Peptide Skincare & BeautySkin science and ingredient guides

Ingredient or product comparison

SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Detailed comparison of SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant US. This smoothing toner is f

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SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Detailed comparison of SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant US. This smoothing toner is formulated around Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate and Salicylic Acid to refine skin texture and brighten dull-looking skin. This smoothing exfoliator is formulated around Salicylic Acid to refine skin texture and refine the look of pores. Water Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Butylene Glycol Polysorbate 20 Glycerin Sodium Hyaluronate PEG-150 Cellulose Gum Disodium EDTA Citric Acid Salicylic Acid Lactic Acid Malic Acid Sodium Citrate Sodium Benzoate Methylparaben Water, Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, PEG-150, Cellulose Gum, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Malic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Benzoate, Methylparaben Methylpropanediol 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. 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. 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. 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!