Peptide Skincare & BeautySkin science and ingredient guides

Ingredient or product comparison

Cos De BAHA Salicylic Acid BHA 4% Serum Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Cos De BAHA Salicylic Acid BHA 4% Serum Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Detailed comparison of Cos De BAHA Salicylic Acid BHA 4% Serum versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant US. This acne serum is formulated

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Cos De BAHA Salicylic Acid BHA 4% Serum Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Detailed comparison of Cos De BAHA Salicylic Acid BHA 4% Serum versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant US. This acne serum is formulated around Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide to clear breakouts and refine the look of pores. This smoothing exfoliator is formulated around Salicylic Acid to refine skin texture and refine the look of pores. Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract Propanediol Salicylic Acid 4% 1,2-Hexanediol Sodium Citrate Polysorbate 20 Niacinamide Rosa Damascena Extract Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract Artemisia Vulgaris Extract Hydroxyethylcellulose Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid 4%, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Citrate, Polysorbate 20, Niacinamide, Rosa Damascena Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose Water Methylpropanediol Butylene Glycol Salicylic Acid Camellia Oleifera Leaf Sodium Hydroxide Tetrasodium EDTA Water, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Camellia Oleifera Leaf, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium EDTA These ingredients are found in both products. Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount. Polysorbate 20 is a gentle, water-soluble emulsifier and mild surfactant. It stops oil and water from separating to keep your formulas blended and stable. It also acts as a mild penetration enhancer by helping active ingredients absorb slightly better. The common safety discussion around this ingredient involves a manufacturing byproduct called 1,4-dioxane. Trace amounts can form during production but the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety has concluded that levels at/below 10 ppm in finished products are safe (commercial products consistently fall within acceptable margins). True allergic reactions are uncommon and the CIR Expert Panel has confirmed this ingredient to be safe as used in cosmetics. Because it is derived from lauric acid, it may not be fungal acne safe. 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.