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Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate
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Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate
Normal to Very Oily Skin

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  • A state-of-the art blend of several well-researched antioxidants and potent anti-irritants in a silky, dry-finish, silicone base
  • Truly a unique product due to the number (and levels of) antioxidants it contains
  • Leaves skin unbelievably smooth and matte
  • Provides normal to very oily skin with oil absorbing ingredients as well as ingredients that enhance and normalize how skin behaves
  • May be used around the eyes
  • 100% fragrance- and colorant-free
  • Contains stabilized retinol

    Can be used as Step 4 in our 5-Step Skin Balancing System

    Product Rating:   Read 42 reviews >>


    Sizes Price Quantity
    1 oz/30 ml $24.95
    0.034 fl. oz/1 ml - Sample Size $1.00

    100% guarantee 60 day return policy / 2-5 Day Delivery


  • A state-of-the art blend of several well-researched antioxidants and potent anti-irritants in a silky, dry-finish, silicone base
  • Truly a unique product due to the number (and levels of) antioxidants it contains
  • Leaves skin unbelievably smooth and matte
  • Provides normal to very oily skin with oil absorbing ingredients as well as ingredients that enhance and normalize how skin behaves
  • May be used around the eyes
  • 100% fragrance- and colorant-free
  • Contains stabilized retinol

    Can be used as Step 4 in our 5-Step Skin Balancing System
  • Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cyclomethicone (silicone slip and absorbent agents), Isododecane (matte finish solvent), Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate (non-aqueous thickener), Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane (silicone slip agents), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Epilobium Angustifolium (Willow Herb) Extract (anti-irritants), Camellia Oleifera (White Tea) Leaf Extract, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidants/anti-irritants), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (antioxidant), Bisabolol (anti-irritant), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Retinol (antioxidant/cell-communicating ingredient), Astaxanthin Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Calluna Vulgaris (Heather) Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Extract, Betula Alba (White Birch) Extract (antioxidants), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (thickener), Silica (absorbent), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
    Directions: At night, smooth a few drops onto skin after cleansing, toning (optional), and exfoliating. For daytime, wear under a product with SPF 15 or greater. Works beautifully under makeup and is suitable for use around the eyes.

    What is the difference between Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate and the other Super Antioxidant Concentrates?
    Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate contains special dry-finish and absorbent ingredients that make it ideal for normal to very oily skin. Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate contains several plant oils and a greater variety of antioxidants known to be especially beneficial for normal to very dry skin. Our original Super Antioxidant Concentrate is an "all skin types" option that supplies skin with several antioxidants, primarily stabilized vitamin C.

    Is the texture of Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate similar to Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Moisture Gel?
    No. Skin Balancing Moisture Gel is a silicone-in-water emulsion and has a light, water-based gel texture while the Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate is a non-aqueous serum that has a completely different feel.

    Does Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate decrease the appearance of pores?
    The silicone polymers in this product float over skin and minimally "fill in" pores, creating a smoother surface. The effect (as with all such products) is temporary and how long it lasts depends on your pore size and skin's oil output, as well as other products used at the same time. Overall, this product is not capable of reducing pore size, but it's conceivable this effect will be noticed and can be prolonged by pairing it with a matte finish foundation and powder.

    I use a prescription product with tretinoin (i.e. Retina-A, Renova, Tazorac). Since Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate and Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate contain retinol, is it OK to combine them?
    We are not aware of any contraindications surrounding the use of tretinoin and retinol and believe this combination is beneficial to skin. Because this question concerns a prescription drug, we recommend consulting your physician and following his or her advice.

    Customer Reviews

    Product Rating:   (42 reviews) Best, light, feel clean and fresh
    This product I love it so so much, I put in skin its not heavy at all very sliky that u don't need to rap your face . I believe this product prevent wrinkle because its help to not rap your face alot. Thank you Paula!!
    —Khalid


    I have been a customer for over 8 yrs now and I must say, this is one the best products I have used. I have such oily skin with occasional breakouts. This product not only controls the oil, but leaves my skin soft, and the overall appearance of my skin has improved. Thank you Paula!
    —Elizabeth P.


    Well, Paula has really done it this time. I liked the original Super Antioxidant formula, but, helloooo, the new Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate is FABULOUS. It goes on like spun silk & disappears like magic. It is FABULOUS. It's like a sheer veil over your skin. It does not make my face break out. It is FABULOUS. No shine anywhere. You just feel light and airy. There's not another product that can touch this one!! It is FABULOUS. You need to sell it by the quart.
    —Marianne D.


    I have followed your skin and hair care advice for at least 15 years with great success and have purchased Paula's Choice products since their inception. I have found all the products to be excellent. I recently purchased Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate, and I believe this to be the best skin care product I have ever used. After just one application, I found my skin smoother, less oily, makeup lasted longer, not to mention the obvious long-term benefits of antioxidants. Thank you for your commitment to excellent products and customer service.
    —Chris C.

    My husband is hooked
    Your Essential Non-Greasy Sunscreen convinced my husband that your products are seriously great skin care. His absolute favorite products are your Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Serum and the Close Comfort Shaving Gel. He says the shaving gel is the best he has ever used and I have to agree!
    —Cindy McLeod

    Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concen
    I love, love, love this product!!!! I have oily skin but dry on top and prone to acne and blackheads. This is all I use as a moisturizer in the morning & at night. It is the only product that does not cause blackheads and clogged pores for me. It gives me just enough moisture to make my skin soft & clear! Please don't ever discontinue this product!!
    —Kim W

    Fa-bu-lous!
    I'm a longtime devotee and have always been a huge fan of the Skin Balancing Moisture Gel - which worked really well for my mild patchs of dry skin without aggravating my mild acne. BUT. Nothing touches this product; it does exactly what it says and more! My skin looks nearly flawless with this: my pores disappear, the flaky dryness is gone, the redness of my breakouts is drastically reduced and there is zero shine. PLUS it's doing amazing things for a scar on my cheek. A little goes such a long way and considering what a fantastic, multi-functional product you're getting, this is one of the biggest bargains P.C has to offer. This product is a perfect example of why I've convinced all of my friends and family to become Begounites!!!
    —Trinity

    Disappointed!
    Loced this product initially, but after a few days it broke me out in cysts. I've since discovered that my skin reacts this way to any "cyclo" silicone ingredient, which unfortunately prevents me from using many Paula's Choice products. I would love to see some alternative formulations for those of us who cannot tolerate these ingredients.
    —Eden S.

    it is so nice
    my skin become so smooth after using it for a week. my blemish mark is smoothen out, a must-have for all kind of skin and age
    —Sharon

    BEST OF THE BEST!!
    I love many of your products but hands down, this is my favorite! I use this on my face, eyes and neck and it provides perfect moisture for my combination skin. It also is a perfect primer for makeup while protecting my skin. Thank you for your great products and all your hard work in bringing us the latest in skincare at reasonable prices!
    —Emily C.

    Bad Luck? Bad Choices?
    Sad to say but this product just doesn't work for me (wish I had stayed with the original Concentrate Serum). This version leaves my skin feeling tight and dry plus I am left with a chalky residue after application. Will exchange for the old faithful Antioxidant Serum. Still love you though, Paula!
    —Ruth Korb

    Too much silicone for me
    I really wanted to like this, as I've been following Paula's advice for years, with good results. However, I found this product too full of silicone and the texture was unpleasant. I threw it away after less than a dozen uses. Customer Care Response: Please call our customer care department for a refund at your earliest convenience. Not everyone is going to like every product, regardless of how well-formulated it is which is why Paula offers other alternatives and even recommends 100s of products from other lines.
    —Susan

    Not for me
    Very impressive ingredients, but I don't care for the texture. Thought this was the best formulation for my oily skin but it is unpleasantly thick and and I cannot use it anywhere close to my eyes (contact lens wearers beware. It does not irritate my skin but does seem to clog pores. Think I would like the beneficial ingredients in a lightweight lotion base. Customer Care: Please call our Customer Service for assistance with finding an antioxidant serum that will work for you. Also, please note that we have a 60-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.
    —Nancy Williams

    Disaster
    This worked fine until I realized it was gradually covering my face with little whiteheads.
    —Anne M.

    LOVE this product
    My husband just told me today that my skin looks beautiful. I use this product for day and nightime and it makes my skin sooo smooth. Thanks Paula.
    —Susanne

    Love it!
    I love this stuff! It feels like silk going on, and makes my skin so soft and smooth! I have been using this for three months and love the difference it has made in my skin.
    —Patricia

    Good product if you don't breakout
    This product did a pretty good job of keeping the oilies away without causing tiny patches of flaky skin to be noticeable (a rare feat). It seems to keep most foundations on longer. Unfortunately, I am ambivalent about using it regularly because I seem to get cystic acne from it although my skin is normally clear. Not sure if I should try a different PC antioxidant product, or if it would be too oily.
    —Alexandra

    A GREASY MESS
    I used it once and could could hardly wait to go home and wash my face. Maybe it works for drier skins, but on my semi-oily skin, it felt like a layer of vaseline, and was just as shiny.
    —Barbara

    Broke out in cysts and pimples
    I bought this product because I have oily skin and anything that can matify and nourish my skin is helpful. However, after repeated use, I broke out in white cysts and pimples. When I stopped using the product, the cysts and pimples eventually cleared up.
    —Janet

    Amazing Product!
    This product is absolutely incredible. The texture is like nothing I've ever seen before. It's definitely not a heavy, creamy formulation. It goes on DRY!! I love the idea of protecting my skin with powerful antioxidants, and this product does that and without feeling heavy on your face. I use Differing .3% gel, and this product really helped to mitigrate the drying effects of that drug! I've used Paula's products for years, and this one is hands down my favorite! Bravo!
    —Randy Smookler

    Horrible - Why is this labeled as Mattifying?
    Firstly this product has an oily consistency and goes on your skin oily It makes my combination skin alot more oily than it is I used a tiny amount as indicated on the labeling however there is no getting over just how incredible inadequate this product is I have never submitted a review on any products in the past whether good or bad But I had to about this purchase because it is horrible and does not live up to it's claim by far I only gave it a one since it was the lowest score available In my opinion it does not even deserve that 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 Paulas Choice also has a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy within 60 days of purchase
    —Dona Cespedes

    Amazing!
    Before Paula's products, I tried everything, I mean, EVERYTHING. Since I've been using the serum my face has been so clear. I used to have acne and was really frustrated by the amount of products I tried... and failed. I bought Paula's book and when I saw she had products available, I figured what thet heck, I've tried everything else! The serum (as well as all other skin balancing products) are so gentle, yet SO EFFECTIVE! Ever since using the serum specifically I've noticed, my acne has BEEN GONE. If you're looking for the miracle product, this is it.
    —Roberta

    Too much silicone
    It is possible that the serum provides benefits to the skin, but it had too much slip for me -- I really disliked the texture and threw it out. 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 has a 100% Satisifaction Guarantee return policy within 60 days of purchase.
    —Susan

    Unpleasant
    Although this product is unscented, the sample I purchased had a rancid smell. I was told by customer service that it is just the natural smell of the products' ingredients. I had to wash the product off my face it was so unpleasant. Although, I did like the texture, I felt the product was unusable.
    —Cara

    Good Stuff!
    This works smashingly as a primer before applying makeup! The only issue I have is that it seems to separate. Even if I shake the tube, it will come out like liquid one day and gel the next. However, it does seem to work so I'll keep using it.
    —K.M. Duncan

    Awsome Stuff!!
    This is really great! Leaves my skin really soft, soaks right in after about five minutes, is really moisturizing so I do not need an extra moisturizer. You have to shake the tube before applying or it will get runny though.
    —Crystal

    Please make a silicone-free version!
    The heavy silicone formulation of this product made me break out. Please make an antioxidant concentrate without all the silicones! Customer Care: We appreciate your feedback. While there is no new serums in the works, we will be sure to share your feedback with Paula and her team. Keep in mind that many of Paula's products such as toners, moisturizers and sunscreens contain a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants so these are good options to consider as well.
    —Sarah

    Retinol Free?
    I've been using Paula's Choice skincare products for a couple weeks now, and wow my skin is starting to look amazing! I was hesitant at first and had low expectations, but have finally found products that deliver. I'd love to try this product but am not able to. Hopefully this range will soon come out with an antioxidant concentrate that is suitable for oily skin but retinol free for those who are either pregnant or sensitive to this ingredient. Customer Care: You may want to consider trying our Super Antioxidant Concentrate (all skin types). This product contains a good dose of a variety of vitamins and antioxidants without the Retinol; making it a great option for those who cannot use that particular ingredient for one reason or another.
    —Steph

    Silky, but I broke out
    I love most of Paula's products, but not this, despite how silky it feels. It's not the silicone, as Olay serum doesn't break me out, but this gave me cysts on my neck. 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.
    —Catherine Robey

    Wonderful serum
    I tried the Prescriptives Super Line Preventor and Olay Regnererst Serum. Neither of these could hold a candle to this serum which is silky and full of fantastic ingredients! I have no reaction to this serum and my skin feels so healthy.
    —Katie

    Great Products
    Great products that really deliver at a great price. This is the only line I will ever use.
    —Ann

    can't beat this stuff!
    AMAZING texture!! Amazing stuff in this little tube, and the price is so great!
    —Sung Jang

    Another shot
    It kind of burns around the eyes but the wierder part was when I started using it I started breaking out on my face in little pimples all over (not normal). I'm gonna give it another shot cuz I really want it to work- this time I'm going to try it while using the extra strength blemish fighting solution on top of my regimen (all paulas). Fingers crossed!
    —kcrock6

    Caused Bad Reaction!!!
    I was looking forward to trying this out but was soo disappointed with my skin reacted to the product and formed dry flaky patches! I know Paula you are not big on La Roche Posay Toleriane but it is the only thing that works on my skin! 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.
    —w

    White Bumps Under Eyes
    I went to the derm as I started getting white bumps under my eyes and he said they are whiteheads from the product. Can't use it.. :( 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.
    —Misty Coltune

    Different than any other product on the market
    At first the texture put me off, but once I started using the correct amount I absolutely LOVE it. My skin feels matte and velvety.
    —Tina Kilibarda

    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.

    No benefit for my combination skin.
    I got no benefit from this product, just dryness and continued redness. I had to return it. 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.
    —Cristina

    More silicones
    I do not understand the cosmetics industry's obsession with silicones. I know I am not the only one who gets bad breakouts from silicone in products, yet SO MANY formulas for oily and acne-prone skin are silicone-based, and the number increases each year. I am at a loss to understand this. I love Paula's Choice and hope you will consider making a fabulous antioxidant product like this WITHOUT the silicones. What is so wrong with a nice, light butylene glycol base?! Thanks for allowing honest feedback.
    —OD

    Breaking out
    I have tried this product twice now and I seem to be getting the same results - more breakouts. Every time I stop using it my face clears up. Unfortunately something in this product does not agree with my skin. I will continue using the Balancing Cleanser, Balancing Toner, 2% BHA liquid and Extra Strenght Blemish Fighting Solution as I have a very good results with these products. 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.
    —Annette Kesslering

    Didn't Like
    Do not like the silicone in this product. Paula, can't you please make a serum without silicone?? Customer Care Response: We appreciate your feedback and want to assure you that your comments will be shared with Paula and her team. Please feel free to contact our customer service team if you would like assistance with finding a replacement product. Thank you again!
    —Marti Jatis

    Love This Product
    I use this product both day and night. In addition to the good things it does for your skin, it has a silky feel that makes makeup go on smoother.
    —LDD

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