Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Versus Neutrogena Clear & Defend 1% Salicylic Acid 2-In-1 Wash Mask
What's inside
What's inside
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Glycerin
Humectant
Kaolin
Abrasive
Bentonite
Absorbent
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Cleansing
CI 77891
Cosmetic ColorantTrideceth-9
EmulsifyingC12-15 Alkyl Lactate
EmollientSalicylic Acid
Masking
Cetyl Lactate
EmollientCocamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate
Menthol
Masking
Cetyl Alcohol
Emollient
PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate
EmulsifyingSodium Chloride
Masking
Xanthan Gum
EmulsifyingDisodium EDTA
Citric Acid
Buffering
Sodium Citrate
BufferingSodium Hydroxide
BufferingChlorphenesin
Antimicrobial
Benzalkonium Chloride
Antimicrobial
Parfum
Masking
Glycerin, Kaolin, Bentonite, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, CI 77891, Trideceth-9, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate, Salicylic Acid, Cetyl Lactate, Cocamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Menthol, Cetyl Alcohol, PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate, Sodium Chloride, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Chlorphenesin, Benzalkonium Chloride, Parfum
Reviews
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, itβs 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 AcidSodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.
In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.
Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.
"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.
Learn more about Sodium Hydroxide
