Paula's Choice BHA vs The Ordinary Glycolic Acid

What is the difference?

Salicylic acid is the more targeted choice for blackheads and whiteheads because it unclogs pores. Glycolic acid also helps clear clogged pores, but its broader appeal is smoother texture and brighter, more even looking skin. There is overlap, so choose the concern you most want to address rather than assuming you need both.14

How should you use them?

1. 1Patch test The Ordinary toner before applying it widely. Apply a small amount to clean forearm skin, keep the area dry and rinse after 24 hours. Stop if redness, burning, itching, blisters or irritation develops.
2. 2Cleanse and dry your face. A toner does not replace cleanser, despite being filed under skincare's department of extra steps.
3. 3For The Ordinary toner, apply a small amount with fingers or a cotton pad, avoiding the eyes. Leave it on and let it absorb before serums and moisturizer. Follow your Paula's Choice bottle's application directions.
4. 4Start glycolic acid once or twice weekly at night as a cautious general approach. The Ordinary's Italian directions suggest two to three uses weekly for beginners, increasing gradually if tolerated, up to once daily.
5. 5Wear broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day. With The Ordinary toner, also limit sun exposure and wear protective clothing during use and for the following week.

Can you use both?

Do not layer The Ordinary glycolic toner with salicylic acid or other direct acids in the same routine. If you eventually use both, alternate their use instead. The Ordinary also lists retinoids, direct vitamin C and peptides among its combinations to avoid. If you already use a prescription retinoid, keep the glycolic toner out of that application routine. The aim is a routine you can keep using, not an acid collection with its own shelf.23

How long before you see results?

For acne treatment generally, allow six to eight weeks before adding another product. Fewer breakouts can appear within four to eight weeks, with clearing taking around 16 weeks when treatment works. Glycolic acid products can take several months of consistent use to noticeably brighten skin or even pigmentation. These are general timelines, not a race between the two bottles.14

Who should be careful?

Do not use The Ordinary glycolic toner on sensitive, peeling or damaged skin. Glycolic acid also warrants caution with dry skin, rosacea, eczema or an active skin infection. If the toner irritates your skin or eyes, rinse thoroughly, stop using it and seek medical advice. During pregnancy or breastfeeding, check with your healthcare provider before using glycolic acid; if pregnant or trying to conceive, consult a dermatologist before treating acne yourself.1345

See a dermatologist for deep, painful pimples, acne that scars or dark spots left after breakouts. If acne is not clearing after a few months, get a treatment plan rather than adding more exfoliants.1