I’ve read a bunch of reviews of Paula’s Choice products, and I know Paula Begoun has a cult-like following of people who are obsessed and literally Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Her. (Full disclosure, I haven’t read her books, but I have read a lot of what she says on her site!) As with any decent product line, it’s going to work well for some and bomb for others because everyone’s skin is different. From what I’ve read, though, a lot of Paula’s Choice products get major raves. And truly my skin has loved everything I’ve tried from the line. First it was Paula’s Choice Foundations. I’m still using Best Face Forward Foundation. And then my holy grail Rosacea treatment, Paula’s Choice 1% BHA Lotion. And now Paula’s Choice RESIST Barrier Repair Moisturizer and Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum.
Thanks to the rosacea issues, I’m super careful about anything new I put on my skin. I’ve basically stuck to the same skincare regime I wrote about in my last Rosacea post. My skin was looking better overall with just minor flare-ups, but I was still dealing with patches of dryness and was concerned about upping the anti-aging components, because really… Who among us is getting younger? 😉
Paula’s Choice RESIST Barrier Repair Moisturizer is a really unique because of its texture. It’s almost so sheer and lightweight that it’s flat. It’s absorbs immediately, which takes a little getting use to–you have to quickly apply it super quickly to your skin, but if you’re looking for something that feels ultra light, you will love this. It has a hygienic pump applicator, which I love, and it’s chock-full of anti-aging ingredients, and it’s fragrance-free. You can even use it for your eye area. I love that Paula Begoun says you don’t need an extra product for your eyes, because you totally don’t! The 1.7 oz last forever and it’s only $22.95, which is a great price for the quality.
RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum tackles a number of issues that can cause skin aging. It also reduces inflammation, visible effects of sun damage, and helps skin repair itself while promoting healthy collagen production. It contains many fantastic ingredients–hyaluronic acid, Q10, vitamin B3, peptides, and vitamin c. It works to increase firmness, even your skin tone, and enhance radiance. It’s also fragrance and colorant-free. Wow, right?
Because of my sensitive skin, I’m really minimal about how I use this stuff. I apply a small amount every other night or so–a little goes a long way. I apply at night after I cleanse, tone, and moisturize. I finish up my routine with this serum, using just a couple drops. It feels a bit greasy when first applied, but then absorbs into nothing. The price is $18.71. If you want to try any of these Paula’s Choice products without committing to full-size bottles, you can purchase super-cheap samples and test them out.
Have you guys tried any Paula’s Choice products? And if so, which ones and did you like them??
An editorial sample was provided by the company so I could review this product. Please see my About page for further information on Disclosure policies.
how did your hair turn out?!
Hey Alexandra: It looks good–I just did what I usually do but a tad darker. I use Ion demi-perm, and did a mix of: #7W Medium Warm Blonde, #7WR Medium Warm Red Blonde, ad #6N Dark Natural Blonde. I wanted to add the clear gloss in there, but my Sally’s was out. I will next time… And I am always tweaking this combo to try to find the combo that I love.
I started using both of these products earlier this year, and they’ve been real lifesavers. The barrier repair moisturiser is just wonderful – your skin really drinks it up.
I use her 2% BHA gel for my very blemish prone skin – I’ve tried the other formulas, and have found it works best for me – and her 5% benzoyl peroxide gel, which is the best benzoyl peroxide product I’ve found. It absolutely doesn’t burn or sting in any way, wonderful stuff. I’m thinking of adding one of her toners to the mix. Paula’s advice and products have been truly life-changing for me. I love her company and her ethics.
Rach: this is great to hear! I have been curious about the 2% as well, maybe for spot treating, since my skin tolerated the !% bha so well. Thanks for your feedback.
I adore all her products! I have been using the liquid 2% BHA for about 8 years, and it cleared up all my acne. I get compliments on my skin all the time!
I have been using nothing but Paula’s lotions and cleansers for about 5 years now. Her stuff has really made a noticeable difference on my skin. I feel its definitely worth the investment. She also has a website with reviews on current makeup and skin care sold in stores. Its called Beautypedia. That’s how I found out about her and I have never looked back!
Danielle: Thanks for the comment! I like that part of her site too.
I haven’t tried her products. I want to, but their limited availability (having to order online only) kinda bugs me. I’d love to give her stuff a try because I really enjoy her reviews. I’ve disagreed with her on a few occasions, mostly when it comes to colour cosmetics, but her skin care info is bang on.
For the month of January and February her full reviews are available for free to non subscribers (I am a subscriber). I recommend everyone read through reviews of the products they have at home, especially skin care and sun protection products. You might be surprised at the weaknesses in formulations out there!
Jessica: Thanks for the info! I think it is a pain to have to order just from her site too, actually. I wish she sold her products at drugstores or even Amazon or Sephora or somewhere else! It’s annoying to have to make one special purchase for just Paula’s Choice products. I have been putting off restocking on the BHA 1% for just that reason…. But I need to soon because I am running low! And honestly I WILL make the special purchase because that stuff is worth it.
As for her reviews, I disagree with her too. I think her overall skin advice is usually really good though!
I love her products so much I try every new thing that she makes. As someone with combination skin and an oily T-zone, her barrier repair moisturizer is a godsend. Also, her new mattifying shine-stopper is the best shine-control + foundation primer I have ever used. Yeah I hate the limited availability too, so I buy everything in bulk and never run out (free shipping too).
I LOVE PAULAS CHOICE. I HAVE totally joined her “cult”. I have taken hundreds of dollars of facial products and have returned almost everything I’ve bought and tried and nothing even comes close to her products and her skin regimen is fantastic. I love how she gives away 5 free samples then u can order samples for less than 80 cents so u know what works for u. I bought my first Pc product 6 weeks ago to “test” her company out. Since then I hAve place 6 additional orders. I think I’ve got about 15 to 20 products of hers in the past 6 weeks. I love waking up to the fact my skin looks better @ 32y.o then 22y.o. I love not throwing my money away and getting played for a fool by all these b.s. cosmetic companies. Seriously try her line. Its the most amazing stuff ever and I’m the type of girl who has spent $100 for one ounce of skin care products and that junk doesn’t hold a candle next to PC!!!
I am a new cult member..After just a few days I swear to GOD my skin looks great..I would love to be able to tell the world..Stop paying a fortune for stuff that does not work or that does. Her skin care line is all you need and it’s affordable !! Well..as the Beatles say we need love too <3
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