Geek & Gorgeous Smooth Out vs Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Geek & Gorgeous

Paula's Choice

A chemical exfoliant built around AHA and Glycolic acid, for hydration and barrier repair.

A chemical exfoliant built around BHA and Salicylic acid, for hydration and smoothing.

Chemical exfoliant

20 ingredients

8 ingredients

Brand price

EUR 30.00 · checked 8 Oct 2026 · brand's site

Brand price

USD 37.00 · checked 8 Oct 2026 · brand's site

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At a Glance

They come out differently on Fungal-acne-safe; that row is shaded. Tap any answer to see why.

Panthenol (provitamin B5)1
Provitamin B5 — a humectant and soother.
Panthenol
AHA2
Alpha hydroxy acids — water-soluble chemical exfoliants.
Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid
Glycolic acid1
The smallest AHA, and so the most penetrating.
Glycolic Acid
Lactic acid1
An AHA that also acts as a humectant.
Lactic Acid

Polysorbates (Tween emulsifiers)1
Polysorbate (Tween) emulsifiers.
Polysorbate 20
BHA1
Beta hydroxy acid — oil-soluble, so it works inside the pore.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid1
The BHA used in acne treatment.
Salicylic Acid

Hydrating9
Boosts hydration and relieves dry, tight skin.
Anhydroxylitol, Glucose, Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Methyl Gluceth-20, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Xylitol, Xylitylglucoside
Barrier Repair3
Strengthens and restores the skin's natural barrier.
Glycerin, Panthenol, Xylitol
Reduces Irritation1
Eases discomfort and supports skin resilience.
Panthenol
Anti-Aging1
Softens lines and helps skin look youthful.
Glycolic Acid

No concerns found

May Worsen Seborrheic Dermatitis1
May feed the yeast involved in seborrheic dermatitis.
Polysorbate 20

Show highlights for:

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Sodium Hydroxide
Buffering, Denaturant
Sodium hydroxide
Learn more about Sodium Hydroxide →

Each product against its closest dupes.