Paula's Choice 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid AHA Liquid Exfoliant for Dark Spots, Textured Skin, Size: 3 FL Oz, None

Paula's Choice
78 Good
$37.00 · 3 fl oz
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Summary

This exfoliant contains beneficial ingredients like mandelic acid and lactic acid, which are effective for skin exfoliation and improving texture. The product avoids harsh surfactants and synthetic fragrances, which is positive for skin safety. However, it includes some synthetic preservatives and stabilizers, which slightly lower its score compared to more natural formulations.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 9
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Unilever
Category Skin Care

Key ingredients 19

Water/Aqua/Eau
Neutral

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 known risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.

Benefits

Water helps in the application and absorption of other active ingredients.

Mandelic Acid
Very Good

Mandelic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its exfoliating properties. It helps in improving skin texture and reducing dark spots. It is generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin.

Risks

Overuse can lead to skin irritation or increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Benefits

It promotes cell turnover and can improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone.

Lactic Acid
Very Good

Lactic Acid is another AHA that exfoliates the skin and helps in maintaining skin hydration. It is effective in reducing signs of aging and improving skin texture. It is also known for its ability to brighten the skin.

Risks

May cause irritation or redness if used excessively or on sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps in exfoliating dead skin cells and improving skin moisture levels.

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Myrica Cerifera (Bayberry) Fruit Extract
Good

Bayberry Fruit Extract is known for its antioxidant properties. It helps in protecting the skin from environmental stressors. It also has astringent properties that can help in tightening the skin.

Risks

Potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides antioxidant protection and can improve skin firmness.

Prunus Lannesiana (Cherry Blossom) Flower Extract
Good

Cherry Blossom Flower Extract is rich in antioxidants and helps in soothing the skin. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help in reducing redness. It also contributes to skin brightening.

Risks

Rare allergic reactions may occur in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Helps in calming irritated skin and provides antioxidant benefits.

Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate
Good

Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate is a probiotic ingredient that helps in maintaining the skin's microbiome. It can improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation. It is beneficial for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

Supports skin health by balancing the microbiome and enhancing skin barrier function.

Saccharomyces Lysate
Good

Saccharomyces Lysate is a yeast-derived ingredient that provides antioxidant benefits. It helps in protecting the skin from oxidative stress and can improve skin texture. It is also known for its moisturizing properties.

Risks

Minimal risk of irritation; generally well-tolerated.

Benefits

Offers antioxidant protection and enhances skin hydration.

Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extract
Good

Yarrow Extract is known for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It helps in soothing irritated skin and can improve skin tone. It is also used for its ability to tighten pores.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides soothing and toning benefits to the skin.

Saccharide Isomerate
Good

Saccharide Isomerate is a plant-derived moisturizer that binds to the skin to provide long-lasting hydration. It helps in improving skin smoothness and reducing dryness. It is known for its ability to enhance skin barrier function.

Risks

Generally safe with no significant risks reported.

Benefits

Provides deep hydration and improves skin texture.

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Arginine
Good

Arginine is an amino acid that helps in maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. It supports collagen production and can improve skin firmness. It is also known for its wound-healing properties.

Benefits

Enhances skin elasticity and supports collagen synthesis.

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Hydroxyacetophenone
Neutral

Hydroxyacetophenone is used as an antioxidant and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. It helps in protecting the product from degradation. It does not have direct benefits or risks for the skin.

Risks

No known risks associated with its use in cosmetics.

Benefits

Stabilizes the formulation and provides antioxidant protection.

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Butylene Glycol
Neutral

Butylene Glycol is a common solvent and humectant used in cosmetics. It helps in improving the texture and spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.

Risks

May cause irritation in very sensitive skin types.

Benefits

Enhances product texture and provides moisture to the skin.

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Sodium Hydroxide
Neutral

Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is necessary for maintaining the stability and efficacy of the product. It does not have direct benefits or risks for the skin when used in appropriate concentrations.

Risks

Can cause irritation if used in high concentrations.

Benefits

Ensures the product is at the correct pH for optimal performance.

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Sodium Citrate
Neutral

Sodium Citrate is used as a buffering agent to maintain the pH of cosmetic products. It helps in stabilizing the formulation. It does not have direct benefits or risks for the skin.

Benefits

Helps maintain product stability and pH balance.

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1, 2-Hexanediol
Neutral

1, 2-Hexanediol is used as a solvent and preservative in cosmetic formulations. It helps in enhancing the shelf life of the product. It does not have direct benefits or risks for the skin.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

Improves product stability and longevity.

Capry Phytate
Neutral

Capry Phytate is used as a chelating agent in cosmetics. It helps in stabilizing the formulation by binding metal ions. It does not have direct benefits or risks for the skin.

Risks

No known risks associated with its use in cosmetics.

Benefits

Enhances product stability by preventing metal ion interference.

Pentylene Glycol
Neutral

Pentylene Glycol is a humectant and solvent used in cosmetics. It helps in improving the texture and moisture content of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.

Risks

May cause irritation in very sensitive skin types.

Benefits

Provides moisture and improves product texture.

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Xanthan Gum
Neutral

Xanthan Gum is used as a thickening agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps in stabilizing the product and improving its texture. It does not have direct benefits or risks for the skin.

Benefits

Improves product consistency and stability.

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Sodium Benzoate
Neutral

Sodium Benzoate is used as a preservative in cosmetic formulations. It helps in preventing microbial growth and extending the shelf life of the product. It does not have direct benefits or risks for the skin.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

Ensures product safety by preventing microbial contamination.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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