Paula's Choice AHA & BHA Exfoliant Duo — 8% Glycolic AHA + 2% Salicylic BHA, Fragrance-Free for Blackheads & Pores

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING duo pairs an 8% glycolic AHA gel and a 2% salicylic BHA liquid to gently exfoliate, smooth texture, and help reduce blackheads and enlarged pores.

This set combines two complementary chemical exfoliants formulated by Paula's Choice: an 8% AHA (glycolic acid) gel to improve skin texture and radiance, and a 2% BHA (salicylic acid) liquid to penetrate pores and help clear congestion. Both products are fragrance-free and designed for regular use as part of a targeted skincare routine. They’re suitable for addressing concerns like uneven tone, fine lines, and pore buildup when used as directed.

How do these two exfoliants work together in a routine?

The AHA and BHA serve different roles: glycolic acid works on the skin’s surface to accelerate cell turnover and soften fine lines, while salicylic acid is oil-soluble and reaches into pores to loosen blackheads and reduce visible pore size. Used on separate nights or layered with guidance, they deliver multi-level exfoliation without over-stripping the skin.

• 8% AHA gel: improves surface texture and boost radiance.
• 2% BHA liquid: clears pore blockages and helps reduce blackheads.
• Fragrance-free formulas minimize irritation risk for sensitive skin types.
• Can be alternated (AHA one night, BHA another) or used per product directions.

Will this duo help with enlarged pores and blackheads?

The BHA liquid targets oil and debris inside pores, which can visibly reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and help clear blackheads over time. The AHA gel complements this by smoothing the skin surface, making pores look smaller and skin appear more even.

• Salicylic acid penetrates oily buildup to clear congestion.
• Glycolic acid exfoliates dead cells that accentuate pore appearance.
• Regular use can lead to less noticeable pores and fewer blackheads.

Is this combination suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin?

Both products are formulated without fragrance and focus on proven ingredient concentrations. Sensitive or reactive skin types should introduce chemical exfoliants gradually—start with less frequent application and monitor tolerance. For active irritation or compromised skin barrier, pause exfoliation and consult a skincare professional.

• Fragrance-free and cruelty-free formulations reduce irritation triggers.
• Begin with once or twice weekly use, increasing as tolerated.
• Always use sunscreen daily when using AHAs or BHAs due to increased sun sensitivity.

How quickly can I expect visible results and how do I layer these products?

Some smoothing and radiance improvements can appear within a week, while more pronounced changes in pore clarity and fine lines usually take 4–12 weeks with consistent use. Apply the BHA/liquid to clean, dry skin and allow it to absorb; the AHA gel can be used on alternate nights or as directed by Paula's Choice guidelines to avoid over-exfoliation.

• Initial improvements: days to a week for texture and glow.
• Noticeable pore and line improvements: several weeks of regular use.
• Layer conservatively—do not use both at full strength simultaneously without guidance.

Who this is for: This duo is intended for people seeking a science-based approach to improve skin texture, reduce visible pores, and address blackheads or early signs of aging. It’s well suited to combination, oily, and acne-prone skin types and to anyone comfortable incorporating chemical exfoliation into their regimen. If you have very sensitive skin, open wounds, or active severe acne, consider consulting a dermatologist before starting.

Features:

• Paula's Choice Skincare makes science-backed products that work. No fragrance, no fluff. Just effective, cruelty-free formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.