Review on Paulas Choice SKIN PERFECTING Salicylic Blackheads by Angel Packer

The price bites, but it's worth it. After experimenting and eventually choosing the right day/night treatment for my hormonal acne, this was one of the most effective products I've used (and hell if I haven't tried pretty much everything but Accutane). The most notable difference BHA has made is removing all of my closed comedones (now I only notice a CC or two if I wear heavy makeup and don't wash it off before bed). I have no experience with other BHAs, I chose Paul's Choice because of its good reputation (Hail r/skincarereaddiction) and lack of alcohol. In the first few days of testing I developed a few severe pimples/nodules (some people call this clearing although I think it just happens as your skin gets used to a new product) but a bit of benzoyl peroxide spot treatment helped them to eliminate high. My routine (for VERY oily skin): AM - Ortho Tri Cyclen - mist face with cold/warm water, pat dry - CeraVe PM moisturizer (I found AM moisturizer didn't absorb either, probably due to SPF*) - sometimes Benzoyl Peroxide (Neutrogena 2.5%) for spot treatments (although I usually leave this overnight) - Minimal makeup (concealer to cover blemishes and under the eyes) PM - CeraVe Facial Cleanser (great for arms and back) - BHA (3-4 nights in a row, then 1 day off), 1 or 2 drops on a cotton swab, gently apply to entire face - AHA (I use Paula's Choice 8% AHA gel) ev Every other night or every other night (from 30 minutes to 1 hour after BHA ) - Treat areas with benzoyl peroxide as needed - Occasionally apply a light layer of CeraVe PM Moisturizer (30 minutes - 1 hour after BHA or AHA) For reference: I am a woman u Mid 20's who has struggled with acne for over 15 years. I don't usually eat dairy (except for two of my weaknesses - chocolate and goat cheese) and I never eat meat. I also try to limit my sugar intake (don't get me wrong, I eat sugar almost every day, I'm just trying not to overeat). I drink plenty of water (8-12 large glasses a day) and exercise regularly. On average, I shower every other day with unscented soap, sulfate-free shampoo, and conditioner. And I brush my teeth with sulfate-free toothpaste. I downplayed this question... The only downside to BHAs is that they don't necessarily prevent acne in the long run (like prescribed retinoids do); BHAs are more for regular use, but I'd happily use them for the rest of my acne-prone life (perhaps forever) if it meant getting the same results.