SKIN PERFECTING

Good to know before you start using your exfoliant.

It is best to gradually build up use of a BHA product. Start by using your exfoliant once every other day and then increase usage to once or twice daily based on your skin’s response. You need to experiment a bit to see what suits your skin best. During the day, always use a moisturiser with a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or greater. Your skin will in fact be slightly more sensitive to sunlight when using an exfoliant, so the chance of sunburn and sun damage is slightly higher.

What's the difference between the 2% BHA Liquid and the 2% BHA Gel?

First, texture: One is a fluid with a toner-like consistency, the other is a thicker, clear gel. Both contain the same amount of salicylic acid, though the 2% BHA Liquid contains an ingredient that allows the salicylic acid to penetrate faster and further. With the 2% BHA Gel formula, you're getting a slower release of salicylic acid. Both are great options for treating acne, blackheads, and signs of ageing. Both are suitable for all skin types but best for normal to oily or combination skin.

The Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant feels a bit sticky/greasy on my face. Why is that?

If the BHA is feeling sticky, you are probably using too much product. The average amount needed is the size of a small coin, and it’s best to apply it in a thin layer. The ‘greasy’ feel can be attributed to the high levels of glycol in this product (glycol helps the BHA penetrate the surface layers of skin and also works as a water-binding agent). If you live in a humid, moist climate, this effect will be more pronounced and, if too much product is used, can create a ‘greasy’ feel on the skin.

At what point after my laser and/or peel procedure can I begin using my BHA exfoliant again?

First, we urge you to follow the post-procedure instructions your doctor or nurse provided. Otherwise, our general advice is to begin using your BHA again as soon as possible. Or, if your skin seems extra-sensitive, you may want to wait and apply the BHA exfoliant a few days post-procedure. Salicylic acid is an excellent anti-inflammatory ingredient that can enhance the skin's natural healing process as it works to reduce post-procedure redness.

Is there another Paula's Choice product which is similar to the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant?

Our Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant has the same formula to our Clear Extra Strength Anti-Redness Solution Exfoliating 2% BHA.