Paula's Choice Skincare 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Paula's Choice Skincare 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

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$34.63
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BESTSELLER OF 2025

Our iconic global best seller, this clinically proven daily exfoliating salicylic acid toner quickly unclogs pores and controls oil for clear, glowing skin.

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Ingredient Spotlight

  • Methylpropanediol

    • Enhances the absorption of other ingredients
    • Characteristically hydrating; may leave a dewy finish
    • Can be used to support a preservative blend

  • Green Tea

    • Has anti-aging and soothing benefits
    • Contains antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate
    • Helps improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin

  • BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

    • Also known as salicylic acid
    • Best known for exfoliating/anti-acne properties
    • Helps skin shed in a manner that mimics youthful skin

    Skin Concerns

    • Breakout-Prone

    • Blackheads

    • Dullness

    • Enlarged or Clogged Pores

      Beauty Begins With Truth #PaulasChoice

        Skin Types

        • Combination

        • Oily

        • Normal

        • Dry

          Benefits

          BHA (beta hydroxy acid) works within the pore lining where congestion, blemishes & blackheads begin. Our cult favorite formula is clinically proven to boost cell turnover, visibly reduce pores, control oil & support skin’s barrier for healthy, glowing skin.

          • Clears & minimizes enlarged pores
          • 2% BHA (beta hydroxy acid) sheds built-up layers of skin for smooth, even tone
          • Lightweight liquid exfoliating toner absorbs quickly
          • Gentle formula with soothing green tea supports skin’s barrier

          Skin becomes dull and congested when dead skin cells build up on its surface. Unlike harsh scrubs, this gentle exfoliating toner mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores. This not only makes your skin look brighter, but it also allows your other skin care products to absorb better, boosting their effectiveness. Apply consistently for a smooth, makeup-ready complexion. This daily leave-on exfoliant has an optimal pH range of 3.2–3.8 for maximum effectiveness without irritation.

          Claims

          Clinically proven to boost cell turnover for smooth, clear, glowing skin in as little as 1 week*Based on independent clinical studies and self-assessment consumer panels. Results may vary.

          The bottle for our #1 global bestseller 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner is now made from 96% recycled plastic (excluding cap and orifice reducer).

          How to use

          Smooth & Even
          When To Apply
          Apply to clean skin. At first, use every other day and note skin’s response, then up to twice a day. For daytime, always follow with sunscreen. For nighttime, follow with the rest of your routine.
          How To Apply
          Liquid: Gently shake 1-2x onto hands or a cotton round round and apply to face & neck. Do not rinse.

          Pad: Massage exfoliating pad onto face, neck & body as needed. Do not rinse.

          If you have a salicylate allergy, check with your physician before using any products that contain salicylic acid.

          Ingredients

          Key Ingredients

          • Methylpropanediol
          • Green Tea
          • BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

          All Ingredients

          • Water
          • Methylpropanediol
          • Butylene Glycol
          • Salicylic Acid
          • Polysorbate 20
          • Camellia Oleifera
          • Sodium Hydroxide
          • Tetrasodium EDTA

          Paula's Choice is dedicated to maintaining the accuracy of the ingredient lists on this website. However, because ingredients are subject to change, we cannot guarantee that these lists are error-free. For an accurate listing of ingredients in each product, please refer to your product packaging.

          Awards

          2025AllureReaders’ Choice Best Exfoliant

          2025EMUS Skin & Hair Awards Best Exfoliator

          2024AllureReaders’ Choice Best Exfoliant

          2024WWD100 Greatest Skincare Products of All Time

          2023GlamourBeauty & Wellness Awards Readers’ Choice

          2023CosmopolitanReaders’ Choice Beauty Awards Best Face Exfoliator

          2023New BeautyReaders’ Choice Awards Favorite Exfoliator for Acne-Prone Skin

          2023New BeautyBeauty Awards Best Liquid Exfoliator

          2023TodayBeauty Awards Best Liquid Exfoliator

          2023AllureReaders’ Choice Best Exfoliant

          2022Teen VogueAcne Award Best for Face

          2022PreventionBeauty Award, Best Blemish Fighter

          2022Beauty IconAward, Beauty Icon

          2022PreventionBeauty Awards Best Blemish Fighter

          2022Harper’s BazaarBeauty Icon Award

          2022AllureReaders Choice Award, Best Exfoliant

          2022People En EspañolStar Products Award Winner

          2022InStyleBest Beauty Buy Award, Best Beauty Buy

          2021CosmopolitanHoly Grail Acne Award, Best Exfoliator

          2021Women’s HealthBest of Skincare Award, Best Chemical Exfoliator for Oily Skin

          2021Women’s HealthBest of Skincare Award, Best Exfoliator for Acne Prone Skin

          2021GlamourBeauty Award Readers’ Choice, Best Acne Treatment

          2020HerCampus College Beauty Award, Skincare Heroes

          2020Teen VogueAcne Award, Best Exfoliant

          Research

          Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology,July2025,pages 1–7

          Experimental Dermatology,July2019,pages 786–794

          Journalof 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

            FAQ

            Who should use a BHA exfoliant?

            ABHA exfoliantis ideal for normal to oily or combination skin prone to bumps and blemishes. Its oil-soluble nature clears pores and improves texture.  AHA exfoliantsare great for normal to dry skin, as they focus on surface hydration and sun damage reduction.

            Can you use 2% BHA Exfoliant with an AHA exfoliant?

            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. 

            Does the 2% BHA cause purging?

            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.

            Is 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant a toner?

            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 skin care routine.

            Is Paula’s Choice 2% BHA fragrance free?

            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 skin care. 

            What is the difference between SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant and the other liquid BHA exfoliants from Paula’s Choice?

            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. 

            Is 2% BHA Liquid gluten free, vegan, fragrance or alcohol free? 

            Our 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is gluten free, vegan, fragrance free and alcohol free. Note: All Paula’s Choice are cruelty free.

            Can I use 2% BHA Liquid while pregnant or breastfeeding? 

            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.

            How long does it take BHA to work?

            Results can vary but 2% BHA is clinically proven to promote smoother, clearer, glowing skin in as little as 48 hours.

            Can I use Paula’s Choice BHA under my eyes?

            Yes, although we recommend avoiding contact with the lash line and eyelids.

            What products should you not use with Paula’s Choice BHA?

            There are no specific products to strictly avoid.BHA can be paired with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, peptides and retinoids and in fact, it enhances absorption of other skin care ingredients. 

            Do you apply moisturizer after Paula’s Choice BHA?

            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.

            Can Paula’s Choice 2% BHA be used every day/night? 

            Whether or not you can use 2% BHA daily depends on your individual skin type and how your skin tolerates it. We recommend applying it to clean skin. First, use every other day and note skin’s response, then use up to twice a day. For daytime, always follow with sunscreen. For nighttime, follow with the rest of your routine.

            Is 2% BHA too much for sensitive skin?

            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.

            At what age can you start using 2% BHA?

            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.