The majority of my life I haven’t really struggled with my skin, even as a teen. To my surprise, I started to struggle with my skin after I turned thirty! I never knew adult acne was so prevalent until I experienced it myself and read of many other 30 somethings have issues with breakouts. My breakouts were primarily on the right side of my face as well as some small bumps on my forehead. Around that time of the month forget about it! My first step was to book a dermatologist appointment right away. I was prescribed topical treatments and pills to help eliminate my breakouts. None of this really worked and honestly, they dried out my skin which then allowed my skin to freak out even more! I got discouraged after a very disappointing appointment with a new dermatologist. She started to recommend the same topical that I had already tried. When I mentioned to her my negative experience with the products she interrupted me and stated “Look…do you want to fix your skin or not?”
After such a negative experience with a dermatologist, I decided to try to find a different alternative. My mind told me to get myself to the Sephora skincare section ASAP. Note to self, Sephora sales associates don’t necessarily know much about skincare. I ended up purchasing overpriced skincare products from Sephora that did nothing for my skin.
I also started to get monthly facials at Dermalogica which was helpful when it came to the texture issues and hyperpigmentation. This combination did help improve my skin but I was still having some breakouts. This was honestly probably a two-year process.
Everything changed for me when a friend of mine mentioned a product she was using for her skin that gave her positive results. This product line was Paula’s Choice. She mentioned that she uses their BHA Liquid Exfoliate and AHA Gel Exfolilitant. I started to do my research and noticed two things about Paula Choice product, one- they were decently priced, and also the reviews were excellent! With nothing to lose at this point, I ordered away and started using the BHA Liquid Exfoliate at night after cleansing. The positive results were almost immediate! Within a few days, I saw a drastic change in my skin texture and hyperpigmentation. I then started to use their AHA Gel Exfoliate as well. Keep in mind that if you use either of these products during the day you HAVE to wear sunscreen. Besides the occasional hormonal pimple, my breakouts have since subsided immensely. As you can see from the picture below I have since added onto my Paula’s Choice skin regime.
- Pore-Reducing Toner- I apply this after I cleansed. In the past, I find toners to be very harsh and drying to the skin. This toner is the complete opposite. After using, my skin feels moisturized and my pores are so much less visible due to this magic product.
- 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant- I use this BHA product at night before bed. Like the 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant it has helped improve my overall texture and hyperpigmentation. The salicylic acid in this product helps to unclog pores and removed dead skin and bacteria.
8 % AHA Gel Exfoliate- I try to use this in the morning after cleansing and toning. I apply this gel on a cotton swab and apply it to my face and neck avoiding my eyes and lips. This helps to remove dead skin and leaves and smooth and flawless canvas. After applying I allow it to dry on my skin. Again, if you apply this during the day, sunscreen is a must!
- 10% Niacinamide – The Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 which helps to improve brightness and skin texture. I probably use this booster about once or twice a week. You can apply this directly onto your skin add it to your daily skin moisturizer.
- C15 Super Booster is a great Vitamin C serum. I apply this almost every day to my skin. I started to see a glow to my skin after only a week of adding this product to my skin. My skin feels firmer and also has a radiance that I didn’t see before. I keep this product in the refrigerator so that it stays fresh. Again, like the Niacinamide, I apply this directly to my skin or add it to my daily moisturizer.
- Barrier Repair with Retinol- Retinols are very popular right now due to their anti-aging benefits. I use this moisturize twice a week in place of my Aveeno daily moisturizer. It has 1% retinol which is very low and honestly the perfect amount of retinol needed. I also only use this moisturizer at night before bed. Paula Choice also has a higher percentage of retinol that is great. I have tried their 1% retinol product as well. When using at night I use it after, toning, cleansing, and using an exfoliant. I don’t use retinol every day because I don’t want to freak my skin out but there are a lot of benefits to retinol. Also, when using don’t forget to not only apply on your face but it’s great for your neck as well. Don’t want any skin saggy necks do we ladies!
The business of skincare is currently very overcrowded and can be extremely daunting. This is why I wanted to share my story in order to help others. When your skin isn’t cooperating, it slowly starts to chip away from your self-esteem a bit. I want others to feel like they have control over this issue and I hope by writing this story will help others obtain control as well.
I love love love Paula’s Choice products. I’m writing this post in order to share how great they are with someone who has a similar skin journey as myself. If you make a purchase using these links on my site I may earn a commission.
