Paula's Choice 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid AHA Liquid Exfoliant for Dark Spots, Textured Skin, Size: 3 FL Oz, None
Paula's ChoiceAnalysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This product contains beneficial ingredients like mandelic acid and lactic acid, which are known for their exfoliating and hydrating properties. However, the presence of sodium hydroxide, which can be irritating in high concentrations, and the inclusion of multiple synthetic additives contribute to its processing level. Despite the presence of natural extracts and probiotics, the overall formulation is considered ultra-processed, which limits its score.
Key ingredients 23
Mandelic AcidVery Good
Mandelic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its exfoliating properties. It helps in improving skin texture and reducing hyperpigmentation. It is gentler compared to other AHAs, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Risks
Overuse can lead to skin irritation or sensitivity.
Benefits
It promotes cell turnover and improves skin tone and texture.
Myrica Cerifera (Bayberry) Fruit ExtractGood
Bayberry Fruit Extract is known for its antioxidant properties. It helps protect the skin from environmental damage and has soothing effects. It is often used in natural skincare formulations.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Provides antioxidant protection and soothes the skin.
Akebia Quinata (Chocolate Vine) Stem ExtractGood
Chocolate Vine Stem Extract is used for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in protecting the skin from oxidative stress and reduces inflammation. It is a beneficial addition to skincare products.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Offers antioxidant protection and reduces skin inflammation.
Prunus Lannesiana (Cherry Blossom) Flower ExtractGood
Cherry Blossom Flower Extract is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in soothing the skin and reducing redness. It is a popular ingredient in skincare for its calming effects.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Soothes the skin and provides antioxidant protection.
Lactobacillus Ferment LysateGood
Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate is a probiotic ingredient that helps balance the skin's microbiome. It enhances skin barrier function and improves hydration. It is beneficial for maintaining healthy skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Supports skin barrier health and hydration.
Saccharomyces LysateGood
Saccharomyces Lysate is a yeast-derived ingredient that provides antioxidant benefits. It helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and improves skin vitality. It is often used in anti-aging formulations.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Offers antioxidant protection and enhances skin vitality.
Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) ExtractGood
Yarrow Extract is known for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It helps in soothing irritated skin and reducing redness. It is a beneficial ingredient for calming sensitive skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Calms and soothes irritated skin.
Saccharide IsomerateGood
Saccharide Isomerate is a plant-derived moisturizer that binds to the skin. It provides long-lasting hydration and improves skin smoothness. It is a beneficial ingredient for maintaining skin moisture.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Provides long-lasting hydration and improves skin texture.
ArginineGood
Arginine is an amino acid that helps in skin repair and hydration. It supports collagen production and improves skin elasticity. It is a beneficial ingredient for anti-aging skincare.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Supports skin repair and enhances elasticity.
Water/Aqua/EauNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water acts as a carrier for other ingredients, allowing them to be applied evenly.
2, 3-ButanediolNeutral
2, 3-Butanediol is a solvent and viscosity-decreasing agent. It helps improve the texture and spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with 2, 3-Butanediol in cosmetics.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and application of the product.
Lactic AcidNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
May cause irritation if used excessively or on sensitive skin.
Benefits
It enhances skin hydration and smoothness.
Sodium HydroxideNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
Can cause skin irritation or burns if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Helps maintain the desired pH level of the product.
HydroxyacetophenoneNeutral
Hydroxyacetophenone is an antioxidant and preservative booster. It helps stabilize formulations and protect against oxidative damage. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Enhances product stability and provides antioxidant protection.
Butylene GlycolNeutral
Butylene Glycol is a solvent and humectant used in cosmetics. It helps improve product texture and retains moisture in the skin. It is widely used and considered safe in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Improves product texture and provides moisture retention.
Sodium AcidNeutral
Sodium Acid is used as a buffering agent in cosmetics. It helps maintain the stability and pH of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Maintains product stability and pH balance.
Sodium CitrateNeutral
Sodium Citrate is used as a buffering agent and pH adjuster. It helps maintain the stability of cosmetic formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Maintains product stability and pH balance.
1, 2-HexanediolNeutral
1, 2-Hexanediol is a solvent and preservative booster. It helps improve the texture and stability of cosmetic products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Enhances product texture and stability.
Capry PhytateNeutral
Capry Phytate is used as a chelating agent in cosmetics. It helps stabilize formulations by binding metal ions. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Stabilizes formulations by binding metal ions.
Pentylene GlycolNeutral
Pentylene Glycol is a humectant and solvent used in cosmetics. It helps retain moisture and improve product texture. It is widely used and considered safe in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Retains moisture and improves product texture.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan Gum is a thickening agent used in cosmetics. It helps improve the texture and stability of formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Improves product texture and stability.
Citi GlycolNeutral
Citi Glycol is a solvent and humectant used in cosmetics. It helps improve product texture and retains moisture in the skin. It is widely used and considered safe in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Improves product texture and provides moisture retention.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
Prevents microbial growth and extends product shelf life.
Processing
Processed Foods
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