Paula's Choice skin perfecting 2% BHA liquid

paulas choice 2% BHA fluid — Source: @stmorizukraine

I have oily skin which tends to be prone to acne. So I am always on the lookout for a product to keep breakouts at bay. Once I discovered acid toners and wanted to use a product that specifically targeted oily skin.

A bit of research, lead me to Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid which was the most recommended product for oily skin due to its salicylic acid content. Why salicylic acid you may ask, well salicylic acid is oil soluble which allows it to penetrate deep into the skin. Thus it is able to unclog pores and reduce active acne and blackheads. In addition, it also has antibacterial properties and reduces sebum (oil) which adds to its effectiveness.

Since Paula’s Choice 2% BHA liquid was the top-recommended BHA product I wanted to see if it lived up to its expectations. I ordered Paula’s Choice 2 % BHA liquid, the from Paula’s Choice website which was a simple process after which the acid toner arrived in 5 working days.

Let’s get into the product proper

Appearance and packaging

The product comes in a sturdy black plastic bottle with a white cap( the packaging was changed recently ). It has a standard dispenser with a small hole in a plastic cap which allows you to control how much of the liquid you pour out each time thus reducing waste. The liquid is a clear slightly thick liquid with no discernible smell.

How to use

Like other toners, the put is best used by pouring a small amount on a cotton pad and applied to your skin using horizontal swipes. Wait for 10-15 minutes for it to be absorbed and proceed with the rest of your skincare routine.

The product may sting a little when you first start using it, however, because I use acid toners regularly, I didn’t experience any stinging on my skin. So if you are not sure how your skin will react do a patch test before you proceed. I use this toner twice a day in the morning and at night. I am able to use it during the day because unlike AHAs it does not cause sun sensitivity.

Results

This is an absolute Holy Grail product for me. Prior to using Paula’s Choice 2% BHA liquid, my skin was congested and I consistently had breakouts. As soon as one pimple healed, another would take its place, so my face ended up looking like the fur coat in 101 Dalmatians which was not a good look.

Within 2 weeks of consistently using this product most if not all of the breakouts stopped. Which allowed me to focus on dealing with my hyperpigmentation more aggressively (which we can talk about later).

Cost: £23 /$29.50

Pros

Affordable especially when compared to similar products
Treats acne effectively
Not harsh or irritating to the skin
Helps with hyperpigmentation

Cons

None

Who is it for

People with oily acne-prone skin

Rating

Performance: 5/5 – This is a really great product that does exactly what it promises and significantly reduces breakouts. It is the absolute best in its category and no other BHA on the market comes close in terms of performance.

Quality: 5/5- it comes in basic but sturdy packaging which prevents spillage the product.

Value for money: 5/5 – Although it costs slightly more than similar products on the market its effectiveness makes it more than worthwhile

Ease of use: 5/5 – It is extremely easy to use, just put a few drops on a cotton pad and pat over your face and you are good.

Overall rating: 5/5 – I love it because it does exactly as promised and completely controls any acne on the skin. My skin is not happy when I don’t use it consistently, I recommend this unequivocally.