Good Molecules BHA Clarify Gel Cream Versus Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant - US
Updated on June 03, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both vegan, cruelty-free, and reef safe . They have a total of 2 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain BHA
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, dry skin, brightening skin, oily skin and reducing pores
Free From
They both do not contain any common allergens, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
Good Molecules BHA Clarify Gel Cream 25 ingredients
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant 8 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Good Molecules BHA Clarify Gel Cream 25 ingredients
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant 8 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningPropanediol
Solvent
Diheptyl Succinate
EmollientGlycerin
Humectant
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer
Salicylic Acid
Masking
Phenoxyethanol
Preservative
Caprylyl Glycol
EmollientTromethamine
BufferingEthylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningTriethyl Citrate
Masking
Benzoic Acid
Masking
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning
Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil
Humectant
Bisabolol
Masking
Punica Granatum Seed Oil
Emollient
Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil
Emollient
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing
Diglucosyl Gallic Acid
T-Butyl Alcohol
Perfuming
1,2-Hexanediol
Skin Conditioning
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer
Skin ConditioningGlycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract
Bleaching
Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract
Skin ConditioningCamellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Antimicrobial
Water, Propanediol, Diheptyl Succinate, Glycerin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Tromethamine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Triethyl Citrate, Benzoic Acid, Allantoin, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Bisabolol, Punica Granatum Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Diglucosyl Gallic Acid, T-Butyl Alcohol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is a well-known ingredient for treating skin that struggles with acne and clogged pores. It exfoliates both the skin's surface and deep within the pores to help clear out buildup, control oil, and reduce inflammation.
Unlike AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This allows it to penetrate into pores which makes it especially effective for treating blackheads and preventing future breakouts.
Salicylic acid is also known for its soothing properties. It has a similar structure to aspirin and can calm inflamed or irritated skin, making it a good option for acne-prone skin that is also sensitive.
Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.
It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing this ingredient into your routine.
While salicylic acid does not increase sun sensitivity, it’s still important to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.
Learn more about Salicylic AcidWater. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
Good Molecules BHA Clarify Gel Cream 25 ingredients
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant 8 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
