A unique leave-on formula that’s gentle enough for daily use on all skin types. Exfoliates dead skin cells while clearing pores for a more even, radiant tone, plus visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles to reveal remarkably smoother, younger-looking skin. This exfoliant has an optimal pH range of 3.2–3.8.

All Paula’s Choice products are 100% fragrance free, clinically proven to be non-irritating, and never tested on animals.

2021 Beauty Insider’s Beauty & Wellness Awards - Reader’s Choice Award Best Exfoliator
2021 Daily Vanity Editor's & Readers' Choice
2023 Men’s Folio Grooming Awards - Best Chemical Exfoliating Treatment
2024 Women's Weekly Awards - Best Gentle Exfoliant

Skin becomes dull, dry and congested when dead skin cells build up on its surface. Beta hydroxy acid (BHA, also known as salicylic acid) mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores.

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.

Apply once or twice daily after cleansing and toning. Lightly soak a cotton pad and apply over the entire face, including the eye area (avoid the lower lash line and eyelids). Do not rinse. For daytime, follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or greater.

Journal of 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

Key Ingredients

Methylpropanediol, Salicylic Acid, Green Tea

Product Ingredients

Water (Aqua), Methylpropanediol (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Salicylic Acid (beta hydroxy acid/exfoliant), Polysorbate 20 (stabilizer), Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract (green tea/skin calming/antioxidant), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancer), Tetrasodium EDTA (stabilizer).

Should I use AHA or BHA?
AHAs are generally preferred if you have normal to dry skin. AHAs are water soluble and work on skin's surface to enhance hydration, fight crepe-y texture & visibly reduce sun damage. BHA is the preferred option for normal to oily or combination skin that's prone to bumps & blemishes. BHA is oil soluble, meaning it works both on skin's surface and within pores to quickly shed clogging buildup. It's also naturally calming and gentle enough for skin that's sensitive, prone to redness or rosacea.

Can you use AHA and BHA together?
Yes, you can use AHA and BHA together, but most people do just fine using one or the other. Using AHA and BHA together can provide advanced results if you’re experiencing multiple skin concerns (like signs of sun damage, deep wrinkles, stubborn clogged pores, bumps, dullness or flaky skin). There’s nothing wrong with experimenting to see which one works best for you or alternating both. Just monitor how your skin responds and adjust usage if needed.

Does Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid cause purging?
Learn more in our skin purging article.

Is 2% BHA Liquid a toner?
No, 2% BHA Liquid isn’t a toner. It’s a leave-on, chemical exfoliant with salicylic acid that removes built-up dead skin and unclogs pores. Paula’s Choice toners add vital skin-replenishing ingredients immediately after cleansing, before exfoliating, to hydrate, refresh and rebalance.

Why does 2% BHA Liquid feel sticky and kind of greasy on my face?
If 2% BHA Liquid feels sticky, you may be using too much product. Try using a dime-sized amount applied in a thin layer. 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 works as a water-binding agent).

What is the difference between 2% BHA Liquid and CLEAR Regular Strength 2% BHA?
2% BHA Liquid penetrates deeper into the pore and has a pH of 3.5. It’s designed for those with more stubborn or persistent breakouts. CLEAR Regular Strength 2% BHA has a nearly weightless feel on your skin and a pH of around 3.9, making it better for those with mild and occasional breakouts or sensitive skin.

What is the difference between 2% BHA Liquid and CLEAR Extra Strength 2% BHA?
2% BHA Liquid has the exact same formula as CLEAR Extra Strength 2% BHA, which is sold within the convenient 3-step CLEAR anti-acne line.

What is the difference between the 2% BHA Liquid and RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment 2% BHA?
2% BHA Liquid is a more potent exfoliant for all skin types, thanks to its lower pH and the inclusion of additional penetration enhancing agents in its formula which allow it to exfoliate quickly. RESIST 2% BHA has a lighter, water-like texture for combination/oily skin and in addition to unclogging pores, it also contains additional antioxidants to help gently but effectively address signs of aging