The skincare industry can often be a confusing place for consumers. With a plethora of products available, each boasting a myriad of health claims, it can be difficult to discern fact from fiction. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, promising to deliver miraculous results. However, these claims can sometimes be greatly exaggerated or even entirely false.

It is therefore crucial for consumers to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Taking claims about products at face value may leave consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed. It is important to scrutinize the ingredients used in these products and compare them with the claims made about the product. This will help to establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel by Paula’s Choice. We will be examining the claims made about this product, and comparing them to the ingredients used within the product. This will provide a truth assessment to establish whether or not this product lives up to its promises.

So, let’s delve into the main claims being made about this product and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Glides Over Skin

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “This liquid-gel peel glides over skin…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains several ingredients that are known to provide a smooth, glide-on application. For example, Isoamyl Laurate is a plant-derived ester that is known for its excellent spreadability on the skin. Similarly, Butylene Glycol is a commonly used ingredient in skincare products that helps to increase the penetration of other ingredients and also gives the product a smoother consistency. Therefore, it’s reasonable to claim that the product will glide over the skin.

Claim #2: The Product Addresses Multiple Signs of Aging

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “…immediately goes to work to address multiple signs of aging.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains several Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) such as Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Tartaric Acid, and Malic Acid. AHAs are known for their ability to exfoliate the skin, stimulate collagen production, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, which are common signs of aging. In addition, Salicylic Acid (a Beta Hydroxy Acid or BHA) is included in the formula, which is known for its ability to penetrate pores and reduce inflammation, another factor that can contribute to aging skin. Therefore, the claim that the product addresses multiple signs of aging is true.

Claim #3: The Product Hydrates the Skin

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “The result after rinsing? Hydrated, supple, ultra-glowy skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Sodium Hyaluronate, a form of Hyaluronic Acid, which is known for its ability to retain moisture and hydrate the skin. Glycerin, another ingredient in the product, is a humectant that attracts water to the skin and helps to keep it hydrated. Therefore, the claim that the product hydrates the skin is true.

Claim #4: The Product Makes the Skin Supple

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “The result after rinsing? Hydrated, supple, ultra-glowy skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Tocopherol, also known as Vitamin E, which is known for its ability to nourish and soften the skin, making it feel supple. In addition, the exfoliating action of the AHAs and BHA in the product can help to remove dead skin cells, revealing fresher, more supple skin underneath. Therefore, the claim that the product makes the skin supple is true.

Claim #5: The Product Gives the Skin an Ultra-Glow

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “The result after rinsing? Hydrated, supple, ultra-glowy skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Mica and Titanium Dioxide, both of which are known for their ability to reflect light and give the skin a glowing appearance. In addition, the exfoliating action of the AHAs and BHA in the product can help to reveal fresher, brighter skin underneath, contributing to an overall glow. Therefore, the claim that the product gives the skin an ultra-glow is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 9/10

Overall likelihood for product to make good on its claims: Highly likely

Based on the assessment of the claims made by Paula’s Choice about this product, it appears to be highly truthful and likely to fulfill its roles. Each claim has been backed up by ingredients known to provide the stated benefits, from skin hydration to addressing signs of aging.

However, it’s important to note that this assessment assumes all ingredients are used in effective quantities. In skincare formulas, ingredient lists are in weight order, but this doesn’t necessarily tell us everything. For instance, an ingredient listed towards the end of the list may still be effective in small quantities, while an ingredient listed at the beginning may not be effective if it’s not used in sufficient amounts. Therefore, while the presence of an ingredient can support a product’s claims, it doesn’t guarantee its effectiveness.

Users should be mindful of this when evaluating skincare products. It’s also worth noting that individual skin responses can vary, and what works well for one person may not work as well for another.

Remember, when evaluating skincare products, it’s important to look beyond the marketing claims and examine the ingredient list. Look for ingredients that are known to provide the claimed benefits, and be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true. Additionally, consider your own skin type and needs, as the best product for you is one that suits your individual skin.

This product review has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The review is conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, who utilizes a variety of reliable sources to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided. These sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), and The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, various publicly available sources are also consulted to provide a well-rounded perspective on the product under review.