Benefits
BHA (beta hydroxy acid) works within the pore lining where congestion, blemishes & blackheads begin. Our cult favorite formula is clinically proven to boost cell turnover, visibly reduce pores, control oil & support skin’s barrier for healthy, glowing skin.
- Clears & minimizes enlarged pores
- 2% BHA (beta hydroxy acid) sheds built-up layers of skin for smooth, even tone
- Lightweight liquid exfoliating toner absorbs quickly
- Gentle formula with soothing green tea supports skin’s barrier
Skin becomes dull and congested when dead skin cells build up on its surface. Unlike harsh scrubs, this gentle exfoliating toner mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores. This not only makes your skin look brighter, but it also allows your other skincare products to absorb better, boosting their effectiveness. Apply consistently for a smooth, makeup-ready complexion. This daily leave-on exfoliant has an optimal pH range of 3.2–3.8 for maximum effectiveness without irritation.
Ingredient Spotlight
Key Ingredients
All Ingredients
Paula's Choice is dedicated to maintaining the accuracy of the ingredient lists on this website. However, because ingredients are subject to change, we cannot guarantee that these lists are error-free. For an accurate listing of ingredients in each product, please refer to your product packaging.
How To Apply
Apply to clean skin in AM and/or PM on face, neck, decollete & breakout-prone areas using a cotton round or hands. Avoid eye area. Do not rinse. Follow with treatment and/or moisturizer. In absence of irritation, use up to twice daily. For daytime, always follow with sunscreen. For nighttime, follow with the rest of your routine.
If you have a salicylate allergy, check with your physician before using any products that contain salicylic acid.
2% BHA Exfoliating Toner
The one that changes everything
-
48 Hours
Boosted cell turnover*
Improved hydration* -
1 Week
Brighter, glowing skin
Smoother lines
Smaller pores
Visibly smaller blackheads -
4 Weeks
Stronger barrier*
Reduced texture*
More even tone*
Clinically proven to visiblyreduce pores & control oil
*Based on an independent clinical study with 32 subjects after 4 weeks.
BEFORE
BEFORE
AFTER 3 WEEKS
AFTER 4 WEEKS
Clinically proven to improve skin barrier*
*Based on an independent clinical study of 29 subjects.
BEFORE
AFTER 3 WEEKS
About Us
The world of skincare has never been louder. More trends, more advice, and more formulas to choose from. But skincare should feel empowering, not overwhelming.
For over 30 years, Paula’s Choice Skincare has helped take the guesswork out of your routine with proven science, clear guidance, and formulas designed to deliver results you can see. From breaking down skincare myths to formulating products around research-backed ingredients, our goal has always been simple: to help you achieve your best skin ever.
Because the right skincare doesn’t just change your skin; it changes how you feel in it. With 130,000+ five-star reviews and 300+ beauty awards, our proof is in our results. In skincare that keeps its promises.
Our Origins
Paula’s Choice Skincare was founded in 1995 by beauty expert Paula Begoun, whose early work helped bring more transparency to the beauty industry. Known as the Cosmetics Cop, Paula wrote research-based books and product reviews that helped consumers sort beauty fact from fiction. Her commitment to honest education shaped the brand from the start, giving people clearer answers in a category often driven by trends and marketing claims.
Today, that standard continues through a global team of skincare experts, scientists, and formulators dedicated to creating products built on research, guided by evidence, and made to deliver results you can see.
Our Promises
These promises reflect our commitment to evidence, transparency, and consumer advocacy in an industry often driven by trends and noise.
FAQ
Who should use a BHA exfoliant?
Who should use a BHA exfoliant?
A BHA exfoliant is ideal for normal to oily or combination skin prone to bumps and blemishes. Its oil-soluble nature clears pores and improves texture. AHA exfoliants are great for normal to dry skin, as they focus on surface hydration and sun damage reduction.
Can you use 2% BHA Exfoliant with an AHA exfoliant?
Can you use 2% BHA Exfoliant with an AHA exfoliant?
Yes, alternating or combining AHA and BHA can address multiple skin concerns like sun damage, wrinkles, and clogged pores. Experiment to see what works best for your skin and adjust usage as needed.
Does the 2% BHA cause purging?
Does the 2% BHA cause purging?
BHA can sometimes temporarily cause skin purging due to its oil solubility, which allows it to penetrate deep into pores and break up trapped skin cells. This speeds up cell turnover, bringing clogs to the surface, indicating the exfoliant is working properly.
Is 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant a toner?
Is 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant a toner?
Our 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, commonly known as an exfoliating toner, has the lightweight, liquid texture of a toner and the benefits of a chemical exfoliant, which include removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, revealing a brighter complexion. Other Paula’s Choice toners are used after cleansing to remove residual makeup and sunscreen, hydrate, and deliver targeted ingredients like antioxidants. While both are beneficial, they serve different purposes in your skincare routine.
Is Paula’s Choice 2% BHA fragrance free?
Is Paula’s Choice 2% BHA fragrance free?
Though fragrance free, the product may have a subtle scent from its ingredients, which dissipates quickly. Individual scent perception varies. Many users adjust to it, finding the benefits outweigh any minor scent. Learn more about fragrance-free skincare.
Is 2% BHA Liquid gluten free, vegan, fragrance, or alcohol free?
Is 2% BHA Liquid gluten free, vegan, fragrance, or alcohol free?
Our 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is gluten free, vegan, fragrance free, and alcohol free. Note: All Paula’s Choice are cruelty free.
Can I use 2% BHA Liquid while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Can I use 2% BHA Liquid while pregnant or breastfeeding?
1-2% BHA (salicylic acid) is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Use it in small areas like the face, neck and chest. Before use, consult your healthcare provider.
How long does it take BHA to work?
How long does it take BHA to work?
Results can vary but 2% BHA is clinically proven to promote smoother, clearer, glowing skin in as little as 48 hours.