Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Lotion Exfoliant
Normal Skin | Dry Skin | Very Dry Skin | Combination Skin
Effectively exfoliate the skin and remarkably diminish blackheads and blemishes with this elegant, lightly moisturizing formula with 2% salicylic acid (BHA)*. Also contains an exceptional blend of plant oils, antioxidants, anti-irritants, and water-binding agents.
*PLEASE NOTE: Those allergic to aspirin (acetylsalicylate) should not use products containing salicylic acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid, or BHA).
Availability: In stock
£21.50
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Order a sample
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This saved my skin!
Review by Cecilie
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Since the age of 12, I've struggled with my skin: acne, redness, large pores, scars, you name it. My skin is sensitive, dry and oily at the same time. I've tried almost every product and treatment on the market, but nothing really made my skin look good. But then I read about Paula's Choice and decided to give it a shot. And I'm so happy that I did! It took some time before I could see the changes but the result after about 1-2 months is just unbelievable, my skin looks and feels AMAZING. I'll never stop using these products! THANK YOU PAULA <3 (Posted on 01/05/2012)Product Rating -
FANTASTIC PRODUCT but.......
Review by clare123
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If your not familiar with Paula's choice please google them, you will find hundreds of success stories in blogs, other website or recommend by dermatologists with how amazing they're products are for your skin.Product Rating
I finally feel like I've found a brand that JUST WORKS! no ridiculous packaging or airbrushed advertising, just simple straight to the point way to sort your skin problem out.
This product is great if you have dry skin, I use it nightly before bed and I don't feel like i need to use a night time moisturiser on top of it. Just this one product after cleansing and toning and I'm done.
Now this product is fantastic at keeping at bay general spots, the odd blackhead and it completely got rid of those annoying under eye milia however the stubborn blackheads and white heads i have around my nose and chin (which were the reason i bought the product) did not budge. It did not make them worse but it did nothing to reduce/ remove them.
If you like me suffer from this kind of chronic/ not willing to budge blackhead problem then i don't know if this product will work for you. Like I said great for a whole number of other things but just did not help my main problem. For this i will be purchasing the BHA 2% gel.
Hope this helps. (Posted on 01/03/2012) -
Superb results, great value
Review by Bumbalina
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I stumbled across Paula's Choice products when looking for an alternative to the very expensive moisturiser that I had been using which was costing me £100 every 2 months. I have combination skin and had been suffering for decades with blackheads, blotches and frequent painful spots. I have been using these prodcuts since October 2011 and my skin has been completely transformed. After using this product for 4 months I no longer have any blackheads and no more breakouts. Of all the products that I ordered this one was the one I felt the most sceptical about as I'd never used a leave on exfoliant before and instead had been scouring my face for years with various abrasive products. What a joy to use something that actually helps with redness rather than causing it. As with all of the products a little seems to go a long way indeed. I have been using this twice daily and it's still good for at least another month. Thank you. I only wish I had found out about these earlier. (Posted on 25/02/2012)Product Rating -
Not what I expected
Review by S. M.
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I switched to this as a change from my Resist 5% and 10% AHA exfoliants. It was not a good idea. My skin became very dull and I had some ugly little red breakouts while using this product. I've since repurchased the Resist range of exfoliants and my skin if fine. I'm a big fan of Paula's and use only her products. 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. Please contact customer care with any questions.Product Rating
(Posted on 23/02/2012) -
Ah, flippin' great
Review by Andrew
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Having used the 1% lotion, I thought a comparison would serve other customers well. Having normal skin - never too dry, never to greasy - this suits me rather well; the 1% lotion (although it soaked in very well) was very drying, and uncomfortable - I had to put moisturiser on straight away, rather than leave it for 30 minutes. With the 2% lotion, it does take a while to soak in, but it is so much more moisturising. I don't even have to apply moisturiser - it is very comfortable on the skin: I leave it on for 30 mins, and then apply moisturiser if I need to.Product Rating
The 2% formula has also proved much more potent, and I'm already seeing some beneficial changes after just one week of once-daily use; the 1% did not really make much difference. Rather than try the 1% first, I'd suggest the 2%, as it seems to avoid much of the harshness that the 1% suffers from; this is only my opinion, however.
However, do beware, chaps, if, like me, you have a beard, it'll take some time to work in. I apply the lotion at night time, rather than have any embarrassment at work. (Posted on 23/01/2012) -
too greasy :(
Review by incp1
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I've heard so much about paula's products and having blackheads on my nose/chin area. I though I'll try 2% lotion as my skin is dry and gets irritated very easily. I've received this products a week ago and been using it since I am very disappointed, its so heavy and lives my skin greasy. I have not noticed any visible results this may be that I need to use it for longer period to see the results. I want to add that those who have dry skin don't be fooled by for dry skin description as this leaves your skin way to greasy, I wish I ordered the gel or wish they did exchange. I really wanted this produce to work :( Customer Care :Thank you for taking time to review this product. We can understand how frustrating this experience must be. While the response you have indicated is not typical, we understand that each consumer is distinctly different which means they may respond differently to our products (whether used alone or combined with other products). This along with everyday environmental factors can sometimes play a part in how someone will ultimately respond to a product or combination of products. For that reason, we have located your account information and applied a credit for the product. Please contact our customer care team if we can be of further assistance.Product Rating
(Posted on 17/01/2012) -
Excellent
Review by Raluca
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This is the product I cant live without! It has changed my skin condition, giving it a chance to get rid of blemishes, spots and blackheads. Can't be grateful enough, thanks Paula ! (Posted on 20/03/2011)Product Rating -
Superb!
Review by jmonaghan
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Paula's Choice BHA products are my all-time favourite skincare items for their effectiveness, gentleness, and the wonderful results they give my skin. This Lotion is the version I use every winter, and it delivers on all of its exfoliating promises while adding a bit of much-needed moisture to dry winter skin. Pleasant and easy to use, reasonably priced. I can't recommend these products highly enough. (Posted on 31/12/2010)Product Rating -
love love love this. This really works!
Review by Martine
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This product have done it's job so well for my skin!Product Rating
I used to have a lot of blackheads. Now, after using it for a year, I didn't completely get rid of them but they are few and WAY smaller! (I got this result after a couple of months) My skin looks so much better now =)
This is my all-time favorite skin care product. (Posted on 30/10/2010) -
AMAZING!
Review by SK
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I've been battling acne and large pores for years now. The only decent results I got from prescription retinoids, but unfortunately they were way too harsh on my sensitive skin, causing excessive redness and flaking. I've now reduced the strong retinoids to 2 times a week (while using softer ones in between), while combining with this 2% BHA lotion twice a day and my skin hasn't looked better! I didn't think highly of salicylic acid before, since I could already find it on the ingredient list of my old toner, which did nothing for my skin. But it's all about the concentration! Will repurchase again and again. (Posted on 22/10/2010)Product Rating -
Not worth it
Review by Effy
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This product really isn't worth the price. I used it continuously for weeks, but realised I was getting more breakouts than usual! As soon as I stopped using the product, my skin got better. I'm really upset this product hasn't really worked for me. I really can't think of any pro's, Because its not really a lot of product for your money, it doesn't do anything in terms of moisturising your skin. It's just a all round, waste of money, and product, and time! I really do suggest they provide samples of their products, that way you don't waste your money on something that doesn't work for you.Product Rating
Customer Care: The BHA products are exfoliating products. They can penetrate into the pore and exfoliate accumulated skin cells that clog pores and can also exfoliate on the surface of skin as well. After applying a BHA product we advise you to apply a moisturizer at night time and a moisturizer with SPF during daytime. We advise to start with a 1% BHA Lotion or Gel in order to see how your skin responds. Samples of almost all Paula's Choice products are available via our website. (Posted on 02/09/2010) -
Finally a solution for my hormonal breakouts!
Review by IheartNY
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After going off the pill I started getting really bad and uncontrollable breakouts on my cheeks that would also leave ugly, long-lasting scars. I really struggled to get rid of the breakouts, but no matter what I tried, nothing seemed to work, which was extremely frustrating. But then I tried the 1% and 2% Beta lotions. I started with the 1%, but it didn't deliver the quick and effective results that I was eager to see. So I quickly switched to the 2% and saw a positive change almost immediately! It really helps clear my nasty hornomal breakouts AND it seems to be clearing up my scars quicker than normally. However, when I started using the 2% every day both mornings and evenings, it seemed to irritate my very sensitive skin. But after cutting down to only using it every second night before bed, I'm getting great results again. (Posted on 20/05/2010)Product Rating -
Outstanding!
Review by Snail
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I have combination skin and so I used to get quite painful spots; mostly on my chin. I started to use the 2% BHA last September and it is now that one product that I use that I would be lost without. I started by using it every three days. The first couple of times I could literally feel and see the dead skin coming off. Then I used it every other day and now i am using it every day and there has not been and there isn't a blemish in sight!! I am very grateful for this product- thanks Paula. Also, I am only half way through the bottle and I have been using it for 8 months! Try it, you won't be disappointed. (Posted on 19/04/2010)Product Rating -
Value for the price
Review by Mag
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Not only this does the job, it's also a lot of product for the money. I bought this back in January, applying a little once or twice a week at night, and the bottle is still going strong. (Posted on 21/10/2009)Product Rating -
Excellent!
Review by IdaL85
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This product is perfect for you if you have normal/combination skin. It has helped my skin and reduced my blemishes. I Absolutely love it! (Posted on 14/06/2009)Product Rating
Dispense about a dime-sized amount onto your fingertips and smooth sparingly onto clean skin, avoiding direct contact with eyes. Depending on your skin type and if needed, follow with a product which contains benzoyl peroxide (available at the pharmacy or the chemist without a doctor's prescription - start with the lowest concentration). During the day, follow with the appropriate Paula's Choice sunscreen or your foundation with sunscreen. At night, apply the appropriate Paula's Choice moisturizer or specialty product after this product or you can use the BHA product alone.
BHA Advice:
To reduce skin flaking or possible irritation, some first-time users should use the BHA once a day or once every other day (preferably at night) for the first few weeks. After prolonged use (4-6 weeks), you can apply the BHA more frequently, and eventually it can be used twice a day. For some people it may only be necessary to use the BHA once a day or once every other day. The frequency of use for this BHA product completely depends on how your skin reacts so you may have to experiment until you find what works best for you. If redness, dryness, or irritation occurs, adjust frequency of application.
There are many options for how to use this type of product. You may have to experiment to figure out your best routine. The one you should use depends on what you are trying to achieve and what works best for your skin.
BHA is an essential step for battling blemishes or clogged pores. See the Skin Care Routines section for a recommended selection of products for your skin type. If your skin gets worse or rashes appear, discontinue use and refer to my Battle Plan for Blemishes page for other product options.
If dryness or slight irritation appears, do not give up, first decrease use to every other day or just once a day and you can still experience beautiful results.
Some people want to know if they can use a scrub while using BHA. Occasional use of a gentle scrub or a soft washcloth can be great for some skin types. Just be careful to gauge how your skin reacts before adding this once or twice a week step into your routine.
This product can also be used on the elbows, feet, or knees. It is a multi-purpose exfoliant that works almost anywhere!
If you have Rosacea:
We have received a lot of feedback from people with rosacea who are having a great deal of success with Paula's Choice BHA products. The reason for this may be due to BHA's relation to aspirin. Aspirin and BHA are both salicylates. Salicylates have anti-inflammatory properties. At the same time that BHA exfoliates the skin (removing the flaky skin problem associated with rosacea) it also calms down the redness!
BHA Advice:
To reduce skin flaking or possible irritation, some first-time users should use the BHA once a day or once every other day (preferably at night) for the first few weeks. After prolonged use (4-6 weeks), you can apply the BHA more frequently, and eventually it can be used twice a day. For some people it may only be necessary to use the BHA once a day or once every other day. The frequency of use for this BHA product completely depends on how your skin reacts so you may have to experiment until you find what works best for you. If redness, dryness, or irritation occurs, adjust frequency of application.
There are many options for how to use this type of product. You may have to experiment to figure out your best routine. The one you should use depends on what you are trying to achieve and what works best for your skin.
BHA is an essential step for battling blemishes or clogged pores. See the Skin Care Routines section for a recommended selection of products for your skin type. If your skin gets worse or rashes appear, discontinue use and refer to my Battle Plan for Blemishes page for other product options.
If dryness or slight irritation appears, do not give up, first decrease use to every other day or just once a day and you can still experience beautiful results.
Some people want to know if they can use a scrub while using BHA. Occasional use of a gentle scrub or a soft washcloth can be great for some skin types. Just be careful to gauge how your skin reacts before adding this once or twice a week step into your routine.
This product can also be used on the elbows, feet, or knees. It is a multi-purpose exfoliant that works almost anywhere!
If you have Rosacea:
We have received a lot of feedback from people with rosacea who are having a great deal of success with Paula's Choice BHA products. The reason for this may be due to BHA's relation to aspirin. Aspirin and BHA are both salicylates. Salicylates have anti-inflammatory properties. At the same time that BHA exfoliates the skin (removing the flaky skin problem associated with rosacea) it also calms down the redness!
Skin Type
Normal Skin, Dry Skin, Very Dry Skin, Combination Skin
Special Needs
Rosacea Normal to Dry Skin, Eczema on the Face
Aqua, Cetearyl Alcohol (thickener), Squalane (emollient), Glycerin (skin-identical ingredient), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate (thickeners), Salicylic Acid (beta hydroxy acid/exfoliant), Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate (emulsifier), Epilobium Angustifolium (Willowherb) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract (anti-irritant), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Extract (antioxidant), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil (antioxidant plant oil), Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil (non-volatile plant oil), Beta Glucan (antioxidant), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Panthenol (water-binding agent), Bisabolol (anti-irritant), Xanthan Gum (thickener), Sodium Citrate (pH adjuster), Butylene Glycol (slip agent), Acacia Senegal Gum, Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum (thickeners), Tocopherol (vitamin E/antioxidant), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Ethylhexyglycerin (skin conditioning agent), Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate (preservatives).
Sources to support the claims made for Exfoliating 2% BHA Lotion:
International Immunopharmacology, August 2009, pages 1,126–1,130; British Journal of Dermatology, August 2007, pages 295–300; 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; Pain, January 1996, pages 71–82; and Seminars in Dermatology, December 1990, pages 305–308.
What strength of BHA should I use? Will a higher concentration provide better and faster results?
Which BHA strength you opt to use should be based on your skin type and the stubbornness (or severity) of your acne or blackheads. The 1% BHA strength is a great starting point to see how using a pH-correct BHA can improve the skin's condition. The 2% concentrations can be a next level to see how that benefits skin.
What makes the 2% BHA Lotion different from the 2% BHA Gel and Liquid?
The primary difference is texture. The 2% BHA Lotion is a lightweight cream, the 2% BHA Gel has a silky gel texture and the 2% BHA Liquid has a thin, toner-like consistency that's best applied to a cotton pad. All of them are formulated to provide the same key benefits to your skin. Which one to choose is a matter of personal preference and your skin type.
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.
