Taking care of my skin has always been a top priority for me. I love trying new skincare products, but with my sensitive skin, it’s always a bit of a gamble. One brand I’ve heard a lot about on social media is Paula’s Choice.
After seeing rave reviews, I decided to pick up a Paula’s Choice value set during a Sephora Sale. The set included the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant and the Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant—and they’ve quickly become essentials in my skincare routine.
If you have sensitive, acne-prone skin, these products might be a game changer for you!
The Products
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant ($49 CAD)
This daily leave-on exfoliator is designed to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and visibly smooth fine lines and wrinkles. It works deep within the pore lining to help prevent congestion and breakouts, making it a great option for acne-prone skin.
Who It’s For: Compatible with all skin types, but especially effective for those dealing with enlarged pores, uneven texture, and blemishes.
Key Ingredients:
- BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) 2% – Penetrates pores to clear out blemish-causing buildup and shed dead skin.
- Green Tea Extract – A powerful antioxidant that calms redness and soothes the skin barrier.
- Methylpropanediol – Provides hydration, preventing moisture loss while improving skin glow.
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant ($53 CAD)
This leave-on exfoliant blends mandelic and lactic acids to smooth texture and fine lines without causing irritation.
Who It’s For: Suitable for all skin types and specifically targets dullness, uneven texture, and fine lines.
Key Ingredients:
- Mandelic Acid – Gently exfoliates and helps with discoloration.
- Lactic Acid – Refines the skin’s surface while helping it retain moisture.
- Yarrow Extract – Strengthens and repairs a compromised skin barrier.
My Experience with Paula’s Choice AHA + BHA
I’ve been hooked on Skin Cycling ever since it took over TikTok as a viral skincare trend. Though the hype has died down, I’ve stuck with the routine, and it has made a huge difference in my skin. If you’re unfamiliar with Skin Cycling, here’s a quick recap:
The Four-Day Skin Cycling Routine:
- Day 1: Liquid Exfoliant
- Day 2: Retinol
- Day 3 & 4: Recovery (hydration-focused routine)
This cycle allows your skin to get the benefits of exfoliation and retinol while giving it time to recover in between. I used the Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment as my liquid exfoliant for about two years and saw great results. However, it’s an expensive product, so I was on the lookout for a more affordable alternative—enter Paula’s Choice.
These two liquid exfoliants have been among the best skincare products I’ve tried. I noticed a visible difference in my skin after just one use. My hormonal acne tends to flare up at the worst times, but this duo keeps my breakouts in check while smoothing out my skin texture.
Pros:
- Gentle yet effective on sensitive skin
- Noticeable improvement in texture and clarity after the first use
- Helps control breakouts and smooth skin
Cons:
- Slightly pricey, especially when purchasing separately
If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, you should consider incorporating these into your routine. You don’t necessarily need both; you can use just one based on your skin concerns. However, Paula’s Choice does recommend using them together for enhanced results.
How to Use Paula’s Choice AHA + BHA
Liquid exfoliants can be potent, especially when first introduced into your routine. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Start Slow: Use every other day initially, then increase to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Application: Apply over your face and neck using fingers or a cotton pad. Do not rinse off.
- Sun Protection: Always follow up with SPF 30+ in the daytime, as exfoliants can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Pro Tips for Different Skin Levels:
- Beginner: Start with AHA every 2–3 days & BHA every 2–3 days.
- Intermediate: Alternate AHA and BHA every other day.
- Advanced: Use AHA in the morning and BHA in the evening for a multi-level glow.
Experiment with different frequencies to find what works best for your skin!
Would I Recommend Paula’s Choice AHA + BHA?
Absolutely! These are fantastic skincare products that deliver results, no matter your skin type. If you’ve been looking for an effective yet gentle exfoliant, Paula’s Choice has you covered. My best advice? Wait for Sephora sales or holiday value sets to get the best deal!
Have you tried Paula’s Choice? Let me know in the comments how they worked for you!
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