Paula's Choice

2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: How Long Does It Last?

Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a leave-on exfoliant that uses salicylic acid to unclog pores, smooth wrinkles, and even out skin tone. The liquid format makes it easy to apply and has earned it a cult following in the skincare community.

Price

$35

Size

118ml

Est. Uses

236

Cost/Use

$0.15

Shelf Life

12mo

How Long Does Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Last?

Based on the 118ml size at approximately 0.25ml per pump (236 total uses), here's how long Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant will last depending on your usage frequency:

UsageDaysMonthsCost/UseCost/Month
Daily236 days7.8 months$0.15$4.50
5x per week330 days10.9 months$0.15$3.21
3x per week551 days18.2 months$0.15$1.93

Calculate Your Cost Per Use

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Is Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Worth the Price?

At $0.15 per use, Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is one of the best values in its category. Here's how it compares to similar serums:

ProductPriceSizeCost/Use
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant$35118ml$0.15
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%$630ml$0.10
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5$730ml$0.12
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic$18230ml$3.03

Pros

  • + Effective at unclogging pores and reducing blackheads
  • + Gentle enough for daily use for most skin types
  • + Large bottle offers excellent value
  • + Fragrance-free and gentle formula

Cons

  • - Can cause purging during the first few weeks of use
  • - May be too drying if used with other exfoliating products
  • - Results take several weeks to become visible

What beauty communities say

Arguably the most recommended single skincare product on r/SkincareAddiction. Users with oily, acne-prone, or blackhead-prone skin consistently call it a holy grail. The "purging" period is a frequent topic of discussion.

How to Make Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Last Longer

Application Tips

  • Apply with a cotton pad or pat directly onto the face with clean hands after cleansing.
  • Use once daily, preferably in the evening, and build up to twice daily if tolerated.
  • Do not rinse off — this is a leave-on exfoliant.
  • Always follow with sunscreen in the morning, as BHA increases sun sensitivity.

Storage Tips

  • Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
  • The large 118ml bottle lasts several months with daily use.

When Does Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Expire?

12M

Period After Opening: 12 months

Replace by 12 months after first opening

Serums, especially those with active ingredients like Vitamin C, degrade with exposure to air and light. Watch for color changes or an off smell.

Key Ingredients

Salicylic Acid (2%)Green Tea ExtractMethylpropanediolButylene Glycol

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant last?
With daily use (2 pumps per application), Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant lasts approximately 236 days (7.8 months). With less frequent use (3x per week), it can last up to 551 days.
What is the cost per use of Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant?
At $35 for 118ml, each use costs approximately $0.15. That works out to about $4.50 per month with daily use.
When does Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant expire?
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Serums, especially those with active ingredients like Vitamin C, degrade with exposure to air and light. Watch for color changes or an off smell.
Is Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant worth the price?
At $0.15 per use, Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is an excellent value. With a 4.5/5 rating from 15,000 reviews, most users find it worth the investment.
How should I store Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant?
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. The large 118ml bottle lasts several months with daily use.
What skin type is Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant best for?
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is best suited for Oily and acne-prone skin. .

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