Paula's Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution — 2% Salicylic Acid BHA Liquid, Fragrance-Free for Acne-Prone Skin

Paula's Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution is a gentle leave-on liquid exfoliant with 2% salicylic acid that helps clear breakouts, unclog pores, and fade red marks without harsh scrubbing.

Built for acne-prone and sensitive skin types, this lightweight BHA solution uses salicylic acid to dissolve pore-clogging debris while maintaining skin hydration. The formula is fragrance-free and water-light, aiming to reduce redness and smooth texture over continued use. It’s designed to slot into a daily CLEAR regimen for more consistent results.

How does this exfoliant help reduce breakouts and blackheads?

The 2% salicylic acid (BHA) penetrates oily pores to loosen sebum and dead skin cells that cause blemishes and blackheads. Because it’s a leave-on chemical exfoliant, it prevents buildup without abrasive scrubbing, supporting clearer skin when used regularly.

• 2% salicylic acid concentration for pore penetration and exfoliation
• Liquid texture flows into pores to dissolve debris
• Fragrance-free formula to minimize irritation

Will this product suit sensitive or redness-prone skin?

This solution is formulated to be gentle: its water-light texture soothes while exfoliating, which can make it tolerable for many sensitive skin types. Still, sensitive or cystic-acne skin may benefit from starting slowly and patch-testing to check tolerance.

• Water-light consistency reduces friction and physical irritation
• Calming formulation helps address visible redness
• Begin with every-other-day use if you have high sensitivity

How should I incorporate it into my daily skincare routine?

Apply this leave-on exfoliant after cleansing and before treatments or moisturizers, ideally once or twice daily depending on tolerance. Use sunscreen during the day, as exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity.

• Cleanse, then apply a thin layer of the exfoliant on dry skin
• Follow with serums and a hydrating moisturizer
• Finish with SPF 30+ in the morning for sun protection

What results can I expect and when might they appear?

With consistent use you may notice fewer breakouts, smaller-looking pores, and diminished red marks from past blemishes over several weeks. Individual results vary based on skin type, regimen consistency, and complementary products.

• Reduced active blemishes and fewer new breakouts over weeks
• Improved skin texture and pore clarity with continual use
• Fading of post-breakout redness when combined with a full regimen

Who is this for: Paula's Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin experiencing blackheads, frequent breakouts, or visible red marks left by blemishes. It also fits those who prefer a fragrance-free, science-backed BHA in a leave-on liquid format. If you have extremely reactive or prescription-treated skin, consult your dermatologist and introduce the product gradually.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2.0% (anti-acne); Other Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Dipropylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Allantoin, Panthenol, PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer, Methyl Gluceth-20, Glycereth-26, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Metabisulfite