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

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

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

This smoothing toner is formulated around Gluconolactone and Lactic Acid to refine skin texture and refine the look of pores.

What's inside

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Ingredients Side-by-side

Water

Methylpropanediol

Butylene Glycol

Salicylic Acid

Polysorbate 20

Camellia Oleifera Leaf

Sodium Hydroxide

Tetrasodium EDTA

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

Gluconolactone

Lactic Acid

Glycerin

Propylene Glycol

Niacinamide

Citric Acid

Ethoxydiglycol

Magnesium Chloride

Malic Acid

Vinegar

Phytic Acid

Cochlearia Armoracia Root Extract

Arctium Lappa Root Extract

Rumex Acetosa Leaf Extract

Myrtus Communis Extract

Commiphora Myrrha Resin Extract

Allium Cepa Bulb Extract

Thymus Vulgaris Flower/Leaf Oil

Sulfur

Sorbitol

Phenoxyethanol

Sodium Benzoate

Potassium Sorbate

Water, Gluconolactone, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Citric Acid, Ethoxydiglycol, Magnesium Chloride, Malic Acid, Vinegar, Phytic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Cochlearia Armoracia Root Extract, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Rumex Acetosa Leaf Extract, Myrtus Communis Extract, Commiphora Myrrha Resin Extract, Allium Cepa Bulb Extract, Thymus Vulgaris Flower/Leaf Oil, Sulfur, Sorbitol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate

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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