Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Lotion Exfoliant
Normal Skin | Dry Skin | Very Dry Skin
Exfoliate both the surface of the skin and inside the pore with this lightweight lotion that eliminates clogged pores without excessive irritation. Appropriate for all skin types, but best for skin prone to blemishes and blackheads.
PLEASE NOTE: Those allergic to aspirin (acetylsalicylate) should not use products containing salicylic acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid, or AHA).
Availability: In stock
€24.90
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Order a sample
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GREAT
Review by Maria
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I am a loyal Paula Begoun fan and I buy only cosmetics approved by her at beautypedia.com! Because there are not as many options for European customers, I decided to buy my exfoliator from PaulasChoice (first time). I had high expectations and I was not dissapointed! Altough I have clean (but very sensitive) skin, this product got rid of the last pores on my nose and t-zone (I am a teenager) after 3 days! But whats more, after 2 uses little bumps on my arms vanished (I honestly thought I would have to live with them) and the Acne on my back is slowly vanishing too (this was a rather large problem for me!). I dont regret trusting Paula, the tube is quite large - considering you need only a tiny amout. The texture is smooth. And the smell- that was never a problem for me (but I am used to sans-perfume from Clinique). (Posted on 30/08/2012)Product Rating -
Disappointed
Review by M.C
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I'm disappointed... I've been using this product for more than three weeks (twice a day)... And I don't really see a difference...Product Rating
I have a very oily nose and chin (very small whiteheads on the chin), and visible pores around the nose. But at the same time I have dry lines on my nose (I'm still young so it aren't really wrinkles)...
I hoped it would make even a slight difference but it doesn't... Should I use the 2% formula? Or the AHA version? Customer care : Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear you have not noticed better results. The amount of time it will take to see improvement really can vary from person to person and ultimately depends on the extent of the condition or concern they are trying to address as well has how they are using the products.Some consumers will notice results promptly while others will notice results over the course of a few weeks or months It might be that our 2% BHA gel would be a better option for you. The main difference between AHA and BHA is that BHA has the ability to penetrate into the pore (AHAs do not), and thus can exfoliate inside the pore as well as on the surface of the skin. For the treatment of blemishes Paula advises the use of a BHA product. AHA products only exfoliate cells on the surface of skin. Also, BHA products are sometimes better tolerated than AHA products but this of course depends on skin type and condition. Please contact Customer Care with any questions info@paulaschoice-eu.com.
for further information
(Posted on 24/06/2012) -
FANTASTIC!
Review by Elizabeth
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This an amazing product and has helped clear my rosacea bumps which I have been struggling with for 5 yearsand using various lotions,but the smell is HORRENDOUS...,please do something about it! Does the 2 per cent smell the same? Can I put some essential oil with it? Customer Care : Thank you for your review. We are pleased to hear that you enthusiastic about the Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Lotion Exfoliant but we are sory to hear that you dislike the smell of it.Rest assured that the smell of this BHA product is safe and normal. We go through significant lengths to ensure that our products are gentle, effective, and stable. One of the challenges of having a fragrance free line is that we cannot use perfumes to keep consistency in scent from batch to batch. Even though the ingredients are the same in each formula the natural raw ingredients can very slightly in scent. (Posted on 28/02/2012)Product Rating -
Awesome!
Review by Sara
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I've been using this almost daily for a few months now, and I have to say that it is a REALLY good product! When I get breakouts (when I haven't been good to my skin for a few days), I only apply this before bed, and there will mostly be only small pink spots on my face by the morning. It also evens out my skin tone, witch I hadn't expected, and it has definitely made my blackheads smaller, even though they're not gone.Product Rating
Think abut this before buying:
-It's a bit drying for people like me that has very dry skin. (I got myself a sample of the 2% BHA lotion, and I actually thought it wasn't as drying.. So I'm going for that one this time!)
-You should NOT apply moisturiser on top of this lotion, even if it's drying. It made the lotion ineffective, and that is probably because of the pH. My moisturiser has a pH of 5.5. (Posted on 19/02/2012) -
Best for combination skin
Review by Peeter
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I tried all formulations: lotion, gel and liquid, but this one is the best. It doesn't leave residue like the gel and doesn't look shiny like the liquid. I love it and it moisturizes as well. (Posted on 11/07/2011)Product Rating -
Worth persevering even if your skin is very sensitive
Review by Lindsey
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I have extremely sensitive, dry skin (borderline roseacea) and would highly recommend all of the Recovery system but wanted to make special mention of this product even though this initially caused a lot of irritation and excessive skin flaking when I started using it in February.Normally this would immediately make me stop using a product but following Paula's advice (in her books) I have persevered and I am delighted with the results.I initially started once a week for three weeks, then once (at night) every six days for three six day cycles, then once (at night) every five days for three five day cycles and so on until I am now at once a day (at night) every three days. I am about to move to using this every other night and hope to be able to use this every night very soon.Product Rating
I don't think I'll ever be able to use this twice a day but the contrast between my skin's reaction when I started using this and the truly fantastic results now are astonishing. My skin is glowing, soft and supple and there's almost no scaling and flaking.I wanted to tell other women with sensitive skin whom might be experiencing a reaction to this product it is worth persevering although, as Paula acknowledges in her books, there are some people who are never able to tolerate BHAs or AHAs.
I can't help but also think that the 'skin communicating' ingredients in the Recovery system has played an enormous role in this. I think they have finally 'told' my skin how to behave more normally and this has contributed to the greater resilience of my skin and therefore tolerance of this product.
Thank you for your truly fantastic skin care products, Paula, they have been a revelation for this 30-something whose been looking for answers for years! (Posted on 09/05/2011) -
Clearer, smoother skin - wonderful texture - one star removed for dryness
Review by Jacasta
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I ordered a few samples of the 1% BHA lotion and, so far, I'm really loving it. I have combination skin, which is sensitive (I am very fair-skinned). Lately, I've experienced some bad reactions to some new products that I bought, which resulted in redness, dry patches and blemishes. I wanted to try BHA to clear up my skin and fade marks. It's worked very well so far but, unlike other reviewers, I find this lotion leaves my skin feeling dry and tight. There is no way I could use this alone under make-up - layering a moisturiser on top is an absolute necessity for me. I certainly don't think my skin could handle 2% BHA. Right now I am also trialling Paula's Moisture Boost Daily Restoring Complex with SPF 20. It seems to tone down the dryness whilst providing the sun protection necessary when one uses BHA. I will update on how my skin is getting on in a month's time as I don't feel like I've had the chance to adequately test these products; it's only been a week but I am seeing good results so far. Thank you Paula's Choice for bringing your products to the UK - please don't stop! (Posted on 24/03/2011)Product Rating -
Lovely texture
Review by Sarah
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I love the texture of this lightweight lotion which leaves my skin with a silky matte feeling. Of late I have a very oily t zone but I am prone to eczema patches on my forehead. I have very mild acne; usually a result of hormones. I initially tried the 2% liquid thinking it would be like a traditional toner but it was more like a dry oil and hated using it on my face. I sampled the gel which I liked but somehow I kept getting drawn to the lotion. I considered the 2% lotion but I noticed the more recent reviews were not that great as apparently the supplier had changed rendering the reformulated 2% lotion thicker and tacky so I opted for the 1%. I made the right purchase. it is perfect as a make up base (provided your make up has sufficient SPF of course) or under Paula's serums and moisturisers. A good price for a good product. Thanks for reducing the p & p to the UK too. Please do not stop shipping here as I am a devoted PC user. (Posted on 26/11/2010)Product Rating -
great product!
Review by jenny
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Before ordering paula's products (cleanser, toner, exfoliant en antioxidant-concentrate) i asked my beauty-specialist what type of skin i have. I also found much information from reading paula's american website (which has a lot of reviews!)Product Rating
I never used BHA products, but from now on i will keep using them. The lotion feels like a light cream. A little bit is enough. Dries quickly, but doesn't feel dry after using it. My pores really look smaller; especially on my nose....i didn't know this was possible! Also less spots since using this product. I love it! (Posted on 28/05/2010) -
It's a miracle, really
Review by Betty S
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The small spots I have had for years lurking under the skin have begun to vanish in two days and my skin feels fantastic. Will be buying a sample of the 2% lotion next to see what the difference is. (Posted on 20/03/2010)Product Rating -
Seamless and Matte
Review by Sonia
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Another winner! Leaves the skin absolutely matte it is perfect to wear as a primer under your make-up. I have combo skin and I must apply moisturizer on my cheeks as this not give the hydration needed on those areas. I wanted to use an effective exfoliant yet gentle to use it everyday without the fear of irritation, at night I use it on my cheeks and neck and the 2% bha gel on my T-zone/prone to break out areas and this combination works beautifully on me. Another HG I can not live without! (Posted on 15/03/2010)Product Rating -
best
Review by Elena Kh
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I have sensitive skin and all the AHA/ BHA products I tried before made face a bit irritated (red) including some really expensive ones from brands like La Prairie. Paula’s version is really suitable for everyday use, it goes on skin smoothly, and feels like a light cream when applied, no harshness or irritation. I use it very night under the antioxidant concentrate and moisturizing cream from Paula and in the morning my skin feels very fresh and “new”. And the lotion is probably one of the reasons why my pores look smaller than before. (Posted on 26/09/2009)Product Rating
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
Normal Skin, Dry Skin, Very Dry Skin
Special Needs
Blackheads Normal Skin with Oily T-Zone, Rosacea Normal to Dry Skin
Aqua, Cetyl Alcohol (thickener/emollient), Butylene Glycol (water-binding agent), PPG-14 Butyl Ether (thickener), Salicylic Acid (beta hydroxy acid, exfoliant), Allantoin, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract (anti-irritants), Alteromonas Ferment Extract (water-binding agent), Dimethicone, Dimethiconol (silicone slip agents), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (skin-repairing ingredient/emollient), Glycerin (skin-repairing ingredient), Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), PEG-40 Stearate, Sorbitan Stearate (thickeners), PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer (film-forming agent), Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate (skin-conditioning agent), Polyacrylate-13 (film-forming agent), Polyisobutene (thickener), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Phenoxyethanol (preservatives)
Sources to support the claims made for Exfoliating 1% BHA Lotion:
Biochemistry and Pharmacology, June 2007, pages 1,786-1,795; Archives of Internal Medicine, July 2002, pages 1531–1532; Annals of Dermatology and Venereology, January 2002, pages 137–142; Archives of Dermatology, November 2000, pages 1390–1395; Preservatives for Cosmetics, 1996, 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.
What strength of BHA should I use? Will a higher concentration provide better and faster results?
Which BHA strength you opt to use should be based on your skin type and the stubbornness (or severity) of your acne or blackheads. The 1% BHA strength is a great starting point to see how using a pH-correct BHA can improve the skin's condition. The 2% concentrations can be a next level to see how that benefits skin.
