Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant
Combination Skin | Oily Skin
Skin looks and feels smooth, soft, and even-toned after it is treated with this ultra-light, water-based gel. Its fast-absorbing formula contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA) for combating blemishes and resistant blackheads. Supplemented with antioxidants and soothing anti-irritants, it also fortifies skin while improving minor redness and irritation.
PLEASE NOTE: Those allergic to aspirin (acetylsalicylate) should not use products containing salicylic acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid, or BHA).
Availability: In stock
€24.90
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Order a sample
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Best and cheapest exfoliation
Review by Maria
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This is my favorite exfoliant.Product Rating
(Posted on 13/05/2013) -
Didn't work for me
Review by Charlie
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I ordered this and a toner hoping I would finally get rid of the stubborn blackheads on my nose and t-zone but unfortunately it did nothing for me, I'm a 19 year old male and I think I might need something stronger than this for my blackheads and red spots : Customer Care :Thank you for your feedback. We will be sure to share your comments with Paula and her Product Development Manager. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact customer care. We are always happy to help! (Posted on 03/05/2013)Product Rating -
Really good product
Review by amberoo
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I've been using this for about 3 weeks now, and have been really impressed with the improvement in my skin tone - it's softer, smoother, and blackheads are appearing reduced. I have very oily, acne-prone skin, and as such have learned not to expect miracles from products, but having tried most things and got into a bit of an expensive rut using dermalogica for the last couple of years, I fancied a change, and I'm glad I did!Product Rating
I agree with other users in that this can leave skin looking a bit shiny and feeling quite tacky at first, but I've found that using a little less product, rubbing it in properly and following with agood moisturiser all help. I use it twice a day and would't want to be without it now - can't wait to see the results over time!
(Posted on 10/04/2013) -
Amazing
Review by Dinks
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I cannot express my delight at finally finding a product that takes care of my holy trinity of skin ailments (acne, ageing and eczema). I'm 37 so I want anti ageing but this caused break outs, when I used products to treat the breakouts this flared up my eczema, when I used a steroid cream for the eczema, this caused fine lines. This product is astonishing. Not only has it ELIMINATED my hormonal acne, my skin is radiant and my fine lines are gone. AND the biggest bonus, it doesn't flare up my ridiculously reactive skin. I only use it at night (I think twice a day might be pushing it with my sensitive skin) but I cannot praise this product enough. Paula's Choice has literally saved my skin! (Posted on 11/02/2013)Product Rating -
So happy with this!
Review by Louise
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I have really sensitive, really oily skin with dry cheeks. I get really sore spots on chin, cheeks, neck and even my chest that last 3 weeks at a time, and lots (and lots) of blackheads/clogged pores. Was just about to give up and go back to doctors for antibiotics when I tried this. I am so happy, within days my skin looked better! After a month it is completely different. I can wear no make up and feel lovely. My boyfriend keeps saying my skin is 'glowing' and my friends and family are noticing the difference. Even my brother is going to try this! I would say that you should just try it, you never know. My skin reacts to all sorts of things but luckily has been fine with this,I use it once or twice a day.Product Rating
Thank you so much for the good advice on this website. (Posted on 08/02/2013) -
another great product
Review by me :)
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i wouldnt dream of going to sleep without this product on my face! i cant believe how much of a difference it has made to my skin. It goes on a little sticky but sinks in pretty quickly and hydrates my skin really well. i dont need to follow up with a moisturiser if i dont want to. i tried the 1% version with no success but this one has reduced my blemises by 90% and has improved the clarity and tone of my skin massively. also impressed with the amount of product you get and the controlled pump-- i never get too much! i use this daily with no irritation or sensitivity!Product Rating
i would repurchace in a second! x (Posted on 24/11/2012) -
Amazing Product!
Review by Berivan
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I have been using this particular product for 2 days and I can already see a huge difference. I have blackheads particularly on my nose and chin, which are disappearing already!Product Rating
I think within 1 week or so, my skin will be clear of blackheads and a lot clearer. Also I use small amounts of the gel, so this bottle will last me for a very long time!
I can just recommend this to anyone considering to purchase it. I am pretty impressed already! (Posted on 18/07/2012) -
A rare letdown
Review by Rich
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Love the products from this range normally - and they've done wonders for my skin - so I have no doubts that this is an excellent exfoliant. For me personally however this product made me breakout severely; having read about BHAs beforehand I understood that a purging process wasn't unremarkable, but after 2 weeks daily use my skin had gone from having merely a few small pimples to my left cheek being completely covered in large whiteheads (not to mention areas of my face that had previously always been clear breaking out for the first time). I would have been willing to let the initial purge subside and continue usage of the product, but the spots were leaving behing pretty awful scarring. Will stick to the 8% AHA from now on (which is a fantastic and irritation-free solution for me).Product Rating
Customer Care: We are sorry to hear about your experience. We will contact you by email. (Posted on 16/04/2012) -
Amaze-balls
Review by Stephen
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This is a GREAT product.. makes your skin feel amazing... I have very stubborn blackheads and dry areas that feel uneven and horrible.. after using this product and it drys your skin feels like silk.. beware not to apply to often though!! (Posted on 12/03/2012)Product Rating -
less gel for more money?
Review by Barbara
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This product is fantastic. I've been using it for years now and it is amazing. My only gripe is the new packaging - 100ml for 23.50? In my last 2 orders it was 118ml for 21.50 - what gives?Product Rating
Customer Care : Thank you for your feedback.We do respect and value your concerns about product sizes and pricing.The price rise in 2012 of our products are a direct impact of various economic factors. The cost of transportation from US to Europe has gone up significantly due to security measures imposed on freight forwarders by the US Government. New EU regulations on skincare products impose additional obligations on companies selling skincare products & this in turn directly impacts the price. The main reasons some of the products have been put in new packaging is usually because we find more suitable containers that are either better at protecting the formula, are easier to use, or are better for the environment. Sometimes it is because the cost of producing the product has gone up significantly. In those cases, rather than raising prices and keeping the same size we have felt it makes more sense to make the container smaller which has the added benefit of helping the active ingredients stay stable. We can assure you that we at Paula's Choice Europe are extremely mindful of the concerns of our valued customers like yourself, and shall try to address it in the best possible way. (Posted on 31/01/2012) -
Truly Indispensable - if you're careful
Review by Joshua
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This exfoliant is so good, it should be mandatory for everyone who has ever experienced blackheads, blemishes or even just surface oil. Within days of use, the visible difference to my skin was staggering. Having spent years using vile, irritating products to try and combat acne I lucked across this and Paula's other output. This BHA gel has virtually eliminated my blackheads, smoothed lines and uneven texture to a polished, glowing complexion of which I can now be proud. After months of use, I reccommend caution in the following matters:Product Rating
- Resist the urge to apply more and more regularly, and respect the strength of this product. I have found I was over-using it to a degree which was actually causing more irritation and blemishes. I have since settled on applying every other day.
- Use of daily sunscreen is essential with this product. The mechanism by which it perfects your skin is eradicating the unsightly natural barrier of dead cells. (Posted on 25/09/2011) -
An Amazing Product!
Review by Megan
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I have been suffering from very bad cystic acne in the T-zone area and around my mouth for over two years. This product has literally saved my skin! I'm very glad I found Paula's Choice. After three weeks of using this product, my skin has cleared up, I don't get cystic acne anymore but only the occasional white spots. But this is a HUGE improvement for my skin! I still have acne scars but they fading away slowly and can be easily cover up with concealer. I used this product every night during the first week and found this to be too drying for my skin. My current routine is to use it every other day at night after cleansing only. I found this to be much gentler and still do the job. I would highly recommend this product to anyone who is suffering from acne. The only advice I can give is to use it accordingly to your own skin' needs, then watch the transformation! (Posted on 03/07/2011)Product Rating -
Holy Grail Product
Review by jc
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This product has changed my skin and simplified my skincare routine. I have oily/combination skin and used to get terrible spots as well as very painful cystic acne. Since I have used this exfoliant regularly I have had no more problems. I just cleanse, apply the lotion and follow with a light serum every night. With consistent use my skin problems disappeared within 5 months. After many years of painful blemishes I am just thrilled.Product Rating
I really cannot praise this product highly enough.
(Posted on 02/12/2010) -
too shiny and sticky
Review by Alexander
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i agree that this i a great product, but i think it goes on to sticky, and leaves the skin too shiny, the texture and fell of the product is a bit like sirup. it does'nt really sink into skin that fast..my blackheads has not vanished, they are almost the same.Customer care: we thank you for your feedback. For more information about the treatment of blackheads please contact our customer service department. (Posted on 24/10/2010)Product Rating -
Probably the best exfoliant money can buy!
Review by Sonia
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Wonderful wonderful product!!! I have used both the lotion and the gel and my favourite is this one by far. I use it everyday and my skin keep its luminosity and glow, perfect for summer as well as for winter time, when my skin is dryer after this has sinked in I apply the super antioxidant serum mixed with the Moisture Boost Hydrating Treatment Cream on top. This has never irritated my skin and has gotten rid of the tiny blackheads I use to have, my skin is 100% clear now! In my opinion this is probably the best exfoliant money can buy. I have combo/dry skin for reference. (Posted on 02/09/2010)Product Rating -
Makes a visible difference
Review by Jessica
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Really impressed with this product. It's made a visible difference to the texture of my skin, which looks finer and smoother.Product Rating
The gel is easy to apply, and a little goes a very long way. I only use it at night, with a serum on top, but as it leaves a slight film I would pick the liquid version if I wanted to apply it in the morning as well. (Posted on 19/08/2010) -
Leaves skin smooth and calm.
Review by jane
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This is a good product. I have acne and rosacea and this has reduced my clogged pores as well as calming my rosacea, and the red rosacea bumps on my cheeks have completely gone. It feels slightly sticky on the skin which I don't really like so I might try the liquid next time, however a little of this goes a long way so I am sure it will be a while before I run out. (Posted on 19/06/2009)Product Rating -
Helps to keep skin clear of blackheads
Review by Dominique
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I was amazed how smooth the skin feels when using the BHA products regularly.Product Rating
Everyone has to find out oneself how often they should be used, for me once a day works perfectly well. I use the gel only in the evenings before applying a cream. (Posted on 17/06/2009)
Dispense about a dime-sized amount onto your fingertips and smooth sparingly onto clean skin, avoiding direct contact with eyes. Depending on your skin type and if needed, follow with a product which contains benzoyl peroxide (available at the pharmacy or the chemist without a doctor's prescription - start with the lowest concentration). During the day, follow with the appropriate Paula's Choice sunscreen or your foundation with sunscreen. At night, apply the appropriate Paula's Choice moisturizer or specialty product after this product or you can use the BHA product alone.
BHA Advice:
To reduce skin flaking or possible irritation, some first-time users should use the BHA once a day or once every other day (preferably at night) for the first few weeks. After prolonged use (4-6 weeks), you can apply the BHA more frequently, and eventually it can be used twice a day. For some people it may only be necessary to use the BHA once a day or once every other day. The frequency of use for this BHA product completely depends on how your skin reacts so you may have to experiment until you find what works best for you. If redness, dryness, or irritation occurs, adjust frequency of application.
There are many options for how to use this type of product. You may have to experiment to figure out your best routine. The one you should use depends on what you are trying to achieve and what works best for your skin.
BHA is an essential step for battling blemishes or clogged pores. See the Skin Care Routines section for a recommended selection of products for your skin type. If your skin gets worse or rashes appear, discontinue use and refer to my Battle Plan for Blemishes page for other product options.
If dryness or slight irritation appears, do not give up, first decrease use to every other day or just once a day and you can still experience beautiful results.
Some people want to know if they can use a scrub while using BHA. Occasional use of a gentle scrub or a soft washcloth can be great for some skin types. Just be careful to gauge how your skin reacts before adding this once or twice a week step into your routine.
This product can also be used on the elbows, feet, or knees. It is a multi-purpose exfoliant that works almost anywhere!
If you have Rosacea:
We have received a lot of feedback from people with rosacea who are having a great deal of success with Paula's Choice BHA products. The reason for this may be due to BHA's relation to aspirin. Aspirin and BHA are both salicylates. Salicylates have anti-inflammatory properties. At the same time that BHA exfoliates the skin (removing the flaky skin problem associated with rosacea) it also calms down the redness!
BHA Advice:
To reduce skin flaking or possible irritation, some first-time users should use the BHA once a day or once every other day (preferably at night) for the first few weeks. After prolonged use (4-6 weeks), you can apply the BHA more frequently, and eventually it can be used twice a day. For some people it may only be necessary to use the BHA once a day or once every other day. The frequency of use for this BHA product completely depends on how your skin reacts so you may have to experiment until you find what works best for you. If redness, dryness, or irritation occurs, adjust frequency of application.
There are many options for how to use this type of product. You may have to experiment to figure out your best routine. The one you should use depends on what you are trying to achieve and what works best for your skin.
BHA is an essential step for battling blemishes or clogged pores. See the Skin Care Routines section for a recommended selection of products for your skin type. If your skin gets worse or rashes appear, discontinue use and refer to my Battle Plan for Blemishes page for other product options.
If dryness or slight irritation appears, do not give up, first decrease use to every other day or just once a day and you can still experience beautiful results.
Some people want to know if they can use a scrub while using BHA. Occasional use of a gentle scrub or a soft washcloth can be great for some skin types. Just be careful to gauge how your skin reacts before adding this once or twice a week step into your routine.
This product can also be used on the elbows, feet, or knees. It is a multi-purpose exfoliant that works almost anywhere!
If you have Rosacea:
We have received a lot of feedback from people with rosacea who are having a great deal of success with Paula's Choice BHA products. The reason for this may be due to BHA's relation to aspirin. Aspirin and BHA are both salicylates. Salicylates have anti-inflammatory properties. At the same time that BHA exfoliates the skin (removing the flaky skin problem associated with rosacea) it also calms down the redness!
Skin Type
Combination Skin, Oily Skin
Special Needs
Acne Normal to Oily/Combination Skin
Aqua, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, (solvent/water-binding agent), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), Salicylic Acid 2%, Hydroxyethylcellulose, VitisVinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Epilobium Angustifolium (Willow Herb) Extract , Bisabolol, Phytosphingosine, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium EDTA
Sources to support the claims made for Exfoliating 2% BHA Gel:
International Immunopharmacology, August 2009, pages 1,126–1,130; Contact Dermatitis, June 2006, pages 303-312; British Journal of Dermatology, July 2005, pages 124-131; Journal of Cosmetic Science, November-December 2004, pages 519-531; Archives of Internal Medicine, July 2002, pages 1531–1532; Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, volume 175, issue 1, pages 76–82; Preservatives for Cosmetics, 2006, by David Steinberg, Allured Publishing, pages 39-40; Pain, January 1996, pages 71–82; and Seminars in Dermatology, December 1990, pages 305–308.
Your AHA (glycolic acid) products have a higher percentage than your BHA (salicylic acid) products. Does this mean AHA is a stronger exfoliant?
AHA products are most effective at a 5% to 10% concentration and BHA at 1% to 2% concentration. Think about it like making bread, the amount of yeast you need is tiny in comparison to the amount of flour you use but equally important to get the results you want. The percentage of effectiveness varies depending on the ingredient. Rest assured that the BHA products are not any less effective due to lower concentrations of the exfoliant.
How does Paula's Choice 2% BHA Gel compare to the 2% BHA Liquid?
The main difference lies with each product's texture. The 2% BHA Liquid has a toner-like consistency. The 2% BHA Gel features a water-light base. Both products are also appropriate for all skin types.
I currently use Paula's Choice 2% BHA Lotion. Should I switch to the 2% BHA Gel? Is it all right to use both?
It is entirely a matter of personal preference. It is completely acceptable to use more than one of our 2% BHA products, though use only one at a time. A typical regimen would be to apply the 2% BHA Gel in the morning under makeup and the 2% BHA Lotion in the evening.
I have tried Paula's Choice 2% BHA and 2% BHA Liquid and did not care for the texture. Will the 2% BHA Gel work for me?
Quite possibly, yes. It's worth trying because your skin may prefer the feel of a gel to a lotion or the slip of the liquid.
