The great plunge of skincare can be witnessed in two brand names that have been famous for ages – Paula’s Choice and The Ordinary. These big brands didn’t start selling skincare products until a few years ago. When their first products began to hit the market, worldwide customers were already eager to purchase them due to their high quality and reasonable prices that could satisfy even the strictest customers.
They both offer a range of products, each having unique packaging, claims, texture and scent. The main benefits you can look forward to from the use of these products is that they are cruelty-free and only use plant-based ingredients derived from natural sources to help improve your skin's complexion.
I've listed a few of the top products below that you can try:
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Best Paula’s Choice Vs The Ordinary Products |
Product Type |
Best For |
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Chemical Scrub |
Acne, Blackheads |
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Anti-Aging Cream |
Wrinkles, Mature Skin |
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Moisturizer |
Normal-Dry Skin |
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Moisturizer |
Sensitive Skin |
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Eye Serum |
Fine Lines, Dark Circles |
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Serum |
Pigmentation and Puffiness |
In this Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic serum Vs The Ordinary Serum Comparison, we will be reviewing a few of their products as well as comparing them to ensure that you get the right choice.
Paula’s Choice Vs The Ordinary: Brand Overview
Paula’s Choice and The Ordinary are two companies that made a name for themselves thanks to the quality of their products. You can always spot them at a glance in any ingredients list — they don't miss out on using unique ingredients that other brands would shy away from. However, as we explored each brand in more detail, we uncovered some surprising differences between them. Let’s take a look through this Brand Overview of this product.
Paula’s Choice Brand
Paula's Choice, founded by Paula Begoun in 1995, is a skincare brand that prides itself on its commitment to creating products backed by research and scientifically-proven ingredients. Known for its no-nonsense approach, Paula's Choice is dedicated to providing consumers with effective, cruelty-free products that are free of harmful ingredients, such as fragrances and irritants. The brand's ethos revolves around empowering individuals with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their skincare routine.
One of the standout elements of Paula's Choice is its extensive product range, catering to various skin types and concerns. From the cult-favorite Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant to the powerful 10% Niacinamide Booster, Paula's Choice offers targeted solutions for common skincare issues such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging. The brand's easy-to-navigate website also offers useful resources, like expert advice articles and ingredient glossaries, to help consumers tailor their skincare routine to their specific needs.
Beyond its effective formulations, Paula's Choice is also celebrated for its transparency and consumer-centric approach. The brand is dedicated to educating its customers about the importance of understanding ingredients and their impact on skin health. This commitment to education, combined with an unwavering focus on providing high-quality products that deliver results, has solidified Paula's Choice as a trusted and respected name in the skincare industry.
The Ordinary Brand
The Ordinary, a game-changing skincare brand launched in 2016, is a subsidiary of the Canadian company DECIEM. This revolutionary brand shook the skincare industry with its minimalist approach, focusing on simple, high-quality formulations at incredibly affordable prices. The Ordinary has quickly become a staple in the beauty routines of skincare enthusiasts worldwide, thanks to its no-frills approach and its commitment to transparency in both ingredients and pricing.
The product range offered by The Ordinary is both extensive and highly customizable, allowing consumers to create their personalized skincare regimen by mixing and matching various serums, oils, and treatments. The brand is known for its high-concentration, single-ingredient formulations, such as the popular Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion and the 100% Organic Cold-Pressed RoseHip Seed Oil. With this straightforward approach, The Ordinary enables its customers to fully understand the purpose and function of each product in their routine, without being overwhelmed by complex ingredient lists.
Despite its minimalist packaging and affordable price points, The Ordinary does not compromise on quality. The brand's products are free of parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil, and it maintains a cruelty-free and vegan-friendly status. The Ordinary's dedication to making effective, science-backed skincare accessible to a broader audience has not only disrupted the industry but also earned it a loyal following of devoted customers who appreciate the brand's honesty, efficacy, and commitment to empowering consumers with knowledge.
Paula’s Choice Vs The Ordinary Reviews
In the ever-evolving world of skincare, two industry giants have captured the attention and loyalty of millions: Paula's Choice and The Ordinary. With their distinctive approaches to skincare solutions and commitment to delivering results, both have established themselves as go-to brands for skincare enthusiasts. In this in-depth review, we'll dive headfirst into the world of Paula's Choice and The Ordinary, comparing their product offerings, formulations, and efficacy.
Paula’s Choice Review
When I discovered Paula's Choice, I was immediately drawn to their commitment to research-backed ingredients and their dedication to creating products free of harmful irritants. The brand's transparency and focus on educating consumers about skincare ingredients and their effects truly set them apart in the industry. I decided to give Paula's Choice a try, and I have been thoroughly impressed with the results.
I started using their Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, and within a few weeks, I noticed a significant improvement in my skin's texture and overall appearance. The product managed to clear my clogged pores and reduce the occurrence of breakouts, all without causing any irritation. I also incorporated their 10% Niacinamide Booster into my routine to address hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
To my delight, I observed a visible reduction in dark spots and an overall brightening effect. The combination of these two products has left my skin looking and feeling healthier than ever, and Paula's Choice has secured a permanent spot in my skincare routine. I highly recommend this brand to anyone seeking effective, science-backed solutions for their skin concerns.
The Ordinary Review
The Ordinary immediately caught my attention with their minimalist, ingredient-focused approach. I was amazed by the affordability of their products, especially considering the high quality and concentration of active ingredients. This prompted me to take the plunge and try out a few of their offerings to see if they could live up to the hype.
After carefully researching and selecting products tailored to my skin concerns, I began using their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum to combat breakouts and reduce the appearance of my pores. Within just a couple of weeks, I noticed a significant improvement in my skin's clarity and texture. Encouraged by these results, I incorporated their Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum to address my skin's hydration needs.
This serum quickly became a staple in my routine, providing a noticeable boost in my skin's hydration levels and leaving it feeling plump and smooth. The Ordinary has genuinely impressed me with its simplicity, effectiveness, and affordability, making it a brand I'll continue to explore and recommend to fellow skincare aficionados.
Which is better: Paula’s Choice Vs The Ordinary?
While it's difficult to definitively declare one brand as superior, I find that Paula's Choice has a slight edge over The Ordinary when it comes to the benefits offered. The inclusion of additional beneficial ingredients, such as antioxidants and hydrating agents, in their SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant, provides a more comprehensive approach to skincare.
This, along with their commitment to formulating products that cater to sensitive skin, showcases the brand's dedication to addressing various skin concerns. While The Ordinary undoubtedly offers budget-friendly and effective formulations, Paula's Choice takes their products a step further by incorporating well-rounded, skin-loving ingredients that not only exfoliate but also nourish and protect the skin.
Comparison between Paula’s Choice Vs The Ordinary
In this comprehensive comparison, we'll delve into the crucial aspects that set these brands apart, from their ingredients and formulations to the overall effectiveness of their products. Join us on this enlightening journey as we weigh the benefits and drawbacks of Paula's Choice and The Ordinary.
Paula’s Choice BHA Vs The Ordinary
| Feature | Paula's Choice - SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant | The Ordinary - Salicylic Acid 2% Solution |
| Active Ingredient | 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) | 2% Salicylic Acid |
| Texture | Liquid, lightweight | Light gel |
| Additional Beneficial Ingredients | Green Tea Extract (antioxidant), Methylpropanediol (hydration) | Witch Hazel (astringent) |
| Fragrance-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Alcohol-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Paraben-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Vegan | Yes | Yes |
| Suitable for Sensitive Skin | Yes | Yes |
| Size | 4 fl. oz. (118 ml) | 1 fl. oz. (30 ml) |
| Price | Highly Price | Affordable |
| Availability | Paula's Choice website, Amazon, and other authorized retailers | The Ordinary website, Sephora, and other authorized retailers |
I compare these two products Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant and The Ordinary's Salicylic Acid 2% Solution. Both products boast a 2% concentration of salicylic acid, making them ideal for tackling breakouts and uneven skin texture. However, when it came to texture, I found Paula's Choice to have a lightweight liquid consistency, while The Ordinary offered a light gel formula.
Delving deeper into their ingredients, I appreciated that both products were fragrance-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan. However, Paula's Choice stood out with its inclusion of green tea extract, an antioxidant, and methylpropanediol for hydration. On the other hand, The Ordinary featured witch hazel, which provided astringent properties. Both products were suitable for sensitive skin, but I noticed that the size and price points varied significantly.
Availability-wise, I could find Paula's Choice on their website, Amazon, and other authorized retailers, while The Ordinary was available on their website, Sephora, and other authorized retailers as well.
Taking all these factors into consideration, I found that choosing the right exfoliant for me depended on my personal preferences and skincare goals. If I were looking for added antioxidants and hydration, Paula's Choice would be the better option.
Conversely, if I were on a budget and seeking astringent benefits, The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution would be my go-to choice. Regardless of the product I choose, I know that both brands offer high-quality formulas designed to improve my skin's overall appearance and health.
Azelaic Acid Paula’s Choice Vs The Ordinary
| Feature | Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Azelaic Acid Booster Cream Gel | The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% |
| Active Ingredient | 10% Azelaic Acid | 10% Azelaic Acid |
| Texture | Cream-gel | Creamy suspension |
| Additional Beneficial Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Licorice Root Extract, Allantoin | Dimethicone (silicone) |
| Fragrance-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Alcohol-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Paraben-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Vegan | Yes | Yes |
| Suitable for Sensitive Skin | Yes | Yes |
| Size | 1 fl. oz. (30 ml) | 1 fl. oz. (30 ml) |
| Price | Expensive | Cheaper |
| Availability | Paula's Choice website, Amazon, and other authorized retailers | The Ordinary website, Sephora, and other authorized retailers |
| Primary Skin Concerns Addressed | Brightening, evening skin tone, reducing redness and blemishes | Brightening, evening skin tone, reducing redness and blemishes |
| Recommended Skin Types | All skin types, especially acne-prone and sensitive | All skin types, especially acne-prone and sensitive |
| Comedogenic (Pore-Clogging) Potential | Low | Low |
When it comes to azelaic acid products, I couldn't wait to compare Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Azelaic Acid Booster Cream Gel and The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. Both products contain a 10% concentration of azelaic acid, making them effective at brightening the skin, evening skin tone, and reducing redness and blemishes. However, the textures of the two products differed, with Paula's Choice offering a cream-gel consistency while The Ordinary presented a creamy suspension.
When considering additional beneficial ingredients, Paula's Choice stood out with the inclusion of salicylic acid, licorice root extract, and allantoin. The Ordinary, on the other hand, featured dimethicone, a silicone that provides a smooth texture. Both products were suitable for all skin types, especially acne-prone and sensitive skin, and were formulated without fragrance, alcohol, and parabens. They were also cruelty-free and vegan.
The size and price points of these azelaic acid products displayed notable differences. Regarding availability, Paula's Choice could be found on their website, Amazon, and other authorized retailers, whereas The Ordinary was available on their website, Sephora, and other authorized retailers.
After analyzing the table, I concluded that the choice between Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Azelaic Acid Booster Cream Gel and The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% comes down to personal preferences and skincare priorities.
If I'm seeking a product with additional skin-enhancing ingredients like salicylic acid, licorice root extract, and allantoin, Paula's Choice would be my top pick. However, if I'm on a budget and prefer a product with a silicone-based texture, The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% would be the ideal choice for me. Both products offer the benefits of azelaic acid, making them valuable additions to my skincare routine.
Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Vs The Ordinary
| Feature | Paula's Choice CLINICAL 20% Niacinamide Vitamin B3 Concentrated Serum | The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum |
| Active Ingredient | 20% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) | 10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc |
| Texture | Lightweight serum | Lightweight serum |
| Additional Beneficial Ingredients | Purslane, Acetyl Glucosamine, Ascorbyl Glucoside | Tamarind Seed Gum |
| Fragrance-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Alcohol-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Paraben-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Vegan | Yes | Yes |
| Suitable for Sensitive Skin | Yes | Yes |
| Size | 0.67 fl. oz. (20 ml) | 1 fl. oz. (30 ml) |
| Price | Highly Price | Affordable |
| Availability | Paula's Choice website, Amazon, and other authorized retailers | The Ordinary website, Sephora, and other authorized retailers |
| Primary Skin Concerns Addressed | Minimizing pores, improving skin texture, reducing fine lines | Minimizing pores, regulating sebum production, improving skin texture |
| Recommended Skin Types | All skin types, especially oily and acne-prone | All skin types, especially oily and acne-prone |
| Comedogenic (Pore-Clogging) Potential | Low | Low |
Both products are formulated with niacinamide, a powerful ingredient known for its skin-enhancing benefits. While Paula's Choice boasts a higher concentration of 20% niacinamide, The Ordinary serum combines 10% niacinamide with 1% zinc, making both options suitable for various skincare needs.
The textures of both serums are lightweight, making them easy to apply and absorb into the skin. Paula's Choice differentiates itself with additional beneficial ingredients like purslane, acetyl glucosamine, and ascorbyl glucoside, while The Ordinary serum includes tamarind seed gum. Both products are formulated without fragrance, alcohol, and parabens, and are cruelty-free and vegan.
When it comes to suitability for sensitive skin, both serums get a thumbs up. They cater to all skin types, but are especially ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. In terms of size, Paula's Choice offers a 0.67 fl. oz. (20 ml) bottle, while The Ordinary provides a larger 1 fl. oz. (30 ml) size. The price points differ significantly, with Paula's Choice retailing at $48.00 and The Ordinary at just $5.90. Both products can be found on their respective websites, Amazon, Sephora, and other authorized retailers.
Regarding the primary skin concerns addressed, Paula's Choice focuses on minimizing pores, improving skin texture, and reducing fine lines, while The Ordinary serum aims to minimize pores, regulate sebum production, and improve skin texture. Both offer low comedogenic potential, making them unlikely to clog pores.
Conclusion: Paula’s Choice Vs The Ordinary
In conclusion, when comparing Paula's Choice and The Ordinary, it's clear that both brands offer a range of high-quality, effective skincare products. While Paula's Choice often features higher concentrations of active ingredients and additional skin-enhancing components, The Ordinary is known for its budget-friendly, minimalist approach to skincare.
By understanding the unique offerings of each brand, you can make informed choices and curate the perfect skincare routine that suits your individual needs. No matter which brand you lean towards, always remember that consistency is key to achieving the best results for your skin.
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