nice cleanser!
I got this for my husband, who's prone to acne and oily skin and it works great for him. Now I use it sometimes too, whenever I feel oily. My skin is very sensitive and usually too dry for this cleanser but I love the fact that it dissolves makeup really well, doesn't irritate my skin at all, doesn't leave a film, and doesn't make my face feel tight. Highly recommend!
—seattlemama
Clear line changed my skin!
The clear line changed my skin and made me so much more confident!!!! I've been using it for about a year and my skin has been under control for quite a while besides the hormonal chin breakouts that probably wouldn't be so bad if I didn't pick :(. My only complaint about it would be that it's kinda drying, but since my skin is way better I've only been using the toner twice a day and of course other Paula's products. Anyone with acne should really try the whole line to start out!!!
—Jen
By far, my favorite
I tried the three step CLEAR acne system and, even though I have pretty bad acne at times, this system was too drying for my skin. The cleanser, however, is amazing. Cleanses my skin without overdrying, makes it feel really clean and refreshed and ready for the day.
—Lori
Best Cleanser Period!
I have tried many cleansers and most of them often made me break out bit by bit. However, I found out about this cleanser a couple of months ago and have been in love with it ever since. This cleanser feels incredibly fresh on my face and it washes off really easily. I have used this for months and break outs don't happen as often as it did before. Simply amazing.
—Pete
amazing!!
I have had the worst acne breakouts for the past 2 years; from small pimples to large nasty cyst-like bumps and Ive been looking everywhere and tried pretty much every product to help my skin from department store products to expensive products and nothing came close to Paula's products! Within the first few applications the acne started to disappear, within a week all signs of future pimples were gone and after that until now I have yet to have a single pimple appear and my scars are gone! I cant say enough how amazing this face wash is. I use a small amount and I love how clean and tight it makes me skin feel. All products I use now are all Paula's Choice and I highly recommend these products to everyone!
—Kylee
Great Cleanser. Really
I don't like the texture of my skin but I love to touch it whenever I wash my face with this cleanser. I was using the one by Alpha Hydrox before this and thought it was pretty good. And by pretty good I mean it didn't break me out. But THIS cleanser by Paula makes my skin feel very soft and very smooth. I love it BUT I'm going to try the Skin Balancing cleanser now just out of curiosity and to make sure I have the best cleanser for my skin. If all else fails, I will come back to this one.
—Allison
In Love
I've been using Paula's Choice products for 3 months now, so I feel confident giving a positive review. I have textbook combination, sensitive skin prone to hormone triggered acne. This cleanser in conjunction with the CLEAR toner and skin balancing moisturizer has completely changed how I feel about my face. The texture is smoother, redness eased, and I have only had one active pimple in the last month. It works! It's affordable! Buy it now!! My only complaint is the packaging, but I've already purchased my next round of products (so I guess it doesn't bother me too much). Customer Care Response: Thank you for your comments. We are happy to hear the products are working so well for you! You can be assured all review feedback is monitored and tracked. Please contact customer care with any questions or concerns or any problems with packaging and we will take care of you right away.
—Ragan
not for me....
I really thought this was gonna be the last stop for me with skincare but unfortunately it's just not right for me...my redness appeared worse...i had more bumps...prev breakouts did not go away....just did nothing for me and it was too drying for me...very sad! Sorry but not doing what I would have hoped...Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear of your experience with this product. 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. We will credit you for the product. You want to make sure and use a daily BHA exfoliant in the lotion form in order to battle blemishes and clogged pores and to soothe the skin and reduce redness. Please contact customer care with any questions and so that we may discuss your routine to suggest the best products for you to try.
—christina
I really wanted to love this product
After two weeks of using this product my face cleared up but it also started to feel really dry. Within days my skin was peeling. Still is after a week of not using this. I've been trying everything to try and repair my skin but it still feels really dry, itchy and I have patches that are peeling. Embarrassing and uncomfortable. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear this product was too much for your skin. The cleanser is designed to be very gentle but it was just not the right fit for your skin. We will certainly credit you for it right away and send other cleansers to try. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Cassie
Too drying for my combination skin
I find this cleaser to be pretty decent for makeup removal, however for my oily/combination skin, it is way too drying for daily use. After I use it, my skin feels tight, parched and begging for moisture. It could be good for a teen with extemely oily skin, but for my combination skin, it (along with the extra-strenght exfolian) caused significant irritation and dry patches around my nose and mouth. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear about your experience with this product. 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 will credit you for the product but are having trouble locating your account and will also send you samples of another cleanser to try. Please contact customer care so that we may locate your account.
—Aura
far too drying
i combination, acne prone, sensitive, reactive skin. the only cleanser that i can use twice a day is cetaphil. this really stripped my skin and made it very dry. it is not unusual or unexpected since it does contain some SLS. it is winter and my skin is a little dryer than usual. need something even gentler. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear you found this cleanser drying; it does not have any drying ingredients in it but was just too light for your skin. You would respond better to a creamier cleanser such as the Moisture Boost One Step Face Cleanser which is designed for dry skin. We will send you samples of it to try and in the meantime credit you for this cleanser. Also, despite the name similarity, sodium laureth sulfate is not the same as sodium lauryl sulfate. It is a milder cleansing agent due to a higher amount and different chemical structure of the fatty alcohols that required to manufacture this agent so it is perfectly fine in a skin care product. Please contact customer care with any questions, we are happy to help.
—Stephanie
Best cleanser ever!
I love this cleanser! I started having acne breakouts (face and body) after having my kids. My skin looks great! It really cleans off all the oil and makeup. In the winter, I do use a toner and/or the hydralight moisture lotion with it. Beautiful!
—Tracey
it made my skin flake
The CLEAR product line is the first set i've purchased because all reviews over the net were really positive. I tried the 3 steps altogether just like others suggested and appreciated, but realized that they might not be for me.. The Clear Normalizing Cleanser seems to be the worst. It washes off make up very well but leaves my skin so very dry and peel and itchy almost right after rinse. Though i tried to apply the most moistured cream after that, it still made my skin flake. I'm happy with other Paula's Choices' product lines. Skin recovery system is the most favorite. But Clear system is too irritated that i won't recommend to anyone with sensitive skin type. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear of your experience with this product. 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. It does sound like the Skin Recovery Cleanser work the best with your skin and is okay to mix and match between the lines. We are having trouble locating your account in order to offer you a credit for this product. Please contact customer care via live chat, email, or over the phone so that we may locate your account.
—meg
Finally found the One!!!
This is a superb cleanser! I finally found a cleanser that isn't too emollient or drying. Just like the name says, it is normalizing. I have oily skin and this rinses very clean without leaving any residue, but it doesn't strip your skin and leave it feeling tight either. There are no fragrances, which I love, yet somehow it still smells clean. Must mean there is some good stuff in there! Also, it doesn't take much to lather up on my face so I can see that it will last a while. Purchase some of the sample sizes for traveling, as this probably won't travel well unless you put it in a different container. That's OK with me, because I like the container this comes in. No pump means I can get every last drop out of it easily, especially since it's not too thick. I can't imagine this product could be any more perfect. Don't change a thing! Also, you can't go wrong with Paula's products. Her customer service is unbeatable. They really care about your experience and want you to be happy. My advice is to buy samples of lots of her products then choose what works for you. She has some amazing products that can change your relationship with your skin forever! Good luck!
—KM
Thank You
I don't use this product, but my teen daugher does. She uses the Acne Fighting Treatment & 1% Toner. Her skin is looking better. But I really wanted to say thanks because when we first ordered I just ordered 2 samples of each product but the company mistakenly sent 2 full size containers of each product. I called & was just going to pay for the products but the agent said to just keep them. I was stunned, never had that happened. I love the most of the products & they work very well for me. Thanks
—Janie
Just Wonderful
I use many of Paula's Choice products, and I've finally found a combo that really works for my combination skin. At 46, I also need some anti-aging help too. With this cleanser plus the 2% BHA Liquid alternated with the Resist AHA Daily and Weekly and the Resist Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator my breakouts have all but disappeared, and they had been quite bad. I use the Skin Balancing Moisturizer for day. The cleanser is gentle and still removes all of my makeup--no tight dry skin. Great product! I am buying another bottle for my 14 year old son who has been using mine with the Clear Skin Toner. I rarely, if ever, write reviews, but this deserves praise. Bravo Paula!
—Maria
Not for me
I found this cleanser didn't really seem to solve my breakout issues. While it wasn't as drying as some other options I have tried, unfortunately the redness and breakouts I experienced continued dispite using this product for months. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We do suggest using a well formulated 2% BHA exfoliant on a daily basis as well as the disinfectant benzoyl peroxide in order to prevent blemishes and clogged pores. A cleanser on its own will not help too much in preventing acne. Daily use of an anti-acne line for at least a few months will help with more noticeable results. We have credited you the purchase price for the cleanser which you should see shortly. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Robyn B
Great for Teenage Son
my son is 16 and has hit the 'ugly skin' stage of his life. he is lucky that he doesn't get many breakouts but when he does they always seem to happen when something is coming up. he uses this cleanser in addition to the regular strength CLEAR toner. these two products keep his breakouts at bay.
—camille
drying
I purchased the entire Clear Extra Strenght system and I'm not completely happy, I cannot use the cleanser, toner and acne treatment together because they make my skin really dry, red and itchy, so I started using just the cleanser and toner at night and the acne treatment only occasionally as a spot treatment. My face still feels pretty dry after using this cleanser and the moisturizing gel I purchased is not moisturizing enough to get rid of the peeling, dry skin...I may have to buy a more moisturizing lotion to use on dry spots, but I thought the cleaser would be more gentle...I'm still using it to give it a fair chance, maybe my skin needs to adjust to it...not sure...I really wanted to love these products....Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear the products have not responded well with your skin. We would suggest not using them any longer and we will credit you for these products. In the meantime we will send samples of alternatives to try to help add more hydration to your skin but still help prevent clogged pores and blemishes. Please contact customer care with any questions, we are happy to help!
—Priscilla
Helped calm my face down!
My face doesn't like any of the other products in this line, but I have great luck with the cleanser by itself. I have really oily skin with rosacea and moderate acne. This cleans without drying and it seems to keep redness down to a minimum. My acne is not completely gone, but it is much improved. Since the rest of this line is too drying for me, I'm going to keep looking for the Paula's products that will put me over the edge. This is a good first step. Thanks, Paula!
—Cara
Sold on Sample
I'm a serial picker and with my occasional acne my skin is usually sore and irritated. I stretch my sample of this for 3 mornings and I have never been so in love with a cleanser! I usually prepare myself for more irritation and burning when its time to wash my face but this was soothing! Love it and I love the current sale price!
—Shelley G
Didn't work for me
I think I'm in the minority but this line DID NOT work for me! I've been using it for 2 months and my skin is the same as before. I have been a huge Paula's Choice fan but her acne line didn't help my skin. I'm 31 and have very small "zits" on my chin and this line did not help get rid of them. I think I might try proactive.
Customer Care Response: While we wish these products had worked for you, we understand that each consumer will respond distinctly different to products and ingredients. Because you were not 100% satisfied with the purchase, we have applied a credit to your account for these products. Please contact our customer care team directly if we can be of further assistance. For additional anti-acne options please visit www.beautypedia.com.
—Amber
Bigger bottle w/pump, please!
Bigger bottle (like 2x bigger) and pump please!
My whole family uses this (2 teen sons) and I'd put one big bottle in each bathroom.
—Shelli Jackson
Love!
I LOVE THE CLEAR LINE! It has improved my skin so much. If you are looking for a review check out my channel.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tLlgY4MODQ
—Monica
Gentle but effective
I'm very happy with this cleanser. I use it with my Olay ProX brush and it cleans my skin thoroughly without drying. Used in combination with the toner and acne fighting treatment, I've definitely seen improvements in my skin.
—jtnd
Heaven in a bottle!
First off I just have to say that I absolutely love this product! There are not many products out there that I would give a five star rating to but this product definitely deserves it! Within 2-3 months of consistently using Paula's Choice CLEAR normalizing cleanser, toner and acne fighting treatment I saw a huge improvement in my skin. Not only had the redness and pain I had experienced before using Paula's Choice, gone down, but my skin looked healthy, clear and had a glow to it. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who has stubborn and painful acne. Works like a charm!
—Catherine
Astonishing.
I have been suffering from adult acne since I turned 18, and have had the hardest time finding products that are suited to my skin and not a teenager's. I also have super-oily skin and have trouble finding a system that will keep my skin fresh and oil-free all day. I was using Origins Zero Oil, but it didn't seem to do much at all - except make my skin sensitive due to the essential oils in it.
Then I bought Paula's CLEAN system as well as the RESIST clear complexion moisturizer, and WOW. Three days later - yes, three days - my skin is oil-free, clean, and CLEAR OF ACNE. Even some old scars are starting to heal! For the first time in years, I can go outside without makeup and feel confident that I don't have an oil slick on my face.
Thank you, Paula, for making my skin beautiful, for a reasonable price! :)
—Karyn
Skeptic...no more...
I've tried a lot of products for adult acne relief, including expensive department store brands, and some brands Paula has recommended in her books. I bought this cleanser 4 months ago, and I can definitely tell a difference. My skin feels less tight, I have fewer breakouts, especially at that time of the month, and I've gotten my pre-teen son to start using it. It is especially effective on my lower jaw and neck area, which seems to have developed acne as I have gotten older. I don't ever write reviews on products, and waited a long time on this product to decide to give it a great review. It has been totally worth it!
—Jennifer
best thing ever!
Love this cleanser! This cleanser is the only thing I have ever used, and i mean ever, that has done anything for my acne! Within the first three days of using this I started to see my acne going away and I've been using it for about a month now and for once I finally have my acne under control! I can't thank you enough for making such a awesome cleanser and plz never stop making it.
—Keith
Clearly the best!
Although I fear I'm jumping the gun by posting this quite early, I really love the whole Clear system. I ordered last week. I have used other Paula's Choice products with success. I have stubborn, persistent acne and oily skin. I have tried every prescription cream, pill, peel. Name it, and I've tried it. I've put faith into things like Proactiv and other over-the-counter treatments. I've even tried natural approaches. Simply nothing has worked for me and in less than a week I have seen marked improvement in my skin. Finally! :D Thanks Paula!
—Danielle
One Improvement
I swear by Paula's Choice products and the CLEAR cleanser is no exception, however, there absolutely needs to be a better way of removing the seal from the opening of the bottle. PLEASE put a pull tab or something to make opening the bottle easier? It's nearly impossible to open without spilling it or using my teeth to tear it off! Customer Care Response: Thank you for your feedback. We will share this with our Product Development Team.
—Julie
FINALLY-SOMETHING THAT WORKS!!!!
Just want to say to anyone with acne that you don't have to live in constant stress over you skin. After 40 plus years of daily struggles with acne, and using just about every product out there, I have FINALLY found somthing that really works. If you have tried everything else, please try Paula's line. I can assure you, you will not be dissapionted ever again!! I can now even go without makeup if I want to! No more covering up breakouts or scars because not only has my acne gone away, but my skin is actually healthy for the first time in my life. I'm so looking forward to being able to go on vacation with my family and not having to worry if i get splashed and it washes off my coverup makeup!!! Of course I won't forget the sunscreen!! A BIG THANK YOU TO PAULA AND YOUR WHOLE TEAM!!!! I won't ever be without your wonderful products!!!
—Penny
Very nice for makeup removal
This cleanser is wonderful for removing makeup. Leaves my skin feeling great, not dry or irritated. One of the ingredients is an anti-bacterial. I am also using other Clear products and am still breaking out. After this bottle is empty I will decide whether to purchase again for the anti-acne claim. Other than that, I would continue to use because it really is a great cleanser
—Carey
was worried
I was somewhat worried to try the Clear products, typically any blemish type cleansers, etc. strip & do more damage to my sensitive-combo skin type. Clear Normalizing Cleanser is very gentle. I was surprised how after 1 day of use of the cleanser & toner my skin looked so much clearer! I wish I tried the Clear system years ago.
—Lori
Outstanding product
I wrote a review earlier saying this product was great but drying, but have completely changed my mind after using it for a few days. Maybe my skin just needed to get used to it or something, but I no longer find it drying. What it does do is leave my skin silky smooth, glowing, and just really refines the texture of my skin. Can't believe one little cleanser can do all this! Love it.
—Laiki
Great cleanser but drying
This cleanser does leave your skin incredibly clean, and doesn't leave behind any residue, like so many other cleansers. It would be a 100% perfect product if it wasn't so drying (despite the claim that it won't dry your skin). For people like me, who have both dry AND blemished skin, it's not quite the right option. Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear that you found this cleanser too drying. Please contact Customer Service for assistance with a refund or exchange.
—Laiki
NOT for dry-ish skin
When I used the product selector on this site, and shopped for dry, acne-prone skin, this was suggested. It dried out my skin very badly, even with occasional use. Then, I started to get the worst breakouts I have ever had in my life. Having had a similar reaction to toothpaste with Triclosan (it seemed to create bad breath after awhile), I think this ingredient needs to be re-examined. Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear about your experience, please contact Paula's Choice Customer Service via phone for further assistance with a return or an exchange within 60 days.
—Trenna
Gentle Enough For Rosacea
I have suffered from rosacea for 16 years. I have always used Paula's Choice products and they have helped me manage my condition for over ten years. I am now in my late 30's and my skin has started changing. I have become much oilier and found that the products I was using weren't effective enough to control the oil. About six months ago I had a pretty significant rosacea breakout and have been trying to manage ever since. When I came across this cleanser I thought I would give it a shot - if it was too much for my sensitive rosacea skin I would hand it down to one of my children. I cannot believe how well, in just three days of use, this cleanser has managed to help control my oil production. My blackheads are disappearing, and I believe its also helping to tone down the rosacea flare up I have been fighting. Thank you Paula for making products that are truly effective for sensitive skin. I cannot tell you how grateful I have been for your products after all these years.
—Brenda
The best!
At first I was deterred by the initially negative reviews for this product, but I decided to try it and I am amazed. This is seriously THE most gentle antibacterial cleanser in existence. It removes makeup easily and doesn't leave my face feeling dry at all, and I have seriously sensitive, easily inflamed skin. And on top of that, it is really affordable. Thank you Paula :)
—Cristina
Larger bottle
Love the cleanser.
My only wish is a bigger bottle!!! Customer Care Response: Thank you for your feedback. We will be sure to pass this along to Paula and her Product Development Team.
—Mariela
really works
This cleanser is an essential part of my skin care routine. I'd had clear skin for over two months using Paula's CLEAR products. When I stopped using this cleanser (switched to the hydralight cleanser for winter), I started to have problems again. Back to the CLEAR Cleanser I go!
—Francie
Amazing!
I cannot fully express how grateful I am to have found this line. for 10 years I have tried countless pills, systems and laser treatments to clear my skin. Nothing has been sufficient. Now, after 3 months of using this product, I woke up today with NO ACNE. Not one pimple on my face. And my skin looks great too--not dry and flaky. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
—Erica
The best cleanser ever!
My skin feels truly clean after using it. Doesn't dry out or irritate in anyway yet blasts the oil away. I highly recommend it.
—Kristi C.
Beautifully formulated
This is my go to cleanser for my oily acne prone skin.The silky gentle formula glides effortlessly over skin and leaves my skin looking polished and glowing.On top of formulating beautifully,Paula you know how to make your products textures exceed any others.
—Erik
Love it!
I began using this cleanser a month ago and all I can say is that my skin has looked better than it has in a long time with no other changes to my usual skin care. I was using the skin balancing cleanser for years.
—Laura
Switching back to balancing cleanser
My acne is worse than it's been in ages (I've used Paula's products for years) since starting the Clean line, and the only real difference from what I've always used is this cleanser. It also stings my eyes and doesn't remove makeup. Back to skin balancing cleanser for me. A disappointment from Paula's.
Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear about your experience. Please contact our Customer Service team for further return or exchange assistance.
—Kendra
Better than the Skin Balancing Cleanser...
I have mild acne, and this cleanser seems to control even better my breakout in combination with the Clear extra strength toner! The two products are a must for me. The cleanser is not drying at all. I have used the Skin Balancing Cleanser (also recommended for blemish-prone skin) before, but I must say that the Clear Cleanser does a better job for acne-prone skin!
—Mimi
Very drying
I'm surprised at how drying this cleanser is, given that it's meant to be used with other drying products and dry, flaky skin really exacerbates acne. There are lots of better, cheaper cleansers than this one.
Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear about your experience with this cleanser. Please contact Customer Service for further assistance with a return or selecting an alternate product.
—Su
Best Cleanser I have ever used!
This cleanser has changed my life! I've been struggling with acne the past few years and have been using tazorac and clindamycin, along with the pill, and I still had acne. I started using this cleanser a few months ago, and my skin has completely cleared up! Thank you, Paula!
—Rebecca
Super product!!
This cleanser and Paula's toner has drastically improved my skin. The blackheads and bumps are disappearing! I've used Retin-a for years and never saw the results like I'm seeing with these products!
—kay
Big Fan
I am 32 and have had blackheads and moderate acne for almost 20 years. I have a moderately oily t-zone that can be very oily in humid climates or, strangely, in an air conditioned office building. I've tried a number of cleansers over the years and had settled on Paula's skin balancing system and was content, but still had trouble areas in the corners of my nose and mouth/chin areas.
This cleanser has changed everything. I have no irritation, no longer have redness, my blackheads are reduced by 95%, have had 1 hormone related pimple that disappeared quickly. I am significantly less shiny at the end of the day and my skin is SOFT!
It removes makeup well, unless I'm wearing heavy eyeliner, in which case I use a special remover. In the morning and evening I follow-up with the Extra-Strength Targeted Acne Relief Toner. On dry days I use the Skin Balancing Daily Mattifying Lotion in the mornings only.
My only request is a bigger bottle! My husband is now sharing this with me so we're running out much more quickly.
Thanks very much!
—Andie
FINALLY!!!
I tried this for those monthly break outs that I couldn't get rid of. After two weeks, GONE!Didn't get one break out when that time came. I have struggled with hormonal breakouts since I was a teenager and this is the first thing that has worked.
—Laura
Gentle, non-scented
I think I need a second bottle for my shower. This is a great cleanser. It is a clear, thick liquid that foams when in contact with water. It has no real scent, and has no abrasives or grains. I massage it into my skin for about a minute and then either splash off or wipe off with my wash cloth. Although it is not necessary, I sometimes wash my face a second time just because I love the feel of it on my skin! I never see makeup on my cotton ball after I use this cleanser!
—Jenna
Beth M.
My menopausal acne has cleared up completely using the Clear Normal Strength product line. I had cystic acne! This is a great product line.
—Bettina
Best ever!
This cleanser is so awesome!!! I noticed results within the first day or two of using it. Now that I've been using it for 2-months, my skin looks much better - so much so that the thought of running out terrifies me. I'm ordering more; I love it so!
—Katie
The final piece in the puzzle
I have been using Paula's products for several years, and consider them to be second to none.
I have very oily skin prone to blackheads and mild acne. My routine until recently has been: Day time (Skin Balancing Cleanser, Toner, Serum, SPF 15 Day Cream) Night time: (same plus 2% BHA liquid, 2.5% Blemish Fighting Solution and substituting the Day Cream for the Skin Balancing Moisture Gel)
I prefer to use as few products as possible during the day, and have found that night time-only application of the BHA Liquid and Blemish Fighting Solution kept my acne and blackheads more-or-less under control.
However, the CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser really has been the final piece in the puzzle for me.
I have found it to be totally non-irritating or drying, instead calming redness, and giving me that extra antibacterial boost to keep my skin in optimal condition.
Paula, your products never cease to amaze me!
—Timothy Wellard
An 'off-label' use I love:
My rosacea won't allow use on my face, but my scalp is in LOVE with this product! The oiliness is addressed gently and effectively!
—Angelique Donerkiel
Great Cleanser
I'm using the Skin Balancing Cleanser and Toner one or two days a week, and the CLEAR Cleanser and Toner for the rest of the week. The CLEAR cleanser is just perfect for my mature combination skin, which is also thin and quite fussy. My pores in the nose and chin area clog up easily and so blackheads and sometimes tiny whiteheads, are an issue. The CLEAR cleanser, plus the CLEAR Targeted Acne Relief Toner, are gentle, yet very effective. The cleanser easily gets rid of make-up (when removing make-up I quite like applying a small amount twice but this is not really necessary). Whilst I don't think my blackheads will ever completely disappear, these products are definitely doing my skin a favour ! I am truly happy that I no longer need to keep looking for products that suit my fussy skin !
—Corrie C
Wonderful!
I can't say enough good things about this cleanser. Finally, something that doesn't dry and irritate my face. Instead, it feels soft and balanced. No dry or oily patches and no eruptions. Love it! Thank you, Paula!
—Olivia
Great product!!
This is by far the best anti-acene cleanser I have ever used. My severe acene proned skin is finally under control! Wish I had this product a long time ago at age 48 when my acene problem started!!
—Kay Lillard
CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser
I have found that severall of Paula's recommended cleansers have really irritated my eyes and this is one of them. It seems to clean ok but I can't use it to remove eye makeup and so have to use another cleanser to do that.
—Elizabeth Eldridge
I am satisfied
It does not irritate my sensitive skin and makes it much less oily, which is great! I like the smell of it and in general I'm satisfied with this product:)
—Joanna
Fabulous Product!
I've been dealing with cystic acne since turning 40 (6 years) and have tried everything, even seeing a dermatologist who prescribed painful and harsh chemical treatments for my face. The acne was very painful and would not go away. My skin looked dull and ashey. After seeing Paula on MPT I went in search of her book on line and stumbled upon Paula's Choice Products. All I can say is that I love these products! Finally, the painful, red, irritated bumps are gone! Now, don't get me wrong, I still have the occasional acne breakout, but her products have cut down drastically on the severity of my acne and it isn't as painful as it was prior to using her products. Usually it goes away overnight or within two days. I highly recommend to anyone suffering from acne and very dry skin to try her products. I will never go back to using any of my old stuff again. I'm a Paula's choice girl now.
—Heidi
I wish this had been available when I was a teen!
I have an oily T-zone and have struggled with breakouts, especially on my chin forever. From the first application I noticed a difference in the way my face felt and how it responded. No breakouts since the two months I've been using it. Wonderful!
—Olivia
Just what I needed
I was hesitant to try this. I have very dry skin, but since the birth of my first child 9 months ago I started getting break out along my cheeks. they were deep and painful. I knew it was due to hormones. I decided to try this (as a loyal customer for many years). I was surprized that it did not dry my skin out and after a few weeks my breakouts are fewer and they heal quicker. They are also less severe. I am telling everyone I know about it.
—Lindsay B.
This cleanser is great!
One of the reviewers said that the SLES in this cleanser is drying. This cleanser is not drying in the least. After using it, my skin feels soft, not tight or dry. I feel like I don't even need a moisturizer. Before using this product, I was using Olay's gentle foaming face wash for sensitive skin, which is a Paula-approved, gentle cleanser. The clear normalizing cleanser feels way gentler and my skin is clearing up! No new blemishes!
—Erin
Another good surprise!
I have adult acne that is provoked by allergic reactions to various ingredients. However, I need to 'strip' my skin when cleansing--which seems harsh as I am not oily. That light layer of oil (with dirt in it, right?) makes all the difference and when it is not removed, I get breakouts. I have used ProActiv mixed with Paula products for nearly 10 years as the only way I could have that 'stripping' I needed. I used the Gentle Cleanser (Normal/Dry) at night to remove make-up, plus ProActiv toner/lotion. Morning was ProActiv cleanser and Paula moisturizer. But NOW, I can use this gentle but anti-bacterial CLEAR cleanser, 1% Beta-Hydroxy at night, and RESIST both morning and night (and on extra dry days I add an additional Paula moisturizer at night)---and I'm set to go with great skin. People have told me I have great skin before I switched a month ago---but I see people staring at it now. Love these new products! Thanks, Paula!!
—Cassandra
One of the best!
I have been using your clear Normalising Cleanser for the last 4 days. It's great! It is really mild and you do feel a great difference to your skin after use. My skin feels so soft!
I used to have bad break outs of acne. After using your products 3 years ago, my skin is now clear! Only get an acne once every few months now!!!!
I wish you made a bigger size Clear Normalising Cleanser.
—Tan Chee Sean
A great cleanser!
A truly gentle, silky, foaming cleanser which leaves my blemish-prone skin soft and clean. This is gentler than the Skin Balancing Cleanser. Well done, Paula - i'm impressed!
—Happy Customer
Better than ever!!
Better than ever!!
—Anne
Love the new cleanser!
I have used the one step cleanser for years. After tying the new CLEAR cleanser i am hooked! Gentle and effective. Please make this available in 16oz soon.
—Deanna
Lovely cleanser
I have been using Paula's Skin Balancing Cleanser for several years, and really love it. However, I like the CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser better. My skin feels smoother and cleaner after usage, and similar to the Skin Balancing Cleanser, it produces a beautiful 'cushy' foam that rinses away completely. Love this cleanser even after just one use! Another winner of a product. Very gentle too.
—Nicole
Refreshing Cleanser
This is a great cleanser that makes my face feel super clean and smooth. My face is super sensitive to anything and this has not effected me at all. Try Paula's makeup remover then you don't have to complain about the stinging of the eyes! Great Job, Paula!!
Thanks...Lisa
—Lisa
Works for me, age 60!
I too still get the occasional breakout at my age -- quite discouraging! I love the new CLEAR line, including this cleanser. If I'm really diligent about using the three products in the CLEAR line every single day, my skin stays blemish free. I'm stuck with extremely sensitive yet oily skin and I think this new cleanser (and the accompanying BHA and Benzoyl Peroxide products) are worth trying. You can always get your money back if they don't work for you, but I'm guessing that those with acne, or even rosacea, will probably be pleased.
—Carole
Great Cleanser
I really love this cleanser! My skin is extremely sensitive and prone to break-outs and this cleanser does not irritate my face at all. It rinses off completely clean and leaves my face feeling wonderful. Highly recommended!
—Susan
I love it.
I love this cleanser. I do not agree with the other reviews stating that it is too irritating because I am an accutane user and I do not feel any irritation from this cleanser.
I love the smell of the cleanser and I love how it feels on my skin.
—Jimmy Nguyen
Fabulous
I have been using this cleanser since it was first introduced and love it. I have seen a big improvement in the clearing of my acne. I find it to be very gentle on my sensitive skin and had no problems with stinging or irritation. Please don't stop making this! I finally found a cleanser that makes my skin look better that it ever has before. Thank you Paula!!
—Melissa
Love it!
I've been fighting adult acne for years. I've finally found a product that helps. Thanks so much!
—Jennifer
Thrilled
I guess the "poor" reviews speak to the variability of skin and sensitivity. For me, this is very gentle and I get NO burning or irritation. I wear long-wear eye make-up and this is the only cleanser I have used in which I do not have to use a MU remover on my eyes after. I guess that is besides the point...it has also been so effective in clearing my face! I am beaming.
—Trisheana
Finally
Not all products work the same for everyone so all I can do is offer my review. I am 30 and have always had mild acne to moderate acne around that time of the month. I have been using this since it came out and I am blown away by this cleanser. I know a lot about beauty and skin care and I have used several products and lines over the years. I always put my faith in the after-cleanser products for results and treatment. However, I think this is a wonderful results- producing product and I was shocked at how gentle it is...I use the whole Clear line and I really could not be happier. Sustained results with glowing clear skin. Thanks for reading.
—Amanda
Great
What a great cleanser! I had no problems using it and I feel like it's really helping my acne. I have super sensitive skin and this does not irratate it!
—Nina
I love this product more than I want to.
I love cleansers that make suds. This is probably nothing more than social conditioning. Kind of like being drawn to blue more than green, which is to say it's arbitrary. Paula, obviously, does not like suds, as all of her excellent cleansers are devoid of them. But this cleanser is a god-send for acne sufferers; it's both gentle and actually does seem to immediately improve skintone; redness is instantly diminished. I have been using Paula's acne products (the old school ones) for many years, and I practically never, ever break out. When I started seeing a new dermatologist last year, she even commented that I had "perfect skin," which is only as perfect as the perfect products that Paula's Choice offers. And, thankfully, this cleanser is a perfectly formulated addition to an already amazing line---suds or no suds.
—Dustin
Disappointed
I was not happy with the performace of this cleanser it seemed to give me more blemishes. I am way happier with the balancing cleanser so I will be switching back.
Customer Care: We regret that our product was not what you may have expected. Our Customer Service will be more than happy to assist you in finding another product that will work better for you. Please note that Paula's Choice also has a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy within 60 days of purchase.
—Annette Kesslering
LOVE!
Best cleanser ive ever used! doesnt dry out my skin and leaves it feeling soft. love it.
—sarah
Not what I expected ..
I have been using Paula's Choice for the past six months and my skin has improved remarkably. Having said that I am a bit disappointed with this new cleanser - it stings my eyes and does not remove makeup (I use Paula's Gel Liner)AT ALL. The Skin Balancing Cleanser that I used prior to this was very gentle, very effective at removing eye makeup & economical - a little goes a long way - and I will be switching back to that.
—Karolina Ptasinska
Love, Love, Love
Thanks for finally making an anti-bacterial cleanser. This cleanser leaves my skin super clean, but its gentle and doesn't dry or irritate my sensitive skin. We need this in a 16 ounce size. Love you Paula, you've given me beautiful skin, while saving me lots of money.
—Allison
Best Product Ever
I am 65 years old and still have acne and blackheads. I have used Retin A (very irritating to skin) and many other products including Paulas skin care line which is good. This is by far the best I have every used and I noticed results immediately. Good results. I also use the matching toner at night only.
—Mary Peeke
What makes this product unique?
Get ready to take your first step toward clear skin! Unlike other anti-acne cleansers on the market, CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser is completely free of drying, irritating ingredients that make acne worse. This gentle, refreshing cleansing gel is tough on blemishes but gentle on your skin, working quickly to remove makeup and pore-clogging, built-up skin cells. It contains an antibacterial agent to begin the fight against acne plus soothing agents to help reduce redness.
This cleanser is 100% fragrance- and colorant-free.
Who is this product for?
CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser is recommended for all skin types suffering with acne. It is suitable for men or women, teens and adults alike.
How should this product be used?
CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser can be used twice daily and should be followed with either the CLEAR Regular Strength or Extra Strength products that comprise the CLEAR 3-Step System.
Splash the face and eyes generously with tepid to slightly warm water (hot water can irritate and inflame skin, making acne worse). Spread a nickel- to quarter-sized amount of the cleanser over your fingers and then apply to your face with gentle but vigorous circular motions. Rinse well. Repeat or use with a clean washcloth to remove heavy makeup.
Sources to support the claims made for CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser:
Biochemistry and Pharmacology, June 2007, pages 1,786-1,795; Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2007, pages 124-135; Contact Dermatitis, June 2006, pages 303-312; British Journal of Dermatology, July 2005, pages 124-131; Skin Research and Technology, February 2005, pages 53–60; Dermatologic Therapy, January 2004, pages 16–25; European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, November 2003, pages 407-412; Cutis, December 2001, Supplemental, pages 12–19; and Skin Research and Technology, July 2001, pages 49–55.
Splash the face and eyes generously with tepid to slightly warm water (hot water can irritate and inflame skin, making acne worse). Spread a nickel- to quarter-sized amount of cleanser over your fingers and apply to your face with gentle but vigorous circular motions. Rinse well. Repeat or use with a clean washcloth to remove heavy makeup. Follow with either Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength or Extra Strength products.
The CLEAR Normalizing Cleanser contains triclosan, an ingredient Paula has mentioned isn't a good option for acne. Why did she include it?
Paula has said that triclosan as an antibacterial ingredient is not enough to fight acne, it takes other products to really make a difference. Aside from a cleanser with triclosan, a product containing salicylic acid and another containing benzoyl peroxide are the perfect combination for treating acne, which is exactly what Paula's Choice CLEAR 3-Step System offers.
Recent research indicates that triclosan may play a stronger role than originally thought when it comes to anti-acne skin care. We have used triclosan in an amount that is effective as a first line of defense against acne-causing bacteria.
