Paula's Choice CLEAR 2% Salicylic Acid Exfoliant Liquid — Fragrance-Free, Anti-Redness Pore-Clearing Treatment (2% BHA)

Paula's Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution is a leave-on 2% salicylic acid liquid designed to unclog pores, reduce breakouts, and help fade red marks without abrasive scrubbing.

This water-light exfoliant uses a 2% beta-hydroxy acid (salicylic acid) formulation to penetrate pores, dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells, and calm redness for skin prone to blackheads, breakouts, and post-breakout discoloration. Fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive complexions, it absorbs quickly and works as part of a daily CLEAR routine to maintain a clearer-looking complexion while supporting smoother texture.

How does this exfoliant reduce breakouts and blackheads?

The 2% salicylic acid works as a gentle chemical exfoliant that penetrates inside pores to loosen sebum and debris that cause congestion. Regular use helps reduce the frequency of surface blemishes and the formation of blackheads without manual scrubbing.

• 2% BHA formula targets oil and debris within pores.
• Leave-on liquid ensures continuous, gentle exfoliation between washes.
• Non-abrasive approach avoids micro-tears from physical scrubs.
• Compatible with acne-targeted regimens for cumulative improvement.

Will this be suitable for sensitive or redness-prone skin?

Yes — the formulation is fragrance-free and water-light, created to soothe while it exfoliates. It reduces visible redness associated with breakouts without overly drying the skin when used as directed.

• Soothing texture minimizes irritation risk for many sensitive skin types.
• Fragrance-free to lower potential irritants.
• Hydrating actives help preserve skin barrier during exfoliation.
• Patch-test first on very reactive skin before full-face use.

How should I incorporate it into my daily skincare routine?

Apply to clean, dry skin after cleansing and before moisturizing. Use once daily to start, then increase frequency if tolerated; pair with sunscreen each morning as exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity.

• Cleanse with a gentle face wash, then pat skin dry.
• Apply a small amount of the liquid exfoliant with fingertips or cotton pad.
• Follow with moisturizer; use SPF during daytime routines.
• Combine with the Paula's Choice CLEAR collection for best results.

What visible improvements can I expect and when?

Many users notice fewer new breakouts, reduced blackheads, and gradual fading of red marks after consistent use over several weeks. Texture smoothing and improved pore appearance typically develop with ongoing use as dead skin cell buildup diminishes.

• Initial clarity improvements often within a few weeks of regular use.
• Red mark fading and smoother texture become more apparent over months.
• Pore congestion decreases as sebum and debris are cleared regularly.
• Results are cumulative—consistent application yields best outcomes.

Who is this for? Paula's Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution suits people with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin looking for a gentle leave-on BHA to manage breakouts, reduce blackheads, and fade post-acne redness. It's formulated for those who prefer science-backed, fragrance-free solutions and who want to integrate a low-irritation chemical exfoliant into a complete acne-management skincare routine. If you have extremely dry skin or are using multiple strong actives, consult product instructions and introduce this exfoliant gradually to monitor tolerance.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2.0% (anti-acne); Other Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Dipropylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Allantoin, Panthenol, PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer, Methyl Gluceth-20, Glycereth-26, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Metabisulfite