Are you familiar with Paula’s Choice? I first became familiar with Paula’s Choice through Paula Begoun’s (the Paula in Paula’s Choice) Beautypedia. Have you checked out the Paula’s Choice website? You can find answers to almost any skincare or beauty question, find out about ingredients, and get well-researched reviews on 45,000 beauty and skincare products. Paula’s Choice is committed to customer advocacy, education and helping people learn about their skin. In fact, I visited the Beautypedia sites many times before I discovered that Paula’s Choice has a product line of about a zillion different types of products created for different skincare needs and makeup too. Acne, anti-aging, rosacea, pores – they’ve got it all!
Recently, I was given the opportunity to try out an entire Paula’s Choice skincare regimen personally prescribed for my skin type and issues in exchange for an honest review. I spent about 10 minutes on the phone with a very knowledgeable Paula’s Choice beauty consultant describing what skin challenges I’m trying to address. At first, I thought that I was special, getting to talk to a beauty consultant, but I have since found out that everyone who wants one can get a free personal skincare consultation just by calling this number: 800-831-4088. I told my consultant about my dry skin, my sun damage and wrinkles. She recommended the Paula’s Choice Skin Discovery Advanced Kit for Dryness and Sun Damage (two of my primary concerns) as well as two additional Treatment products for anti-aging), 9 products in total. Wow, I was almost overwhelmed when they first arrived, but actually I was thrilled!
Skin Recovery Advanced Kit
The Skin Recovery Advanced Kit, in addition focusing on replenishing dryness and fading sun damage, is also created for those with eczema, redness, rosacea, or sensitive skin. The kit came with a handy brochure that described each product and how/when to use it. Let me tell you a little about the Advanced Kit and each of the products I’ve been using for the past month:
- Cleanser: Skin Recovery Softening Cream Cleanser: I use the gentle cleanser twice a day. It’s just that, a gentle, creamy cleanser that I apply to my wet face and massage on my face and around my eyes in circular motions. It doesn’t lather, but I’ve really gotten into the relaxing massage. It cleans without stripping and helps moisturize my dry skin. Very nice. $17 for 8 oz., $25 for 16 oz. I have the 8 oz. size, and it’s huge. It’ll last me for a loooooong time!
- Toner: Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner: Although I wasn’t a regular toner user, I have learned that toner can help increase the effectiveness of serum and moisturizer. Plus I love the soothing, refreshing feeling that I get from the milky Calming Toner. $20 for 6.4 oz.
- Exfoliant: Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel: The 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant is a serious product. Because I have had experience with glycolic acid, I was somewhat used to this sensation. The first time that I used it I felt a bit of a sting when it went on, but after that I was completely used to it. I use this gel a few times a week. It’s meant to be left on the skin without rinsing. $26 for 3.3 oz.
- Treatment: Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum with Retinol: This serum is heaven. I look forward to smoothing a few drops of it over my face morning and night before moisturizer. It is so smooth and so soothing, I just love it! It’s so emollient that I sometimes feel that I could skip the moisturizer, but I love the moisturizers so much I put ’em on anyway. $30 for 1 oz. tube.
- Daytime Moisturizer + SPF: Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30: I often dislike daytime moisturizers with SPF, even though I wear them religiously, because they’re too heavy because of the SPF. This lightweight but very hydrating daytime moisturizer (they call it a lotion but I think it’s more like a creamy gel because it’s not loose or runny) comes in a tube (love not having to put my fingers in a jar!). I just squeeze out about a quarter’s worth and smooth it onto my face and neck. It provides UVA/UVB coverage. What I also love about this moisturizer with SPF is that it is perfect for applying makeup on top of it. I don’t feel like I’m wearing a ton of stuff on my face. And again, it’s so soothing! $26 for 2 oz.
- Night Moisturizer: Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer: Also in a handy tube, I apply this emollient but not the least bit greasy cream to my face after serum at night before bed. More soothingness, lol. $26 for 2 oz.
- Mask: Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask: Once or twice a week, I apply a thin layer of the clear gel mask to my face. Sometimes I leave it on for 20 minutes and then gently rinse off, but most times, I use it as a sleeping mask and my face feels great the next day. $21 for 4 oz.
Anti-aging Treatments
- Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment: I’ve been really eager to find a good retinol treatment, so this was a very welcome addition to my arsenal for improving my skin’s firmness, smoothing lines and wrinkles, and fading dark spots. So far, I’ve been using this at night treatment about twice a week because I’m also using the 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant on a number of other nights, so I like to have a night off. Once my skin gets used to the regimen, I’ll work up to using it every night. I had been using a different brand of 1% retinol cream in the past so I haven’t had any tingling or irritation in using this. The Retinol Treatment comes in a pump container that I really like, and the product itself is a smooth gel-like serum. $55 for 1 oz.
- Resist 25% Vitamin C Spot Treatment: I think this is the coolest treatment ever! I dab this on my dark spots and deep wrinkles every night. You can use it during the day under an SPF, too. I am really eager to see if this higher percentage of vitamin C will help my dark spots fade faster! $55 for 0.5 oz.
My Thoughts
I’ve been testing out a lot of skincare products over the past couple of years, and switching around like I’ve been doing can be tough on skin. Recently, I was testing a strong glycolic acid product from another brand that was giving my skin a workout, and my skin was actually a bit sore because I wasn’t used to GA at that strength.
It’s been great using an entire product line on my skin with everything designed to work together and chosen specially for my skin. The Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Advanced Kit and the additional treatment products are definitely products that I could use for a lifetime. In fact, if I could use them forever without having to test out new skincare brands (oh, the beauty blogger’s life, lol!), it would be fine with me! I love the packaging, designed in ways that makes sense for each product. I love the product aesthetics, they feel so darn good on my skin. So far, my skin is responding very well to this line. It’s softer, it isn’t sore any more, and it looks and feels more hydrated, more nourished and plumped. Over time, I will assess whether there are any noticeable effects from using the 8% AHA Gel, 1% Retinol Treatment and the Vitamin C Spot Treatment. I hope so ‘coz I love these treatment products!
IMHO, Paula’s Choice offers incredible quality, I’d say luxury, at an affordable price. The products tend to range in price from about $17-55 with many in the $25 price point. The entire Skin Recovery Advanced Kit is sold for $149 which is at a considerable savings from purchasing them individually. There’s also a 4 product Essentials Kit for $85 with the Cleanser, Exfoliant and the two moisturizers. It’s amazing that in the past, I have paid almost the price of the entire Advanced Kit for one skincare product. What amazing value Paula’s Choice gives! You can buy a Skin Recovery Sample Advanced Kit for $6 so you can test drive it before purchasing the whole thing, or you can buy individual samples of each product you think you might want to try. Very flexible!
Also, Paula’s Choice is cruelty-free/no animal testing, uses no irritating dyes or fragrances. (Please check the website for complete ingredient lists coz it would make this post too long to include the ingredients for all 9 products, lol!) I love skincare products with NO FRAGRANCE!! Plus they offer a 60 day 100% money-back guarantee.
Discount!
Even better, I am offering my readers a 20% off coupon code plus FREE SHIPPING that’s good until June 30 at midnight EDT. So act fast so you won’t miss out on this bonus! If you click on any of the product links above, it’ll take you to the Paula’s Choice website and it should activate the code for you. The code is PRIMP20.
FYI, PRIMP stands for Pretty In My Pocket, a very cool beauty bloggers association that I’ve recently joined. PRIMP has a fabulous phone app that features lots of popular beauty bloggers, their tips for creating favorite looks, and their own reviews of products that they really like. Plus, you can shop via the PRIMP for zillions of your favorite beauty products. You can download the PRIMP app here. So give it a try! And check me out on PRIMP 😀
Your review was spot on! I’m glad you are enjoying her products. I’ve been using her line for many years and love them. I use different products from different product lines of hers because all of them are so gentle yet effective. I have several of her cleansers that I rotate, depending on my needs. The Skin Recovery Cleanser has just been reformulated and is now that thick, creamy texture that is more soothing and hydrating than in the past. I’d recommend you try her Moisture Boost Cleanser, too. It’s also a cream, but it’s a bit thinner and lightly lathers. You can’t go wrong with any of her skincare! It’s the best!
Thank you so much, Diana, for your recommendation to the Moisture Boost Cleanser. I will give that one a try too because when my face is especially dirty from gardening or mowing the lawn, I like a cleanser that lathers because I erroneously think it’s cleaning better, lol! I hope you’ll take advantage of the 20% off discount to reorder anything you might need. And thank you for taking the time to comment xoxo
I am 100% in love with Paula’s Choice. I’ve never really had a product that I haven’t liked before. I used their RESIST line and fell in love. I’ve had my eye on the Retinol Treatment and their Vitamin C Serum. Both are on my future order list!! I’m always so excited when new beauty lovers fall in love with Paula’s Choice because it’s just so good!
Christine recently posted…Short Hair Don’t Care
I’m hearing nothing but love for Paula’s Choice from everyone. I can honestly say, Christine, that I love both the 1% Retinol Treatment and the Resist Vitamin C Spot Treatment – I’m using the Super Concentrate Antioxidant Serum right now so I haven’t tried the Vitamin C Serum yet. If you’re planning to reorder, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the 20% off discount code.
Toner is my life! I use it every day even if I forget other steps in my skin care routine!
Kat Dinges recently posted…Serum No. 5 – April 2015
No kidding! Wow, toner is usually the step gets left out! You’re good, girl!
So glad that PC worked for you. I am still adoring my kit that I got and using it often.
Heather recently posted…Kat Von D Shade & Light Eye Contour Palette & Brush Review & FOTD
I always loved the website as a product resource, but I am over the moon about the products 🙂
Wow, what a thorough and wonderful review, Allison! Believe it or not, I have yet to try anything from Paula’s Choice! Between you and Courtney, I can see that I need to try the line!
Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog recently posted…How to Get Pretty Feet for Summer in Six Easy Steps
I am surprised, Helen, because you are definitely a skincare expert with all the different lines and products you’ve tried! I’ve been amazed at how well all 9 of the products I’ve tried so far suit my skin. win win for sure
It is surprising, given my absolute obsession with skincare products! I definitely need to add it to my list! Win win, indeed!
Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog recently posted…How to Get Pretty Feet for Summer in Six Easy Steps
I’m definitely pro Paula’s Choice. I remember when I first got her “Don’t Go to the Beauty Counter without Me” book (which was as thick as a phone book! ~ back in the day .. lol).
I have the PC Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Lotion which works fabulously on clogged pores. I plan on purchasing more from her line, but I MUST use up a few products before purchasing.
Monica.
MonicaP recently posted…Creating a fashionable outfit when your pants are too tight
I know the feeling about needing to finish up products before buying more! I’m so glad that you’re a fan of Paula’s Choice skincare and beautypedia too. Why didn’t I try these sooner, lol?
Paula’s Choice products look so good! I love how they have so many different things targeted toward specific skin types. I’ve used a few samples over the years that I loved but haven’t used anything full sized. Hopefully I can change that soon!
Tess Galen recently posted…Physicians Formula Gentle Wear Powder
Tess, I was amazed at how much I love these products, every one of them, and I’ve tried 9 so far! If you decide to take the plunge, please use the 20% coupon code or click through that includes free shipping.
That’s amazing! I’m so glad you found products that work for you. I love that you can pretty much find products for any skin type and concern within Paula’s Choice range.
I agree, Anastasia, the depth and breadth of the Paula’s Choice product range is astounding!
I haven’t had a chance to try this brand yet but it sounds wonderful. Love that it has a “calming” toner. Some toners are just too astringent, but good ones can really make a difference in your skin.
Lisa recently posted…NEW FEATURE! Polished!: Ikea Helmer Hack for DIY Polish Storage
This toner isn’t the least bit drying. I was nervous about switching from my rosewater toner, but this is just as mild 🙂
Thanks for great app recommendation, along with the review of the skin recovery kit. Both seem worth checking out. Hydration is key for my skin.
Cindy Ingalls recently posted…Fashion Flash!
You’re welcome! Skin Recovery is a good one for hydration and for sensitive skin!
I’ve actually heard quite a bit about Paula’s Choice. And everything I’ve heard has been positive. I might have to check into it. I do have my skin care products that work for me, but my routines tend to change throughout the years (along with my skin of course). Great review!
Lisa @ Midwest Glam recently posted…June 2015 Birchbox
Thanks, Lisa! If you’ve found something that works for you, stick with it. But you’re right that skincare needs change over time and even with the seasons. Keep it in mind next time you need or want a change 🙂
I’ve been wanting to try other Paula’s Choice products, but I love her 2% BHA liquid! I think when I emailed them awhile back they recommended the Hydralight line to me, but it’s a bit pricey to revamp my whole skincare regimen right now!
Sammi the Beauty Buff recently posted…Summer Beauty Wishlist 2015
Absolutely, it is expensive to replace your whole skincare routine! I’ve heard a number of women who lied the BHA Liquid. If what you’re using works for you, stick with it. But if you want to try perhaps one new product, do take advantage of the 20% off discount
Yay I LOVE Paula’s Choice so much
Phyrra recently posted…Cover FX on Instagram
I’ve rapidly become a convert! Every single product of the 9 that I have tried has been fabulous
I love Paula’s Choice. I like that they are doing consultations now!
Carleen recently posted…Summer Beauty Essentials (Part I)
The consultation really helped me, Carleen. I think I would have been overwhelmed if I had to choose from that huge product range on my own!
I’ve mostly been using their BHA 2% Gel but it’s good to hear about how great their AHA stuff is too!
Mai recently posted…DIY Homemade Mani Bombs/Bath Bombs and Free Printable Labels – Mason Jar Gift Idea
I haven’t tried the BHA 2% but it sure seems like a lot of you love it. I’m very happy with all the products I’ve tried including the 8% AHA gel 🙂
Toners have come a long way since Sea Breeze, haven’t they? I like that these new ones actually help other products do their job. Thanks for the review.
Kimberly recently posted…Mask Monday: Studio 35 Beauty Warming Mask
Sea Breeze – that’s a blast from the past – this made me laugh so I had to comment. Love it Kimberly. Great review Allison 🙂 xoxo
Thanks, Caroline! I remember Sea Breeze well, too 🙂
I could definitely go for that mask. I’ve heard great things about the cleanser too.
Aleya Bamdad recently posted…NYC Expert Last Lip Color Review
I’ve loved every product of the 9 that I’ve tried. The mask is a great sleeping mask, too
What a great review! I’d love to try some of this brand’s products, one day.
Erika recently posted…Easy, Everyday Eye Look Featuring the Gabriel Eye Shadow Trio in Matte Smokey Grey
I know you’ll love ’em!
This system sounds great – I’ve heard a lot of excellent things about Paula’s Choice!
Destany recently posted…NYX Honey Dew Me Up Primer
It’s all true!
This sounds fantastic! I would love to try the toner, especially since I just recently added a Vitamin C toner to my skincare routine! Here’s to good skin! *CHEERS* 🙂
Shipra recently posted…FOREO LUNA Facial Cleansing Brush and Anti-Aging Device Review
Ooooh, a vitamin C toner sounds great!
I need to give this another try. The first time I tried Paula’s Choice, I had a bad experience with the product but I think it was just a bad batch. I have heard so many good things and I think I could benefit from it. Great review!
That’s disturbing, Brigitte. Did you ever get to talk to anyone at PC about it? They have a 2 month money back guarantee (though I’m sure it was ages ago, right?). The consultant who helped me really nailed it with the products I received.
I’m trying out Paula’s Choice for the PRIMP review too, and I’m LOVING the products I got! You got quite a generous bundle, how amazing!
Julie recently posted…My Top Beauty Tips and Tricks (Part two)
I did, Julie. She must have felt sorry for me with all my skin challenges, lol!
Kind of wishing I had gotten the moisturizers, they sound great! I am very impressed with the cleanser and toner, loved both and this range.
NORAH recently posted…Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Skincare Regime
I must have gotten a consultant who was in a very sharing mood, or I struck her as having a zillion skin issues. I was so lucky to get to try out so much of the line. So far, it’s as if it were made for me. I’m glad you liked what you got too!
Paula’s Choice has outstanding product line. I’m happy to know you liked the brand
Kath TheFabZilla recently posted…SUMMER MAKEUP | BRONZED SKIN AND FIERY LIPS
Why did I wait so long to try Paula’s Choice? Love it!
Paula’s Choice is amazing! Their skincare rocks my world
I’m joining the club! PC rocks!
I haven’t heard a bad thing about this line yet!
beautyjudy recently posted…Zoya Island Fun Summer Collection
So happy I finally got to try Paula’s Choice!
Paula’s Choice has some really great stuff!
Couldn’t agree more!
I think having the consultation is the best thing they could have done. They have so many products that are excellent so knowing what to pick on your own is difficult. This is what I’ll do when I need skincare.
MarciaF recently posted…Top 10 beauty products to survive the heat
I would’ve been lost without the consultation because the range is so huge. Plus I think she felt sorry for me and gave me a ton of products plus a shadow palette!!!
It’s such a struggle to find great products for your skin, I know that Journey quite well… so it’s so nice to see that you found products that work for you. I hear so many great things about Paula’s Choice so it’s great that this brand has so much to offer.
Honeygirlk recently posted…Colourpop Mondays in Malibu Collection
Honestly, I hate to have to try out new skincare since I’m so happy with this whole line!
I’ve heard so much love for this brand but still haven’t tried it. I love that the prices are s reasonable but you’re still getting great ingredients.
Bailey recently posted…Yves Rocher Summer Creation Collection | Eyes
I’m amazed at what a good value it is for what you get, and there are occasionally these great discounts that make it even more affordable. 🙂
I for real need to try this line, I LOVE all of the awesome reviews!
Brooke @ Blushing Noir recently posted…Top 10 Waterproof Makeup Products
I’m sure you’ll love it, Brooke. And there are so many discount codes flying about now 🙂
Would love to try the AHA gel!
Stephanie Louise (@StephLouiseATB) recently posted…Soufeel Personalized Bracelet Review & Special Charm Close Ups!
At 8%, the AHA gel does pack a bit of a punch. Hoping between that and the 1% retinol and the vitamin C spot treatment, I’ll see some fading of my sun damage
Paula’s Choice won me over with my items. I’m putting in another order soon
Lisa Heath recently posted…Literary Lacquers Vurt-U-Want Collection Swatches & Review
Me, too. PC is such a great brand! I’m sold!
I LOVE Paula’s Choice. I use mostly products from the Resist line and just looove them!
Chelsea recently posted…ColourPop Lippie Stix | Review + Swatches
The Vitamin C Spot Treatment I’m using is from the Resist line, and it is great. I’ll have to check out some others!
I’m loving Paula’s Choice right now. I’m using the 25% Vitamin C also and I notice a huge improvement in my dark spots.
Mercedes recently posted…My skin care overhaul with Paula’s Choice
I read that in your review. I’m hoping it’ll help mine but nothing really yet. I do love the entire line though
Anything that helps with sun damage is great in my book! So glad I found self tanner! LOL
Mandy Chameleon Stampede recently posted…Roundup of beauty
The Paula’s Choice skincare products I’m using are wonderful so far, and I’ve got my fingers crossed that my sun damage will fade some more. But you are right to use self-tanner! I finally found a temporary/one day self-tanner from St Tropez that I’m really liking. Which self-tanner do you use?