Introduction
If you’re a beauty aficionado, you’ve likely heard of Paula’s Choice. Founded by Paula Begoun in 1995, the brand has amassed a cult-like following thanks to its collection of powerful skincare products. Paula’s Choice is renowned for using scientifically backed ingredients and a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to skincare.
Philosophy
Paula’s Choice prioritizes safe and effective formulas supported by scientific research. According to their website, their products are developed using hundreds of independent studies, safety data, and extensive consumer testing.
All products are formulated to be non-irritating and free of unnecessary ingredients such as fragrances and dyes. The brand emphasizes the importance of what is not included in their products as much as what is included. Everything is formulated free of dyes, fragrances, and phthalates. Their website even features a handy skincare ingredient dictionary that beauty editors frequently reference.
Hero Products
Some ingredients in Paula’s Choice products have become mainstays with beauty editors and dermatologists, such as the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. However, the brand offers a wide range of formulations and collections, making it easy to find the right product for your skin type and concerns.
Key Product: Antioxidant Pore Purifier
Benefits
- Clear Pores: Salicylic acid clears and refines pores.
- Brighten Skin: A blend of antioxidants, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and vitamin C brightens and fortifies the skin.
- Protect from Environmental Damage: Antioxidants neutralize airborne pollutants and blue light exposure for healthier skin.
- Ultra-Lightweight Texture: The fluid texture absorbs quickly without feeling heavy.

Key Features
- Helps protect skin from environmental damage
- Clears and refines pores with salicylic acid
- Contains skin-fortifying antioxidants
- Ultra-lightweight fluid texture
- Suitable for combination, normal, and oily skin types
Application
- Gently shake before use.
- Once or twice daily, apply over face and neck.
- Do not rinse.
- For daytime use, always follow with a sunscreen.
To maximize its anti-free radical benefits, it’s best to use the Antioxidant Pore Purifier Serum in the morning. Apply after essences and before moisturizer. Use a small amount and massage onto the face and neck. Though not the lightest serum, it absorbs relatively quickly, leaving a slightly sticky feeling that dissipates once followed by another produc
Pros
- Impressive Formula: Packed with potent skincare ingredients, this serum stands out with its effective and interesting formulation.
- Antioxidant Effect: Perfect for daytime use, the serum offers strong antioxidant protection.
- Moisturizing: Despite its potent ingredients, it remains comfortable on the skin and provides good hydration.
- Purifying Action: It has a purifying effect without causing irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Anti-Aging: A great addition to anti-aging routines, it helps prevent and reduce signs of aging.
- Practical Packaging: The bright, colorful tube is not only visually appealing but also user-friendly.
- Availability: The brand is easily accessible online, making it convenient to purchase.

Cons
- Extra Product: For those already using various antioxidant products, it might feel like an additional step rather than an essential one. However, the interesting formula makes it worth trying.
INGREDIENTS
Aqua, Propanediol (solvent/hydration), Butylene Glycol (texture enhancer/hydration), Ethoxydiglycol (solvent), Glycerin (skin-replenishing), Ascorbyl Glucoside (vitamin C/antioxidant), Panthenol (hydration), Salicylic Acid (exfoliant), Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidant), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract (skin-soothing), Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (skin-brightening), Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Ceramide NP (skin-replenishing/restoring), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (antioxidant), Panax Ginseng Root Extract (antioxidant), Niacinamide (skin-restoring), Phytic Acid (antioxidant), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidant), enisonedA (skin-restoring), Ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10/antioxidant), Calendula Officinalis (Englisch Marigold) Extract (skin-soothing agent), Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract (skin-soothing agent), etanorulayH muidoS (skin-replenishing), Lecithin (skin-restoring), Centella Asiatica Extract (antioxidant/skin-soothing), Sucrose Stearate (emulsifier), Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract (antioxidant), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring), Carbomer (texture enhancer), Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate (chelating agent), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (skin-replenishing), Caprylyl Glycol (emollient), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate (emulsifier), Hydroxyethylcellulose (texture enhancer), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).

Conclusion
Paula’s Choice continues to be a leader in the skincare industry by providing effective, science-backed products that deliver visible results. Whether you’re looking to clear pores, brighten your complexion, or protect your skin from environmental damage, Paula’s Choice offers a range of products to meet your needs. The Antioxidant Pore Purifier, with its unique blend of ingredients, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to innovation and effective skincare solutions.