The original, what makes it special, the shelf parts we use and how to get closer. Add or swap parts and the score updates.
The original · Obagi
$50 · 5 fl oz (148 ml)
Salicylic acid at 2% is oil-soluble, so it gets into pores to clear oil and dead skin.
Prices and listings checked Oct 28, 2026. Amazon prices change; the link shows today's price.
Step 2 · The build
Paula's Choice
Partial credit means the part only partly matches that standout.
The 100 points
We split CLENZIderm M.D. Pore Therapy Exfoliating BHA Toner into 4 standout parts. Each bar shows what the build earns.
Oil-soluble BHA that clears pores and loosens dead skin.
Lifts surface oil and dries quickly on oily skin.
Gives a fresh, tingly feel on application.
Soothing and light hydration to offset the alcohol.
Optional
74 / 100. We have not found a shelf product that closes more of the gap yet.
Step 3 · Buy
One link per part. Each opens the retailer in a new tab.
Your build
Running total ~$34
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)Snapshot prices. Each link shows today's price.
One bottle instead of a build. Sorted by match score; scores use the same standouts as above.
Paula's Choice
Why it is close. The best-known 2% salicylic leave-on liquid. It is alcohol-free and has no menthol, so it feels gentler but less tingly.
Naturium
Why it is close. A 2% salicylic acid liquid exfoliant at under $20 for a similar bottle size.
Not an affiliate link.
The Ordinary
Why it is close. The cheapest way to get 2% salicylic acid. It is a small serum bottle, so apply with fingertips, not a cotton pad.
COSRX
Why it is close. Uses betaine salicylate, a milder salicylic acid relative, in a watery liquid. Good for sensitive oily skin but weaker on clogged pores.
Listing not re-checked. Check the product title and size on the retailer page.
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)Paula's Choice
Running total
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)No gain nowPaula's Choice
Naturium
Running total
View product (opens in new tab)Not an affiliate link.
No gain nowNaturium
The Ordinary
Running total
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)No gain nowThe Ordinary
COSRX
Listing not re-checked. Check the title and size on the retailer page.
Running total
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)Listing not re-checked. Check the title and size on the retailer page.
No gain nowCOSRX
Salicylic acid peels are reviewed as effective for acne, photoaging and pigmentation.
Arif 2015 · Clin Cosmet Investig Dermat…Hydroxy acids, including salicylic acid, are reviewed as exfoliants that improve texture.
Kornhauser 2010 · Clin Cosmet Investig Dermat…Active Ingredient: salicylic acid 2%. Inactive Ingredients: Benzyl alcohol, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, ethoxydiglycol, ext. violet 2, fragrance, glycerin, menthol, menthoxypropanediol, menthyl lactate, SD alcohol 40-B, aqua/water/eau
We split CLENZIderm M.D. Pore Therapy Exfoliating BHA Toner into 4 standout parts worth 100 points in total. The build earns 74 of a possible 100. A full 100 needs every standout fully covered.
SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant by Paula's Choice is our closest single-product match at 74 out of 100 for ~$34 (4 oz). It shares Salicylic acid 2%, Leave-on liquid.
CLENZIderm M.D. Pore Therapy Exfoliating BHA Toner costs $50 for 5 fl oz (148 ml). The closest dupe costs ~$34, a saving of about $16. Prices change, so check the seller page.
No. Dupes share the key actives but can differ in concentration, vehicle and supporting ingredients. Missing from this one: Alcohol base, Menthol cooling, Chamomile. See our methodology for how we score.
SkinBetter Science · serum
~$47.68our build, 4 partsOriginal $145, build ~$47.68.
Differin + The Ordinary + Minimalist
SkinBetter Science · cleanser
~$29.35our build, 3 partsOriginal ~$60, build ~$29.35.
CeraVe + The Ordinary + Minimalist
SkinBetter Science · cleanser
~$29.35our build, 3 partsOriginal ~$48, build ~$29.35.
CeraVe + Minimalist + The Ordinary