Paula's Choice • Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant • Treatments
(241 reviews)
| Average Rating. | 4.1 |
| Would buy this product again. | 79% |
| Package Quality | 3.7 |
| Price | 2.7 |
| Ingredients | |
edtennisbabe on 4/19/2013 3:03:00 PM more reviews by edtennisbabe
Age: 30-35 Skin: Combination, Fair, Warm Hair: Brunette, Wavy, Medium Eyes: Green
This stuff is awesome. I have pretty sensitive skin and was advised by my derm to start using a AHA. I tried the 10% glycolic stuff from Alpha Hydrox. Oh man that burned...and burned and burned. I then tried a 5% glycolic cream from Wallgreens. It was ok but didn't do much. I happened upon this 8% AHA from Paula's Choice and I feel like Goldilocks...this is just right. I've never used PC before, but have been so pleased. No scent, exfoliating but gentle, and awesome packaging. Also, pretty darn affordable. I'd definitely recommend this. It's really helped keep my hormonal acne under control.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
*TOP REVIEWER* ellie179 on 3/23/2013 4:52:00 AM more reviews by ellie179
Age: 30-35 Skin: Normal, Medium Hair: Black Eyes: Brown
Excellent product! My skin has been it's best since I included AHA/BHA into my skincare 2 years ago after reading the advice from Paula's website. My skin has since become mostly blemish free and even toned. Pimple scars and discoloration from sun damage have faded. I started with the RESIST line but decided to try this instead since it's 8% and water based. I much prefer the gel texture. In terms of pricing I think it's value for money, the gel lasts ages. You might want to try samples from her website before committing to see if it works for you.
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
natefan on 3/20/2013 4:45:00 PM more reviews by natefan
Age: 25-29 Skin: Normal, Fair-Medium Hair: Brown Eyes: Brown
A stellar exfoliant option from Paula's Choice. Excellent packaging, and, when compared to other AHA exfoliants, quite cheap! I usually use one pump for face, then an additional one pump for neck and it sinks in immediately and doesn't sting (although I have been using AHA's for 6 or 7 years - so my skin is used to them by now). My skin always feels soft and smooth and luminious when using this. Love it!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
*TOP REVIEWER* Plinko on 1/26/2013 3:23:00 PM more reviews by Plinko
Age: 36-43 Skin: Dry, Fair, Cool Hair: Blond, Straight, Fine Eyes: Brown
I only added this to my skin care routine about a month ago and I am blown away by the results. I switched to this chemical exfoliant after an esthetician suggested the the broken capillaries under my eyes may have been caused by the exfoliating scrubs that I've used in the past. I purchased this one because the reviews were good and the price point was fair. I thought it was a good place to begin my search for a new exfoliator. Honestly, it was the beginning and the end of my search. It's that good.
Not only is my skin smoother and more luminous, the dark pigmentation that developed on my jawline during my last pregnancy has virtually disappeared. I have dry, sensitive skin that is prone to redness, and this product has significantly reduced my redness. It has done all of this without ever once drying me out, breaking me out, stinging or burning. I use it faithfully every night after cleansing and toning. Then, I slather on my night cream and wake up with a fresh, hydrated, even-toned face.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
mrsminniver on 1/18/2013 11:50:00 AM more reviews by mrsminniver
Age: 44-55 Skin: Acne-prone, Medium, Warm Hair: Black, Straight, Coarse Eyes: Black
I chose this product mainly to tackle pigmentation in conjunction with their 2% bha liquid to tackle my skin's clogged pores and slight acne "infestation". Bha in the morning and this product in the eve. It has been about a month and I have to say that my skin has become smoother, lighter in pigmentation spots and looking much better. Occasionally, I also use a 10% benzoyl peroxide over the counter gel to tackle the occasional tiny lumps and bumps when my skin goes ape with hormonal cycles and it just takes 2-3 days with the aha gel at night for the situation to clear itself.
I do however need to counter the drying effects of the aha with an adequate moisturizer (not Paula's choice but clarins - an excellent line). One thing I like about this aha/bha routine is that one can still continue to use their preferred skincare line without disruption to address other issues like firming, or wrinkle reduction. I don't think Paula's choice is effective enough for me where firming and fine lines are concerned. That said, an adequate enough product for lightening your pigmentation.
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
kiwirusmakeup on 10/1/2012 5:27:00 PM more reviews by kiwirusmakeup
Age: 30-35 Skin: Other Hair: Other Eyes: Other
I absolutely love this product, have been using it for years, makes my skin nice and even and the gel feels nice on my skin, doesn't take long to dry. I am allergic to aspirin, that is why i chose AHA instead of BHA exfoliant, but i must say I have recently bought a 1% BHA and started using it on my face without any problems. In the beginning i had to order this product from Australia as Paula's Choice didn't have a distributor in New Zealand, they finally do, which is a bonus!
_____________________________________________________________
http://annasmakeupnow.blogspot.co.nz/
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Gubynaya on 9/26/2012 2:30:00 PM more reviews by Gubynaya
Age: 25-29 Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium, Warm Hair: Blond, Wavy, Fine Eyes: Brown
HG product. Has completely transformed my face. I have slightly oily skin that is prone to clogs and the occasional cystic pimple. I used BHA products in the past, only to have them stop working on me. This is just awesome. I had lots of stubborn clogs that would turn into pimples that would linger for weeks. Got rid of my stubborn clogged pores around my chin and forehead COMPLETELY. It has also left my face as smooth as a baby's bottom and hydrates my face just perfectly. Looks great under makeup. Cannot praise this product enough, I'm so glad I discovered it.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
*TOP REVIEWER* lemonz4us on 7/5/2012 6:57:00 PM more reviews by lemonz4us
Age: 19-24 Skin: Sensitive, Fair-Medium, Neutral Hair: Brown, Wavy, Fine Eyes: Brown
This is a very nice 8% glycolic acid based exfoliant. Before this, i used alpha hydrox's 10% enhanced cream, and although i was just introducing my skin to aha, it burned more than i liked. This doesnt burn or sting at all, the gel base is light enough for someone whose skin might be too "suffocated" by a cream base. It contains anti-oxidants to help soothe the skin too. Make sure you avoid though if any of the ingredients clog you. I know tocopherol and its derivatives clog some people. the 8% is nice for nightly exfoliation and not too high. If you're barely introducing yourself to AHA's use this only once a week (at night--never use aha's during the day) and slowly build up, as you can tolerate to 2-3 times a week, even every other or every night as you wish, watch out for over-exfoliation though and irritation, some slight stinging should be normal, redness too, but if it doesnt subside or is severe, you're having a bad reaction to it. Wash it off. You only need a little bit for your entire face, and i use this on my neck too. The price may seem steep but it comes in a 4oz bottle. I was lucky enough to score a few of these bottles for half price on one of paula's sales, when she was changing the packaging for them. Make sure you use a strong sunscreen during the day because aha's make your skin more sensitive to sun-damage, newer cells aren't accustomed the sun like older, tanned cells are. Your ss needs to have high UVA protection(PPD) as well if you want to keep the benefits of freshly exfoliated skin. love this stuff. i even use it on the backs of my arms to help reduce the appearance of my kp. it hasnt made it go away but its lightened a bit.
Will repurchase, preferably during sales, and would recommend.
9 out of 9 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
lilyalexis on 6/28/2012 12:49:00 AM more reviews by lilyalexis
Age: 19-24 Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium Hair: Brown Eyes: Brown
I made the decision of switching to a chemical exfoliant after noticing several broken capillaries around my chin, possibly from over exfoliating when I was younger in a desperate attempt to get rid of all blackheads.
Unfortunately I'm allergic to aspirin, but I've used products containing salicylic acid before & it didn't seems to cause any problems. (still trying to get more information regarding this) Anyway, to be safe, i chose a pure AHA product.
I have combination sensitive skin so I made sure to apply only half a pump the first time. No redness occured & it didn't sting my face, it absorbed nicely after about 5 mins & I went along with my nightly routine of serum & moisturizer. I increased the amount the following night to a full pump & used it nightly for about 2 weeks. Occasionally I would use this in combination with retin A, no allergic reaction occured so I guess my skin is faily suited for this product.
To be honest I didn't really notice a big difference until I put on my foundation, but I was REALLY impressed with how easy blending has become since my skin has become smoother, no dry patches around my cheeks which is really rare! It seems to have curb the occasional breakouts on my chin & forehead as well even with reduced benzoyl peroxide usage. I used to apply BP everyday, now I only use it once every 2-3 days.
I only use this at the night & I apply Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 50 every morning since AHA increases skin sensitivity to the sun.
I will most likely repurchase since 1 bottle will probably last me a few months even with daily usage so the price (30USD) is fairly reasonable compared to the rest of PC's products which are quite costly here in Asia.
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
billa2010 on 6/3/2012 7:48:00 PM more reviews by billa2010
Age: 19-24 Skin: Dry, Tan, Cool Hair: Black, Wavy, Medium Eyes: Brown
tried it for the first time today, my face felt like it was on fire it was stinging so bad! And this was just with initial contact (did not rub in product or anything) Definitely not for someone with very sensitive skin!
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
*TOP REVIEWER* kiely98 on 5/17/2012 8:07:00 PM more reviews by kiely98
Age: 30-35 Skin: Combination, Fair Hair: Brown, Curly Eyes: Green
Great stuff! Has definitely improved the rate of my skin turnover, and has helped reduce the appearance of old acne marks.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
rachaelvictorious on 4/5/2012 12:44:00 AM more reviews by rachaelvictorious
Age: 25-29 Skin: Acne-prone, Fair, Cool Hair: Black, Wavy, Fine Eyes: Hazel
I've been using this product for about 4 years now. I've used the gel, cream, and liquid formulations. The gel is the by far the most economical formulation. A bottle lasts me about 6 months with daily use.
Until I started doing my own chemical peels, it was the only thing I found that help control my acne. It never cleared it up completely, but it made a huge difference. I started out with the lowest concentration and worked my way up to 8% as my skin acclimated.
Now I can use it under my eyes with zero irritation. It hasn't done anything for my fine lines or minor pigmintation issues, and because of that I am switching over MUAC products, which I found the be superior to anything else I've used.
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
AnnieRocco on 2/8/2012 9:15:00 AM more reviews by AnnieRocco
Age: 25-29 Skin: Sensitive, Fair-Medium, Warm Hair: Brown, Straight, Fine Eyes: Black
Love it! Dosent break me out nor drying and made my skin feels smooth and radiant the next day. Absorb fast and its totally not sticky unlike paula's bhas.. BUT i do prefer the resist weekly treatment with 10% aha. The results is more dramatic and i do not have to use daily so im getting the full size for resist weekly treatment instead!
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
ohsailor on 1/17/2012 9:55:00 AM more reviews by ohsailor
Age: 19-24 Skin: Acne-prone, Fair Hair: Brunette, Kinky, Medium Eyes: Blue
EDITED: As with the BHA Liquid, I've had to cease using AHA as I think it was too much for my skin to cope with. I've been backwards and forwards with this product as I so wanted it to work but it just seems that my skin isn't a fan of either AHA or BHA's for long term usage. I think my face erupted because of over usage of both this and the BHA and I need to resort to prescription topicals to try and get my skin under control. I don't blame AHA but I would advise that its not an HG for everyone and not to continue with AHA if you honestly think that your skin is reacting.
*****
I'm using this is conjunction with the BHA 2% Liquid by Paula's Choice.
I originally started using this every other day (with BHA in-between) however I've now begun to use BHA first and then spot treat with this AHA gel on the worst of my post-acne pigmentation which seems to be, at the moment at least, the best course of action.
The gel is clear and easy to apply, although if you are spot treating, occasionally a little too much comes out of the bottle however I can use this "excess" somewhere else on my body that is prone to acne (my chest for example) so nothing is wasted.
It is more effective in spot treatment I feel than all over the face and when spot treating, it leaves a "tingling" feeling which I always strangely enjoy as I feel like its actually working.
The marks are slowly slowly beginning to subside and lose their intense redness. My goal, however unrealistic, is to be makeup free and have flawless skin naturally rather than using makeup and I really do feel that this product is going to be part of that goal.
Whilst it hasn't transformed my skin overnight, I know through reading the Acne.org website and messageboard, that pigmentation is not cured overnight and that patience is required.
The price is very decent for what you are actually getting, especially for this Brit who cannot find any such comparable product in Boots or Superdrug therefore to purchase any "pure" AHA product is going to cost and most probably would cost more than Paula's Choice.
This is a definite must buy again.
4 out of 5 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
*TOP REVIEWER* lindsayloohoo on 8/11/2011 11:45:00 PM more reviews by lindsayloohoo
Age: 25-29 Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium, Neutral Hair: Brunette, Wavy, Fine Eyes: Green
This is a well-formulated, effective product that I will continue to repurchase. It's not part of my daily routine, but something that I keep on hand for dry skin days or when my skin needs a change of routine for a pick-me-up.
Background: I have normal/combo (slightly dry/slightly oily depending on season) acne-prone skin that has dramatically improved since I've been more diligent about potentially irritating ingredients (ie alcohol). I don't have sensitive skin in the conventional sense - my skin is very tolerant of products. However, I would breakout consistently using anything even just remotely not suggested for acne-prone skin. Before buying a product I refer to beautypedia.com, the cosmetic ingredient dictionary (on same site), and MUA! My acne used to be the painful bumps under the skin that would take weeks to surface. Since using Paula's Choice products I only get the occassional spot. My current skincare regimen is used in tandem with regular workouts. For me, this alleviated all hormonal breakouts (because working out balances your hormones, and sweating changes the PH of your skin - don't know if the PH part matters for acne though).
Usage: I use the Paula's Choice pump with this, and find one pump is more than enough for face and neck. I use after a toner (PC) and before moisturizer. I wait for it to sink in before applying moisturizer or treatment products. It is slightly sticky and does leave you shiny. I find it has great slip to it, and is relatively moisturizing for my skin.
I don't use this everyday, as I prefer the 2% BHA liquid for daily use. I tend to use this at night, when I do use it. However, I find that using this product a few times a month adds clarity to my complexion and also seems to add moisture if I'm particularly dry. I use it in conjunction with Retin-A, since I find this is a more moisturizing formula and the Retin-A typically dries out my skin. It's a mild and gentle formulation that really is pleasant to put on the skin. It never tingles/stings as I've experienced once or twice with the Resist AHA 10%. However, my skin is not particularly sensitive.
If you are looking for something to tighten pores and alleviate blackheads, a BHA would probably be better suited to you because AHAs only exfoliate the surface of the skin (not the inside of the pore like a BHA can). I use this as a supplement to my skincare regimen, which keeps my complexion from looking dull and adds some variety with a well-formulated product (like a varied food diet but for skin).
Results: I really think that my skin holds moisture better and is generally just better hydrated after using this product. It doesn't cause breakouts, and I think it improves the quality of my skin by switching up well-formulated products once a week. It's kind of like deep conditioning my hair - except for skin - if that makes sense.
My skin texture is smooth, and since using chemical exfoliants (BHA/AHA) twice daily the healing speed of my skin has improved, and my skin tone is more even.
If you have sensitive skin and aren't sure about chemical exfoliants, I think this is a really gentle, non-irritating formula that would be good to try. PC does sell a Resist 5% AHA product, but I don't like that one as much as this one. From what I understand, the Resist AHAs have more skin-beneficial ingredients (and also more potential for irritation if sensitive), while this one is more neutral. The 5% AHA also has a tiny amount of BHA in it - so if you're BHA intolerant you might want to steer clear of that and try this instead. The Resist AHA 10% is at a higher concentration too, which poses its own risks to sensitive skin.
This is $18.95 for 4oz and beats any AHA I've tried at the drugstore. I only buy it on sale, which PC has frequently. Watch the website before you buy products, because they will always go on sale. Look for online discount codes too, because I've doubled up discounts before.
I do really like this and will continue to repurchase. It has good exfoliating properties and really does help keep my skin hydrated and clear. I think chemical exfoliants are the ESSENTIAL aspect of my skincare regimen that help keep me clear - like, no foundation clear. Therefore, I have both AHA and BHAs (in varying formulations - gel/liquid) to help keep my skin this way - and I use varying concentrations of AHAs according to my skin condition. This may seem excessive and definitely isn't necessary for everyone but I am very strict about my skincare routine since I've had so many acne issues in the past. Also, my skin is so combination that different things work for it at different times. I don't use this everyday, but I consider it an essential in a well-rounded skincare regimen.
16 out of 20 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
*TOP REVIEWER* lindsayloohoo on 8/11/2011 11:23:00 PM more reviews by lindsayloohoo
Age: 25-29 Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium, Neutral Hair: Brunette, Wavy, Fine Eyes: Green
More reviews can be found for this product under "8% Alpha Hydroxy Solution."
This is a well-formulated, effective product that I will continue to repurchase. It's not part of my daily routine, but something that I keep on hand for dry skin days or when my skin needs a change of routine for a pick-me-up.
Background: I have normal/combo (slightly dry/slightly oily depending on season) acne-prone skin that has dramatically improved since I've been more diligent about potentially irritating ingredients (ie alcohol). I don't have sensitive skin in the conventional sense - my skin is very tolerant of products. However, I would breakout consistently using anything even just remotely not suggested for acne-prone skin. Before buying a product I refer to beautypedia.com, the cosmetic ingredient dictionary (on same site), and MUA! My acne used to be the painful bumps under the skin that would take weeks to surface. Since using Paula's Choice products I only get the occassional spot. My current skincare regimen is used in tandem with regular workouts. For me, this alleviated all hormonal breakouts (because working out balances your hormones, and sweating changes the PH of your skin - don't know if the PH part matters for acne though).
Usage: I use the Paula's Choice pump with this, and find one pump is more than enough for face and neck. I use after a toner (PC) and before moisturizer. I wait for it to sink in before applying moisturizer or treatment products. It is slightly sticky and does leave you shiny. I find it has great slip to it, and is relatively moisturizing for my skin.
I don't use this everyday, as I prefer the 2% BHA liquid for daily use. I tend to use this at night, when I do use it. However, I find that using this product a few times a month adds clarity to my complexion and also seems to add moisture if I'm particularly dry. I use it in conjunction with Retin-A, since I find this is a more moisturizing formula and the Retin-A typically dries out my skin. It's a mild and gentle formulation that really is pleasant to put on the skin. It never tingles/stings as I've experienced once or twice with the Resist AHA 10%. However, my skin is not particularly sensitive.
If you are looking for something to tighten pores and alleviate blackheads, a BHA would probably be better suited to you because AHAs only exfoliate the surface of the skin (not the inside of the pore like a BHA can). I use this as a supplement to my skincare regimen, which keeps my complexion from looking dull and adds some variety with a well-formulated product (like a varied food diet but for skin).
Results: I really think that my skin holds moisture better and is generally just better hydrated after using this product. It doesn't cause breakouts, and I think it improves the quality of my skin by switching up well-formulated products once a week. It's kind of like deep conditioning my hair - except for skin - if that makes sense.
My skin texture is smooth, and since using chemical exfoliants (BHA/AHA) twice daily the healing speed of my skin has improved, and my skin tone is more even.
If you have sensitive skin and aren't sure about chemical exfoliants, I think this is a really gentle, non-irritating formula that would be good to try. PC does sell a Resist 5% AHA product, but I don't like that one as much as this one. From what I understand, the Resist AHAs have more skin-beneficial ingredients (and also more potential for irritation if sensitive), while this one is more neutral. The 5% AHA also has a tiny amount of BHA in it - so if you're BHA intolerant you might want to steer clear of that and try this instead. The Resist AHA 10% is at a higher concentration too, which poses its own risks to sensitive skin.
This is $18.95 for 4oz and beats any AHA I've tried at the drugstore. I only buy it on sale, which PC has frequently. Watch the website before you buy products, because they will always go on sale. Look for online discount codes too, because I've doubled up discounts before.
I do really like this and will continue to repurchase. It has good exfoliating properties and really does help keep my skin hydrated and clear. I think chemical exfoliants are the ESSENTIAL aspect of my skincare regimen that help keep me clear - like, no foundation clear. Therefore, I have both AHA and BHAs (in varying formulations - gel/liquid) to help keep my skin this way - and I use varying concentrations of AHAs according to my skin condition. This may seem excessive and definitely isn't necessary for everyone but I am very strict about my skincare routine since I've had so many acne issues in the past. Also, my skin is so combination that different things work for it at different times. I don't use this everyday, but I consider it an essential in a well-rounded skincare regimen.
10 out of 11 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
dusice on 7/5/2011 5:36:00 AM more reviews by dusice
Age: 25-29 Skin: Acne-prone Hair: Brunette Eyes: Brown
This AHA is a great AHA product if this is what you're in the market for. The ingredients are excellent, the consistency is super for sensitive skin types, I didn't get any rashes or unpleasant reaction from this gel. I didn't use it long enough to see if it doesn't anything to the skin yet, but it probably does, you just have to be PATIENT with this product, IT TAKES A LONG TIME FOR RESULTS! A YEAR OR MORE!!!!!! Just be patient and the results will be there, it has been scientifically documented to dig deep into the skin to clear up any little problems you may have, just give it some time to work its wonders.
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
*TOP REVIEWER* oonaghst on 7/1/2011 6:12:00 PM more reviews by oonaghst
Age: 44-55 Skin: Dry, Fair-Medium Hair: Brown Eyes: Blue
I've got normal/dry skin that occasionally reacts so I was a bit apprehensive about this, but tempted due to a certain amount of hyperpigmentation that I have. I can't comment yet on whether it does anything for that as it's early days, but it's caused no irritation, dries very quickly and my skin feels and looks really smooth in the morning. If it helps my hyperpigmentation any, I'll upgrade to 5 lippies!
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
elin22 on 6/9/2011 1:12:00 AM more reviews by elin22
Age: 25-29 Skin: Acne-prone Hair: Brunette Eyes: Green
This is useful to have on hand for skin emergencies. For anyone with milia, or similar blemishes, I’d recommend this gel. I had two milia on my face that refused to budge. I used the AHA every night for about a week, and that was enough for them to be totally gone – though I did use the BHA gel a couple of times too. This also makes my skin soft and smooth and gets rid of flaky skin. However, my chin is prone to redness so I usually avoid putting AHA on it. I use this gel at night, and try to put it on an hour or two before bed so it has time to sink in.
Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
cherrim on 5/31/2011 7:06:00 PM more reviews by cherrim
Age: 36-43 Skin: Dry, Fair-Medium, Warm Hair: Brown, Wavy, Fine Eyes: Brown
Another staple in my face routine. I can only use it about 2 times a week maximum, or else my sensitive skin can feel a little "burned." When I use it at night, my skin feel soooo soft in the morning. I use 2% BHA lotion on the nights that I don't use this 8% AHA gel.