The best BP
I've tried a bunch of Benzoyl Peroxide treatments over the tests, and this is definitely the best I've found. It is less irritating than other products while still being affective against acne. It has a nice thin texture and leaves a matte finish, so it's invisible on my skin.
—A
So far, so good!
I am really happy with the results of this product. So far, it has helped to reduce my acne when using it as a spot treatment. It seems to speed up the process of getting rid of blemishes. I do, however, find it overly drying at times, and I need to apply a lot more moisturizer to compensate. Also, as other reviewers have noted, you have to store this product upside down to avoid it leaking into the cap. Other than that, I am pleased with this purchase. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your comments, we will be sure to share your experience with the product to Paula and her Product Development Manager. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Nicole
Great product, not so great packaging
I think this is a great product and a little goes a long way so the tube does last awhile, however I do have one minor complaint about the packaging. I used this product awhile back but stopped while I was pregnant. Now that my baby is 8 months old, my skin is acting up again so I bought a new tube. I remembered that the product would leak out of the hole into the cap when standing up so with my new tube I keep it laying horizontally to avoid this. Unfortunatley, it still seeps out. It stays inside the cap, but when I twist the cap off, the circular hole is filled with product. I'm not sure what about the consistency of the product or design of the tube causes this but it can get messy and product is wasted. It's a minor complaint though overall because I do find this product works effectively at calming my breakouts quickly. Thanks Paula! Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We will certainly pass along your comments to Paula and are always working on improving packaging. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Jill
Effective while gentle
I've tried a sample of this 2.5% treatment as well as the 5% one, and find that both are equally effective at healing pimples. I use it as a spot treatment, and it really helps to reduce the soreness and redness, sometimes just overnight. The 2.5% is a bit more gentle and less drying than the 5%.
—H.W.
CLEAR FACE.
I have dry skin but had moderate acne for about 4 years and severe white heads all over my face. I started using the benzoyl first and eventually moved on to the whole line and after 4 months, my skin has no acne at all, only some little red marks from the past cystic breakouts. *I used skin recovery moisturizer as well. Paula, You've really saved my life and now I'm going around telling my friends how wonderful your products are and once they try it, they LOVE it! Thank you again. I'll probably use your products rest of my life and I'm only 21.
—SH
so effective and gentle
i have combination sensitive reactive acne prone skin that i am able to keep clear as a part of a regimen... i can't use retin a since i'm trying to get pregant...Anyways I have been using the PC BPs for several years and I am very pleased. I discovered that I prefer 2.5% vs 5%. with 5% i can only use a quarter of a pea and w/ 2.5% i can us a quarter. this 2.5% is more effective for me than some other store bought brands that I have tried, perhaps because it is formulated with calming agents which complement its effectiveness and reduce inflammation. gentle and calming and effective. i order this from canada! and it is not cheap to do that.
—Stephanie
Weak
Used this product for a few months but my acne was still the same so I switched to the extra strength. Paula's Choice needs a middle ground for their acne treatments. This was too weak for my skin but at least it didn't dry it out and the extra strength treatment dried out my skin SO MUCH but it still didn't work. Definitely won't be using the CLEAR system again. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear of your experience with these products. While the response you have indicated is not typical, we do understand that each customer is uniquely different in how they will respond to products or ingredients. This along with everyday environmental factors can sometimes play a part in how someone will ultimately respond to a product or combination of products. For that reason, we have located your account information and applied a credit for the product. It does sound like it would be best to consult a dermatologist for prescription options to help control your acne. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Elaine
Contains a pore-clogging ingredient :(
I love the first two steps of the CLEAR three-step treatment but I think this benzoyl peroxide lotion is breaking me out. I researched the ingredients and noticed that it contains isopropyl myristate -- which is a known pore-clogging ingredient, so I am confused as to why Paula would include this in the lotion when it's supposed to be an anti-acne lotion! The 5% benzoyl peroxide lotion does not contain isopropyl myristate so is there anyway you can remove it from this formula for those who cannot tolerate a 5% solution? I haven't tried the 5% yet, so I'm praying that will work for me. Please please consider reformulating without the pore-clogging ingredient!! Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. While we know each case is different, we can assure you that the amount of isopropyl myristate used in this formula is very low and thus poses no risk of clogging the pores or leading to a breakout. The benzoyl peroxide in the formula is designed to help kill the acne causing bacteria and the lotion texture is very light and fluid so it would be very unlikely the product would cause a problem. In reality any product can potentially clog the pores as it depends on how each user personally responds to the ingredients/products being used along with other products and outside factors. If this product or any product were to cause a problem for you such as a breakout or irritation we would certainly credit you for the product and may offer suggestions on what to try instead. In the meantime we have passed along your concern to Paula and she would like to add that the information you have seen on the internet about pore clogging ingredients is misleading. The research about pore clogging ingredients dates back to the 80s and the ingredients that were tested were used in a 100% concentration and not in combination with other ingredients. The isopropyl myristate in the 2.5% BP product is less than 1% of the formula. What she strongly suggests for you is to consider the texture of the product to determine if it can clog pores. For example a liquid, gel, or thin serum or lotion can work beautifully for someone with oily or blemish prone skin and stay away from thicker products such as creams and balms which can be a problem. She also wants to encourage you to consider using one of her 2% BHA Exfoliating Toners from the CLEAR line as well if you are not already. We hope this information proves helpful, please contact customer care with any questions.
—Michelle
Effective without irritation
I like the light texture of this product. It helps to help with my breakouts yet does not irritate or dry my skin. I would prefer a pump applicator, as the tube doesn't seem to seal well. When I open the cap, there is a lot of product that gets into the lid. So I now store it upside down with the cap up.
—Sandy
Zaps acne but by cautious
this is a real effective products for speeding the healing of 'zits', however be cautious where you place this product. Using this on the entire face may cause stinging/redness, however just placing a small dab on the 'zit' will not cause the same irritation. Customer Care Response: Thank you for taking time to review this product. We can understand how frustrating this experience must be. While the response you have indicated is not typical, we understand that each consumer is distinctly different which means they may respond differently to our products (whether used alone or combined with other products). This along with everyday environmental factors can sometimes play a part in how someone will ultimately respond to a product or combination of products. For that reason, we have located your account information and applied a credit for the product. Please contact our customer care team if we can be of further assistance.
—Gwen
Needs an in-between size
I like the fact that this really does prevent a breakout from getting too nasty, and the matte finish is a good thing to have in an anti-acne product. I get pimples occasionally and would like to see a smaller size version made available. As it stands I don't think I can finish the full size tube before it expires but I want to have an anti acne product handy when the pimples strike! Customer Care Response: Thank you for your feedback! We will pass along your suggestion to Paula. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Diane
A life saver
I have been using this product for so many years now, I cannot remember NOT using it. And to be honest, at age 38, I despise having to use benzoyl peroxide; that said, I have tried just about all of them (the ones recommended on Beautypedia and others rated highly by consumers), and none even come close to working as well as Paula's Choice Blemish Fighting Solution. This one does not irritate or dry out my skin, even while using it in cold weather. Plus, if I use it religiously, once per day (at night), I practically never break out. (It should be noted that the Resist Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator works brilliantly in tandem with this product; the results are enhanced, and you really do wake up with glowing, soft skin). One minor quibble: the recommended amount to use of this product is not effective for me. I must apply a generous layer to achieve perfect skin. I suspect this is true for BP in general, as this is explored extensively on acne forums like acne.org. Because of that, this product is fairly expensive to use consistently. But having broken out skin (especially at my age) does not warrant spending less on an inferior product. For anyone struggling with acne, I can't recommend this brilliant product highly enough. It has transformed my skin.
—Dustin
A must have for problem skin
If there's one thing I'd like to think I can help anyone with, it's how to deal with oily, acne prone skin. I've been cocktailing PC's products for a few years now and my skin has never looked better. The CLEAR line is her attempt to create anti-acne products to those dealing with breakouts, be that hormonal or not. This is a slightly fluid/watery lotion that comes in both a 2.5% and 5% concentration of benzoyl peroxide that is the gold standard when dealing with breakouts. I've tried both formulas and am a little more partial to the 2.5% only because I don't have terribly stubborn acne breakouts. The lotion is also packed with anti-irritants that help to reduce redness and dryness from the BP. The thing that I admire about Paula is that she always lists the ingredients, the reason for including them in the product and their function. I've had amazing results with this product (unfortunately it is only available through her online site so I ran out and am now using a Clinique product). Anyone dealing with oily skin or breakouts please check this product out because it is a wonderful option to anyone that is frustrated with their current skin care routine.
—David
please please can we get this in the UK?
Would love to be able to get hold of this in the UK, help!
I am currently using the cleanser and toner from the CLEAR range and it has done wonders for me skin, would love to complete it with the treatment!
—Jennifer
Great
This is the best benzoyl peroxide product I have used (and I have used many). I can use both salicylic acid and this and won't get all red and irritated. It still leaves the skin slightly tight, but it's very mild compared to the drying effect of some other BPs I've tried. It's very effective, except for those hormonal monthly cystic breakouts. But, that's to be expected. I use the birth control pill and clindamycin cream to remedy that. The price is not a bargain, but it's fair and the quality of this lotion makes it worth it.
—LC
Powerful & Light
This formula is light and does a great job at getting rid of acne without being too drying for my sensitive skin. I have combination skin that gets very oily in the T-zone. I also have rosacea that will act up if I use any products that are too strong. This one has been very calming and clears up my acne quickly. I have been very pleased wth this product. I also use the 2% BHA gel before this, twice a day.
—Stacy H
I like the packaging...
I'll be the dissenter here and say I happen to love the new packaging. I think the bright orange is a great divergence from the bland and clinical grey-and-white of the previous package. I will say the old name was better, but the fact remains- this product WORKS. Nothing else cleared up my skin like Paula's CLEAR line has.
—Eden
Packaging
I love this product! The only reason I give it a four instead of a five is because of the packaging. It is designed to stand on its cap. However, the lotion isn't viscus enough to stay in the tube and tends to continually leak into the cap; I lose quite a bit of the product this way and can't store it in the way that it's designed. Customer Care Response: We are sorry you had a leaky tube! Leaking shouldn't occur when the cap is closed tightly. We would be happy to send you a replacement for a leaking product. Contact Customer Care at 1-800-831-4088 for assistance.
—Pamela Shaw
Lifesaver
I have acne-prone skin but most drugstore benzoyl peroxide products prompt a very nasty reaction. This is the first product in YEARS I've been able to use without breaking out in a rash. Hallelujah!
—Devon W.
GREAT SPOT TREATMENT EVER!!
I use the regular strength daily, but I do have cystic acne as well and this does the trick when I feel one coming on.(those that have this kind of acne know what I'm talking about). It stops it in it's tracks!!My face currently is acne free due to Paula's other products, but I still WON'T let go of this one, just in case of stress or hormonal acne emergencies. It's the BEST!..
—linda
Excellent for breakouts!
I have oily, sensitive, and acne prone skin and I've been using the regular strength acne fighting treatment for years and it doesn't irritate my skin or leave it dry as long as I use a moisturizer. I use it with the Extra Strength BHA toner and moisturizer at night, and it keeps my skin clear. Thank you Paula!
—Angela
Great stuff
I've been using the Blemish fighting solution for around 5 to 6 years now. There's nothing like it on the market. The finish is beautiful, not feeling stiff or too dry, and it is definitely effective. Another perfect score for Paula's products. Thanks again.
—Serene Pedersen
Great Product - Not keen on new packaging
This works so well, I use it every day and it clears up my skin beautifully.
Do not like the new packaging, it looks like every other acne treatment. Blemish fighting solution much better name too. Please bring it back.
Customer Care Response: We are happy to hear that the products are working well for you. We will forward your comments along to our Product Development/Packaging team for further consideration.
—Mart C
Very good benzoyl peroxide
Because my acne was moderate, I started with the 5% and only switched to this one when I realized that the 5% was drying my skin out too much and making my acne worse. My skin is finally clear (using this product all over my face, after using a gentle cleanser, Paula's BHA lotion, and following with the Hydralight moisturizer.) I didn't give product a 5 because the packaging is really annoying (the product must be kept upright or it will be hard to get out, but product pools in the cap) and because it's a bit grittier than other benzoyl peroxide lotions I've tried.
—Su
Good product but poor packing
The product can do everything it claims. It can be absorbed quickly and it indeed set into a matte finish. I just not quite like the packing... The content flows and get stuck inside the cap. how messy!
—Y.K.
Does not dry out skin
This is a thin lotion and it smells nice. I apply it all over my face except my eye area. It dries fast and does not feel tight. I was concerned about using this without a moisturizer, but find it gentle enough that it works well without a moisturizer, too. Even if you do not want to to the entire Clear regime, this product will add to your regular products well.
—Jenna
Great Product-Bad package
As always, this is a great product but the cap does not fit properly. The product leaks into the cap when standing up. It's just messy. Paula, you critique others for poor packaging...I hope you look at this one, too.
—Tracey
Sample Review
Love the texture. I'll probably switch when I'm out of what I'm using now, since it contains a fragrance. I like the fluidity of Paula's 2.5. I do wish it was a little cheaper. I can buy 3.5 oz. of what I'm using now for about $26, but since Paula's 2.5 is thinner, maybe it will last and price/quantity will even out. I'd also like to say, it's not that easy to find a 2.5% in a substantial size without awful perfume! Great job.
—L
my saving grace!
I've struggled with acne my whole life and paula's products are the only thing that gives me clear skin. I don't use the toner as it seems to aggravate my skin, and I buy my cleanser per her reviews at the drug store - it's less expensive, but her acne fighting cream is the best. I use the 5%. I am also grateful for her acne myth information. I was doing everything wrong in my skin care and causing my acne to be worse. I am so thankful that I don't have to live with embarrassing acne anymore. Thank you Paula, thank you.
—brandi jones
Wonderful Product
I love this product! The Acne Fighting Treatment is very effective in eliminating acne practically overnight. I have cystic acne and it can be very painful and red. A small amount of this on the pimple or affected area goes a long way. For me it usually begins clearing up within the first 24 hours and the pimple is completely gone within 48 hours. It is very drying so use it sparingly and make sure you use a good moisturizer. I highly recommend this product!
—Heidi
One Night Wonder
Have chronic milia on my chin/upper lip for several years. No over-the-counter products worked even a little... until I used this product last night for first time. Woke up this morning and found a substantial difference in the size/texture of milia. Wishful thinking or did this product really work a one night miracle? Thanks Paula! I'll be continuing with the product for a long-term miracle!
—Jeannine Pinnt
Penny
Remarkable. I have been on the pill for 15+ years to treat acne - but this is the best. Skin is dry for a couple of weeks while adjusting, but now - absolutely blemish free, supple and glowing. Happy to ship this to the UK. Thanks Paula - life changing!
—Penny Bryant
What makes this product unique?
CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Fighting Treatment contains 2.5% benzoyl peroxide which is considered the gold-standard for preventing acne breakouts. It works immediately to start eliminating acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness.
Unlike most benzoyl peroxide-based acne products, Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Fighting Treatment contains no harsh or irritating ingredients that can make acne worse, such as alcohol, menthol, or camphor.
Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Fighting Treatment also contains soothing anti-irritants to help skin heal and reduce red marks caused by blemishes. Its super-light lotion texture sets to a matte finish, and can be worn under makeup.
This product is 100% fragrance- and colorant-free.
Who is this product for?
CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Fighting Treatment is recommended for all skin types struggling with mild to moderate acne. It is suitable for men or women, teens and adults alike.
How should this product be used?
After cleansing with Paula's Choice CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser and exfoliating with Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Targeted Acne Relief Toner, cover the areas where breakouts occur with a thin layer of Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Fighting Treatment 1 to 2 times per day.
Because some people may experience dryness when they first start using a product with benzoyl peroxide, you can start by applying it once a day or every other day to see how your skin responds.
What Makes Paula's Choice Products Unique?
Created by world renowned skin care expert and author Paula Begoun
Proven effectiveness based on hundreds of published scientific studies
Targeted systems for wrinkles, acne, rosacea, sensitive skin, oily skin, dry skin and more
Fragrance-free, color-free, free of harmful skin irritants, and never tested on animals
Sources to support the claims made for CLEAR Acne Fighting Treatment:
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy, October 2009, pages 2,555–2,562; Dermatologic Clinics, January 2009, pages 33–42; British Journal of Dermatology, August 2008, pages 480–481; and Dermatology Therapy, March-April 2008, pages 86–95; Dermatologic Surgery, July 2005, pages 873–880; Lancet, December 2004, pages 2188–2195; Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, September-October 2000, pages 292–296; and www.naturaldatabase.com.
After cleansing with Paula's Choice CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser and exfoliating with Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Targeted Acne Relief Exfoliating Toner, apply a thin layer of Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Fighting Treatment once or twice a day.
Because some people may experience dryness when they first start using a product with benzoyl peroxide, it may be necessary to reduce application to once every other day or, if twice daily application proves to be too much, reduce application to once daily, morning or evening.
For best results, do not use hydroquinone (the active ingredient in our RESIST Skin Lightening Lotion & Gel) and benzoyl peroxide (the active ingredient in our CLEAR Acne Fighting Treatments) at the same time. A temporary dark staining of the skin may occur. If accidentally used together, wash the skin with soap and water to remove the staining.
Why doesn't Paula's Choice offer a 10% strength benzoyl peroxide?
Research has shown that 2.5% and 5% strengths of benzoyl peroxide work far better than a 10% solution. With a 10% concentration of benzoyl peroxide, the increased potential of dryness and irritation negates further benefit.
If you find a 2.5% or 5% concentration of benzoyl peroxide doesn't work for you, the next step is to see a dermatologist and explore prescription-only treatments such as BenzaClin or Clindamycin which are topical antibiotics, or Retin-A or Differin which are prescription-strength topical forms of vitamin A. There are also oral medications to discuss with your physician.
What happened to your Blemish Fighting Solution?
Nothing happened except a name change! The same formula that's worked so well for thousands of Paula's Choice customers struggling with acne has simply been renamed and added to our CLEAR line of anti-acne products. Paula and her Cosmetics Cop Team wanted to reposition this product as part of the streamlined, 3-step approach for achieving blemish-free, clearer skin. Other than the name, CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Fighting Treatment is identical to our former Blemish Fighting Solution.
I use one of your CLEAR Acne Fighting Treatments and have noticed some of my towels and/or pillowcases have become stained, almost as if they were bleached. Why does this happen?
Because these products contain benzoyl peroxide, they may bleach hair or dyed fabrics. Be sure to apply carefully around your hairline and eyebrows and allow the product to absorb and dry completely before coming in contact with fabrics such as linens, towels, or clothing.
