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

  • Absolutely love this product. I've only tried the BHA 2% Exfoliant, but every time I use it people compliment my skin. My skin is also super sensitive, but this doesn't break me out at all. I also like that there is a travel version and full size. It's nice if you just want to test it out.

  • The BHA 2% Exfoliant is one of my skincare holy grails - if you're looking to achieve the glass skin look, this is a MUST! I really appreciate the brand's commitment to creating simple, effective, and quality products that address skin concerns.

    Feedback

    I feel that some of their products are a bit overpriced.

  • I used the 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Salicylic Acid which a friend recommended for clearing dark acne spots. I think it did a pretty good job. I noticed that it was slightly peppery on my skin (not sensitive), so that's something to be mindful of if you have sensitive skin.

  • Worth the hype and the brand carries a wide range of products for you to try. The instructions and information on their website are very helpful to research and pick the products that are going to work for you.

  • I have used the Calming toner and the BHA exfoliant. I like both very much, I have sensitive skin and the exfoliant is the only one I can use that doesn't irritate my skin.

  • Love. High-quality, no-nonsense skincare at affordable prices. I use the perfectly balanced foaming cleansers, the omega cleansing balm, and the pore normalizing cleanser. Great, straight forward products for sensitive skin.

  • I have really liked the products I’ve tried from Paula’s Choice. They have quality skin care for a decent price. It isn’t cheap but it also isn’t super expensive like some skin care brands. Love the exfoliants.

  • one of the best skincare brands on the market. no gimmicks just high efficiency products. Highly recommend buying direct from the brand they always have good deals!

  • Every product I've tried from Paula's choice is great. I use a number daily and others as needed. When in doubt I purchase skincare products from them.

  • The OG DTC Skincare brand! Great ingredient-driven products. All the products I've tried (2% retinol, 2% BHA Treatment, Niacinamide serums) were effective and not irritating at all. They also frequently hold 25% sitewide sales, which makes the products more affordable.

    Feedback

    Nothing really.

  • I use the Paula's Choice Omega + Complex Cleansing Balm and I love it! Great for taking off makeup and doesn't leave my skin feeling dry.

  • I love Paula’s Choice. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA liquid Exfoliant is magic. It helps me keep my skin smooth and blemish free.

    Feedback

    Some of the products are very strong, which is great, but there should be a warning to users about especially for those who are trying out retinol for the first time. My friend and I tried out a retinol product and our faces were visibly peeling for days, which is not a great look if you have to go out into the public.

  • I haven't tried the entire product line but I use the 2% BHA and its the best chemical exfoliant I've used. Leaves my skin soft without feeling overly dry. Also feel I can use twice a day without damaging my skin.

    Feedback

    Price point, advertising of other products besides the exfoliant.

  • 2% bha is the best skincare product i have tried for my skin.

  • Old but goodies. I can always count on their product! I never have to worry about their product breaking out my skin and their products are very potent. Their website is easy to navigate and purchase.!

  • Paula’s choice is a good brand almost neutral brand. My cousin has had wonderful results using them but I’ve had little to no changes using their skin facial products. Please note every skin is different, I just didn’t see any difference

    Influencer for Paula's Choice
  • The Skin Restoring Moisturizer with SPF 50 has been one of my go-to sunscreens for quite some time now. I love the consistency and it blends in nicely. It is on the pricey side and the tube isn't that big, but it definitely works and protects your skin!

  • The BHA toner is a HG product for me. Hot tip: Get the smaller travel size to try, it's cheaper and still lasts you a year! I love how all the products are scientifically backed AND come at an affordable price point. Bonus: it's unscented so great for sensitive people. There's a product line for all kinds of skincare needs and they make it easy to narrow down what you might need for your skin.

  • Love their BHA toner - it definitely helps to exfoliate the skin and eliminate dark spots.

    Feedback

    They shouldn't recommend applying it every day, it's to hard for the skin

  • I use the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant at night and think it’s amazing. My face feels clean and clear after use, without that ultra-drying effect that astringent has.

    Feedback

    I wish it wasn’t so pricey so I could start using other products in the line.