SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Full Size | 118 ml
A$54.00
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SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
1/19
1/19
SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
SKIN PERFECTING

2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

4.2
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
236
  • Exfoliating
  • Minimises Pores
  • Smoothing
Our iconic global best seller, this clinically proven daily leave-on liquid exfoliant with salicylic acid quickly unclogs pores and controls oil for clear, glowing skin.
  • Clears & minimises 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
A$54.00

Gentle Care for Stronger, Healthier Skin

  • Firm Skin

    Tighten & restore skin strength

  • Shrink Pores

    Minimise enlarged, stretched pores

  • Smooth Wrinkles

    Erase wrinkles & soften fine lines

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 skin care 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.

Claims Clinically proven to boost cell turnover for smooth, clear, glowing skin in as little as 1 week *Based on independent clinical studies and self-assessment consumer panels. Results may vary.

The bottle for our #1 global bestseller 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner is now made from 96% recycled plastic (excluding cap and orifice reducer).

The bottle for this full-sized product is made from 96% recycled material (excluding cap and orifice reducer).
How To Use

Apply over face and neck with fingers or a cotton pad after cleansing and toning. Do not rinse. Start slowly: At first, use every other day and note skin's response, then up to twice a day. 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.
Ingredients

Key Ingredients

  • Water/Aqua/Eau
  • Methylpropanediol
  • Butylene Glycol
  • Salicylic Acid
  • Polysorbate 20
See All Ingredients
  • Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract
  • Sodium Hydroxide
  • Tetrasodium EDTA

Water (Aqua/Eau), Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium EDTA. il402v1

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.
Research
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, July 2025, pages 1–7
  • Experimental Dermatology, July 2019, pages 786–794
  • Journal of European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology, September 2016, issue 9, pages 1480-1490
  • General Physiology and Biophysics, September 2013, issue 3, pages 347-59
  • Archives of Dermatology, August 2000, issue 8, pages 989-994
  • Journal of Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015, volume 8, pages 455-461

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4.9
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FAQs

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?

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?

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?

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 skin care routine.

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 skin care. 

What is the difference between SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant and the other liquid BHA exfoliants from Paula’s Choice?

Paula’s Choice currently offers four liquid BHA exfoliants including:

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. All Paula’s Choice are cruelty free.

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.
4.2
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
Based on 236 reviews
78%would recommend this product
Total 5 star reviews: 171 Total 4 star reviews: 14 Total 3 star reviews: 11 Total 2 star reviews: 14 Total 1 star reviews: 26
Reviews Summary
Customers say this liquid exfoliant leaves skin noticeably smoother and clearer, with reduced pore appearance and fewer breakouts. Many appreciate its effectiveness for acne-prone skin and report visible results within days to weeks. Common feedback includes initial dryness or flaking that improves with gradual use. Some find it works best when used sparingly rather than daily. A few users experienced irritation or no results.
Customers Talked About
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236 reviews
  • Suzi
    Flag of Australia
    Verified Buyer
    I recommend this product
    Pros Lightweight
    Best Uses Enlarged Pores
    Describe Yourself Beauty Conscious
    Rated 4 out of 5 stars
    1 week ago
    Great for reducing pore size

    I purchased this product because my PORES were a little clogged and enlarged and it has done it job immediately. The only downside is dryness on the skin and my skin is peeling around the nose. What I have done is use the product every second day for one week as suggested and now I am using it every day but a little less product. To be honest I am happy with it.

    Was this helpful?
  • Robert
    Flag of Australia
    Verified Buyer
    I recommend this product
    Pros Soothes Skin
    Best Uses Uneven Skin Tone
    Describe Yourself Minimalist
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    2 weeks ago
    Great product

    Great result

    Was this helpful?
  • Aleysha
    Flag of New Zealand
    Verified Buyer
    I recommend this product
    Pros Non-Greasy, Softens Skin, Moisturises, Lightweight, Soothes Skin, Smells Great
    Best Uses Daily Use, Sensitive Skin, Fine Lines/Wrinkles, Enlarged Pores, Uneven Skin Tone
    Describe Yourself Beauty Conscious
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 weeks ago
    I cannot begin to express

    I cannot begin to express how this 1 product has changed my life. I have battled with acne since I was 13 years old. I am now 45 years old. I have gone through numerous treatments, medications and skin care products and this has blown my skin into full on glowiness, pores have reduced and my skin texture has improved. My skin is so soft and smooth. I still have a long way to go with my skin journey but this product has brought me to tears.

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  • Md
    Flag of Australia
    Verified Buyer
    I recommend this product
    Pros Non-Greasy, Softens Skin, Moisturises, Lightweight, Soothes Skin, Smells Great
    Best Uses Daily Use, Fine Lines/Wrinkles, Enlarged Pores, Uneven Skin Tone
    Describe Yourself Beauty Conscious
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 weeks ago
    I love it!

    This is the only product helps clear my skin

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  • A s.
    Flag of Australia
    Verified Buyer
    I recommend this product
    Pros Soothes Skin
    Best Uses Daily Use, Enlarged Pores, Uneven Skin Tone
    Describe Yourself Minimalist
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 weeks ago
    I love this liquid exfoliant.

    Daily after toner . Easy to used and applied

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