Skin-Care Step-by-Step

In what order do I apply my Paula's Choice skin-care products?
Click here for an easy, Step-by-Step Guide concerning how to use your Paula's Choice skin-care products. Note, you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the guide. Click here to download your free copy of Acrobat Reader.

CLEANSE
Splash the face and eyes generously with tepid to slightly warm water. Spread a small amount of cleanser over your fingers and apply it to your face and eyelashes with vigorous but gentle circular motions. Rinse well. To remove heavy makeup, including waterproof mascara, repeat and use a washcloth or Paula's Choice Gentle Touch Makeup Remover (before or after cleanser).

TONE
After cleansing, wet a cotton ball or pad with toner and gently stroke over the skin. Focus on dry areas and places where makeup may be left behind, such as the hairline, chin, and around the nose. Can also be used to freshen skin during the day.

EXFOLIATE
After Step 1 or Step 2, apply an exfoliating product to remove the surface layer of dead skin cells. Paula's Choice exfoliating products contain Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) and remove these dead skin cells gently but effectively. Paula's Choice BHA products are available in two strengths (1 and 2% BHA) and in different textures (Gel, Lotion or Liquid). Choose a product or a combination of these products depending on your skin's condition and needs. Some people prefer varying percentages of BHA or using different textures. Try different combinations and your skin will help you determine the best products for you.

Paula's Choice BHA products are suitable for all skin types and in particular for skin prone to breakouts. Consider starting with the 1% strength unless your skin is very oily and/or you have persistent, stubborn blemishes and blackheads (in which case, one of the 2% products may be a better option).

For the BHA Lotions or BHA Gel, squeeze a small amount onto your fingertips and smooth over your face, avoiding contact with eyes. The 2% BHA Liquid has a thin consistency and ideally should be applied with a cotton ball or pad, avoiding contact with eyes. Allow to absorb. Depending on your skin type, these products can be used once every other day, once daily, or twice daily. Your skin's reaction will help you decide what to use and how often.

If dryness or irritation appears, decrease use of BHA to every other day or just a couple of times a week

BLEMISH FIGHTING
For those with blemished skin the next step, after applying BHA, is a product containing benzoyl peroxide. Under EU regulations such products may not be sold as cosmetic products and therefore Paula's Choice Blemish Fighters are not available in the EU. However, products containing benzoyl peroxide are usually available at the pharmacy or chemist without requiring a prescription. Start with a regular strength benzoyl peroxide product. A higher concentration (up to 10%) may be a better option for stubborn breakouts. Make sure your anti-blemish product does not contain any of the following potentially irritating ingredients: denatured, grain or ethyl alcohol, camphor, eucalyptus, menthol or peppermint.

Oily Skin
Use Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Carbon Mask on oily or combination skin or once or twice a week, or as needed, to absorb oil.

Between Steps 1 and 2, gently smooth a nickel-sized amount onto areas where you want to absorb and control excess oil. Avoid contact with eyes. Allow to dry for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with your regular skin-care routine.

PROTECT
Your final daytime skin-care step after all other skin-care products are applied is to use the Paula's Choice Sunscreen SPF 15 for your skin type, every day of the year. (If your foundation contains reliable sun protection you can proceed to Step 6.) If you are going to be exposed to the sun for five or more hours outdoors, use the Paula's Choice Extra Care Sunscreen SPF 30 for your skin type.
Liberally apply sunscreen to your face, neck, arms, backs of hands, and any other areas that are exposed to the sun. Always apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside and reapply after sweating, swimming, or washing hands.

MOISTURIZE
Gently smooth moisturizer onto any dry areas. All Paula's Choice moisturizers are gentle enough to also use around the eyes. Apply moisturizer to dry areas only, and only if needed (for oily skin types, moisturizer may not be necessary).
* Super Antioxidant Concentrate may be applied before or after moisturizer.

Super Antioxidant Concentrate
All skin types can benefit from daily application of Paula's Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate. This silky, waterless product mitigates free-radical damage and helps skin defend itself from irritation and inflammation.

Smooth a few drops onto skin either before or after moisturizing. May be used alone. For daytime, wear under a product with SPF 15 or greater. Can be used around eyes.

SPECIALTY TREATMENTS
Dry to Very Dry Skin
Use Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask as often as needed to give dry to very dry skin what it needs to replenish itself.

Apply a thick layer over clean, dry areas or the entire face and leave on for at least 20 minutes or as long as desired. Rinse with tepid to warm water and follow with your regular skin care routine. For extra hydration, do not rinse. May be used around the eye area.

Paula Begoun

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