Paula's Choice

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant — 3.3 oz, Glycolic Acid Face Exfoliator, Fragrance-Free Soothing Formula

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£49.32

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Product details

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant is a leave-on glycolic acid gel that gently dissolves dead skin to reveal smoother, more even-looking skin.

This lightweight, fragrance-free gel combines 8% glycolic acid with calming botanicals to renew the skin's surface without physical scrubbing. Designed for daily use after cleansing and toning, it works to refine texture, reduce the appearance of dullness and help skin better absorb other treatments. The formula also includes green tea antioxidants and chamomile to soothe while exfoliating.

How will this exfoliant change my daily skincare routine?

Incorporate the gel after cleansing and optional toner, applying a small amount to the face and neck. Because it is a leave-on chemical exfoliant, it replaces abrasive scrubs and preps skin to receive serums and moisturizers more effectively.

  • Use twice daily for a consistent renewal effect or as tolerated.
  • Apply a pea-to-dime-sized amount across face and neck; no rinsing required.
  • Follow with sunscreen in the morning to protect newly revealed skin.

Is this safe for sensitive or aging skin?

The gel is formulated to be gentle: chemical exfoliation with glycolic acid reaches built-up layers without micro-tearing from scrubs. Botanicals like chamomile and green tea help calm the skin, making the product suitable for a range of skin types when used as directed.

  • Fragrance-free and paraben-free to reduce irritation risk.
  • Start with once-daily use if your skin is reactive, then increase as tolerated.
  • Patch-test first and avoid combining with other strong actives immediately.

What benefits can I expect with regular use?

With ongoing application, you can expect smoother texture, a brighter complexion, and improved firmness appearance. The exfoliant supports more even skin tone and allows subsequent products to penetrate more effectively.

  • Removes dull, dead surface cells for visible radiance.
  • Helps minimize the appearance of discoloration and age spots over time.
  • Improves skin surface feel so makeup applies more evenly.

How does this compare to physical scrubs or other acids?

Unlike abrasive scrubs, this glycolic acid gel chemically dissolves bonded dead cells without gritty friction, reducing the chance of damaging delicate facial skin. Compared with some stronger acids, the 8% AHA concentration balances visible renewal with everyday tolerability for many users.

  • Chemical exfoliation reaches deeper build-up than surface scrubs.
  • 8% AHA offers effective resurfacing while remaining suitable for frequent use for many people.
  • Includes antioxidants and soothing extracts that many simple acid-only formulas lack.

Who is this for? Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant is aimed at anyone seeking a non-abrasive way to refine texture, fade dullness, and help skin look smoother and more even. It suits those replacing physical scrubs, people concerned with uneven tone or texture, and anyone who wants a fragrance-free, science-backed exfoliant to use alongside their serums and moisturizers. If you have highly reactive skin, begin gradually and consult a skincare professional as needed. Remember to use daily sun protection while using chemical exfoliants.

Ingredients

Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Sodium PCA, Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polyquaternium-10, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate

FAQ

Q: How often should I use the 8% AHA gel?

A: Start once daily or every other day, then increase to twice daily as tolerated; always use sunscreen in the morning.

Q: Can I use this with retinol or vitamin C?

A: You can combine with other actives cautiously; consider alternating applications or reduce frequency to avoid irritation.