BHA Advice:
First-time users may notice a slight stinging sensation, which is normal. To avoid irritation, some first-time users should use the BHA solution 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 you should use Paula's Choice 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion, 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Liquid or the 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion 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, cut back the frequency of application.

There are many options for how to use this product. Again, you may have to experiment to figure out your best routine. Many people use it in combination with Paula's Choice 8% Alpha Hydroxy Acid Solution (some use the BHA on blemish- or blackhead-prone areas and the AHA on sun-damaged skin; or some use one product at night and the other during the day), while others prefer one exfoliant over the other and do not combine the two. The one you should use depends on what you are trying to achieve and what your skin prefers.

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 you are using Paula's Choice Blemish Fighting Solution it is best to apply it after the AHA or BHA. And, as always, sunscreen is the last thing applied.

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 have beautiful results.

Some people wonder about using a scrub while using an AHA or BHA. Occasional use of baking soda mixed with your cleanser can be great for some skin types. Just be careful to gauge how your skin reacts before adding this step into your routine once or twice a week.

Paula's Choice 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion, 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Liquid or the 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion 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 1% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion, Paula's Choice 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Liquid or Paula's Choice 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion. 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!