A daily leave-on AHA exfoliant that reveals a truly smoother, more radiant, even-toned complexion by helping skin naturally exfoliate as younger skin does. A daily leave-on AHA exfoliant that reveals a truly smoother, more radiant, even-toned complexion by helping skin naturally exfoliate as younger skin does. Formulated with 5% glycolic acid to chemically exfoliate dead skin cells and renews the appearance of dry, sun-damaged skin. This product also offers additional benefits, including hydration, soothing antioxidants, and a mix of fortifying skin-restoring ingredients. This product has an optimal pH range of 3.5–3.9.
A daily leave-on AHA exfoliant that reveals a truly smoother, more radiant, even-toned complexion by helping skin naturally exfoliate as younger skin does. A daily leave-on AHA exfoliant that reveals a truly smoother, more radiant, even-toned complexion by helping skin naturally exfoliate as younger skin does. Formulated with 5% glycolic acid to chemically exfoliate dead skin cells and renews the appearance of dry, sun-damaged skin. This product also offers additional benefits, including hydration, soothing antioxidants, and a mix of fortifying skin-restoring ingredients. This product has an optimal pH range of 3.5–3.9.
in 3 offers
The lowest price for Paula's Choice Resist Daily Smoothing Treatment With 5% AHA (50ml) right now is $31.20 at Paula's Choice Australia, compared across 3 retailers.
The all-time low was $24.02 on 14 July 2025 — today's price is 30% above the lowest ever. It has been notably cheaper before — worth setting a price alert.
Prices last updated 26 June 2026.
Paula's Choice Resist Daily Smoothing Treatment With 5% AHA (50ml)
A daily leave-on AHA exfoliant that reveals a truly smoother, more radiant, even-toned complexion by helping skin naturally exfoliate as younger skin does. A daily leave-on AHA exfoliant that reveals a truly smoother, more radiant, even-toned complexion by helping skin naturally exfoliate as younger skin does. Formulated with 5% glycolic acid to chemically exfoliate dead skin cells and renews the appearance of dry, sun-damaged skin. This product also offers additional benefits, including hydration, soothing antioxidants, and a mix of fortifying skin-restoring ingredients. This product has an optimal pH range of 3.5–3.9.
A daily leave-on AHA exfoliant that reveals a truly smoother, more radiant, even-toned complexion by helping skin naturally exfoliate as younger skin does. A daily leave-on AHA exfoliant that reveals a truly smoother, more radiant, even-toned complexion by helping skin naturally exfoliate as younger skin does. Formulated with 5% glycolic acid to chemically exfoliate dead skin cells and renews the appearance of dry, sun-damaged skin. This product also offers additional benefits, including hydration, soothing antioxidants, and a mix of fortifying skin-restoring ingredients. This product has an optimal pH range of 3.5–3.9.
Last updated at 26/06/2026 16:20:42
Paula's Choice Resist Daily Smoothing Treatment With 5% AHA Lotion | 50 ml
Free delivery between 3–8 July
PAULA`S CHOICE Resist Daily 5% Aha Bha Exfoliator 50 ml
Delivery $15
Paula's Choice Daily Smoothing Treatment 5% AHA - 50 ml
Free delivery
originally posted on paulaschoice.com
Although I am usually a fan of using 8-10% AHA exfoliants, the Daily Smoothing Treatment with 5% AHA was a nice addition to my routine. It manages to be sufficiently efficient without being too harsh; I could feel the effects next day, but without any tingling at application.I have an already well rounded routine, so I can't tell how much this product helps, but even with lowering the AHA concentration my skin kept it's smoothness and radiance.The consistency and formula of this treatment is more like a serum than a classic exfoliant. On one side it's a thicker lotion, that leaves a slightly tacky finish and might take some time to fully absorb. On the other, it comes packed with antioxidants, ceramides, peptides and hydrating ingredients; for skin without ... MoreAlthough I am usually a fan of using 8-10% AHA exfoliants, the Daily Smoothing Treatment with 5% AHA was a nice addition to my routine. It manages to be sufficiently efficient without being too harsh; I could feel the effects next day, but without any tingling at application.I have an already well rounded routine, so I can't tell how much this product helps, but even with lowering the AHA concentration my skin kept it's smoothness and radiance.The consistency and formula of this treatment is more like a serum than a classic exfoliant. On one side it's a thicker lotion, that leaves a slightly tacky finish and might take some time to fully absorb. On the other, it comes packed with antioxidants, ceramides, peptides and hydrating ingredients; for skin without specific dryness, applying an moisturizer after might not even be needed.Being so thick, I was surprised it never pills when I use other products afterwards and how lightweight it feels. It's not the most elegant texture and it has a specific scent, but it never caused any irritation or breakouts on my sensitive combination skin. It's non-greasy, but not ideal under makeup.
originally posted on paulaschoice.com
I gave this 3 stars because it makes my skin super itchy. It does go away after about an hour. But the itch and burn is horrible. I spoke with a CS person at PC and they suggested I mix with the moisture boost. I did try that it and it did nothing... The issue I have is that i LOVE this product and it works. My skin looks so nice in the pm after using it within my nightly regime. Unfortunately, I cant buy it again because of the discomfort it causes me. I do use the 2% BHA gel in the am and LOVE it. Maybe PC can make a gel AHA that is less than 5%. Just a suggestion.
originally posted on paulaschoice.com
I have tended to stick exclusively to BHA formulas since I started using Paula's a few years ago. I have tricky ultra sensitive skin that is very prone both to dehydration and congestion. My go-to is the CLEAR Regular Strength 2% BHA formula, but I found using that too much diminished the results and I would wind up with flaky skin around my nose and chin, and just a duller appearance to my skin in general. On the flip side, reducing use without a replacement also diminished results.I have not had much luck with AHA formulas before this one, since I tend to experience stinging with them. About a month ago I realized I was missing the exfoliation step in the mornings since I bumped the BHA down to only 1x daily at night. The benefits since adding this have been ... MoreI have tended to stick exclusively to BHA formulas since I started using Paula's a few years ago. I have tricky ultra sensitive skin that is very prone both to dehydration and congestion. My go-to is the CLEAR Regular Strength 2% BHA formula, but I found using that too much diminished the results and I would wind up with flaky skin around my nose and chin, and just a duller appearance to my skin in general. On the flip side, reducing use without a replacement also diminished results.I have not had much luck with AHA formulas before this one, since I tend to experience stinging with them. About a month ago I realized I was missing the exfoliation step in the mornings since I bumped the BHA down to only 1x daily at night. The benefits since adding this have been obvious. I use the CALM (oily-Combo) SPF 30, and this AHA in between the Skin Recovery Toner does much to help my skin hold on to the moisture of a minimally hydrating formula, whereas BHA or nothing at all in the AM left my skin visibly dull by afternoon. Overall my complexion is more even and calmed down. This has more immediate anti-aging benefits than BHA in my opinion. I am less likely to run to thicker, more emollient cream moisturizers to try to solve dryness, only to lament over the next day or two that my pores are clogged again, because the lighter formulas are working more efficiently since adding this. I did experience the tiniest bit of tingling after the first couple of uses, and had a couple of little breakout spots around my mouth but by the end of the first week that was gone, and now I am finding that rotating this with the CLEAR BHA does infinitely more to keep my skin clear. Breakouts have also been minimal along my jawline where they tend to pop up a couple times a month. My small-med but quickly gunky pores are much less of a problem, and it seems clear this product is somehow helping the BHA do a better job by not over-drying the surface of my skin so that it can penetrate to the pore level better.I didn't see the point of using both BHA/AHA in rotation, but if you are finding BHA is drying your skin out to the point where it's really only affecting the surface and unable to clear pores I recommend giving this a shot--especially if you have that surface dryness with obvious pores underneath. This turns over the surface that needs to be exfoliated in a gentler way, and gives BHA a clear path to the buried oil.I will be keeping this one on hand for the long haul. Please do not discontinue, as it is the only AHA I can use!!
Paula's Choice Resist Daily Smoothing Treatment With 5% AHA Lotion | 50 ml
Free delivery between 3–8 July
PAULA`S CHOICE Resist Daily 5% Aha Bha Exfoliator 50 ml
Delivery $15
Paula's Choice Daily Smoothing Treatment 5% AHA - 50 ml
Free delivery
Although I am usually a fan of using 8-10% AHA exfoliants, the Daily Smoothing Treatment with 5% AHA was a nice addition to my routine. It manages to be sufficiently efficient without being too harsh; I could feel the effects next day, but without any tingling at application.I have an already well rounded routine, so I can't tell how much this product helps, but even with lowering the AHA concentration my skin kept it's smoothness and radiance.The consistency and formula of this treatment is more like a serum than a classic exfoliant. On one side it's a thicker lotion, that leaves a slightly tacky finish and might take some time to fully absorb. On the other, it comes packed with antioxidants, ceramides, peptides and hydrating ingredients; for skin without ... MoreAlthough I am usually a fan of using 8-10% AHA exfoliants, the Daily Smoothing Treatment with 5% AHA was a nice addition to my routine. It manages to be sufficiently efficient without being too harsh; I could feel the effects next day, but without any tingling at application.I have an already well rounded routine, so I can't tell how much this product helps, but even with lowering the AHA concentration my skin kept it's smoothness and radiance.The consistency and formula of this treatment is more like a serum than a classic exfoliant. On one side it's a thicker lotion, that leaves a slightly tacky finish and might take some time to fully absorb. On the other, it comes packed with antioxidants, ceramides, peptides and hydrating ingredients; for skin without specific dryness, applying an moisturizer after might not even be needed.Being so thick, I was surprised it never pills when I use other products afterwards and how lightweight it feels. It's not the most elegant texture and it has a specific scent, but it never caused any irritation or breakouts on my sensitive combination skin. It's non-greasy, but not ideal under makeup.
I gave this 3 stars because it makes my skin super itchy. It does go away after about an hour. But the itch and burn is horrible. I spoke with a CS person at PC and they suggested I mix with the moisture boost. I did try that it and it did nothing... The issue I have is that i LOVE this product and it works. My skin looks so nice in the pm after using it within my nightly regime. Unfortunately, I cant buy it again because of the discomfort it causes me. I do use the 2% BHA gel in the am and LOVE it. Maybe PC can make a gel AHA that is less than 5%. Just a suggestion.
I have tended to stick exclusively to BHA formulas since I started using Paula's a few years ago. I have tricky ultra sensitive skin that is very prone both to dehydration and congestion. My go-to is the CLEAR Regular Strength 2% BHA formula, but I found using that too much diminished the results and I would wind up with flaky skin around my nose and chin, and just a duller appearance to my skin in general. On the flip side, reducing use without a replacement also diminished results.I have not had much luck with AHA formulas before this one, since I tend to experience stinging with them. About a month ago I realized I was missing the exfoliation step in the mornings since I bumped the BHA down to only 1x daily at night. The benefits since adding this have been ... MoreI have tended to stick exclusively to BHA formulas since I started using Paula's a few years ago. I have tricky ultra sensitive skin that is very prone both to dehydration and congestion. My go-to is the CLEAR Regular Strength 2% BHA formula, but I found using that too much diminished the results and I would wind up with flaky skin around my nose and chin, and just a duller appearance to my skin in general. On the flip side, reducing use without a replacement also diminished results.I have not had much luck with AHA formulas before this one, since I tend to experience stinging with them. About a month ago I realized I was missing the exfoliation step in the mornings since I bumped the BHA down to only 1x daily at night. The benefits since adding this have been obvious. I use the CALM (oily-Combo) SPF 30, and this AHA in between the Skin Recovery Toner does much to help my skin hold on to the moisture of a minimally hydrating formula, whereas BHA or nothing at all in the AM left my skin visibly dull by afternoon. Overall my complexion is more even and calmed down. This has more immediate anti-aging benefits than BHA in my opinion. I am less likely to run to thicker, more emollient cream moisturizers to try to solve dryness, only to lament over the next day or two that my pores are clogged again, because the lighter formulas are working more efficiently since adding this. I did experience the tiniest bit of tingling after the first couple of uses, and had a couple of little breakout spots around my mouth but by the end of the first week that was gone, and now I am finding that rotating this with the CLEAR BHA does infinitely more to keep my skin clear. Breakouts have also been minimal along my jawline where they tend to pop up a couple times a month. My small-med but quickly gunky pores are much less of a problem, and it seems clear this product is somehow helping the BHA do a better job by not over-drying the surface of my skin so that it can penetrate to the pore level better.I didn't see the point of using both BHA/AHA in rotation, but if you are finding BHA is drying your skin out to the point where it's really only affecting the surface and unable to clear pores I recommend giving this a shot--especially if you have that surface dryness with obvious pores underneath. This turns over the surface that needs to be exfoliated in a gentler way, and gives BHA a clear path to the buried oil.I will be keeping this one on hand for the long haul. Please do not discontinue, as it is the only AHA I can use!!
I started using the BHA 6 years ago but it was very drying for me so swapped to this about 5.5 years ago.I suffered from spots that really probably could have done with medical intervention, they were painful, deep and large.I started using this all that time ago and within a week I just stopped getting spots. My skin glowed.I had a break from it a few years ago thinking retinol would be better for my aging skin but after a year of trying i could not get retinol to work for me so came back to this and once again it's got me back to happy with my skin. I'm 38 now and my skin is the best it's ever been.
The texture feels great when applying! So much better than gels in my opinion (in this cooler climate, my skin is normal-to-dry). No irritation or sting. My skin is incredibly soft & smooth! I now have this habit of touching the sides of my face because I can't get over how soft and smother my skin is.Upon reading most of the 1 star comments, I got freaked out and only purchased the trial size bottle. After using this for one week, I can see that the texture of my skin has improved so I'm definitely buying the full size bottle. The 5% is perfect!
I got a travel size bottle of this to try out, and I ended up really liking it - it made my skin feel very soft and using it on alternate days with a BHA product seems to help keep my pores from getting clogged better than using just BHA. But it did take some experimentation to figure out how to incorporate it into my routine without messing up my skin, as I have pretty sensitive skin (gets red very easily, can't tolerate foaming face washes, can't tolerate certain chemical sunscreens, etc.). Here are some tips for using this (or any other AHA product) if you're worried about it being too strong for you: 1. If you have sensitive skin or just aren't used to using AHAs, this will sting a little, especially if you get it near your eyes, so patch test it on a small ... MoreI got a travel size bottle of this to try out, and I ended up really liking it - it made my skin feel very soft and using it on alternate days with a BHA product seems to help keep my pores from getting clogged better than using just BHA. But it did take some experimentation to figure out how to incorporate it into my routine without messing up my skin, as I have pretty sensitive skin (gets red very easily, can't tolerate foaming face washes, can't tolerate certain chemical sunscreens, etc.). Here are some tips for using this (or any other AHA product) if you're worried about it being too strong for you: 1. If you have sensitive skin or just aren't used to using AHAs, this will sting a little, especially if you get it near your eyes, so patch test it on a small inconspicuous area of your face before you slather it on everywhere. 2. I was careful not to use it every day, not on days when my skin seemed overly irritated, and you should absolutely not use it during the day, even under sunscreen. 3. I only ever use one exfoliant/treatment product per day, so when I use this, all I do is double cleanse with an oil cleanser and non-foaming wash, put this on (avoiding eye area), and then apply a very basic moisturizer. 4. My skin is sensitive to chemical sunscreens, so I found that when I switched to using only mineral sunscreen, I could tolerate chemical exfoliants like this better. 5. Whenever I first start using a product that my skin might not tolerate, I try to put on a toner or very light moisturizer first, let that dry, and then put on the exfoliant after. This way there is a bit of a buffer and I'm not putting the harsher product directly onto newly-washed skin.
I've been happily using the BHA 2% for years and ran out so I tried this sample I've had for a while and WOW. The BHA is good, but this is much better on my skin. I could see a noticeable difference after one use. I used it at night, and it did burn a little for a few seconds as others have mentioned but went away quickly. The next morning, I looked in the mirror and thought wow my skin looks good and remembered I had used this product. My skin was noticeably brighter and smoother looking. I have rosecea so I was a little concerned that the burning would cause a flare up, but it's been a couple of weeks and so far so good. I've been using it 2x a week for about a month now and really love the results.
So i used to buy the Paula's Choice BHA, which was fine, it did what it was supposed to but i purchased a travel sized. version of this exfoliant at the behest of my esthetician and wow its a different world. Im a normal to dry skinned gal and the BHA was leaving me dull and a bit drier than need be. I tried this ONCE and my skin was dewey and hydrated and glowing by the next day! Really do your research on what will suit your skin and don't be afraid to branch out this is my new holy grail!
I'm 55 yrs old with fair, dry skin prone to redness. Previously using 1% BHA lotion due to redness concerns. I tried trial size 5% AHA concerned that it would make my redness worse but it didn't and it improved my skin tone and smoothness to a point that 5% AHA has more impact on making my skin look good than any other single item I use. Finding a mineral sun screen that didn't pill when applied over Clinique moisture surge 72H moisturizer was a problem. Problem solved when I switched to Cerave skin renewing night cream as a moisturizer. This stuff has niacinamide which has reduced overall redness and does pill under Australian Gold tinted mineral sunscreen in fair SPF 50. Don't even need foundation with these 3 items making my skin look so good.
disclaimer: i have combination skin so this might not apply to everyone! :)i have a lot of redness within my skin and tons of scarring here and there, but when i used this it really did help clear my skin up. i noticed less redness (2-3 weeks) and reduced/lightened scarring within weeks (2-3+). it definitely takes patience to see MAJOR results but this never dried out my skin. i also did use another product (retinol 1%) 1-2x a week to get the same effect so that might have helped as well! but this on its own was majority of the cause. i recommend and will buy again! :)
