If you’re anything like me and always in a war against breakouts, blackheads or congested skin, you’ve likely seen two cult-favorite chemical exfoliants for acne: Paula’s Choice vs. The Ordinary salicylic acid.
Those with acne-prone skin know how important it is to find products that help clear breakouts but still keep the skin healthy. A couple of well-known names when it comes to salicylic acid exfoliants are Paula’s Choice and The Ordinary. However, both brands have developed a dedicated following, but what is the best exfoliant for acne-prone skin?
In this article, we are going to compare Paula’s Choice vs. The Ordinary salicylic acid exfoliants in the article below to help you decide on the best product for you. We’ll dig into their ingredients, textures, scents and user testimonials, so you can choose the right product to break through the build-up in your pores and keep your skin clear.
Whether you’re a salicylic acid novice or a longtime pro, this guide includes everything you need to think about to find the ideal salicylic acid exfoliant for your unique skin type. We’ll dive into how chemical exfoliants are effective for acne, how they unclog pores and ultimately get you closer to clearer skin. Let’s get started!
Quick Reference Summary: Your Go-To Guide
| Best for Sensitive Skin | Best for Budget- Friendly Option |
| Paula’s Choice | The Ordinary |
| 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant | Salicylic Acid 2% Solution |
Feature Face-Off: Comparing Key Attributes
| Feature | Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid | The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Salicylic Acid (2%) | Salicylic Acid (2%) |
| Texture | Lightweight liquid | Lightweight gel |
| Fragrance | Fragrance-free | Fragrance-free |
| pH Level | 3.2 – 3.6 | 3.5 – 4.0 |
| Best For | Sensitive and oily skin | Oily and acne-prone skin |
| Price | Higher price point | Budget-friendly |
1. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid: A closer Look
A overview:
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a cult-favorite among skin-care lovers. This salicylic acid formula gets deep into the pores to unclog, minimize blackheads and breakouts, smooth skin texture, and boost brightness.
Key Ingredients:
- Salicylic Acid (2%
- Green Tea Extract:
- Willow Bark Extract
- Glycerin
Battle Outcome: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Deeply clears clogged pores.
- Smooths the texture of skin and minimizes fine lines.
- Soothing for sensitive skin.
- Highly recommended by users.
Cons
- Higher price point.
- Need some additional steps in your skincare routine.
2. The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
A overview:
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is also an affordable product that works. Designed for acne and oily skin, it clears dirt away from clogged pores to stop breakouts. The brand focuses on transparency with easy, effective formulations.
Key Ingredients:
- Salicylic Acid (2%)
- Witch Hazel
- Sodium Hyaluronate
- Glycerin
Battle Outcome: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable and effective.
- Helps with acne and prevents breakouts.
- Clear and honest formulation.
- Lightweight texture.
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin.
- Limited additional benefits.
Paula’s Choice vs. The Ordinary: Exploring Texture, Aroma, and Fragrance Profiles
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant comes as a lightweight, watery liquid that glides on easily. It absorbs well and leaves no stickiness when it dries, which is a big plus for anybody with oily skin. Since it’s fragrance-free, it’s a great option if you have sensitive skin that tends to react poorly to fragrances.
On the other hand, The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is a bit thicker with a gel-like consistency. It also absorbs quickly but feels slightly richer on the skin than Paula’s Choice. This product is also free of fragrance, just like its competitor, which is perfect for people who want to leave irritants at home.
Real Voices: User Testimonials and Experiences
“I’ve been using Paula’s Choice for a little over a year now and it has completely changed my skin. I struggled with persistent breakouts and blackheads, but this product has really helped me achieve clearer skin. I love that it’s gentle enough for my sensitive skin and I can use it every day without irritation.” Love it! Highly recommend it for anyone with acne-prone skin!” – Jenny
“I was a little skeptical at first due to the price [point] being quite low, however I can say the ordinary salicylic acid solution really changed the game for my oily skin. Within a week of using it, I noticed a huge decrease in breakouts. It’s light and doesn’t make my skin feel greasy. “I’m really happy I discovered this product!” – Mikael
If You Like This, Try That
In the end, both are amazing salicylic acid exfoliants that will get you to clear skin. Your choice will be based on your particular needs and taste, try:
1. COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
If you like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, try this This exfoliant has 4 percent betaine salicylate, a gentle but effective BHA that helps dissolve excess sebum and unclog pores. It’s especially good for anyone dealing with blackheads and acne, as it gets deep into the skin and helps avoid breakouts.
Another reason you can bet COSRX is full of soothing ingredients in their products, so this one is safe for sensitive skin types as well. People start to notice smoother skin texture and fewer blemishes with regular use.
2. Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser
If You like The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution try this cleanser has salicylic acid, which helps to effectively combat acne and prevent future flare-ups while also providing a gentle clean. It helps clean impurities & excess oil but doesn’t take away the natural moisture of the skin. The Inkey List is all about simple formulations, so this is a winner for anyone who likes their skincare uncomplicated. Users love its lightweight texture and that it can be used every day without irritating.
Decision infographic: Which One Should You Pick?
Choosing the best salicylic acid exfoliant for you depends on your skin type, concerns and preferences. Here are some important considerations to help you make an informed decision:
- Skin Type: Paula’s Choice and The Ordinary products are good options for oily or acne-prone skin, as they’re made to address excess oil and breakouts. But Paula’s Choice might provide a more complete solution, with extra soothing ingredients. And, If you have sensitive skin you may want to try, instead, the basic The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, which has a simpler formulation. Always patch test first.
- Desired Results: If your main target is to exfoliate your skin from deep and clear the clogged pores, Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant can be more effective with its any other active ingredients that help in exfoliation. For those seeking hydration with exfoliation, The Ordinary’s formulation contains sodium hyaluronate, which can help maintain moisture levels.
- Texture Preference: The Ordinary has a gel-like texture, while Paula’s Choice has a liquid texture that sinks in quickly. Pick it based on how you want the product to feel on your skin.
- Fragrance Sensitivity: Both products are unscented and are friendly for those with fragrance sensitivities. But watch the ingredient list for anyone who could irritate.
- Budget Considerations: The Ordinary is a more cost-effective option, which is a major plus if budget is important for you and you want to try salicylic acid without the expense.
Wrapping Up: Choosing the Right Exfoliant for You
Paula’s Choice vs. The Ordinary, both of these salicylic acid exfoliants pack a serious punch. If you’re looking for a balm-like, skin-calming formula that’s perfect for sensitive or dry skin, Paula’s Choice may be the best acne exfoliant for you. On the other hand, if you are budget-conscious and perferring oily or combination skin, The Ordinary’s simple no-frills formula is hard to beat.
In the end, though, both are great acne chemical exfoliants, and your decision depends on your skin type, budget and preferences. Either way, you are getting a name-brand salicylic acid exfoliant, which means it’s made to penetrate pores to help clear them and other skin for a smoother, healthier appearance.
Would you use one of these exfoliants — or have you? Let me know in the comments! Was this comparison helpful for you? Please, share the article on Pinterest or/ and your favorite skincare group!
FAQs
How frequently should I use a salicylic acid exfoliant?
Most people will find that exfoliating with a salicylic acid formula 2-3x per week is enough! But if your skin tolerates it, you can increase frequency to daily, over time.
Should I use salicylic acid exfoliants with other active ingredients?
Yes you can pair salicylic acid exfoliant with other actives, but you must tread lightly. But when used in conjunction with other exfoliants (for instance, AHAs) or strong actives (like retinol), it can cause irritation. It’s a good idea to add new products slowly and see how your skin reacts. If in doubt, speak with your dermatologist for tailored guidance.
Will a salicylic acid exfoliant help with acne scars?
Can I still use salicylic acid exfoliants since I suffer from acne scars? Salicylic acid exfoliants are super effective since they treat active acne and prevent future breakouts through clearing the pores, but they might not work on deep acne scars. For scars, you could explore other treatments like chemical peels, micro needling, or products with ingredients such as vitamin C or niacinamide, which may help improve skin texture and tone.
