Peptide Skincare & BeautySkin science and ingredient guides

Ingredient or product comparison

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant Versus Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant Versus Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4 Detailed comparison of Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant versus Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4. This pore-care exfoliator is formulated around Salicylic Aci

This source-based comparison does not add ratings or recommend a winner.

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant Versus Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4 Detailed comparison of Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant versus Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4. This pore-care exfoliator is formulated around Salicylic Acid and Phytosphingosine to refine the look of pores and refine skin texture. This oil-control toner is formulated around Salicylic Acid to balance excess oil and refine skin texture. Water Methylpropanediol Butylene Glycol Polysorbate 20 Salicylic Acid Phytosphingosine Hydroxyethylcellulose Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract Epilobium Angustifolium Extract Bisabolol Tetrasodium EDTA Sodium Hydroxide Water, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Salicylic Acid, Phytosphingosine, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Epilobium Angustifolium Extract, Bisabolol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide Alcohol Denat. Hamamelis Virginiana Water Glycerin Trehalose Sodium Hyaluronate Disodium EDTA-Copper BHT Phenoxyethanol Benzophenone-4 CI 61570 Water, Alcohol Denat., Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA-Copper, BHT, Phenoxyethanol, Benzophenone-4, CI 61570 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. Sodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective. In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline. Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated. "Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic. 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!