Paula's Choice reviews and discussion

4.5

91% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Effective exfoliating bha treatments
  • Gentle, fragrance-free formulations
  • Lightweight, elegant sunscreens
  • Science-backed, consistent results
  • Occasional irritating active formulas
  • Watery, sometimes sticky textures
  • Leaking, imprecise dispensers
  • Synthetic, unpleasant product scents

Paula’s Choice earns strong reviews for efficacy, with many citing the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, retinol, and sunscreens as transforming skin texture, clearing pores, and calming breakouts, while gentle enough for sensitive users when introduced gradually. Reviews also flag drawbacks: occasional irritation or rashes, synthetic or unpleasant scents, leaking or hard‑to‑control packaging, a watery texture that can feel sticky, and mixed results or no improvement for some users.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

221 reviews and posts

  • High quality products given the mid-range price point. I've liked all the products I've tried, especially the BHA Exfoliant and 1% retinol nighttime moisturizer.

  • The BHA Liquid exfoliant worked very well. My skin did not dry out. It cleared up a bit of hyperpigmentation.

  • products that work!! i love their exfoliator for blackheads, no fuss moisturizers, and gentle cleansers.

  • really excellent, thoughtful products. Love their omega cleansing balm, clearing cleanser for acne prone skin, and BHA toner especially.

  • THE best toner on the market. And for the lowest price. No point in getting any other toner; this will change your skin after just one use.

  • 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's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant has quickly become a holy grail in my skincare routine! After hearing so many rave reviews, I decided to give it a try, and the results have been incredible. This product uses salicylic acid (BHA) to gently exfoliate the skin, and it's been a game-changer for reducing clogged pores, blackheads, and uneven skin texture. The lightweight, water-like consistency absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any residue or stickiness. I use it 3-4 times a week after cleansing, and within a few weeks, I noticed a visible reduction in the appearance of my pores and fewer breakouts. My skin feels smoother and more refined, with an overall brighter complexion. What I love most is that it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin. There’s no irritation or redness, which is a huge plus for an exfoliant. It helps with both acne and anti-aging, making it a versatile addition to any routine. The bottle lasts a long time since you don’t need much per use. If you're looking for an effective, non-abrasive exfoliant that delivers real results, Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a must-try. It’s affordable, highly effective, and perfect for anyone struggling with clogged pores, breakouts, or dullness!

    Received a free product from Paula's Choice