No more over priced products for me!
I have been using Paula's Choice for about 3 yrs. I had been using the Resist line for about a year and recently tried this system. I feel it took my skin to a whole new level. To get all these products for less than $120 is just amazing. I don't know why anyone would ever buy anything else. I am a lifelong fan now.
—gay
Ten years younger!!!
I have been using Paula's Choice Skin Recovery System for two or three years now. In the past week the grocery store the cashier said he was supposed to card everyone who looked under 40 and tried to buy alcohol, so he carded me, then he said he had me pegged at 34! Today the optometrist said she thought I was 34 and too young for progressive lenses! And today I found out that the guy I've been seeing for almost four months didn't know how old I am; however, when someone asked him how old I was, he guessed I was in my late 30's. I am actually 44! I am amazed at this skin care line! I have had such great results with the Skin Recovery at such an amazing price! The kit lasts me about three months, but at three months not everything needs to be replenished. I have found that the daytime moisturizer with spf 15 does not moisturize my skin enough, so I use the Intensive Moisturizing Cream in the daytime as well. The Hydrating Mask is AMAZING!!! The Super-Antioxidant Serum really is super! Everything works together in harmony! I can't do without any of them. Thank you Paula!
—Tierney
Love this product
I will never spend another dollar on department store skin care. I've been using the Skin Recovery System for a month now and just after a week I noticed a difference in complexion, my skin looks and feels younger. My make up also behaves better being worn on top of this outstanding product. I also wanted to speak a little about the customer service. When I received my product in the mail I was missing a couple items from the set, I called on a Friday afternoon and customer service was the most helpful and apologetic and sent my missing items out immediately. I received them by Tuesday. Outstanding customer service...thank you.
—Jennifer
very impressed
I am very impressed with this complete system. Usually I don't by a whole system for my face care but in the past decade my face has taken on signs of stress and age. Everything I tried, from mid range to expensive, made my face breakout, become irritated, or tried it out. I finally tried the Skin Recovery System and after a few days my skin is not flaky or dry and the redness and irritation is going away. I will continue to use this system and recommend it for fair complected folks with dry and sensitive skin
—Angela
Thank you
Normally I don't bother leaving reviews about products, but I am SO happy with my skin since using the Skin Recovery system that I want to recommend this. No more dry, flaky spots on and beside my nose, no more redness and dry-wrinkles... my skin is soft and smooth every day and night. So glad I invested in proper skincare! Thank you Paula Begoun :)
—Wendy
So Happy with Paula's Choice
I have been using the skin are line for month now and just received mascara, foundation and lipstick today. The quality and value for the price is unsurpassed, and I have tried them all, from "High End" to drug store brands. Thank you thank you!
—Rachael
WOW!!!!!
I've been using the products for about 2 weeks now, I couldn't be happier! Before using Paula's, I didn't expect much because compared to the other skincare products, the prices are too reasonable. HOWEVER, OMG! now I recommend Paula's Choice products to all my friends and my family. THANK YOU PAULA's CHOICE! I love your stuff! Keep them coming!
—Jen
amazing
This is the ONLY product set that has EVER made my dry skin soft, subtle, clear and gorgeous! I sound like an infomercial, but I swear I am a real person! I have never had BAD skin-just dry and dull looking. I cannot believe how much better it looks in one week!
—April
Finally found the right products!
I have been using the samples for about week now and ordered the entire kit today. My skin looks and feels wonderful. An associate asked me today what I was using on my skin and said my foundation looked very natural..it does because I am not wearing any for the first time in a long while. By the way, fancy packaging only adds to the product's price point, so keep everything just the way it is for us Paula. A pretty package isn't what makes my skin look great.
Thank you!
—Cindy
Love!!
I love all these products! Finally, I have found a system that keeps my skin smooth, hydrated and clean. My search is over. And thanks for keeping these products affordable for everyone.
—Renee
awesome products
I have spent $1,500 on skin care in the last 6 months and found nothing that makes my dry, dull, flaky skin look and feel good. I ordered the samples and have been using them for 4 days and everyone I know including my husband has commented on how great my skin looks. This is the first time in years that I can apply make-up without it looking dull and flaky. Love, love, love these products. You really need to promote these products more so that others can have the benefit of this wonderful skin care line.
—patricia tredway
Fantastic
I have been using my skin care products for a few weeks now and I am very satisfied with the results. My skin feels great and for the first time I am not suffering with dry skin during the winter.
—Tina
Great Stuff!
I've used individual Paula's Choice products for the past 12 years, but three months ago decided to buy the whole kit at once and actually use them. Amazing! I haven't gone out of my house without foundation on in years, but now I just use blush and powder. My skin looks and feels better than it ever has!
—Pauline
Harsh winter weather not a problem any more.
I've used Paula's books for reference for at least 15 years. I've always had sensitive skin and if I change my skin care routine I can only change one product at a time otherwise I will get major redness/burning.
I decided to give Paula's Choice a try because I've always had good luck with her picks and the prices seemed reasonable.
I'm very happy with the results. I live in Northern Michigan where we have harsh cold, wind, and dry conditions for at least 4 months of the year. I had found one other set of products that stopped the cracking, flaking and severe dry skin. Those products however cost 3X as much and were not nearly as effective as as the Paula's Choice products.
For example, I went swimming for about an hour in a pool and hot tub where I dipped under completely several times. Afterwards I took a shower but had no moisturizer with me and then went outside where temperatures were in the teens. I had no tight feeling to my skin, no cracking. My face remained moist and I'm sure it is because of the products I have been using.
I can't say enough good about these products and am recommending them to all of my friends and relatives, especially those who live in harsh climates.
—Bonnie Brandt
Great Kit!!!
I recently started using Tazorac and my skin really dried up. This WHOLE kit is awesome and has helped tons. No irritation and I am still able to use my Taz!!!
—Jaime
Love this system!
I have been using the Skin Recovery Kit for awhile now, and it's made a big difference in my dry, sensitive skin. I no longer HAVE to wear makeup. People say I have beautiful skin, even photographed without makeup on. Your fragrance-free products really are non-irritating. I love the simple, basic packaging as well.
—Liz
My skin feels smoother!
Hi, Just wanted to let you know I love your skin care products! I was having trouble with the night and day creams I was using because my skin was not improving and if I put cream near my eyes my eyes burned. I am using all of your skin care line for normal to dry skin (skin recovery) and my skin feels smoother, more even to the touch, and my makeup goes on well and looks better! Amazing! I am sold. Thanks so much. I will continue to try out new products from your line.
—Ann G.
Skin Recovery Softening Cream Cleanser
Normal to Very Dry Skin
A rich, soothing cleanser for very dry, sensitive skin that rinses completely without leaving any residue.
Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner
Normal to Very Dry Skin
Discover silky-smooth, radiant skin with this sophisticated blend of skin-fortifying ingredients.
Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
Best for Normal to Dry Skin
Encourages skin cell turnover rate, revealing a smooth and radiant appearance.
Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum
Normal to Very Dry Skin
This hydrating combination of potent bioactive ingredients (including retinol) forms a breathable barrier to protect and revitalize skin.
Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion
SPF 15
Normal to Very Dry Skin
This daytime moisturizer with mineral sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection. Brilliantly restores and maintains healthy, radiant skin.
Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer
Normal to Very Dry Skin
Restore vital moisture to very dry skin with this exceptionally elegant, rich cream that provides soothing protection and reduces free-radical damage.
Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask
Normal to Very Dry Skin
Drench skin in hydration with this intensive, fast-acting mask. Instantly restores the look of radiance to dry skin.
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 Softening Cream 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.
Sources to support the claims made for Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner:
FEBS Letters, December 2009, Epbulication; Dermato-Endocrinology, March 2009, pages 72–76; International Journal of Molecular Medicine, August 2008, pages 229–236; Clinics in Dermatology, November-December 2008, pages 614–626; Skin Therapy Letter, September 2008, pages 5–9; Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, July 2008, pages S7–S12; Dermatologic Therapy, September-October 2007, pages 322–329; Dermatologic Surgery, "The Antioxidant Network of the Stratum Corneum," July 2005, pages 814–817; Exogenous Dermatology, June 2004, pages 154–160; American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, May 2004, pages 327–337; Dermatologic Therapy, January 2004, pages 16–25; Archives of Pharmacal Research, December 2002, pages 747–758; Toxicology Letters, December 2003, pages 65–73Skin Research and Technology, November 2001, pages 227–237; and Contact Dermatitis, November 1998, pages 231–239; and www.naturaldatabase.com.
Sources to support the claims made for Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, September 2008, pages 170–176; Dry Skin and Moisturizers: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, April 2005, pages 1156–1162; Cutis, August 2001, pages 135–142; Dermatologic Surgery, May 2001 pages 1–5; Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, July 2000, pages 280–284; American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, March-April 2000, pages 81–88; Chemistry and Function, edited by Marie Loden and Howard Maibach, 2000, page 237; Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, May-June 1999, pages 111–119; Journal of Cell Physiology, October 1999, pages 14–23; and British Journal of Dermatology, December 1996, pages 867–875.
Sources to support the claims made for Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate:
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprolology, January-February 2010, pages 20-26; Talanta, December 2009, pages 924-934; Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, September 2009, pages 447–460; International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research, May 2009, pages 152–165; Journal of Medicinal Food, April 2009, pages 429-434; Archives of Dermatological Research, August 2009, pages 487–495; Cell Biology and Toxicology, March 2009, Epublication; Molecules, January 2009, pages 540–554; Archives of Physiology and Biochemistry, April 2008, pages 127–149; Dermatologic Therapy, September-October 2007, pages 314-321; General Physiology and Biophysics, June 2007, pages 97-103; Archives of Dermatology, May 2007, pages 606-612; International Journal of Toxicology, Volume 24, supplement 2, 2005, pages 51-111; Experimental Dermatology, September 2005, pages 684-691; International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, July-September 2005, pages 497-502; Dermatologic Surgery, July 2005, pages 799-804; Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, April 2005, pages 1156-1162; Cosmetic Dermatology, supplement, Revisiting Retinol, January 2005, pages 1-20; Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, November-December 2004, pages 298-303; BMC Dermatology, September 2004, page 13; and International Journal of Dermatology, August 2004, pages 604-607.
Sources to support the claims made for Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 15 & Antioxidants:
Future Oncology, December 2008, pages 841–856; Clinics in Dermatology, November-December 2008, pages 614–626; Skin Therapy Letter, September 2008, pages 5–9; Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, July 2008, pages S7–S12; Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2008, pages 136–149; Pharmazie, January 2008, pages 58–60; Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, March-April 2007, pages 80–85;Journal of Pathology, January 2007, 241–251; Journal of Dermatological Science, September 2006, pages 159–169; American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, June 2005, pages 215–223; Journal of Postgraduate Medicine, July 2004, pages 131–139; International Journal of Dermatology, July 2003, page 505; Journal of Investigative Dermatology, January 2002, pages 117–125; and Clinical Experimental Dermatology, October 2001, pages 573–577.
Sources to support the claims made for Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer:
British Journal of Dermatology, July 2008, pages 23-34; Chemical Research in Toxicology, January 2008; American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, April 2003, pages 771-788; Journal of Investigative Dermatology, February 2002, pages 372–379; Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, January–February 2002, pages 20–25; Toxicology in Vitro, August–October 2001, pages 357–362; Journal of Cosmetic Science, January–February 2001, pages 35–50; Journal of Investigative Dermatology, April 1995, pages 484–488; and Journal of Molecular Medicine, January 1995, pages 7–17.
Sources to support the claims made for Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask:
Clinics in Dermatology, November-December 2008, pages 614–626; Clinical Experiments in Dermatology, January 2007, pages 88-90; Surgeon, February 2005, pages 7–10; Journal of Lipid Research, May 2002, pages 794–804; Free Radical Research, April 2002, pages 471–477; Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, January–February 2002, pages 20–25; Journal of Cosmetic Science, January–February 2001, pages 35–50.
Skin Recovery Softening Cream Cleanser: 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.
Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner: DIRECTIONS: Shake well. After cleansing, soak a large cotton ball or pad with Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner and gently stroke over the face. Do not rinse off. Follow with moisturizer and/or specialty product.
Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant: DIRECTIONS: Apply a dime-sized amount to clean skin. Avoid direct contact with the eyes and eyelids. First-time users may experience a slight stinging sensation, which is normal. To avoid irritation, product should be used just once a day or once every other day for the first few weeks. After prolonged use (4–6 weeks), it can be applied twice per day. If redness, dryness, or irritation occurs, cut back the frequency of application or discontinue use.
Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum: DIRECTIONS: At night, smooth a few drops onto skin after cleansing, toning (optional), and exfoliating. May be applied under or over moisturizer. For daytime, wear under a product with SPF 15 or greater. Works beautifully under makeup and is suitable for use around the eyes.
Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion:
SPF 15 DIRECTIONS: Apply liberally before sun exposure. Do not apply any other skin-care product over sunscreen. You can apply foundation or pressed powder over sunscreens. For use on children under six months of age, consult a doctor.
Skin Recovery Moisturizer: DIRECTIONS: Apply to cleansed skin. It works beautifully as an eye cream. For daytime, wear under a product rated SPF 15 or greater.
Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask: DIRECTIONS: Use on cleansed skin. Apply a thick layer over dry areas or the entire face as often as needed. Leave on for at least 20 minutes or as long as desired. Rinse with tepid to warm water and follow with the appropriate Paula's Choice exfoliant, moisturizer, or specialty product. May be used around the eye area.
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 Softening Cream Cleanser differ from the other Paula's Choice Cleansers-how do I know which one is best for me?
Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Softening Cream 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 Softening Cream 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 Softening Cream 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.
Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner:
What do toners "tone"? I thought Paula didn't recommend toners!
Paula has always recommended toners that are well-formulated. Toners can be a great after-cleansing step to be sure you've removed all your makeup. When properly formulated, they soothe skin and add hydrating ingredients to make skin softer, not to mention they're another leave-on source for antioxidants and other ingredients that improve skin's healthy functioning.
How do I know which toner is right for me? Besides skin type, what are the main differences between the four Paula's Choice toners?
All of our toners restore skin, help remove last traces of makeup, are alcohol- and fragrance-free, and contain no unnecessary irritants such as menthol, peppermint, and citrus oils. They are great as an adjunct to a more thorough cleansing routine, especially post-workout or in hot/humid climates. Even more significantly they go beyond the basics by offering skin benefits you can see and feel.
Healthy Skin Refreshing Toner is an excellent choice for normal to oily/combination skin. It provides a weightless finish, and although it feels very light, it supplies skin with potent antioxidants and anti-irritants. Healthy Skin Refreshing Toner is a great option for those who want more protection and a soothing, soft, feeling on their skin, particularly those with sensitive skin. To get the benefits of both toners for normal to oily/combination skin, you may want use Healthy Skin Refreshing Toner in the morning and Skin Balancing Toner in the evening.
Moisture Boost Hydrating Toner contains ingredients that help soothe and restore normal to dry skin, plus it includes a greater amount of glycerin, a key ingredient to make dry skin look and feel better. It also contains a broad range of ingredients that aid the barrier repair process so those with dry skin (or normal skin with occasional dry patches) will receive even more benefit from their Paula's Choice moisturizer and/or specialty product. Moisture Boost Hydrating feels lighter than our Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner, yet still provides an array of antioxidants, anti-irritants, and skin-protecting ingredients. To get the benefits of both toners for normal to dry skin, you can use Moisture Boost Hydrating Toner in the morning and Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner in the evening.
Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner for normal to very dry skin is an excellent choice for those who need more help protecting their skin from environmental damage or dryness. Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner has a richer texture than any of our other toners and contains more plant oils and other emollients than our Moisture Boost Hydrating Toner. This is a great option for dry to very dry skin, extremely sun damaged skin, or those dealing with eczema or rosacea accompanied by dry skin.
Skin Balancing Toner for normal to oily/combination skin is excellent for protecting skin from environmental damage or dryness. In addition, its cell-communicating ingredients can, in theory, help balance skin so its oily areas do not worsen or lead to reddened or blemished skin. Skin Balancing Toner uses a more complex formulation than our Healthy Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner, and helps restore normal cell function.
Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant:
Your AHA (glycolic acid) products have a higher percentage than your BHA (salicylic acid) products. Does this mean AHA is a stronger exfoliant?
AHA products are most effective at a 5% to 10% concentration and BHA at 1% to 2% concentration. Think about it like making bread, the amount of yeast you need is tiny in comparison to the amount of flour you use but equally important to get the results you want. The percentage of effectiveness varies depending on the ingredient. Rest assured that the BHA products are not any less effective due to lower concentrations of the exfoliant.
Can the AHA and/or BHA products be used during pregnancy or while lactating?
Although topical exfoliants should not pose a problem for pregnant woman, we do recommend asking your doctor before using any product you are concerned about.
Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum:
What is the difference between Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate and the other Super Antioxidant Concentrates?
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 than our original Super Antioxidant Concentrate. Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate contains special dry-finish silicones and absorbent ingredients that make it ideal for normal to very oily skin. The anti-irritants in Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Mattifying Concentrate were specially selected to minimize redness and inflammation resulting from blemishes. Our original Super Antioxidant Concentrate is an option for all skin types looking to supplement skin with several antioxidants.
What does this product do?
The primary purpose of Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate is to supply the skin with a selection of effective and potent antioxidants and anti-irritants. It has a silky silicone base that efficiently delivers the antioxidants into the top layers of skin and helps enhance the product's stability.
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.
Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion:
SPF 15 Should I reapply Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion during the day?
For casual wear, meaning less than four hours total time out in the sun, it is not necessary to reapply sunscreen as you will be protected all day. If you are perspiring or just spending a longer period of time outdoors, it should be reapplied.
Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer:
My skin is dry. Which moisturizer do you recommend?
Several Paula's Choice moisturizers would work well for you. Choosing the perfect moisturizer has a lot to do with personal preference and trying a product to determine which one works best on your skin. A good place to start is with our Resist Barrier Repair Moisturizer but if you want a richer texture, try our Moisture Boost Hydrating Treatment Cream. Our most emollient moisturizer is the Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer. It is also helpful to use our Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant in combination with (on top of or underneath) any moisturizer you apply. You may also wish to treat your dry skin to frequent applications of our Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask.
I have very dry skin. Which moisturizer should I use?
Our Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer is designed for dry to very dry skin.
Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask:
I thought Paula didn't like masks of any kind. Did Paula change her mind?
It is true that Paula is not a big fan of most masks but mostly because so many contain irritating ingredients or are poorly formulated. Paula decided to formulate a superior moisturizing mask that not only softens the skin but also soothes and boosts skin's moisture reserves. The emollients, water-binding agents, anti-irritants, and antioxidants are an essential element of keeping normal to very dry skin healthy and radiant.
For best results, how often do I need to use Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask?
Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask can be used as often as needed. How often you use it depends on your skin type and personal preference. Those with normal skin can use this mask once per week. Those with dry skin will enjoy using this mask more frequently, preferably 2–3 times per week, with one of those times being enjoyed as an overnight treatment. Someone with very dry, dehydrated skin should use this mask (or a very emollient moisturizer) once per day, morning or evening, until his or her dryness has improved.
What is the difference between Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask and Paula's moisturizers for normal to very dry skin? Couldn't I just use Skin Recovery Moisturizer as a moisturizing mask?
Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment mask has a thicker, creamier texture than Paula's Choice nighttime moisturizers. Since it is meant to be used as a mask (occasionally being left on the skin overnight if the customer prefers or their skin needs this), it has a more slippery, emollient feel than most moisturizers.
