Skin science article
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Versus MCoBeauty. AHA & BHA Pore Refining Exfoliating Toner
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Versus MCoBeauty. AHA & BHA Pore Refining Exfoliating Toner This smoothing exfoliator is formulated around Salicylic Acid to refine skin texture and refine the look of pores. This smoothing toner is formul
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Versus MCoBeauty. AHA & BHA Pore Refining Exfoliating Toner
This smoothing exfoliator is formulated around Salicylic Acid to refine skin texture and refine the look of pores.
This smoothing toner is formulated around Glycolic Acid and Salicylic 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
Glycolic Acid
Dipropylene Glycol
Potassium Hydroxide
Betaine
Glycerin
1,2-Hexanediol
Hydroxyacetophenone
Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate
Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract
Sodium Phytate
Gluconolactone
Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract
Sophora Japonica Fruit Extract
Ethylhexylglycerin
Water, Glycolic Acid, Dipropylene Glycol, Potassium Hydroxide, Betaine, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Salicylic Acid, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Butylene Glycol, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract, Sodium Phytate, Gluconolactone, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Sophora Japonica Fruit Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin
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.
Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:
Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient that works well with other ingredients.
Though this ingredient works well with most skin types, some people with sensitive skin may experience a reaction such as allergic rashes, closed comedones, or itchiness.
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!