# Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the Netherlands.

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your dry skin due to humectants like Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate, but it lacks sufficient emollient ingredients for optimal hydration.
- The formula provides excellent exfoliation with multiple alpha-hydroxy acids and salicylic acid, which can smooth skin texture and decongest pores, while Bisabolol and Allantoin offer soothing benefits supportive for dry or flaky skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your dry skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin): Average (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/acne-prone-skin): Low
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Aha Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Bha Beta Hydroxy Acid, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## Why other products fit dry skin better

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))

## What reviewers say

Users with dull, aging, or congested skin frequently report that this peel delivers a "glass-like" finish, significantly smoothing rough texture and minimizing pores.

- Liked: Smoother skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Instant glow (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle for a peel (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pore reduction (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Lack of results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Stinging or tingling (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant as part of your PM routine once a week, increasing slowly to twice a week if your dry skin tolerates it well. Always remember to apply SPF every morning to protect your newly smoothed skin.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but always before your rich moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb for a minute. Avoid rubbing to prevent any irritation on flaky areas.
- Apply the product directly to dry clean skin to ensure the best possible tolerance for your dry type. This helps address flaky patches without causing extra stress.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a quick patch test before your very first use. Do not mix this with other strong acids or retinoids on the same night.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Paula's Choice 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel work for dry skin?

This exfoliant treatment works for your dry skin, though other products fit it better. It offers moderate suitability because it includes hydrating ingredients like Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate, but it lacks enough softening ingredients for optimal moisture. An exfoliant for dry skin needs rich hydrating and skin barrier supporting ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, or peptides, alongside nourishing elements that promote a healthy glow.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for dry skin?

This exfoliant is an average fit for dry skin because it contains glycerin and sodium hyaluronate for moisture, alongside bisabolol and allantoin to help soothe. However, an exfoliant of this type needs rich softening ingredients, ceramides, and barrier-supporting nutrients to properly care for dry skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Alpha Hydroxy Acid do for dry skin?

Alpha hydroxy acid helps smooth and hydrate dry skin by gently loosening dead surface skin cells and boosting natural moisture-locking lipids. Regular use makes dry skin feel softer and significantly improves rough patches.
Sources: [Cutis, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9640557/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 1996](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8818186/)

### What does Bha do for dry skin?

BHA helps dry, flaking skin by gently clearing away dead buildup while improving moisture levels when paired with soothing hydrators like ceramides. Salicylic acid may help smooth rough patches, though dry skin types need to watch for irritation and support their skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30681802/)

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for dry skin?

Apply this treatment in your evening routine once a week. Dry skin of this type needs extra soothing and softening ingredients like rich emollients to lock in moisture.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

It is best not to use this strong exfoliating treatment in the same routine as retinol, as combining them may cause unwanted irritation on dry skin. Instead, you can alternate nights or use the exfoliant on different days from your retinol to keep your skin smooth and calm.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant treatment just once a week in the evening, and if your dry skin handles it well with good results, you can carefully use it more often. To work best for dry skin, this type of product needs extra moisturizing ingredients that lock in hydration.

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry skin, as its salicylic acid helps keep pores clear and its soothing ingredients help keep irritation low. However, because dry skin needs extra richness, a product of this type works best for it when it also includes plenty of softening emollients to lock in moisture.

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €25.00 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €474.90 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.89 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €49.00 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B09R7K8LMP?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Aminomethyl Propanol, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Isoamyl Laurate, Tartaric Acid, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid, Malic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Clitoria Ternatea Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Glycerin, Tocopherol, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Titanium Dioxide Ci 77891, Mica, Phenoxyethanol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-25-aha-2-bha-exfoliant-peel/for/dry-skin