free. The only bad thing is I think this dries my skin a little even though I have oily skin. I've been using Resist Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator but that isn't moisturized enough to counteract the dryness from this exfoliator. Since this exfoliator is a keeper, I'm shopping around for a better moisturizer. something that has more moisture for this oily skin of mine.

  23. Joni
    Reviewed on Thursday, April 04, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Best Ever!
    • Best stuff EVER and I mean ever! My skin is the best it has ever been. I ordered a second bottle because I couldn't stand the thought of running out. Unfortunately, about 1/3 of the liquid leaked out in the shipping box on the way. Maybe needs a little better lid that seals tighter? Thanks for a great product! I've already referred two friends to PC and they love it as well! This is one happy customer!

    Customer Service Response
    Replied on: Monday, April 08, 2013
    Thank you for your review, and we're glad you have had such a wonderful experience with the 2% BHA Liquid! Leaking makes us sad, however. It sounds like your package may have been damaged/bumped in transit, as leaking isn't a typical experience. Please contact our Customer Care and they will be happy to help fix it!
    —Admin
  24. ANGIE R.
    Reviewed on Monday, April 01, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Amazing!
    • I had received a small sample of this and decided to try it, when my sample of 10% AHA ran out. HOLY SMOKES! I'm not kidding when I say it took ten years off my face practically overnight! I'm 44, with wrinkles and oily skin, and this product seems to be the magic I needed. This reduced fine lines and smoothed my skin beautifully, and after 3 uses I look even better than I thought I could! I just bought a big bottle of it tonight and can't wait to get using it.

  25. Melissa B.
    Reviewed on Tuesday, March 26, 2013
    100 out of 100
    • Rating
      Best / 4
    Where was this stuff when I was a teenager!
    • Wish this stuff had been around when I was a teen! 54 now. Face has been oily all my life. If only I had used this starting in my teens yrs; my skin would probably look a lot better now. Pores would probably be smaller. For the 1st time in my life my face isn't really oily during the day. It seems to have helped dry up the oiliness in general. Prefer liquid type to gel. After a few days noticed some drying and flakes. I tried the 1%, not strong enough. CS suggested using 2% every other day.

Page of 15 Next »

What makes this product unique?
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant rapidly exfoliates both the skin's surface and inside the pore, reshaping the pore lining, unclogging pores and improving skin cell turnover rate. The result is a dramatic improvement in the skin's appearance, feel, and function which 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 lightweight, non-occlusive formula allows for a faster and deeper exfoliation rate than our gel or lotion BHA products, so it's an ideal choice for stubborn clogged pores or blackheads.

This product is 100% fragrance- and colorant-free with a pH range of 3.2-3.8. Every Paula's Choice BHA product is formulated with additional soothing agents.

Who is this product for?
All skin types may use this product, but the texture is especially suited for those with normal to oily or combination skin, stubborn blackheads, and blemish-prone skin. It can also be used regularly to eliminate calluses on feet, elbows and knees.

NOTE: Those allergic to aspirin (acetylsalicylate) should not use products containing salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid).

Sources to support the claims made for SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid exfoliant

International Immunopharmacology, August 2009, pages 1,126–1,130; Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2007, pages 124-135; The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, February 2006, pages 416–421; 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; Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, volume 175, issue 1, pages 76–82; Preservatives for Cosmetics, 2006, by David Steinberg, Allured Publishing, pages 39-40; Pain, January 1996, pages 71–82; and Seminars in Dermatology, December 1990, pages 305–308.

Key Ingredients: methylpropanediol, salicylic acid, green tea, BHA (beta hydroxy acid)

Product Ingredients:

Water, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol (slip agents/penetration enhancers), Salicylic Acid (beta hydroxy acid/exfoliant), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (anti-irritant/antioxidant), Polysorbate-20 (solubolizing agent), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancer), Disodium EDTA (chelating agent).

DIRECTIONS: Dispense approximately a dime-sized amount onto a cotton ball or pad and stroke over clean skin, including around the eyes (do not apply to eyelids or along the lower lash line). This product may also be applied with your fingers. 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.

Detailed instructions on how/when to apply your Paula's Choice products can be found in our How to Put Together Your Own Skin-Care Routine article.

What's the difference between the 2% BHA Liquid and the 2% BHA Gel?

First, texture: One is a fluid with a toner-like consistency, the other is a thicker, clear gel. Both contain the same amount of salicylic acid, though the 2% BHA Liquid contains an ingredient that allows the salicylic acid to penetrate faster and further. With the 2% BHA Gel formula, you're getting a slower release of salicylic acid. Both are great options for treating acne, blackheads, and signs of aging. Both are suitable for all skin types but best for normal to oily or combination skin.

What's the difference between AHA and BHA exfoliants? Do I need both?

When properly formulated, both AHAs and BHA are brilliant options for exfoliating the surface of skin. Both AHA and BHA work to reduce wrinkles, stimulate collagen, and firm skin but each has its special qualities you'll want to consider when deciding which one to use:
  • AHAs are preferred for sun-damaged and dry skin because they exfoliate on the surface of skin and have the added benefit of also improving moisture content.
  • BHA is preferred for oily, acne-prone skin and for treating blackheads and white bumps because BHA can get through the oil that's clogging your pores, normalizing the lining of the misshapen pore that contributes to acne.
  • BHA has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action. Those are two more reasons to use a BHA exfoliant if you have acne or sensitive, reddened skin.
  • BHA is preferred for those struggling with rosacea. Not everyone with rosacea can tolerate an exfoliant, but it is wise to experiment with a BHA product to see how your rosacea responds.

If your skin is sun-damaged and you're also struggling with acne or clogged pores, add a BHA product to your routine.

If you'd like to use an AHA and BHA at the same time, that is an option, though not really necessary. Some people find they work well when they're applied at the same time, but if you want to give this a try it is best to apply them separately, one during the day and one in the evening.

How do I use an AHA or BHA exfoliant?

  • You can apply an AHA or BHA product once or twice a day.
  • You can also apply either of these around the eye area but not on the eyelid or directly under the eye.
  • Apply the AHA or BHA product after your face is cleansed and after your toner has dried.
  • Once the AHA or BHA has been absorbed, you can apply any other product in your routine, such as moisturizer, serum, eye cream, sunscreen, and/or foundation.
  • If you're using a topical prescription product such as Renova, other retinoids, or any of the topical prescription products for rosacea, apply the BHA or AHA first.

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.

The Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant feels sticky and kind of greasy on my face! Why is that?

If the BHA is feeling sticky, you are probably using too much product. The average amount necessary for facial application of the 2% BHA is less than the size of a dime. The product is best applied in a thin layer, and has great spreading properties. The "greasy" feel can be attributed to the high levels of glycol in this product (glycol helps the BHA penetrate the surface layers of skin and also works as a water-binding agent). If you live in a humid, moist climate, this effect will be more pronounced and, if too much product is used, can create a "greasy" feel on the skin. Many customers have remarked how silky-soft their skin is as a result of using the 2% BHA Liquid, and that is the result of the humectants working with the BHA to exfoliate and hydrate the skin.

At what point after my laser and/or peel procedure can I begin using my BHA exfoliant again?

First, we urge you to follow the post-procedure instructions your doctor or nurse provided. If nothing was mentioned about when to resume use of a BHA exfoliant, please contact the doctor's office where you had the procedure done. Otherwise, our general advice is to begin using your BHA again as soon as possible. Or, if your skin seems extra-sensitive, you may want to wait and apply the BHA exfoliant a few days post-procedure. Salicylic acid is an excellent anti-inflammatory ingredient that can enhance skin's natural healing process as it works to reduce post-procedure redness.

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