I know a lot of you are interested to find out how I got on with Paula Begoun’s skincare range ‘Paula’s Choice’, after reading her top five skin care tips in this post. Read on for reviews!
Skincare Background info:
I always find it very difficult using new products on my face because my skin is very acne prone and I always get spots when using new products. My skin is very confusing – dry, oily, acne prone, sensitive and so I normally just stick to baby wipes and Simple’s gentle cleanser to take my makeup off, and just use water to wash my face in the morning. You can read my skin care history (and all about my acne hell) here.
After learning Paula’s top skin care tips I was convinced that her products would be miracle workers because her ethics and tips would obviously be applied to her own range, and I was not let down, I think these ARE miracle products.
I was lucky enough to ask Paula’s PR assistant which products would be best suited for my skin and I was given the following products to trial: Clear Normalizing Cleanser, Clear Targeted Blemish Relief Toner, Skin Balancing Daily Mattifying Lotion and Skin Balancing Moisture Gel. I have been using the products religiously for two months now and here are my thoughts.
Paula’s Choice Clear Normalizing Cleanser Pore Clarifying Gel (£12.75)
I have never ever washed my face with a gel before, because I always thought that my skin was dry so I stuck to creamy cleansers, but after using this gel wash I think I actually prefer it.
To use this product you wet your face, and use a penny sized amount of cleanser and rub it in the face ‘with gentle but vigorous movements’. I normally hate using a wash to take my makeup off because its messy and it never takes my makeup of properly (hence why I normally use baby wipes instead), but this surprisingly does the trick. I wash my whole face with one squirt of the wash, and then I concentrate another squirt on just my eye makeup (because I wear a hella lotta eyeliner & shadow). My face afterwards feels really soft and clean and is completely makeup free. My skin normally feels dry and tight after using a wash but with this I don’t feel any tightness on my face.
This wash is also colour and fragrance free, but it does really sting if you get it in your eyes!
Paula’s Choice Clear Extra Strength Targeted Blemish Relief Toner (with 2% Salicylic Acid) (£19.95)
I never use toners because I think they are a waste of time and money but this has to be my new holy grail product, and I think that using this is what has made my skin so lovely. Although this is called a ‘toner’ it is actually an exfoliant because it includes a 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Liquid. (Just to let you know what BHA does because I didn’t know before I started using this – The BHA removes the outer layer of dead skin cells, allowing healthier cells to come to the surface. Removing this dead layer can improve skin texture and colour, unclog pores, and allow moisturizers to be better absorbed by the skin.)
So the BHA in this works as an exfoliant to remove all the rubbish stuff from our skin and helps to unclog pores and sooth blemishes. To use this you pour a tiny amount on a cotton pad and then apply it over the face, paying special attention to problem areas (all over in my case!). This liquid does not smell of anything and is again colour free.
I started off using this once every other day in the evening because I was worried about it drying my skin out (which it did a tiny bit at first, nothing a bit of moisturizer can’t help). After a few uses of this my skin was very different – it was so smooth, my skin tone was evening out and my blemishes were fading. After about a week and a half of using this, blackheads became SO easy to come out, literally a pinch and they’d pop out and so I now have far fewer blackheads.
I now use this about three times a week in the evening and my skin is lovely. If you do apply too much of this product then your skin can get tacky but you can pat the excess off with a tissue and its fine.
(Paula’s choice recommends gradually building the use of this up as it can make your skin really dry at first, but this soon goes. I think that if you do find this happens with any products containing BHA, just use it twice a week and gradually use more – ease your skin in to it! Also, always use an spf whilst out and about after using this!!).
Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Daily Mattifying Lotion (with SPF15 and Antioxidents) (£21.75)
I was really excited about using this product because I’m a bit of an SPF freak and its now a staple product in my skin care routine if the foundation I’m using on that day doesn’t contain an SPF. This moisturizer is ideal for combination skin which suited my dry/oily face perfectly. I normally get blemishes when using a face cream with an SPF because they are normally really greasy and thick, but this didn’t give me one spot! The formula is perfect, a white cream that sinks into the skin easily. I can wear makeup over this cream easily and it doesn’t make my skin oily at all.
Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Moisture Gel (£19.95)
Again, I have never used a moisturizer that is a gel rather than a cream but this is an amazing moisturizer. I think the reason I love it so much is that because it is a gel, it sinks in to the skin in a second and feels a lot like a primer (without the unnecessary fragrance that most primers have!). This is again for combination skin, it doesn’t clog pores and because its a gel it doesn’t leave any residue on the face. If my skin does feel tight after washing then this is what I’d use afterwards.
My bare skin after a month of using the products!
My bare skin last weekend!
What I think:
Guys, I have had only TWO spots in the whole past two months. This is unbelievable to me who seemed to always have one popping up every day (I’m pretty sure the only reason I got those nasty spots was because I slept in my makeup after a drunken night out and didn’t use the toner afterwards, my own fault, and possibly because of a new foundation I’m using). I have less blackheads, my skin tone is more even and its not too oily or too dry anymore. I still have slight redness around my nose and on my chin from old spots but it doesn’t bother me at all. My skin looks perfect in foundation (which it never has before) and I’m confident and happy!
You can see my skin in foundation since using this skin care range here and here.
Obviously, Paula’s products live by her skincare tips; all the products are in bottles and tubes (no pots) with a small hole or nib to get the product out. I wear the moisture gel underneath a foundation with an SPF and I wear the SPF moisturizer underneath if not. There are no separate day or night creams in the range as they’re perfect for both.
I think the prices are quite expensive, but that wouldn’t stop me repurchasing them because I know that they work. (I think you can order sample sizes on the website to try before you buy which is good). I will definitely be repurchasing all of the products I have been using once they run out and I might need to add on a few more with my purchase as now my Mum and Sister want the products too
(I have also been using Quinoderm in my daily skincare routine, but I will do a proper review on this soon!)
Have you tried Paula’s Choice products? What are your favourite products to beat acne?
xxxx
You are making me want to pull the trigger! I have heard good things about her products, but haven't tried them yet. I have acne prone skin as well, so maybe I should give them a go. Your skin looks amazing!
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Great review, they're always so thorough! Definitely a good product but I don't have acne.
Your skin looks incredible, I'm really happy for you 🙂 x
I have had this on my list of stuff to try for a while, especially the toner, but now I want the lot! Great review.
Your skin looks amazing!!! 🙂 Def. going to give this skin care range a try! xxx
definitely going to try some samples of these, thanks for bringing them to my attention! 🙂 xxx
I've tried the beta hydroxy acid and I loved it, but only use it on congested areas or when a spot pops out and it seriously calms it down. I've got a little review if anyones interested http://therefinedbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/05/skincare-finds-part-1.html
This sounds amazing! You did a very good review on this, I would love to try this out.
I actually have never used a gel cleanser either, sounds interesting!
I am all over the place with skin care trying to find the right one and I hate it!
Thanks for this review it was very useful =)
wow this sounds amazing, i love it
great review!!!
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I love love love the 2% BHA liquid as well. It's the only thing I've used consistently on my skin for about 5-6 years now (I've tried the gel and lotion too, like the liquid the best), and I really notice a difference if I stop using it. I'm the same as you, I use it 3 or so times a week, if not my skin gets congested. I've also tried a serum from her line, but that was a bit "meh" and siliconey. But the BHA is totally worth the money 🙂
Your skin looks great!
I use Paula's Choice. I use the Resist range though for my 40+ skin.
It's pretty amazing stuff. My skin is looking better than it has for years 🙂
I'm glad you found something that works so well for you 🙂 I have Paula's BHA, the same one as you, as well as her intense recovery moisture mask to help with dryness from acne products. I also love Neutrogena's Acne Stress control 2% SA gel (which is a Paula's Pick) but sometimes I prefer to use a toner so I reach for Paula's. You aren't using any benzoyl peroxide products? I know those are in her acne line as well. Personally BP doesn't do much for me, but SA does.
Hi Katie my mother and I have been using Paula's products since 1999(i was 15). I had really bad acne . I saw results in 2 weeks. Now i am using Skin Balancing System + Resist Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator(best for redness).
My mother uses RESIST Anti-Aging System (she is in early 50's but most people think she is in her early 40's)
This is literally the best skin care line EVER. You do not need to have acne to use the products– there are lots of different products and product lines to choose from. Before I started using Paula's Choice products, I had acne, dry patches, sensitive skin, and rosacea. No trace of any of that anymore! You do have to be patient and give the products time to work, but boy is it worth it.
I have acne due to Rosacea and just started with Paula's Choice. Can you tell me what particular product you use to help with your rosacea?
Thanks.
Ailene
I have acne due to Rosacea and just started with Paula's Choice. Can you tell me what particular product you use to help with your rosacea?
Thanks.
Ailene
Love Paula's Choice! I've been using her products for about a year now and my skin is clear (my forehead and chin were full of bumps, pores were out of control and I had ugly breakouts during that time of the month). My favorite product by far is the 2% BHA gel. It's slightly moisturizing and does a great job exfoliating. I also use the Hydralight moisturizer- it leaves my skin dewy and soothed. When you think about it, her prices are not high as compared to other products. Most of her moisturizers are 2 oz, which is slightly larger than the standard 1.7 oz. She also formulates her products based on ingredients with published research supporting their claims. And of course, the products are fragrance, color and irritant free.
And for all of you with dry skin and no acne, Paula has wonderful products for your skin, too. Check out her Moisture Boost, RESIST and Skin Resovery lines.
Hi, I have also tried a few Paula's Choice products, some I like, some not so much. I actually didn't like this moisturiser with spf that you use. The packaging is very obnoxious and broke which meant nothing was coming out and before that it left an uncomfortable layer on my skin. Also, spf15 is not enough for me. I use her resist moisturiser with spf now and am much happier.
I have the same wash gel you use and love it. I wish I had realised about this toner…I have the separate toner and bha from the skin balancing line.
Next time, I will buy the one you have.
I love the moisturiser without spf from the balancing line, although sometimes I find it too drying. It lasts forever though, which is great.
I still get many spots and I have had a pretty good skin care routine before using PC products, but still less breakouts than with other lines.
Kate, can I only buy Paula's choice online or can I find it in any stores ? thanks, Sharon x
Oh my word I think this is something I need to invest in! x
Leticia – You should defo give her products a go, if you have acne prone skin I couldn't recommend it enough!
Beth & Jenny – Thank you!!
xxx
Discovering Beauty – The toner is my favourite in the range, try it out!xx
Dee – Thank you! And if you try it, let me know what you think! xx
Luxie Honey – Let me know what you think, once you try them!
Alexandra – Thats so good that your mum uses it too – I might get my mum a few products to try from the range also! Thank you! xx
Kelly Q – So glad that the range worked for you too – I've heard nothing but positives about the range! x
It seems to be very effective product to take care of skin. As your skin is looking different in both of the photographs. Great review!!!
Well, after seeing the reviews I am going to use this product. Thanks for putting this product in my knowledge…
I have used Paula's products per several years. Just be ware that some of her products use preservatives that can cause redness ( the offending preservative is Sorbic Acid) and some of the anti- irritants in her products allantoin and the green tea extract can cause redness as well. One thing I love about her products is that you can try them in sample sizes to try on your skin.
PS I am a peson but my pic is of one of my cats.
Hi Katie, I recently bought some of the clear range, loving them so far, quick question, when you use the extra strength toner, does it sting/tingle? Can't work out if it's too heavy for my skin, or if I need to grin and bear it! Thanks xxx
Hi Olivia!
Sometimes it does tingle and sting a tiny bit if I put too much on – but it does go after a while. This didn't used to happen to my skin but it has been lately, but its still working. Maybe try using just one tiny bit on a cotton pad for your whole face, or try just putting it where you get blemishes. I find that if it starts tingling, then I put moisturizer on top and it stops!
Hope that helps! xxx
Yes , After using this my skin glowing and i feel a new look in my skin.Thanks for sharing this information.
Really wonderful, After going through your review I really would like to use these products. Thanks for sharing such stuff.
It's truly looking exceptional! As the post shows the magnificent and mind blowing information about complete skincare from this source. It's truly one of the unique and precious experienced source for me. Thanks for sharing.
purchased them & waiting for my package, i really really hope it works! thanks for the hopeful review!
Wow, your skin looks great!! I am happy that you had such a great result 🙂 I just ordered a few products from her site too and am really excited if they'll work!! xx
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Really your skin looks great. I want to buy this cream and I hope this cream will work for my skin. I used many skin care products to get rid of pimples. But they did not work So Now I decided to use this one.
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In order to have lovely skin, you need to first take care of your body in general. You also need to cater your skincare regime to fit your skin type, using products that are designed for your particular kind of skin. Thanks.
Hi Katie, thanks for sharing your personal reviews on Paula’s Choice. I'd love to try it myself. :))
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thanx for ur post, plzz tell me how i can care my skin in sun shine nd in dust areas ?? i had used healthgenie products for Skin Care, it was too iffective but i wants to know about some more skin care products. plzz tell me something..??
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Hi. Could you also do reviews for Image Skincare products? you can't find them in stores but your doctor might provide you one. Thanks!
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Hi Katie, I see your skin has a very even tone to it. Are there products in Paula's line that help with with discolored brown spots or age spots? Thanks.
I have heard a lot about about Paula's products and their amazing results. I prefer natural products especially organic products to get better and long lasting results. According to the comments and reviews here, it seems that these products are awesome. Keep it up!
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Hi Katie. Did these products help repair the damage from Clinique?
Nice article! i'm so glad to find your blog. i think i have combination skin, nasty oily in my T-zone, especially my nose, medium pores, but some part i notice they're bigger :'O , acne prone, not even tone. and look unhealty -_-. After reading this, i think i'll spend some money on Paula's products next month. Hope this help me out! But still a bit worried, since this product isnt from Asian, i'm afraid that this is nt for a tropical girl like me 🙁
Hello Katie!!
Really nice post about skin care!!! This is so much more than I needed!!! thanks for sharing it with us. keep it up!
Sounds great! I think that products is truly effective cause I can see that you're skin looks wonderful. .Thanks for the information that you've shared to us it will help us to solve of our acne problems. Though it seems like that the product is expensive I think it's worth it!
I always look for a quality product and I am using Dermalogica since six months and the result is great. I would like to suggest those looking for good quality product they can go for this product.
Thank you this was such a great post! The most interesting part about this story is I was lucky enough to ask Paula’s PR assistant which products would be best suited for my skin and I was given the following products to trial: Clear Normalizing Cleanser, Clear Targeted Blemish Relief Toner, Skin Balancing Daily Mattifying Lotion and Skin Balancing Moisture Gel. I have been using the products religiously for two months now and here are my thoughts.
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Hi, I even have additionally tried a number of Paula's selection merchandise, some i favor, some not most. I truly did not like this moisturiser with spf that you just use. The packaging is incredibly offensive associated stony-broke that meant nothing was setting out and before that it left an uncomfortable layer on my skin. Also, spf15 isn't enough on behalf of me. i take advantage of her resist moisturiser with spf currently and am a lot of happier.
I have constant wash gel you employ and find it irresistible. I would like I had realized regarding this toner…I have the separate toner and bha from the skin equalization line.
Next time, i will be able to obtain the one you've got.
I love the moisturiser while not spf from the equalization line, though typically I realize it too drying. It lasts forever although, that is nice.
I still get several spots and that i have had a fairly smart skin care routine before exploitation laptop merchandise, however still less breakouts than with different lines.
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As a man (and 32 at that) I feel a smidge like an outsider here, but I presume all the 'annonymous' posts are from men also ha ha. Anyway, I have been on the fence about these products and your review has tipped me over into clicking 'buy'. Have just finished some Skin Doctors items (they ran out very quickly), and they have definitely helped, but am hoping the Paulas Choice items will push on a bit further for me. I'm not vain, I just want to feel comfortable in my skin as it has frequently been a 'disaster' area for me.
Anyway, thanks for the review!
Quite impressive reviews and Paula’s products are sound really good for best skin care. Thanks for sharing the post.
Your skin looks amazing! I have been using Paula's Choice 2% BHA and Skin Balancing set for 5 weeks now and am still getting new pimples. Has anyone else on here experienced such a long period of purging? If so when did Paula's Choice start working?
I have been using PC Skin Balancing set and 2% BHA liquid for 5 weeks now and am still getting new pimples. Is it time to give up? Is my skin still purging? Has anyone else experienced this? Your skin is my goal. I don't want to stop using PC if my skin will eventually look like yours.
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