The frequency of use may vary depending on your skin type, but in general, it is safe to use Paula's Choice BHA once or twice a week. There is no better place for a choice than Paula's Choice. BHA, also known as a chemical exfoliant, is used to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.
How often should I use Paula's Choice BHA Exfoliant? You can use Paula's Choice BHA every day— exfoliating once either in the morning or evening (pick whichever is most convenient for you). Many people with stubborn clogged pores have great results using a Paula's Choice BHA exfoliant twice per day.
Using too many exfoliating acid-based products, or one product that is simply too potent, can damage the stratum corneum – the outermost layer of your skin, also known as the skin barrier.
Some people do well exfoliating with AHA or BHA twice a day, whereas others find that once a day or every other day is a perfect balance. Test to see what works best for your skin. Exfoliating with AHA or BHA from the neck down has great benefits as well.
No, you should not use the Paula's Choice BHA everyday when you first start using it. Suggested by Paula's Choice you use it every other day to allow your skin to get used to it. You'll likely want to start using it everyday because the results are so amazing.
Eventually, your complexion can become dry and flaky. You may even develop a rashlike texture, leading to uneven tone (like patchy, red blotches). Breakouts are another common reaction, especially small, rough, bumpy pimples.
You should use retinol at night, as it can break down in light and make your skin more prone to sunburn. In the morning, use BHA to get rid of any dead skin cells caused by your nighttime retinol application.
AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, mandelic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid): You can start seeing results within minutes of the first application, but peak results — such as anti-aging effects — don't appear until 12 weeks.
Yes, BHAs can cause initial skin purging, but they also happen to be the most effective way to clear and prevent acne. Not only do they exfoliate dead skin on the surface, but they also deep-clean pores, reduce excess oil, calm inflammation and fade post-acne marks.
For people with sensitive skin, you'll likely find that 2-3 times a week using a product like this is more than enough. People with a more hardy skin type can even get away with using a BHA every day.
It's normal for your skin to purge when you use a product with a chemical exfoliator, such as AHA's and BHA's. Sometimes, your anti-acne treatment with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can also cause skin purging.
AHAs and BHAs, such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids should never be used with Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an acid, too, and is unstable, so the pH balance will be thrown off by layering these ingredients together and might as well be useless.
Depending on the products you were using before, you may see an overnight improvement. Enhanced results will occur within 2–8 weeks, and will increase and be maintained over time.
Purging should then last the length of time for a full cycle. While that is different for everyone, it should on average last between 4 to 6 weeks. However, if your skin isn't getting better after 6 to 8 weeks, your skin may be having an adverse reaction to the new product(s).
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant reduced my breakouts by ~70% after 3 days of using it at night! Note that timing is different for everyone. After 7 days of use, my skin felt smoother and softer. It may take 5-14 days to see results (source) Don't give up!
BHA is oil-soluble, allowing it to easily penetrate the pores and gently break up blockages that cause clogs. The result is fewer bumps and less visible pores. It can also be used if you suffer from Keratosis Pilaris, especially in combination with a water-soluble body wash.
Paula's Choice BHAs work quickly, and if this is your first "real" BHA, it may result in speeding up the process of your breakout as the BHA works to clear cellular debris and excess oil from the lining of your pores.
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant – yes, I'm well-aware that aforementioned product actually caused said skin purge, but continuing with it also got me through. I started the Paula's Choice 2% BHA for a reason, to help clear breakouts, blackheads and improve skin texture and tone.
The ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution say: Clean face and wait for skin to dry. Do not use on wet skin. Apply evenly across face and neck using fingertips, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for no more than 10 minutes.
BHA gently exfoliates the skin, buffing away dead skin cells and clearing away dirt, sebum and other impurities that clog your pores. This improves cell turnover and healing which in turn reduces the appearance of those embarrassing acne scars.
If you're wondering if BHA is harmful, studies have linked it to be a human carcinogen. This means BHA may expose humans to benign and malignant tumors [1]. Other studies have exposed this chemical as an endocrine disruptor and a collaborator to the underdevelopment of the reproductive system.
How long does it take to work? You will find there are some instant results when using a product containing salicylic acid, particularly chemical toners. The skin will appear fresher looking with a healthy glow, in regards to treating any breakouts or other blemishes, you can expect to see results in 4-6 weeks.
Salicylic acid: The most common BHA, and also the strongest. However, it is not as irritating as glycolic acid (the strongest AHA) because of its large molecule size and anti-inflammatory nature. Betaine salicylate: A BHA composed of salicylic acid and betaine (a hydrating amino acid derived from sugar beets).