My skin is twice as oily now ???
I have bought the whole line of skin balance and my skin is so oily now worst than before I love her finshing powder and the Resist, the lip exfoliator but this cleasing system was a waste of money. It did not work for me
Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. It is hard to know exactly which ingredient, combination of ingredients, or outside factors contributed to your skin responding to this product in this manner. We will credit you for it and encourage you to contact customer care so that we may discuss which products you were using and the frequency of application.
—christina
A great cleanser, texture problems
I have used this cleanser for several years and have found it to be really effective and gentle. It removes makeup better than the hydralight gel cleanser and isn't overly drying. Unfortunately, when the bottle gets about half empty, the texture changes and turns gritty, as other reviewers have mentioned. While it doesn't interfere with its effectiveness, the scratchiness in uncomfortable on my sensitive skin. I just ordered the moisture boost cleanser which I hope won't have the same problem. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear that this product did not fully meet your expectations and we will be sure to pass along your comments to Paula and her team directly. We hope you like the other cleanser you purchased. We will credit you for this product in the meantime and please contact customer care with any questions, we are happy to help.
—Amanda
Gritty?
I've used this cleanser on and off for years and really liked it, but the last two bottles I've gotten of this have turned gritty. When it happened with the first bottle, I thought I had just let it sit for too long, but the second bottle I've only had for a few months, and halfway through the product it turned gritty. I keep using it, but it's off-putting, and I'll be switching to the gel cleanser from now on. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your comments. We will be sure to share your feedback with Paula and her Product Development Team. They do take customer feedback seriously when making formula decisions. In the meantime we will credit you for this cleanser. Please contact customer care with any questions or concerns.
—Kendra
Wonderful Product
This has been a miracle product for me. My skin was so dry and flaky from using proactiv and I was desperately needing to change my skincare routine. After the first use my face felt so soft and moisturized I couldn't believe it. My skin finally feels balanced, it's blemish free and perfectly moisturized! I will be sticking with Paula's Choice for years to come, thank you so much!
—Cassandra
Preferred older formula.
I've been using this product for over a year, and I loved it. But I'm not sure if I'm a fan of the new formula. After a month or two, it turned gritty. Which I understand is not bad, but it just isn't the texture that I'm looking for. Besides that, I just don't feel like it works as well. Regardless, I see they have a gel cleanser which I think will better suit my needs. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear that this product did not fully meet your expectations and we will be sure to pass along your comments to Paula and her team directly. We will credit you for the product promptly and send samples of our other cleansers that that you may find work better for you. Please contact customer care with any questions, we are happy to help.
—Nathalie
Great Stuff
I first heard of Paula when i bought "Dont Go Shopping For Haircare Products Without Me" in 1999. It helped my hair and wallet so i figured why not use her skincare. It gets a rating of five because it does not irritate my rosacea, no odor, doesn't make my skin feel tight and it removes all make up. So it's perfect !
Thank you Paula!
—Lori
great but turned gritty?
I love this cleanser! But after about 1 month of us I went to use it and it felt like it was full of sand? The texture had changed to a gritty sand like texture? I am now afraid to use it? I do not store my cleanser in the shower or in the cold just normal room tempature. I guess I will order another bottle and hope for the best? Customer Care Response: Thank you for taking the time to review this product! This particular formula can become a bit gritty over time because of its particular texture. You may try adding a bit of warm water to help disperse the grittiness and also try not leaving it in a humid area such as the bathtub. Paula has mentioned this is texture not harmful and it is okay to keep using the cleanser. We may send you another cleanser to try instead if you do not like the grittiness. We have a clear gel texture also for oily/combination skin types or a lotion/creamy texture for normal to dry skin types. We will send you samples of these alternate cleansers to see how you like them. Please contact customer care with any questions or concerns.
—becky
Very hard to rinse
I tried this cleanser after reading all the great reviews, but I am glad I only ordered samples. First off, it doesn't lather at all (yes I know that lathering agents are drying, but even the CLEAR normalizing cleanser has a slight foaming action), felt more like rubbing a thick serum all over my face. And it did not rinse well AT ALL. I kept splashing and rubbing my face to no avail, so I ended up using my CLEAR cleanser to get it off and throwing the other samples away. 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. For that reason, we have located your account and applied a credit for the samples of the cleanser. We are happy to hear the CLEAR cleanser works better for you. Please contact customer care with any questions or concerns.
—Jessica
great cleanser
This is a very nice and gentle cleanser which does a good job of removing makeup without irritating or drying my skin. My husband and I both use it; we both have combination skin.
—akahn
Disappointed
I was excited to try this because so far I have loved all of the Paula's products I have tried. I've had it for two weeks and I have had nothing but breakouts. I've never had a problem with breakouts before. I don't know if it's because its a creamy cleanser? Also, I wanted to try it because it was supposed to be good at removing eye makeup but I haven't had the best success with that either. Mascara stays put. :( Sorry guys, I wanted to love it. 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, cleansers are washed off the face so they don't sit long enough to cause a problem but 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. We will send you another cleanser to try and our makeup remover. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Sara
Formula changed?
Every once in a while, I run out of PC cleanser and end up trying another brand. This time when I reordered the PC cleanser, it hasn't provided the same skin-balancing results that I used to get. It's okay...just no longer works wonders for my combination, blemish-prone skin. I wish the formula hadn't changed. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear you don't like the new formula. We will leave an in house credit for the product on your account to be used toward a future purchase and will send samples of another cleanser to try. Please contact customer care with any questions, we are happy to help.
—Deanna
Excellent for acne prone skin
I really love this cleanser. I have combination skin and this is the only thing that makes my skin feel great and control my breakouts. I've been battling cystic acne practically my entire life. However, in the past I've gotten some inconsistency in the actual cleanser texture (ex. grainy, separates, etc - also I've had the same problem with the mattifying lotion separating). Regardless of that, it's always worked great for me and I keep coming back.
—Auz
Amazing
Truly amazing stuff. The entire family uses it. Helps oily skin get really clean and teen's skin stay clear. It turns out it is a very versatile product, too, since I just found out my husband has been using it for the past few years thinking it was HAIR CONDITIONER! All I can say is his hair looks great! He asked me yesterday why the hair conditioner was kind of grainy! Maybe you should make the lettering on the label a bit brighter or larger for those who don't see that well in the shower!
Thanks for a wonderful face wash, as well as a passable hair conditioner! LOL!
—Cari
Best Cleanser!
I have tried sooo many cleansers, and this is my favorite. I will continue to buy this product. It removes all of my make up and is gentle enough to use for my eyes make up. It is creamy and you only need a little pea sized drop to get a good lather.
—Stephanie
wanted to love this
I love PC products. I use many different ones each day/night. I never thought I would use one that caused me to break out on my chest and shoulders. Something about this cleanser does not agree with me whatsoever. I have 8 month post-accutane sensitive skin. 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. For that reason, we have located your account information and applied a credit for the product. We will send you samples of the HydraLight One Step Face Cleanser to try instead and hope it works well for you. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Justin
FABULOUS
There aren't enough words to describe how absolutely fabulous this cleanser really is. My skin is so sensitive and acne prone, and this cleanser leaves my face completely clean of any makeup or oil, yet keeps it so soft and smooth. The day I stop using this cleanser is the day my skin dries up and breaks out. I cannot live without this cleanser and the matching toner in my daily skin are routine!!!
—Kennylady
Please fix the texture!
I love that it gets all my makeup off but it dries out my skin afterward and the texture feels like sandpaper on my face. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your review. Anytime we cleanse our face we are washing away the natural oils so it can feel a bit tight but you would then want to apply a gentle toner which will help add light hydration to your skin. Another option is using a cleanser designed for dry skin which will feel creamier and more hydrating. Our Moisture Boost Hydrating Cleanser would be an option to try, we will send you samples to try. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Elaine
Great stuff!
This cleanser is great! It has a nice smell and a creamy texture. It removed all my makeup including my waterproof mascara yet it did not leave my skin feeling stripped. I really like this cleanser for my combo normal/oily mature skin.
—Myra
Excellent cleanser for problematic oily skin
Another great product by Paula. I love this cleanser! I have very problematic, oily breakout-prone skin & this cleanser keeps my skin clean & clear. I use it with the Skin Balancing Toner & the 2% BHA liquid - my skin has never looked better!
—Valerie
Finally something that works!
i am 41 and have struggles with breakouts my whole life. of course like most ageing women i though i wouldn't have to worry about problem skin in my 30's and 40's. however this has not been the case. i have used almost everything with no help, until paula's choice. before this cleanser i used olay facewash (review from paula's book) but this cleanser is sooooo much better. i love that it is light, NEVER dries my face out nor does it make it greasy. it is the perfect cleanser for my oily face.
—camille
My 2nd review... a month later...
Oh I hate to do this but I have to now give it a 3. I love all of PC products. Trust me... I use around 8 to 10 Pc products a day. I got this as a sample a month ago and feel in love with it and wrote a review. Then I ordered a bottle of it and after trying and trying and trying to make myself lik it ....I just can't. Its too drying. My skin feels dry the rest of the day since I started using this cleanser in the AM and Moisture Boost at night. I have normal skin, not too oily,not too dry, just normal and this has made my face too dry. Im sorry. Im sure this will work good for oily skin type as it does remove oil just a little too much removal for this PC fan!!
—armanda
Gentle but oh so effective
My skin was all over the place after I had my son, and then we moved to Canada from England. My face was dry then oily, then breaking out! I had no idea what to do anymore. My mum suggested Paula's Choice and this cleanser is amazing. It removes all my makeup, even waterproof mascara, with a gentle rubbing of my fingers. My skin is so soft. It makes you wonder why other cleansers are so harsh when it doesn't need to be like that!
—Erin
What happened!
I recently bought the new formula. It leaves a film when you rinse-off kind of like when you use a bar soap. Also,it doesn't feel clean nor refreshing and it breaks me out and new milias too. Paula, ...please, please bring back the old formula minus the unwanted texture.
KK. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your feedback. 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. We will certainly pass along your comments and feedback regarding this product to Paula. We will credit you for this cleanser since you were not happy with it. Please contact customer care so that we may locate your account.
—KK
Perfect for oily skin
Love this cleaner and I've only used it one time from a sample packet. I didn't realized I had oily skin til I used this and after I washed,and dried, I looked at myself and my skin looked matte!! I don't have acne, just oil. Plus its summer time in AZ! I am going to order a huge bottle. Im gonna use this in the morning and the moisture boost at night!! In the past 9 weeks I've order over 20 PC products and its truly live changing. I can walk around feeling great with not a touch of makeup on. I love everything about Paula's company. Customer for life!!
—armanda
Nice Cleanser, but....
This cleanser does a good job without leaving my skin feeling tight or over stripped. I would give it five stars but the 16 ounce size bottle is too tall to fit in my medicine cabinet. I have to transfer some of the product to another bottle so I can keep it handy in the bathroom cabinet. A shorter, wider bottle in the 16 ounce size would be much more convenient. Customer Care Response: Thank you for your feedback. Please note that you can also purchase this product in the 8oz size.
—Donna
Cannot believe it
Trust me I have spent thousands on skincare. Finally I have find a system that is finally working that does thT cost me an arm & a leg. I cannot tell you what it has done to my skin. People actually notice the difference in my skin. I have actuallyrefer your line to three different people in a matter of weeks.
It's amazing
—Rk
Good Product
I would recommend to buy 16 oz because it is cheaper. This a very good cleanser. I use this cleanser with my Japanese cleansing rubber pad and the result is very good for the people are used to use foam cleanser. I will reorder when they are on sales because I can still find some good products with cheaper price.
—Chris
Amazing
I waited a few months before adding my review but let me just say I am one very happy customer. I am in my early 20s and while I had breakouts in my teens they went away for about 4 years; then came back with a vengeance due to all the stress I was under after college. I had dry, flaky, red, inflamed, painful acne forming around my chin and jawline. I had never seen it this bad. My T-zone was also very oily. I started using the one step cleanser because my skin was so dry I thought it just needed more moisture, that with the 1% bha helped but it wasn't until I got this that I really saw a huge difference. I will say that the first week using it my skin broke out even more, I guess it was cleaning out all the crap under my skin, but then it cleared up beautifully. I have a very clean diet and drink tons of water and I still had acne and I believe it was all hormonal and stress related. I will occasionally get some pimples around that time of the month but it's nothing like before. I was scared to use this because my skin had been so dry. Now I know why, I was using harsh products that were making my skin feel tight, which I thought was a good thing until I found Paula's choice online. I threw out all my products and only use hers now. My skin if clear, flake and redness free and soft. I am a customer for life.
—Marie
It Works!
I have sensitive combination skin and struggle with mild acne. My skin also changes because from oily to dry I have a thyroid condition. This cleanser is mild yet effective! It does not irritate my skin and does not make it break out. I was skeptical so I ordered samples before committing to the full size bottle. No regrets. I am ordering CLEAR for when I have worse breakouts, too!
—JD
The only cleanser I'll ever use again
I have very oily skin and finding something that leaves my face feeling fresh and clean, not stripped is not an easy thing. After trying many different cleansers, I have finally found my HG cleanser! My face never feels tight it feels nice and clean. Thank you!!!!
—Laura
you don't need another glowing review
OK, so you don't need another review to say how great this cleanser is - but it is! I was using another liquid soap kind of thing, and when I would use my BHA afterward, the cotton ball would look grimy. When I use this cleanser, the BHA cotton ball comes away clean. That is how I know it really works. And doesn't sting my eyes.
—Lyn
Sensational formula indeed - guys will love this
Skin Balancing Cleanser delivers in every respect - it washes away dirt, excess oil, and even tenacious mineral-based sunscreens without irritation or stripping. The natural aroma of the product is clean and fresh despite being fragrance-free. The texture is milky but substantial enough to produce a mild lather that makes application easier (especially for those of us accustomed to cleansers that produce a more copious foam). I have convinced a bunch of my friends to check out this product, and every guy who tries Skin Balancing Cleanser reports back to me that he has become a repeat Paula's Choice customer! Absolutely recommended.
—Joe
5 STAR FACE CLEANSER!!!!
I have very sensitive acne-prone & combination skin. This cleanser is very gentle and smoothing, it really leaves your face looking fresh and clean from every pore. It starts working away at acne and skin imperfections instantly. No more will I be using Cetaphil, this is the real deal.
Paula really isn't fooling you into false beliefs with her products! They all work as claimed!
—Amanda
Love these products
I am 51 years old and still have breakouts. I originally tried the RESIST line but it was too emollient and I found myself breaking out all over my chin and along my jawline. Within two days of trying the Skin Balancing Cleanser, Toner and 1% BHA lotion, my skin cleared up and looks so incredibly clear. I've have people comment on how nice my skin looks. I'm very happy with this product line and would recommend it to others.
—Kelly
not for oily/combo skin
if you are used to washing your face with a foaming cleanser, this product will feel like it leaves a greasy film; it's almost like you have to wash your face again because it's not really clean. i didn't like the feeling, so i ended up re-washing with my regular shiseido foaming cleanser. Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear that this product did not meet your expectations. We will send you samples of an alternate cleanser to try that is also designed for oily/combination skin.
—lisa
gentle
I have not had any issues with cleansers before, but I do find this one gentler and I like the fact it's fragrance free. When staying at a friends house and I used her cleanser and immediately the fragrance registered with me as 'fragrance = irritation' even if I didn't experience any visible irritation I knew I was doing my skin a disservice and was glad to come home to this cleanser.
—Siobhan
Love this cleanser!
I'm in my early 60's & have very sensitive combination skin that can either be oily in the summer, dry in the winter or something in between (it's finicky). I've used this cleanser for years & it seems to meet the needs of my skin regardless of what mood it's in. Lately, I've been using it at night and then using the new RESIST Cleanser in the morning and that combination of products has been working extremely well too.
—Joy P.
Made me oily
I like that this cleanser does not dry out my face but I do not feel like it rinses clean. It also made me oily adn its not even summer yet. I tried several samples of the hydralight moisture infusing lotion before buying the actual big size and I liked the matte finish and that its not as tight on my face as the gel. But this was before buying this cleanser. After using this lotion along with the cleanser my face was so greasy and felt dirty. I have combination skin. So I went out and bought cerave foaming cleanser and so far its good. will have to test it out for a few more days. Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear that this cleanser did not meet your expectations. Please contact Customer Service for assistance processing a refund or selecting an alternate item.
—Glory
very nice
this is such a feel good cleanser. my skin feels clean after, yet not stripped dry & tight. you use so little of it, & it goes a long way. very happy with it's performance. glad to have found Paula's Choice. & I find the negative reviews about the good reviews are all fakes, unfair & unjust. how ridiculous, then why would they put up the negative ones???!!
the real reason there are so many positive reviews from so many people is because the products work for alot people. like me. :)
—Lori
Wonderful Cleanser
I love this cleanser. Does a great job removing makeup,even eye-makeup, is very gentle and non-drying.
—Darlene
Works well without drying out my skin
Not too harsh, and cleans my skin well. I used Obagi before this, which was more than two times more expensive, and PC cleanser is just as good.
—Andrea P.
Love the new formulations!
I've been a Paula's fan for years & used her products until I decided to find skincare with more "natural" ingredients. After a year of disappointing results, I returned to Paula's site in hopes of finding a compromise. The new formulation of this cleanser is just what I needed! Thank you!
—Amy W
Nice Product
My skin changes so much I never know it's type! Through it all, this cleanser treats me well. Whether dry, irritated, or oily w/breakouts, it treats my skin gently and removes all the many layers of makeup, with a little help from a wash cloth. Great for shaving legs, too. Thanks Paula.
—Jo
You are the champion!
The search is over! This product really does live up to all its glory. A staple in my skincare regimen. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
—Christy
Love the Cleanser, but not the packaging!
The only reason I didn't give this a 5 was because of the packaging. I can't take the bottle traveling because it spills all over. Other than that, I love this product!
—Michelle
Great for sensitive skin
I started using this with the toner and BHA and found it irritating. Eventually I cut back to just the cleanser and I LOVE it. It's very balanced and non irritating. I don't feel it cleared or improved my complexion in any way but it's hard to find a cleanser that doesn't strip my skin and this one has worked well.
—Sarah
Skin Balancing Cleanser
I've been using Paula's Choice products for years and LOVE them. I've used both the Skin Balancing Cleanser and the One Step Cleanser. Both are incredible, leaving my skin feeling absolutely clean, with no residue, but without becoming dry and nasty. For me there's just a slight preference for having a cleanser that foams, so I stick with the Skin Balancing Cleanser now. Thanks Paula for amazing products!
—Serene Pedersen
Not liking the new formula!
The new formula is heavier and more liquidy, rather than soft and cushiony. My face feels a little dry as well. I'm very disappointed. Customer Care Response: Please call Customer Service for assistance with finding a product that will work for you. Also, please note that we have a 60-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.
—Sarah H.
Transformed Skin!
Since purchasing the skin balancing cleanser and 2% bha liquid 3 weeks ago, my skin has honestly transformed. I had been dealing breakouts on my cheeks and jawline for the past few years (I could not believe what the stress of law school did to my skin!) and NOW my skin is as smooth as silk. It's glowing! I still have some scarring, as expected, but the marks are gradually fading due to the bha. Thank you for delivering on your promises and not making outlandish claims -- all at an affordable price!
—Mary
My Holy Grail Cleanser!
This is truly the best cleanser I have ever used. And I have tried many! The balancing cleanser cleanses well with no irritating properties - such as fragrance. My skin feels clean without feeling stripped. It rinses well and gets off all of my makeup. For heavier eye makeup I would suggest using a makeup remover. Please don't ever stop making this, Paula. I just restocked because I don't want to go a day or night without it. Thank you!
—Mary
Impressed - by accident
Accidentally purchased instead of the one-step cleanser. I was happy with the one-step but this is even better for my oily skin. And it removes eye makeup better.
—Cassidy
Love it!
Since the first use, I have loved this cleanser! Made my skin so silky soft! It felt clean but not dry or tight. Already ordered a back up and I am not even halfway through the first bottle!
—Sonja
Make up remover & cleanser all in one!
This cleanser is very gentle but powerful in removing make up with just a little amount. I don't have to rub it hard into my skin, just a few gentle strokes and my skin is clean, smooth and silky. I was actually surprised how good it worked right from the first time. I don't think I will ever use another cleanser or additional make up remover. Thank you, Paula!
—Nadia
nice and creamy
unlike other cleansers that foam up nicely while in use but then strip all moisture from the skin, this cleanser has a great texture and scent which i find important. this is just a review on the sample packet i got but it might be enough to prompt me to buy it. every time i replace a product from the supermarket or even department store with a paulas choice formula my skin improve just that but more yay!
—paul
Love!
I love this cleanser! I have combination/acne-prone skin and I couldn't find any cleansers that could remove all dirt/sebum/sunscreen from my skin. Most of them didn't clean well enough, or too well that it left my skin really dry and irritated. This cleanser is amazing, cleans my face perfectly, no residue left, and without leaving my skin dry. Love it!
—Mimi
The best!
This is hands down the best cleanser I have ever used. After using this, my skin feels completely clean and smooth without feeling dry or tawt. I just can't say enough about this product!
—Sara
fabulous cleanser
just started using the skin balancing cleanser and love, love, love it! I used Lancome for years and liked it but it never removed my eye makeup. This cleanser removes all makeup and feels creamy and soft but rinsing well. Love it!!!!!
—Janine
Not for my oily skin
I was disappointed with this cleanser. I love all of her products..but I noticed my skin looked greasy after a few days w/ it. Then my husband pointed out to me that there is sunflower seed oil listed in ingredients! But not to worry- she has a terrific return policy
—Amber
Would've been great...
This would've been a 5-star cleanser - it cleans skin absolutely perfectly, without dryness (I also love the One Step Face Cleanser, but the Skin Balancing Cleanser cleans just that little bit better). I don't even mind the grit, except that it clogs up the pump dispenser! That's why it get 3-stars.
Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear about your experience with this product. Please contact Customer Care via Phone, Live Chat, or Email for further assistance.
—Melissa
Honest Product the Works!
I love love love Paula's Choice! Never found a product that works like this. Your face won't change over night but it will over time and I actually get compliments on my skin for the 1st time in my life. Thanks Paula!
—Sarah Ashton
Excellent Cleanser!
I have used this cleanser for almost a month and I can say that, since the first time I used it, I notice a great difference on my skin. This cleanser is gentle enough to use with my acne arsenal, but strong enough to clean my face very well. I love the fact that it doesn't dry out my skin, and that is very important since I'm using benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to treat my acne. I have used so many cleansers but none compares to this one. Plus the bottle last a long time, since you just need a tiny amount to wash your face.
—Maria
Great ! love it
great cleanser. smooth and gentle. Highly recommand this product.
—heidi
Lovely cleanser
I am new to this line of products and I love the cleanser. It does a good job without stripping my skin. However, I notice in reading reviews that customer service gives the same pat answer to everyone who calls them.This makes me wonder if I want to be a customer of such a company.
Customer Care Response: Thank you for your feedback and we will forward it on to our team. In the meantime you are welcome to contact Customer Service via Live Chat, phone or email for further assistance on Paula's Choice products.
—Carol
Comparing this cleanser to One Step
I accidentally ordered One Step and after using it, realized it was Skin Balancing I had been using which I like very much. I trust Paula's products which is important to me...I just prefer this cleanser over Paula's One Step.
—amy Harmon
allergy with cleanser
I've been using some of Paula's products and like them but the balancing cleanser (I received free samples) has been somewhat deadly for me--My skin began itching, turned red and by the evening I had hives. didn't connect it to the cleanser--used it next day and same thing happened! Normally I wouldn't bother commenting but it does help me when I am buying something to see what others have said about it, so want to be able to help others. what I am intrigued about and would like to know is how does something that I have washed off, still cause such a reaction? thanks
Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear about your trouble with this product. While we cannot identify which ingredient or combination of such would lead to the reaction you described our Customer Care Team will gladly assist you in selecting an alternate product.
—neo
Does the job
This cleanser does what it claims it will do; it cleans my skin without stripping it dry. I use it in conjunction with other PC products, and together they have dramatically improved the condition of my skin. I've also occasionally noticed the change in texture of this product towards the end of the bottle that others have complained about, but it doesn't happen with every bottle, it doesn't bother me, and it doesn't seem to diminish its effectiveness. I will continue using it.
—Susan P.
Love It ---the way it is currently formulated
We have bought this cleaner for several years now, and the only problems occur when we run out. Three teens use it, as do I. I once called customer service to inquire about why the formula no longer had the grainy texture we all liked so well. It works very well and no one has any complaints, regardless of the size of the bottle.
—cari
Never had problem with this going grainy
Been buying this for years, usually buy 2 16oz-ers at a time to save on shipping, never had one go bad. Great cleanser!!
—Lisa
Impressive!
I have been using the Skin Balancing Cleanser and 1% BHA gel for about 10 days now and am amazed at the difference in my skin. These products have
exceeded my expectations...they are gentle yet effective and affordable! I will never use anything else on my skin again. Thank you!
—Donna
Skin balancing system
PC products have the very best since i started using the advanced skin balancing system, my skin has greatly changed, free from acne, its healthy, glowing and spotless. Thanks to Paula.
—Esther
Skin Balancing Cleanser
This cleanser takes off all of my makeup but doesn't irritate my skin at all. No dyes or fragrance in it either. Perfect!
—Janine
No separation after 10 months !
I have been using PC for two years. For majority of the year I use this face was. I am 11 months into my 16oz bottle and have had no separation or change in texture. In the colder months (Dec, Jan Feb and Mar) my skin is not as oily so I use the one step cleanser. Which explains why 11 months later I still have the same 16oz bottle. Whichever one I am using, I look forward to washing my face every day. Knowing my skin is going to feel great.
—Elena
Skin Balancing System works wonders!!
Take this advice from someone who has weird skin. I have never had a product that worked so well. I first started this system about a year ago when proactive created dry spots all over my face. My skin is also very oily and sensitve in other areas so its hard to find products without harsh chemicals and that actually works. Paula's products really helped! I wish I had a before and after pic to share. BUY this stuff it works asap!!!
—Tracey
Gentle, yet effective
I tried the One-Step facial cleanser and found that it did not leave my face feeling totally 'clean', so I switched to this. I've been using it for 2 years now and am in love. The foaming formula effectively cleans yet does not dry out my sensitive, combination skin. The 16oz bottle lasts my daughter and I about 4 months and is a great value. Bonus points for being pH balanced and fragrance free.
—Natalie
So Clean & Fresh
I got to try the skin balancing cleanser three nights in a row. It is so wonderful I want to throw out what I'm currently using. It makes your skin so clean and fresh, without that tight feeling, and soft. Fabulous. My new favorite.
—Lisa F.
So Fresh & Clean
I got to try the skin balancing cleanser three nights in a row. It is so wonderful I want to throw out what I'm currently using. It makes your skin so clean and fresh, without that tight feeling, and soft. Fabulous. My new favorite.
—Lisa F.
Amazing
Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser has been the only cleanser gentle enough for my skin until now. This Paula's Choice Skin Balancing cleanser is so amazing I threw away my FULL bottle of Cetaphil as soon as I tried it. I'll never go back!
—Jamie Pangborn
Cleanses Without Drying
This cleanser removes all of my makeup (including eye makeup) and leaves my skin feeling so soft. Giving it four stars because it stings if I get it in my eyes when removing eye makeup. Have to use a separate eye makeup remover because of this but am loyal to this cleanser for the rest of my face.
—Renee
Love this cleanser
I've been using this product for 3 years and I just LOVE it! Although this is an effective cleanser, it doesn't leave skin feeling dry. It removes any traces of makeup and oil and leaves skin feeling wonderfully clean. I love the way it ladders and how a little goes a long way!
—Leonor
Better than Proactiv!!
This cleanser is FABULOUS! i've tried everything up to proactiv EXTRA STRENGTH for my oily blemish-prone skin. i haven't found anything to keep my skin completely clear since my last baby was born (5 years ago). this cleanser lathers and really leaves skin silky smooth. my skin is now blemish free. i don't even have to wear makeup anymore. I have found my miracle, and i'm a paula's choice member for life!!
—Tara
Skin Balancing System!
I just got the entire skin balancing system yesterday. In one day - ONE DAY - my skin is less red, I have no flakes or dryness, and my skin seems less oily. In ONE DAY. I'm a believer. Paula, thank you for all that you do. I can't wait to see what my skin looks like in a month. THANK YOU!!!!
—Sharon J.
Best cleanser
Love this cleanser. My skin is combination oily and sensitive and this keeps it balanced without feeling irritated or dry.
—Jennifer K.
Amazing!
I love this cleanser! It soft and foamy and never drys my skin out. It works really well removing waterproof makeup too! Im hooked!
—Lyndsay
Great cleansing experience
I love using this cleanser morning and night. It foams and feels so creamy yet cleanses perfectly and never dries me out. What a wonderful cleanser..so well formulated!
—Katie
Great Cleanser
I love all of the Paula's Choice skin care products that I'm using. Before I decided to give her a try, I bought my skin care items from drugstores based on recommendations from her book, but I was never able to find the right mix. Now I have! I love this cleanser. It feels like a lotion but really cleanses skin and doesn't leave behind a filmy, greasy feel; it rinses clean. And I only get a slight tightness after I use it, a big improvement from all the other products I've tried. Well done and thank you!
—Erin
Great!
This cleanser works great! First of all, you only need a small amount to do the job. Secondly, it has a great texture with a light lather - making it feel like your face is getting a thorough cleaning. And lastly, my skin feels and looks great after I'm done using it! I highly recommend this cleanser!
—K
Good Cleanse
Never use Paula's product before. I've been reading all Paula's product review & thought I should give it a try. I got the cleanser yesterday. It's just a day but no irritation whatsoever. My skin feels clean. Feels like I don't even need the toner. Hopefully it keeps on cleaning my skin effectively without the irritation.
—Sisilia
skin balancing products
I'm 59 years old and have tried everything for my combo, large pore skin. The skin balancing cleanser and toner leave my skin soft and very clean. But my favorite product is the 1% beta hydroxy gel. It leaves my skin so smooth. I was worried it might irritate my sometimes sensitive skin,but my skin has never felt or looked better. Thanks for such great products at a great price!
—celeste
even tough waterproof mascara's gone
A bottle lasts looong as you don't need much. I mix with baking soda and even waterproof mascara and thick greasy sunscreen come off. It stings your eyes just a bit but it's worth it. The other formula didn't but didn't clean as much either.
—Kumiko Uehara
Excellent!
This a pretty big bottle so it last a long time and doesn't dry out my skin.
—Crystal
great
best product ever
—sam
Cleansers
I have tried both of Paula's Choice cleansers for Normal/combination oily skin. Did not like either one as they both left my skin red immediately after cleansing. I have gone back to Cetaphil as my cleanser.
Customer Care: Please call our Customer Service for assistance with finding a product that will work for you. Also, please note that we have a 60-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.
—Carol M
The only one
This is the only cleanser I can use. It works perfectly. No stinging eyes, no irritation, no DRYNESS.
—Ben
Fantastic!!!!
Soft, cushioning foam that rinses clean without leaving skin feeling tight.
LOVE that it's fragrance free. Better than Dept. store lines!
—K. M. Duncan
Extremely Strong
No doubt this cleans very well...But it smells like strong detergent, and it left my very oily skin (which I layer heavily with sunscreen) extremely tight and dried out after cleansing. The One Step Cleanser for oily skin cleans just as well and is much more gentle.
—Arthur
I'm in my late 40s with white and blackheads and frequent onesie-twosie pimples since my teens. It's been 4 months since I began using Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Cleanser and Toner followed by the 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Liquid. I now have smooth and glowing skin for the first time since childhood. Amazing! I am now using your makeup line, too. I am so grateful for your passion and skill to develop nonirritating products that work. Please keep it up!
—Crystal O.
One word: amazing. My last order included the Skin Balancing Cleanser, the 8% AHA Solution, and the 1% BHA Lotion. I absolutely cannot believe how wonderful my skin looks and feels. I had been using similar products from other lines, but none have been as good to my skin as PC. Your products deliver on all of their promises.
—Amy S.
I LOVE YOUR PRODUCTS! Every Paula item I've tried so far has been fabulous but I'm especially impressed with your skin care line. The Skin Balancing Cleanser, 2% BHA Lotion & Skin Balancing Moisture Gel are out of this world. These products have done more for my skin in the last 4 weeks than the Proactiv system did in 4 years. I love the simplicity of your products and knowing exactly what each step is doing for my skin. THANK YOU for making skin care that works, without any mumbo jumbo!
—Kassandra
Not the bomb : /
I have combination/oily skin and this cleanser didn't make me feel clean enough. The evidence was the dirty toner cotton ball afterwards. It just didn't cut through all of the make up and oil in Winter, never mind Summer! I am a huge Paula's Choice fan and have been using her products since 2002. Every other skincare product I use is Paula's Choice except cleanser. I just haven't found a PC cleanser that adequately removes my makeup and oiliness.
Customer Care: Please call our Customer Service for assistance with finding a product that will work for you. Also, please note that we have a 60-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.
—Katina
Pretty Good...
It cleans very well, and feels nice on my skin, leaving it smooth. However, it does make my skin a bit tight, and the smell isn't pleasant. I might buy it again, but I wouldn't use it everyday.
—Monica
Concentrated
I'm 45 and have been using this cleanser for six months. It does a very nice job of cleaning my skin when it gets oily in the summer, yet doesn't dry it out in winter. I also like that a little goes a long way, so even though this is more expensive than the cleanser I was using, it lasts a long time.
—Deanna
Not for the seriously greasy
I love most of Paula's products, but I hated this! I am a grease pit in summer and and I dry out and flake in winter, but SBC is neither here nor there, and didn't do a good job in either season. I mixed it with OSFC in the end and switched to OSFC for dry skin in winter. Much better.
—Natalie Elliott
Not Effective
I had high hopes after reading reviews but realized after giving it a fair chance that it wasnt strong enough for my very oily skin, did nothing to help with breakouts, sorry...
—Sharon
Not the right formula for me
This cleanser does not adequately remove makeup and my skin does not feel completely clean after use (even after using toner). It might be a good choice for someone with dryer combination skin but doesn't work well with my oily skin. Texture & frangrance are pleasing and it does not irritate......it just doesn't cleanse thoroughly enough for me.
—Nancy Williams
Excellent stuff!
This is the last cleanser you'll ever need! Somehow it accomplishes the seemingly impossible: super clean skin that stays soft and supple, not tight. I'm addicted to this product!
—Lili
works for me
I have normal to dry skin in the winter and normal to oily in the summer. I have been using this cleanser for over a year now. It feels great. I get a good cleansing without feeling too dry or greasy.
—Nia
Compliments on my skin
Since using Paula's my 'sensitive skin' has completely cleared. Compliments have been rolling in. Most recently, a woman who owns a skin care salon approached me wanting to know what I was using...saying she wanted it, too.
—Susan
Skin Balancing Facial Cleanser
I didn't know it was possible to have clean-feeling skin w/o it being dry. I have found it.
—D Huston
A true convert!
I am a former Sephora addict, thanks to Paula. After trying (and loving) the Best Face Forward foundation (after trying just about everything else), I ordered it and samples of just about everything from Paula's Choice. I returned just 4 products to Sephora and was able to buy 12 skin care and makeup products from with Paula's Choice for the same price and I am SO GLAD I DID! I loved and bought full sizes of every product I tried - Skin Balancing Cleanser and Toner, Blemish Fighting Solution, Skin Lightening Gel and Lotion, foundation, eyeshadow and liner to name a few. They are truly the best products I have ever used and SO much less expensive than what I had been using with less results! I was so skeptical, but now I am SOLD! My skin, hair and makeup have never looked better!
—Jennie Baugher
Absolutely Amazing!!!
I discovered Paula's latest book and products through a co-worker. I can't describe the relief I feel about finding good transparent products for my skin.I was one that thought, the more expensive the product the better, WRONG!!!!! This clenaser is amazing, thank you Paula for a wonderful product and being the consumer watch dog that you are!!!!
—Maria R.
amazing
I just turned 16 and i received the skin balancing cleanser,1% BHA lotion, and blemish fighting solution,they are wonderful!
—Angela
I just wanted to let you know how much I love your books and your website, and now I love your products, too. This summer I ordered the 1% BHA Lotion and the Skin Balancing Cleanser for Normal to Oily Combination Skin, as well as some specialty products for oily skin, such as the Oil Absorbing Facial Mask, Blemish Fighting Solution, etc.
Well, since I've been using your cleanser and the BHA lotion, I've found that I rarely need to use the specialty products! As a woman approaching her 40s, I'd always been annoyed that I still experience frequent breakouts, but since I've been using the cleanser and BHA, I have noticed a marked decline in breakouts. I guess I don't have oily skin after all, but have just been using the wrong products all this time!
—Susan W.
THANK YOU!!!!!!!! I have had problems with my skin for as long as I can remember. I am now 35 and have rosacea with acne. I have tried anything and everything, even prescriptions and nothing was helping.....UNTIL I tried your Paula's Choice products. I use the Skin Balancing Cleanser, 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion and the Completely Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 15. My skin looks GREAT! No redness, no flushing, no acne!!! My skin looks and feels great! BRAVO!!!
—Cari P.
Thank you for creating the Skin Balancing Cleanser. My face is truly combo/acne prone and other cleansers were either too drying or not cleaning the oily spots. My face feels and looks so much better after using this cleanser!
—Casey B.
I love the Skin Balancing Cleanser and Final Touch Toner, my skin feels clean but not greasy, smooth but not tight. Thanks so much for this great line of products. Love your books, too.
—Stacey J.
I have been using Paula's Choice products for almost a year now. Before that, I had bounced around from one brand to another, never really finding anything that warranted my loyalty, until now! My skin has never looked this good. I have gone from having very oily, blemish-prone skin to having normal to slightly oily skin with hardly ever a blemish. I can no longer live without this Skin Balancing Cleanser. It takes off all of my makeup and leaves my skin soft and smooth, never tight. Thanks so much for these amazing products!
—Sonya
What makes this product unique?
If you love a creamy cleanser that produces soft lather, Skin Balancing Cleanser is the perfect solution. This cleanser is formulated for oily/combination skin and works perfectly to remove excess oil and all makeup without stripping skin. Skin Balancing Cleanser has a pearlescent texture and cushiony foam that treats your skin gently while offering thorough cleansing.
This product is 100% fragrance- and colorant-free.
Who is this product for?
Skin Balancing Cleanser is formulated for normal to oily/combination skin and those prone to blemishes.
How should this product be used?
Skin Balancing Cleanser can be used once or twice daily, as needed.
Splash the face and eyes generously with tepid to slightly warm water. Spread a nickel-sized amount of cleanser over your fingers and apply it to your face and eyes with vigorous but gentle circular motions. Rinse well. Gently pat dry with a clean towel. For stubborn makeup, repeat this process or use with a soft washcloth.
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 Skin Balancing 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; Skin Research and Technology, February 2005, pages 53–60; Dermatologic Therapy, January 2004, pages 16–25; Cutis, December 2001, Supplemental, pages 12–19; Skin Research and Technology, July 2001, pages 49–55; and Contact Dermatitis, June 1999, pages 310–315.
Directions: Splash the face and eyes generously with tepid to slightly warm water. Spread a nickel-sized amount of cleanser over your fingers and apply it to your face and eyes with vigorous but gentle circular motions. Rinse well. Gently pat dry with a clean towel.
How is Skin Balancing Cleanser different from the One Step Face Cleansers?
Skin Balancing Cleanser cleanses skin every bit as well as both One Step Face Cleansers, but uses a different ingredient composition to do so. The One Step Cleansers do not foam or lather, but Skin Balancing Cleanser does, albeit mildly. Many customers prefer this type of lathering cleanser, even though the lather itself has no effect on the cleansing itself.
I have oily skin. Which cleanser should I use?
It all depends on personal preference. If you prefer a super-light, clean-rinsing gel cleanser, the One Step Face Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin is ideal. If you prefer a creamier cleanser that foams yet rinses completely with no residue, Skin Balancing Cleanser is ideal.
Will Skin Balancing Cleanser leave my skin feeling dry & taut?
No. Skin Balancing Cleanser was carefully formulated to cleanse the skin thoroughly and remove makeup without stripping or drying the skin.
Do I still need to use an eye makeup remover?
>Only if you are wearing waterproof mascara or waterproof makeup. Otherwise, this cleanser is effective at gently removing all other types of eye makeup.
