Paula's Choice reviews and discussion

4.5

91% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Effective exfoliant results
  • Gentle formulas for sensitive skin
  • Fragrance-free ingredient philosophy
  • Wide, targeted product range
  • Occasional irritation and peeling
  • Sticky or oily textures
  • Leaky, clunky packaging
  • Inconsistent results for some

Paula’s Choice earns largely positive reviews for delivering effective, science‑driven skincare—especially the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which visibly clears pores, smooths texture, reduces breakouts, and suits many sensitive skins. Reviews also flag weaknesses: some formulas feel too strong or irritating, results can be inconsistent, textures can be sticky or oily, packaging is fussy or leaks, and the aesthetic reads dated—making the brand powerful but not universally effortless.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

214 reviews and posts

  • If you have sensitive or acne skin, you have to try it. Their treatment products line has really helped.

  • The products work and the price is fine I think. Would buy again.

  • I use the exfoliate product and for someone who has very sensitive skin, I have had no issues with this product. I use it 2x a week at night and it has helped improve discoloration on my skin.

  • Just like all the skincare girls - their 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is in my everyday skincare routine.

  • too harsh, smells synthetic

    Feedback

    packaging is ugly, cheap feeling and not eco-friendly.

  • I love Paula's Choice! The 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is the highest-performing exfoliator that I have tried, my skin always looks significantly more supple and clear in the mornings after I use this. I recently purchased the duo set with the exfoliating peel mask at the Sephora sale and I can safely say that the mask is just as good!

  • The 2% BHA is phenomenal. Has kept my skin clear since I started using it a year ago.

    Feedback

    I wish they would update the packaging for the BHA exfoliant - it's difficult to control the amount of product. I'd recommend a push down pump dispenser like on the glossier exfoliant ''solution''

  • I know many people swear by Paula’s Choice, but I didn’t really see the product make much difference for my skin. Despite the brand’s strong reputation, it just didn’t work for me.

  • My favorite sunscreen, hands down. Light and milky, easily absorbed. Non greasy, string spf (50). It's expensive but recreational value for high end sunscreen.

  • BHA toner is great - need to try more products

    Feedback

    Would buy more but they're a bit pricey

  • The price point is a bit higher than drugstore brands, but I feel like I’m paying for quality and reliability, so I’m okay with it. If you’re into skincare that’s effective, fragrance-free, and doesn’t feel like marketing fluff, it’s definitely worth trying.

  • I genuinely cannot get into the BHA toner to save my life. I think its the texture, but I know it does marvelous things for people. My mom swears by it and beef tallow - she does not wear makeup and she looks stunning. So I feel I need to give it another shot... 3rd times a charm?

  • Paula, I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!! Their 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is heaven-sent. It helps clear my skin and leaves it looking firm, glowy, and healthy. Cannot recommend this product enough.

  • With Paula's Choice, you have PLENTY of options to target PLENTY of skin-related concerns. I haven't used her products in awhile, but in the heat of my acne back in high school/early college, her product lines were some of my go-to's and most recommended by dermatologists. Appreciate their somewhat price-friendly approach and fragrance-free ingredients as well (a rarity these days.) A piece of advice - research what line you're getting yourself into and ensure you aren't dabbling in the wrong ingredients list. Also remember, exfoliants are STRONG and should be used sparingly.

  • I used to swear by the BHA, but I realized it was a bit too strong for my skin. I've gone on to use less irritating 2% BHA's.

  • Second to finally going to the dermatologist and using prescription products, these products were the next best thing in making significant improvements to my skin. I've tried (and re-bought) the Clear kit, the Clear extra strength kit, the BHA liquid exfoliant, and the AHA mask and had great experiences with all of the products.

  • I have only had the chance to use the Skin Perfecting 2% Liquid Exfoliant, but I have noticed such a difference in my skin. I use it every morning, which may be too much depending on your skin’s sensitivity & texture. Always put moisturizer and sunscreen on over. But if it is right for you, this product is incredible.

  • I always feel like I can trust Paula's Choice products. I've used their toners before and they really helped with breakouts/evening out my skin tone.