Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 PIGM 400 Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 PIGM 400 Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

This brightening toner is formulated around Niacinamide and Lactic Acid to fade the look of dark spots and brighten dull-looking skin.

This smoothing exfoliator is formulated around Salicylic Acid to refine skin texture and refine the look of pores.

What's inside

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Ingredients Side-by-side

Water

Glycerin

Niacinamide

Sodium Gluconate

Triethanolamine

Lactic Acid

Sodium Lactate

Lactobacillus/Wasabia Japonica Root Ferment Extract

Magnesium Chloride

Mandelic Acid

Palmaria Palmata Extract

Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract

Prunus Persica Leaf Extract

Spiraea Ulmaria Extract

Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract

Rubus Idaeus Fruit Extract

Phytic Acid

Citric Acid

Gluconolactone

Salicylic Acid

Ascorbic Acid

Maltodextrin

Sodium Salicylate

Vinegar

Propylene Glycol

Magnesium Sulfate

Alcohol Denat.

Sodium Benzoate

Potassium Sorbate

Sodium Bisulfite

Water, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Gluconate, Triethanolamine, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Lactobacillus/Wasabia Japonica Root Ferment Extract, Magnesium Chloride, Mandelic Acid, Palmaria Palmata Extract, Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract, Prunus Persica Leaf Extract, Spiraea Ulmaria Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Rubus Idaeus Fruit Extract, Phytic Acid, Citric Acid, Gluconolactone, Salicylic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Maltodextrin, Sodium Salicylate, Vinegar, Propylene Glycol, Magnesium Sulfate, Alcohol Denat., Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Bisulfite

Methylpropanediol

Butylene Glycol

Polysorbate 20

Camellia Oleifera Leaf

Sodium Hydroxide

Tetrasodium EDTA

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

Reviews

Alternatives

Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is a well-known ingredient for treating skin that struggles with acne and clogged pores. It exfoliates both the skin's surface and deep within the pores to help clear out buildup, control oil, and reduce inflammation.

Unlike AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This allows it to penetrate into pores which makes it especially effective for treating blackheads and preventing future breakouts.

Salicylic acid is also known for its soothing properties. It has a similar structure to aspirin and can calm inflamed or irritated skin, making it a good option for acne-prone skin that is also sensitive.

Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.

It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing this ingredient into your routine.

While salicylic acid does not increase sun sensitivity, it’s still important to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.

If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.

Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.

So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Remember to stay hydrated!

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