Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant Versus COSRX Refresh AHA BHA Vitamin C (ABC) Daily Toner
Updated on July 18, 2023
Overview
What they are
These products are both 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, sensitive skin, oily skin, reducing pores and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, 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
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant 13 ingredients
COSRX Refresh AHA BHA Vitamin C (ABC) Daily Toner 16 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
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant 13 ingredients
COSRX Refresh AHA BHA Vitamin C (ABC) Daily Toner 16 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Actinidia Chinensis Fruit Extract
EmollientHylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract
Skin ConditioningSalix Alba Bark Water
Astringent
Pyrus Malus Fruit Water
MaskingButylene Glycol
Humectant
Niacinamide
Smoothing
1,2-Hexanediol
Skin Conditioning
Ethyl Hexanediol
SolventSodium Lactate
BufferingWater
Skin ConditioningGlycolic Acid
Buffering
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning
Adenosine
Skin Conditioning
Betaine Salicylate
Antimicrobial
Ascorbyl Glucoside
Antioxidant
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Water. 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 WaterButylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:
Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient that works well with other ingredients.
Though this ingredient works well with most skin types, some people with sensitive skin may experience a reaction such as allergic rashes, closed comedones, or itchiness.
Learn more about Butylene GlycolIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant 13 ingredients
COSRX Refresh AHA BHA Vitamin C (ABC) Daily Toner 16 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel Exfoliant 13 ingredients
Single-handedly cleared up my ever present stubborn blackheads!
I started using this product during the day and layering it under my sunscreen. It wasn't bad for that, but I just find using it at night is much more effective. It is a thick enough consistency that it can go on as the last layer of a night-time routine and act as an overnight mask.
I love the BHA liquid exfoliant and use that during the day now, due to its quick absorption. I am not able to Show more
COSRX Refresh AHA BHA Vitamin C (ABC) Daily Toner 16 ingredients
Gentle but seems to be working. I’ve been using it for around 2 weeks and it seems to be good at drying out and minimising ccs. Super lightweight and absorbs fast. No irritation when applying more than 1 layer.
It’s my every other day toner. Fungal acne safe and visibly reduces the look of large pores just after a few uses. Would probably purchase again
