Love the cleanser!
I have tried hundreds of cleansers and I can honestly say that this is my favorite cleanser EVER. It doesn't dry my skin out, it feels wonderful on my face, and most importantly, I only need a small amount to get my face clean - when I dry it with a white towel, there is no makeup residue after washing.
—A. I.
Finally!
I have finally found a cleanser that removes makeup very well (skin recovery toner removes any trace left from 'evening' makeup), is gentle, moisturizing, affordable.... The Cetaphil has gone in the trash!
—Erica
Too drying, caused redness
I had tried a sample which seemed ok but did not like the full size bottle I just got. Too drying and irritating. I've been washing half my face with my drugstore brand and half with this for a few days just to test, and the side washed with this product is dry and red/splotchy after the shower. Was hoping for a moisturizing cleanser for my dry and easily irritated skin, but this is not it. Cusomer 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 credited you for the product. We will send you samples of the RESIST Cleanser and Moisture Boost Cleanser to try instead. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Kathryn
Love this product
I am a huge fan of Paula's Choice products and especially this cleanser. My recent purchase didn't seem right at all, my first thought was that they changed the formula of the cleanser. I made a call to a representative, Roxanna, who was more than gracious in receiving my complaint, but also replacing my product order quickly. Within a few days received the replacement and it's as fabulous as I know this product to be. Thanks to such terrific customer service and such great products - truly appreciate it!!
—chappell
Essential during Accutane treatment
I've been on Accutane for the past 5 months and wouldn't have made it without Paula's Choice Skin Recovery system (I'm using the cleanser, toner and moisturizer). As I expected, my skin has become much drier due to the medication but the Skin Recovery products help keep it supple and smooth. I experimented with other products before using my current combo and everything else was far too drying. Thanks, Paula, for helping me make it through!
—Mary Lynn
It Works !!
Finally a cleanser that works...This is the first time I've tried Paula's Choice line, after years of observing on tv...I finally ordered some samples to try....My skin has done nothing but improved...I am over 50 and this cleanser has made the world of difference.
—Nichole
Cannot recommend enough!
This is, hands-down, the best cleanser I've ever used. Extremely gentle on the skin and really removes makeup (this is coming from someone who regularly wears heavy eye makeup and waterproof mascara). I'm always reminded of how wonderful this is when I'm forced to use a drugstore cleanser (which will invariably strip my skin, irritate it, or leave me with streaky Panda eyes). Definitely a must-have P.C. product.
—Brandy
Awesome
I've always thought that your face had to tingle or burn after washing to be clean... NOPE... This cleanser is great leaves my skin totally clean without drying my already dry skin out even more. It also doesn't break me out!
—Becky
Total Trust
I have used this cleanser for 5 years once my skin started getting flaky every winter. It is wonderful. Removes makeup,leaves my face feeling soft. In combination with the toner and moisturizer, it a complete package of face care. Wouldn't live without it!
—Nancy
My favorite cleanser
This is the only facial cleanser I've ever used which does both: cleans my skin thoroughly without drying AND does not make my skin greasy or break out. I've used it for years and will continue.
—Lisa
The best cleanser for winter
My combination skin changes with the seasons and requires a richer cleanser for fall and winter. This is the best cleanser I've found for dry and flaky skin that feels tight after washing, and it even removes makeup! It softens my skin without inviting acne, and the Skin Recovery Toner is a perfect follow-up. Cold weather has been a cruel enemy to my skin since my teenage years, but Paula's products are a worthy defense against it.
—Jane
The Best!
I love this cleanser! I have combination skin, oily t-zone and dry cheeks, it leaves my skin clean and soft, never dry. I don't need a separate makeup remover because this takes everything off, I use it day and night. I really like the fact that it is very mild and fragrance free, I cannot go back to using any other cleanser.
—lawanda
Too drying
I love the majority of PC products but I found this particular cleanser way too drying. I was disappointed since it is recommended "for very dry skin". It removes makeup well but my face felt taut afterwords and in desperate need of moisture. Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear about your experience with this product. Applying a toner after cleansing will help restore moisture to the skin. Anytime we cleanse our face we are washing away the natural oils so adding a toner afterwards will help the skin not feel tight or dry. Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Amy
Didn't Apply Smoothly
My skin is dry and sensitive. I found this cleanser to have a dry, sticky texture. It didn't feel good on my skin. I prefer a cleanser that has a more creamy, spreadable texture. Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear about your experience with this product. We will send you the Resist cleanser to try instead which has a more silky texture. We hope you like it! Please contact customer care with any questions.
—Citron
Great product
I'm in my late 20's and my skin for some reason has turned dry. Oh, I still get acne so I put the anti acne treatment with makes it a little more dry. N-e-ways, I love this cleanser and I use the hydrating mask once a week... This combination has brought my skin back to health. I love paula's products, this is one of those that was worth every penny and I am blown away from the quality. Thanks again paula, for making something that blows all the other products off the water!
—Amy
Glad I Tried the Sample
I tried a sample of this and was very surprised to find my skin felt tight after using. Even after applying Paula's Choice moisturizer, my skin was not as hydrated as with my normal cleanser. Although it removed my makeup quite well, my eyes stung after use (requiring eye drops to flush). This happened two nights in a row (using a sample packet), and I won't be trying it again. I'm happy with my normal cleanser, just curious about this one since I saw so many great reviews - my skin must be too sensitive. Customer Care Response: We are sorry that this cleanser did not work out for you. Please contact Customer Service for further assistance finding an alternative product.
—Sandra
Awesome!
I was using the Moisture Boost Cleanser and use everything else from the Skin Recovery Line so when I saw the 16 oz on sale for almost the same price as the 8 oz. I jumped at the chance to try this. WOW! Love the way I feel so pampered by all of your products Paula! This cleanser is absolutely sent from heaven! I am a Retin A user and surround my skincare regimen around being able to use this treatment comfortably and your products have allowed me to have that priviledge. I have the large 16 oz. bottle sitting on my sink and get asked about your products all the time. I honestly thought the fragrance of a product is what was making me feel pampered and clean, but my views have changed since trying your products. I feel much cleaner and pampered with your fragrance free products. Thank you Paula! Oh and a special shout out to Bryan who always answers my obnoxious questions all the time! Thanks Bryan!
—April
Disappointed
I usually love all my PC products, but the Skin Recovery Cleanser leaves my skin dry and uncomfortable. I have to apply moisture immediately after washing my face, otherwise within 5-10 minutes it's bothering me. Seems to clean well, and doesn't sting the eyes, but I won't be purchasing this one again.
—Karin
Best Product I Have Tried
Skin Recovery Cleaner has been a remarkable product for my skin. My skin condition seems to change daily. I have a bit of rocasia, too. This is the first product I have tried that has calmed my skin, not inflamed it! It doesn't dry it out and doesn't make it oily. It cleans well, too. Thank you so much for helping me!
—Leslie
Skin Recovery Cleanser
All of the products in the Skin Recovery Line are great except the Skin Recovery Cleanser
which made my dry skin feel even drier--not at all silky and smooth as others have described. I continue to use other Skin Recovery Line products and the new Resist products which I like very much. Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear that this cleanser did not suit you. Feel free to contact Customer Service for assistance with a refund or exchange.
—Patricia
Excellent Cleanser
This cleanser is incredible for any one suffering from sensitive skin issues. It removes eye and facial make-up gently yet effectively. My skin feels soft, hydrated and clean.
—L.D.
Great cleanser
This is one the best cleansers I have ever used. It is gentle, but it removes my makeup with ease. I can even use it to remove my eye makeup. Is is not greasy, and it leaves my face soft. I also use the skin recovery toner and the skin recovery moisturizer. All three products are excellent for my sensitive over 50 skin. Thanks Paula.
—Debi
Love this Cleanser
I have oily/combination skin and this cleanser cleanses without stripping my skin and removes all traces of makeup. My face feels so soft. Thanks, Paula.
—Calliey
Finally!
Finally found the perfect cleanser for the winter months. I have rosacea and my skin get so dry and flaky this cleanser has helped tremendously! Thank you Paula and your team of online chat personnel!
—Kathy
Love this cleanser.
I have oily skin and still love this product. It cleans well without irritation. I can use this year round with out a problem and it leaves beautiful skin. My mom ordered it and gave it to me, and I love it. I felt it was better than one step.
—Jennifer
Not emollient
This cleanser cleans well and, initially, my skin feels soft right after rinsing, but if I don't immediately apply moisturizer, within seconds my skin will become really tight, dry and flaky. Customer Care Response: We are sorry to hear about your experience with this product. Applying a toner after cleansing will help restore moisture to the skin. Anytime we cleanse our face we are washing away the natural oils so adding a toner afterwards will help the skin not feel tight or dry. We may offer suggestions for you to try. Please contact customer care as we are having trouble locating your account.
—Michelle
Gentle, effective cleanser
This is an excellent cleanser for sensitive skin. It does not dry my skin at all and when I use it to wash off make-up it removes every last trace. I love the combination of a gentle and yet thorough cleanser. Thank you!
—Sarah
Great
Non-irritating (I have rosacea) and leaves skin incredibly soft, not tight, yet clean.
—Sarah
Awesome gentle cleanser
This is a awesome, gentle cleanser. It takes off my makeup, but it doesn't irritate or dry my skin and it doesn't sting if it gets in my eyes.
—Kelly
A MUST for Winter!
Whenever winter rolls around, the first thing I do is order the Skin Recovery cleanser. It is simply the ONLY cleanser that does not dry out my skin....I have tried many "dry skin" cleansers and nothing compares.
—Shari
Love Skin Recovery Cleanser!
My skin is very sensitive and normal to dry depending on the climate. I love this cleanser. I used another cleanser know for its ability to remove makeup. Skin Recovery does a way better job, and without any tingling or irritation. Love it, will reorder in the larger size next time. Thanks so much for such great products for sensitive skin!
—Denise
Fantastic product!
This cleanser is my holy grail cleanser. I've been using it for years now, won't use anything else. Once I tried this gentle cleanser my skin began to improve so much. No irritation, hurrah! And I had tried other 'mild' cleansers, supposedly derm recommended ones. This is a great product, superior to any other I've tried!
—Jill
gentle
PC's reviews of other companies face washes have given me 3 great options... and this is one of them! Thanks PC, it is so close to perfect.
—Therese
Turned me into a believer!
My dry, sensitive skin is much less red & much more comfortable thanks to the skin recovery cleanser & toner. Thank you Paula!
—Jessica
Wow, this is a real gem.
I didn't think there could be a truly gentle, moisturizing cleanser that also removed makeup easily. I have found it. This cleanser is phenomenal! I have rosacea, and for once after being cleaned my skin feels smooth, non-irritated, and happy. I am so glad I tried the sample.
—Cristina
Delivers
This is the only cleanser that I have been able to find that gentle cleans my face without striping it dry. I never feel tight. I will use this product forever!
—Leslie
Recovery Skin Cleanser
I can't say enough about how this cleanser and the other products in the eczema line have changed my skin. For the first time in my life, my face is free of red blotches and itchy spots. No more cortizone shots or expensive creams. My face has color in it now, and a healthy even tone. After a week of using the eczema line, I walked into my office and my business partner commented that I was actually wearing makeup for a change - guess what? I wasn't wearing makeup. THANK YOU PAULA!
—Susanna
Wonderful Product
Over the years, I've used several make-up removal products. Most of the products left a very oily residue on my face & just didn't remove all my eye make-up. I love Paula's product. It takes off all traces of eye make-up & doesn't leave an oily residue.
—Beverley
Smooth & Soothing
This cleanser along with the entire Skin Recovery System helped me get my combination, acne-prone skin back to normal after an unusual and prolonged occurrence of extremely dry, cracked, red skin. This cleanser feels smooth and soothing from the start and works beautifully in combination with the Skin Recovery Toner to remove all of my makeup and hydrate my skin.
—Jessica
Relief
I had an unfortunate reaction to prescribed Differin which left my face sore, irritated, puffy and peeling. This stuff brought some relief to my face. Thank you!
—Erlin Daley
skin recovery cleansr
I really like this cleanser. It feels silky on my face, cleans very well and rinses completely. There is no tightness at all afterword. I follow with Moisture boost Hydrating cream at night and my skin is soft and comfortable but not at all greasy.
—Elizabeth Fletcher
Works great!
I got a sample of this, never hearing of it before, and I love it!! I actually did a double take in the mirror when I was done washing my face because all of my eyemakeup was gone with the first wash. Non drying and didn't bother my very acnegenic skin.
—Stephanie
Wonderful cleanser!
This is by far the best cleanser I have used to date. It has a very milky consistency but will remove all my makeup (except my waterproof mascara), and make my face feel refreshed. But the most wonderful part is my face doesn't feel tight!
—Becky
Best cleanser for ultra sensitive skin
Love this cleanser! I live in the high desert and constantly fight dryness. My skin is flaky, oily in spots, and dry in others. On top of that, most products cause pimples. Not Paula's! Before I had to use 3 separate cleansers. (Sounds dumb, but the sensitive skin cleanser did not remove makeup, so I added a drop of another that did. Then I needed a separate one to remove all-day eye makeup.) Paula's cleanser does the job of all 3 and leaves my skin silky soft without causing pimples. Count me a fan for life!
—Victoria
Nice Result
I have try it
i like it
this is good procuts
—Zhou Yang
Gentle, Effective
I am a longtime Cetaphil devotee (thanks also to Paula) who also now uses Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Cleanser. Gentle, "milky-silky" feel that cleans and softens beautifully. It makes face-washing fun, not a chore. Haven't used soap in years and never will again. Thank you, Paula.
—Virginia Wallerstedt
Lotion-Like
This cleanser does what it says - it removes makeup, doesn't irritate your skin and moisturizes without any greasy residue left on your skin. A+!!
—Mindy
Great Stuff!
The best cleanser for dry skin on the market today!
—Pauline
Love this cleanser
I have sensitive skin and have tried different cleansers. I seem to be reacting to sulfates so I was very excited to find this cleanser. This combined with the skin recovery toner makes my skin feel marvelous! I wish I could use it all over my body!
—Denise
Best cleanser
It's the best cleanser I've every tried. It cleans very well. Non irritating & I feel I don't even need the toner.
—Sisilia
Wonderful
In one word, the recovery cleanser is gorgeous. On my ultra sensitive, excema and acne prone skin, it has worked miracles. Well I shouldn't say miracles because Paula hates claims like that, but even dermatologist-recommended cleansers have not left my skin feeling so gently moisturized and conditioned and cleansed with no stinging whatsoever. It removes my makeup and leaves my face smooth and soft. It even feels like a cushion against water, I can actually use a rinse cleanser if it is this one. Absolutely buy this cleanser if you are someone with sensitive skin who needs something gentle and soothing.
—Robyn Westover
The Perfect Cleanser for Dry Skin
In a word: Fabulous. This cleanser is so gentle yet leaves my face fresh and clean. Totally non-irritating for my rosacea prone skin. A real winner. WONDERFUL!
—Pat
I Love It!
I have NEVER found a cleanser that worked for me until I found Paula's Choice. The Skin Recovery Cleanser leaves my dry rosacea skin so soft after using it. This to me is the best product on the market. Thank you again Paula!
—Donna P
Another Winner
I like to use this post chemical peel. Calms redness and helps the peeling. Also great for cold weather, which dries my normally combination skin out.
—K.M. Duncan
Good but...
Left my very dry & sensitive skin feeling tight, even after using the rest of the Recovery line. Please add a more emollient cleanser.
—Kathie
The perfect cleanser
During the winter my skin gets horribly dry/irritated, but all the cleansers for my problem do nothing to remove my makeup in one easy step--but this cleanser does! It's super gentle and non-stripping, but its tenacious texture adds that needed oomph to do its job thoroughly.
—Sherrie
THE BEST thing for sensitive skin
I have extremely sensitive skin: dry, flaky and with redness from rosacea. This is the only cleanser that I can use without stinging or drying (and I've tried many). Terrific product!!
—Jane
Great
This is what a facial cleanser should be like. Dissolve makeup instantly and make your skin feel great when you wash it off. Super
—Janie
Excellent Cleanser! Removes my eyemakeup too!
I love this cleanser! First of all, it does a very good job cleansing, which is obviously important, and it does not dry my skin out and make it peel (I have very dry skin). Also, I absolutely cherish the fact that it will remove my mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow and eyeprimer--the works!
—Elizabeth H.
Recovery cleanser
This is absolutely the best cleanser on the market. It goes on silky smooth, takes off all of the makeup and doesnt irritate my dry skin.
—Gillian Lee
Skin Recovery Cleanser
An excellent cleanser suitable for dry skin that rinses completely. The lack of residue and easy spreadability on wet skin is a welcome change from other lotion-style cleansers. Bravo!
—Ryan
Love this line
Oh, my gosh do I love the Skin Recovery line for my dry skin! It leaves my skin so soft and moisturized, better than over-priced, over-hyped department store brands.
—Liz
I absolutely LOVE your Pure Mineral Sunscreen and Skin Recovery Cleanser for my very dry skin. I am taking Accutane, and my skin is extremely sensitive to most over-the-counter lotions, cleansers, sunscreens, and make-up. I don't know what I'd do without your non-irritating, beautifully blending products. Thank you, Paula.
—Jessica I.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am now a lifelong convert to your products. They are simply the BEST. Using your Skin Recovery Cleanser is like putting on a pair of fine silk pajamas; it just feels so good.
—Laura H.
I started using just your facial cleaners a few years ago and now use almost all of your products...LOVE THEM ALL.
—Jill R.
Thank you for the wonderfully gentle and soothing Skin Recovery cleanser. It leaves my skin so refreshingly clean and soft...without any redness or irritation! Thank you Paula!
—Sally O.
Paula's products are great and I particularly like the facial cleanser -- not irritating, effective, and easy to use with the pump top. I follow it with alpha-hydroxy and then the deep moisturizer (on the good nights when I do all that I should!). Thanks Paula for having good products at reasonable prices.
—Lucy B.
What makes this product unique?
Skin Recovery Cleanser is a rich, intensely hydrating cleanser that rinses easily with water. Designed for dry to very dry skin, the creamy lotion texture glides over skin while it cleanses and removes makeup. Works throughout the cleansing process to keep dry skin supple while actually improving skin's softness and adding moisture. Skin Recovery Cleanser is an excellent option for truly sensitive skin, including those with rosacea.
This product is 100% fragrance- and colorant-free.
Who is this product for?
Skin Recovery Cleanser is formulated for those with normal to very dry or sensitive skin.
How should this product be used?
Skin Recovery Cleanser can be used once or twice daily, as needed.
Splash the face and eyes generously with tepid to slightly warm water. Using your fingers, apply a quarter-sized amount on your face and eyes using vigorous but gentle circular motions. Rinse well and gently pat face dry with a clean towel. For stubborn makeup, repeat cleansing if needed or use 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 Recovery Cleanser:
Cutis, March 2005, pages 17-21; March 2004, pages 183–187; and December 2001, Supplemental, pages 12–19; Skin Research and Technology, February 2005, pages 53–60; Dermatologic Therapy, 2004; 17 Supplemental 1, pages 26-34; Dermatologic Therapy, January 2004, pages 16–25; 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. Using your fingers, apply a quarter-sized amount on your face and eyes using vigorous but gentle circular motions. Rinse well and gently pat face dry with a clean towel.
Do I still need to use an eye or face makeup remover?
It depends on how much eye or face makeup you are using or if you are wearing waterproof mascara, waterproof makeup, or other hard-to-remove makeup. Otherwise, this cleanser effectively removes most types of makeup.
How does Skin Recovery Cleanser differ from the other Paula's Choice Cleansers-how do I know which one is best for me?
Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Cleanser is slightly more emollient than our One Step Face Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin, which makes it preferred for someone with dry to very dry skin.
I have normal to dry skin on my cheeks but my T-zone is oily - would Skin Recovery Cleanser work for me?
While it is an option, your best bet would be to try the One Step Face Cleansers for Normal to Dry or Normal to Oily/Combination skin first.
I have normal to dry skin that gets noticeably drier in the winter - would Skin Recovery Cleanser be a good seasonal choice?
Yes! This would be a very good choice for normal to dry skin during the winter months.
Will this cleanser make me break out?
This cleanser is extremely unlikely to cause blemishes. However, normal to oily and blemish-prone skins will find this cleanser too emollient for their skin type.
