Paula's Choice uses scientifically backed ingredients and a no BS approach to skin care. What's in the products is just as important as what's not. Everything is formulated free of dyes, fragrances, and phthalates. The website even features a handy skin care ingredient dictionary that beauty editors love to reference.
The BBB gives the company a D- grade, and customer reviews have an average rating of 1.86 out of 5 stars. Reviews on Paula's Choice's website are mostly positive, with customers stating that they appreciate the company using clean and cruelty-free products.
4 Paula's Choice Products That Would Get a Green Light From Your Derm. In the realm of straightforward, no-nonsense skin-care, Paula's Choice reigns supreme. For 26 years, the brand has eschewed trends, turning instead to ingredients that are time-tested, research-backed, and dermatologist-approved.
Paula's Choice vs The Ordinary Conclusion
The Ordinary is the more affordable option relative to Paula's Choice in terms of price. In addition, there are variations in the strength of the active ingredients, so be sure to check which product is best suited for your skin type.
The Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a favorite among skincare enthusiasts. It claims to exfoliate dead skin cells, clear pores, plus visibly reduce fine lines.
Research has shown that a beta hydroxy acid (BHA, also known as salicylic acid) exfoliant can help create a clearer complexion, unclog pores, and renew skin's texture, but some first-time users report experiencing a "purging phase" initially, where they actually have more breakouts.
My beloved Paula's Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant caused me to purge for 4-6 weeks. During this time I used the exfoliator 1-2x a week. Before you jump ship lets talk about why skin purges. A purge occurs because this BHA exfoliates not just the surface of your skin but also the lining of your pores.
They have the same active ingredients, so both will give you all the benefits of vitamin C. But Drunk Elephant's moisturising texture makes it more suitable for dry skin. Lighter and more hydrating, Paula's Choice is a better option for oily skin.
Yes, it is safe to use niacinamide and BHA together. Both formulas are effective yet gentle and contain additional calming and restoring antioxidants. Some people with extra-sensitive skin may find that alternating them by using one in the morning and one at night works best.
Salicylic acid (BHA) is an exfoliating ingredient which penetrates deep inside the skin's pores, helping to unclog any excess oil and impurities to prevent breakouts and blackheads. Salicylic acid skincare products are also anti-inflammatory, helping to calm and minimise redness.
However, it's not only the RESIST products that benefit skin—all Paula's Choice skincare collections provide anti-aging benefits, thanks to ingredients that help smooth visible signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.
But, thankfully, for most people, even severe acne can be improved with over-the-counter skincare products. We're proud to say our Paula's Choice Skincare CLEAR line is an excellent place to start if you experience mild to severe acne breakouts.
We're proud to say that every product from Paula's Choice Skincare is formulated to be non-irritating and without added fragrance (natural or synthetic). All of these products are formulated to nurture skin back to a healthy state in the gentlest way possible; they are even gentle enough for eczema-prone skin.
One user was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the BHA duo worked at removing their acne scars. “I started using this product less than 2 weeks ago and all my acne and acne scars around my mouth area have almost completely vanished,” they wrote. “Amazing product!”
Niacinamide is one of the most versatile skincare ingredients and is super easy to incorporate into your routine. Suitable for all skin types and all ages (from teens to mature skin) it can be used both morning and evening but remember consistency is key if you want to see results.
But our BHA products go even farther, helping with blemishes, blackheads, and enlarged pores; they also benefit skin with hydrating and anti-aging ingredients. And, because Paula's Choice Skincare has many BHA options to choose from, one is sure to be perfect for your skin type and skin concerns.
Niacinamide helps build cells in the skin while also protecting them from environmental stresses, such as sunlight, pollution, and toxins. Treats acne. Niacinamide may be helpful for severe acne, especially inflammatory forms like papules and pustules. Over time, you may see fewer lesions and improved skin texture.
Though some people do report experiencing irritation and breakouts after using the ingredient, niacinamide is unlikely to cause purging.
Niacinamide can stabilize the melanosome activity within the cells, which can improve residual hyperpigmentation from acne scars as well as those who suffer from melasma.
Peptide Booster is the only peptide-enriched serum that delivers a concentrated dose of eight highly-targeted peptides, hydrating amino acids, and repairing ingredients. Together, they quickly help skin feel firmer and more resilient, and reduce the appearance of lines.
Depending on the products you were using before, you may see overnight improvement. Enhanced results will occur within 2–8 weeks and will increase and be maintained over time. During the day, your moisturizer or foundation must contain an SPF 30 or greater sunscreen or you will not get the best results.
Paula's Choice Niacinamide 20% serum is a high-strength niacinamide treatment that can minimize the look of enlarged pores, smoothen rough bumps caused by inflammation, and even out the skin tone especially when it comes to brightening hyperpigmentation left from old acne.
It may take 5-14 days to see results (source) Don't give up! My reactive skin had zero irritations and redness. I was extremely relieved as most acne products were too strong for me. Just avoid eczema spots or any other sensitive areas on your face.
Salicylic acid is the preferred ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads because it breaks down the materials that clog pores: excess oil. dead skin cells.
Skin purging typically looks like tiny red bumps on the skin that are painful to touch. They are often accompanied by whiteheads or blackheads. It can also cause your skin to become flaky. The flare ups caused by purging have a shorter lifespan than a breakout.