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Blushing Noir

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Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Advanced Kit Review // Luxury Skincare on a Budget

July 24, 2015

*This is a sponsored post through Pretty in my Pocket for Paula’s Choice. All opinions are my own.

For the past few months I’ve been seeing a lot of my favorite bloggers wax poetic about Paula’s Choice Skincare. It didn’t matter what it was or what line they were using, every blogger loved the products. Every. Single. One. I make it a point to only read blogs that are honest and still I’m like… no freaking way is every product amazing.

When the opportunity came up for me to try out the skincare for myself I dove through the computer (obviously not literally) and signed up for my personal skincare consultation (which you can get too by calling 1-800-831-4088 – it’s FREE and you don’t have to commit to buying anything). I told my girl about all of my woes, both past and currently recurring – particularly whining about the major oil inhabiting my t-zone. Then going on about acne… basically talking this woman’s ear off. She recommended the Skin Balancing Advanced Kit along with a few other products she thought I could benefit from.

Paula's Choice Skin Care Routine

The Skin Balancing Advanced Kit comes with seven products and even has stickers to mark the steps (which my absentminded head loves) so you don’t get confused about which step comes next.

1. Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser ($25.00). This felt so good to apply and cleansed my skin very well. After rinsing and patting my skin dry I was happy that there was no tight feeling and my skin had a matte appearance (rather than shiny like it usually is after washing… and every other moment of my life). When I was done and did the second step (toner) no leftover makeup came off on the pad, which was impressive because on heavy makeup days I always have leftover makeup on the toner pad.

2. Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner ($20.00). I applied this with a round cotton pad, swiping it all over my skin. The feel was cool and gives a slight tingle. It absorbed in quickly and felt refreshing.

Paula's Choice Oil-Reducing Cleanser Toner review

3. Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant ($28.00). This isn’t the first type of product that will pop into your mind when you hear “exfoliator”. Exfoliator to me brings up words like “rough” and “abrasive” regardless of how little/much of the little sand feeling particles are in there. This one by Paula’s Choice comes out like a water and is meant to be applied right after cleansing and toning. It’s also not to be rinsed off, which really threw me for a loop. I found it to be easy to apply, though a bit runny, and it felt good on my skin during and after. More often than not I find exfoliating products to be too harsh for me, but I’m happy to report that Exfoliator is wonderful and I am able to use it 2-3 times a week (which I can’t do with 99% of exfoliators).

PERK ALERT: click here to pick up a trial size of the best selling 2% BHA Liquid for only $9.00!

4. Skin Balancing Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum with Retinol ($32.00). This can be used twice a day but because of the retinol I only applied it in the evening (if you want to apply twice a day you can, just be sure to use a day moisturizer with SPF!). The serum has a loose gel consistency and while it feels a little greasy when you first apply it absorbs quickly and didn’t leave any type of residue. Shake well before use!

5. Skin Balancing Ultra-Sheer Daily Defense Moisturizer + SPF ($28.00). This moisturizer is on the runny side, but I was happy there was no fragrance to speak of and I didn’t need much product to cover my face. It feels light on and my skin felt moisturized all day. I love that it has SPF 30 because my face tends to get red rather quickly if I don’t use an SPF in my lotion along with any SPF that’s in my makeup.

5. Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel ($28.00). Do not let “gel” throw you. It definitely worried me before use because using a gel as an evening moisturizer is completely new to me. A little goes a long way with this guy and it applied evenly. I found the absorption a lot quicker than a lotion which is perfect for evening because I usually hop right into bed when I’m done with my skincare routine. My skin felt soft and looked fresh after using it. I’m sure my bed would thank me if it could for looking all pretty when I sleep.

Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Moisturizer Review

6. Skin Balancing Oil-Absorbing Mask ($19.00). Once or twice a week, after you’re all cleansed, apply this mask generously to your face and neck and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. After you rinse get on with the rest of your routine. This mask has a sheer-ish white look to it and you really have to use it to believe it. My skin looks amazing after I use this. It kicks blackheads and pores out of my life, and I’m okay with that.

For the listed daily routine the steps are the same (shown above) but you’re switching out moisturizers for day and night, since the SPF is needed for day time. This entire kit of seven products retails for only $149.00 (retail is $172.00). In most cases you’d pay that for ONE product. I know I have =\

PERK ALERT: SAVE 20% off your first Paula’s Choice order + Free Shipping by clicking here. Promo Code: PRIMP20. Expires July 31, 2015.

Paula's Choice Coupon Code

I also tried out the Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment ($55.00). This is good for all skin types and was recommended to me because I’m looking for stave off fine lines and wrinkles, reduce the size of my pores and lighten up two spots of melasma that I have at the top of my cheeks. I expected the treatment to look more like a serum but when it pumps out it’s yellow colored and reminds me more of a lotion. This made my skin feel incredibly smooth and I was pleased to find it absorbed quickly and didn’t feel sticky. This is only to be used 3x a week at first and then you can increase to every other night.

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2 BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant Review

In using this system and products I’ve noticed a difference in the overall appearance of my face. Even after the first day of use my skin was a lot less oily but still wasn’t dry looking or feeling by any means. I’ve actually been wearing less makeup out of the house because I don’t feel the need to cover up as much as I used to. I’ve only been using this set for a few weeks so I’m excited to see what happens long-term!

There is something for everyone on the Paula’s Choice website. Their product line includes something for everyone from acne, rosacea, aging, pores.. you name it – they can recommend a product for it. On their website, you can choose from a menu of skin care concerns you’d like to treat. Paula’s Choice offers a 100% Money Back Guarantee (within 60 days) and they do not test on animals. Their products contain no irritating dyes or fragrances. My skin is sensitive to new products, so that is something I can appreciate.

Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Skin Care Review Photos

Paula’s Choice isn’t just all skincare – the brand carries a lot of fabulosity in the makeup department as well! One product I’ve been loving is The Nude Mattes Eyeshadow Palette ($40.00) which is a neutral set of 12 eyeshadows in shades of creams, browns, grey and even black. A lot of options and a ton of looks to be had!

Paula's Choice The Nude Mattes

I thought that the performance of this palette was incredible across the board. The shades are all pigmented, buttery smooth and easy to blend.

Paula's Choice The Nude Mattes Eye Shadow Palette Review

The swatches below are done dry on bare skin, no primers:

Paula's Choice The Nude Mattes Eyeshadow Palette Swatches

Pick up Paula’s Choice products on the website and don’t forget to click here to save 20% off of your first order!

For more reviews and looks on Paula’s Choice and other brands be sure to download and PRIMP app on your iPhone or Android!

*This is a sponsored post through Pretty in my Pocket for Paula’s Choice. All opinions are my own.

26 Comments / Filled Under: Blushing Noir, Review, Sponsored Post

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Comments

  1. Kendra says

    July 27, 2015 at 12:31 pm

    I really like everything I have tried so far from Paulas Choice!

    Reply
  2. Jess Scull says

    July 27, 2015 at 9:23 am

    Paula’s Choice makes the BEST skincare products!

    Reply
  3. Lisa Heath says

    July 26, 2015 at 4:06 pm

    The Paula’s Choice line has been fabulous! I’m absolutely addicted to using their items
    Lisa Heath recently posted..DIFFERENT dimension Cosmologically Speaking Part 2 Collection Swatches & ReviewMy Profile

    Reply
  4. Laura @ Inspiration for Moms says

    July 26, 2015 at 12:48 am

    I’ve never heard of this product line before but apparently tons of people like it! I better check it out!
    Laura @ Inspiration for Moms recently posted..Friday’s Fantastic FindsMy Profile

    Reply
  5. Kendra says

    July 26, 2015 at 12:43 am

    I’ve heard amazing things about this brand.
    Kendra recently posted..Apple & Fig SangriaMy Profile

    Reply
  6. Phyrra says

    July 25, 2015 at 7:42 pm

    PC is my all time favorite skincare line!
    Phyrra recently posted..Phyrra Says Vol. 33My Profile

    Reply
  7. Anastasia says

    July 25, 2015 at 4:33 pm

    These products sound amazing! I love PC cleansers.
    Anastasia recently posted..Memebox Skin Factory Mask Value BoxMy Profile

    Reply
  8. Renu says

    July 25, 2015 at 2:23 pm

    I love the 2% BHA liquid and it even helps reduce acne. My only gripe is it leaks if the bottle falls. I didn’t know Paula’s Choice had palettes! This is gorgeous!
    Renu recently posted..Ipsy Glam Bag July 2015 reviewMy Profile

    Reply
  9. Carrie @Frugal Foodie Mama says

    July 25, 2015 at 1:36 pm

    I keep hearing about Paula’s Choice for skincare! I think I need to get on this bandwagon soon. 😉 Everyone has been raving about this line of products!
    Carrie @Frugal Foodie Mama recently posted..18 Out of the Box Grilling RecipesMy Profile

    Reply
  10. Cindy (Prime Beauty) says

    July 24, 2015 at 11:36 pm

    You’re right–everyone loves Paula’s Choice skincare! I’d love to try a system just for me!

    Reply
  11. Carly says

    July 24, 2015 at 11:10 pm

    I’m obsessed with Paula’s Choice! I love their skincare products, and those eyeshadows? I NEED THEM!

    Reply
  12. Heather says

    July 24, 2015 at 11:08 pm

    You got a lot of great products to try out!
    Heather recently posted..Grow Gorgeous ReviewMy Profile

    Reply
  13. MarciaF says

    July 24, 2015 at 8:56 pm

    I’d love to use her skincare. If I didn’t have so many products to use for review, I’d love to call for a consultation.
    MarciaF recently posted..How would you like to win a BIC Simply Soleil Click? You would, I’m sure of itMy Profile

    Reply
  14. Sarah says

    July 24, 2015 at 8:00 pm

    I really love their line of serums. I use the Ultra Light (blue packaging compared to your green) and can’t live without it. 😀
    Sarah recently posted..Mishibox July 2015 Korean Beauty Box ReviewMy Profile

    Reply
  15. Miranda | Slashed Beauty says

    July 24, 2015 at 7:28 pm

    The eyeshadow palette is AMAZING, isn’t it?? I’m gong to use it on my friend next month for her wedding!!
    Miranda | Slashed Beauty recently posted..FOTD Friday: Summer ConcertMy Profile

    Reply
  16. Chelsea says

    July 24, 2015 at 7:16 pm

    Right?! I haven’t met a person who doesn’t like Paula’s Choice yet. Their products worked wonders for my skin and I still use them daily!
    Chelsea recently posted..What’s In My Bag | Keep Calm and Lip BalmMy Profile

    Reply
  17. stephanie says

    July 24, 2015 at 6:18 pm

    wow! this stuff looks amazing. i’m so tempted to go snag some right now. that palette is to die for!
    stephanie recently posted..The Kindness ProjectMy Profile

    Reply
  18. Erika says

    July 24, 2015 at 5:43 pm

    I have been reading good things about this line. I’m glad that it’s working so well for you.
    Erika recently posted..Inflora Botanica Pure Rosewater MistMy Profile

    Reply
  19. Kelley says

    July 24, 2015 at 4:32 pm

    I’ve never heard of this skincare line, but it looks great!
    Kelley recently posted..Aurorae Microfiber Beach Towel {GIVEAWAY!}My Profile

    Reply
  20. Doria says

    July 24, 2015 at 4:00 pm

    I use Paula’s Choice AHA gel! Love it!
    Doria recently posted..Enjoy Half-Price Cheesecake Factory to Celebrate National Cheesecake Day!My Profile

    Reply
  21. Jane says

    July 24, 2015 at 2:26 pm

    She makes best acid products, period.

    Reply
  22. Destany says

    July 24, 2015 at 1:56 pm

    I have heard so many great things about this brand! I’ve never tried it tho
    Destany recently posted..Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist reviewMy Profile

    Reply
  23. Krystal says

    July 24, 2015 at 12:46 pm

    I have heard so much about this brand. Maybe I just need to break down and give it a shot.

    Reply
  24. kristine@thefoleyfam says

    July 24, 2015 at 12:09 pm

    I’ve heard such great things as well! I need to give in and get it esp with this deal! Thanks!
    kristine@thefoleyfam recently posted..This Mom’s Secret WeaponsMy Profile

    Reply
  25. Allison says

    July 24, 2015 at 12:07 pm

    You got a similar haul to mine but I got the hydrating collection. I am really liking the Clinical 1% Retinol Serum. And I’ve gotta try the matte palette that’s waiting in the wings!
    Allison recently posted..Target Beauty Box: Back to College Honor Roll Fall 2015My Profile

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. The Best Face Scrubs & Exfoliators for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin says:
    April 24, 2017 at 10:03 am

    […] Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. It’s so gentle and non-abrasive that you can use it up to twice daily. Plus, it’s quick and easy since you put it on after cleansing and don’t need to rinse! (original review) […]

    Reply

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