Skincare brands: Paula's Choice vs. The Ordinary

Quick Verdict

Both Paula's Choice and The Ordinary offer effective skincare solutions, but they cater to different needs and budgets. Paula's Choice is ideal for those seeking scientifically-backed formulations and are willing to invest more, while The Ordinary is a great option for those looking for affordable, active ingredient-focused products. Paula's Choice provides more detailed information on their return policy and customer service compared to The Ordinary.

Paula's Choice focuses on scientifically-backed, effective formulations and protective packaging, while The Ordinary emphasizes simple formulations with active ingredients at very affordable prices.
Paula's Choice offers a 60-day refund policy and store credit up to 180 days, while The Ordinary's return policy is not specified.
Paula's Choice has a reputation for attentive customer service, whereas information on The Ordinary's customer service is not available.
Both brands offer a wide range of products targeting various skin concerns and are cruelty-free, with many fragrance-free options.

Key features – Side-by-Side

Attribute	Paula's Choice	The Ordinary
Ingredients Quality	Safe and effective formulas backed by scientific research, using scientifically-backed ingredients. Transparent about the studies used to guide formulations. Non-irritating and free of dyes, fragrances, and phthalates.	Focuses on simple formulations with active ingredients at effective concentrations; transparent about ingredients.
Price Range	Varies; some products under $35, others range from $30-$50, and some go up to $100.	Very affordable; many products are under $10 or $15.
Product Line Variety	Wide variety of products including cleansers, toners, serums, retinols, moisturizers, sunscreens, and peels. Collections targeting different skin concerns such as acne, anti-aging, and sensitive skin.	Offers a wide range of products, including serums, moisturizers, oils, cleansers, and more; expanded into hair and body care.
Targeted Skin Concerns	Acne, blemishes, anti-aging, dark circles, large pores, blackheads, damaged skin barrier, hyperpigmentation, redness, dullness, uneven skin tone and texture, dehydration, and sun damage.	Targets a variety of concerns, including acne, aging, dryness, dullness, uneven skin tone, and textural irregularities.
Packaging Quality	Avoids jars and transparent packaging to maintain formula potency.	No-frills, minimalist packaging; droppers in serum bottles can be messy.
Cruelty-Free Status	Leaping Bunny certified, meaning they do not test on animals.	Cruelty-free brand.
Fragrance-Free Options	All products are formulated without fragrances.	Many products are fragrance-free.
Return Policy	Refund for products returned within 60 days of purchase. Store credit for returns up to 180 days after the purchase date. Shipping and import/tariff fees are non-refundable.	Not specified in the search results.
Customer Service	Generally receives positive reviews for attentive customer service.	Not specified in the search results.
Formulation Technology	Scientifically backed ingredients and a no-BS approach to skincare. Products developed using independent studies, safety data, and consumer testing.	Employs advanced formulation technologies, including peptides, retinoids, and various acids.
Brand Reputation	Cult following due to its effective skincare products. Known for its commitment to delivering highly effective, evidence-based formulations. Some concerns about price increases and a shift in focus after being acquired by Unilever.	Reputation for providing effective skincare at affordable prices.
Availability	Website, Sephora, Space NK (UK & Ireland), H Beauty stores, Selfridges. Available in over 20 regions worldwide.	Widely available online and in stores like Sephora, Ulta, and Amazon.

Overall Comparison

Paula's Choice: Price range from under $35 to $100, 60-day refund policy. The Ordinary: Many products under $10 or $15, return policy not specified.

Pros and Cons

Paula's Choice

Pros:

Effective formulations for various skin concerns
Scientifically-backed ingredients
Cruelty-free
Fragrance-free options
Protective packaging
Good customer service

Cons:

Price can be high for some products
Potential for irritation with certain products
Concerns about price increases after Unilever acquisition
Some users report an oily feeling with certain products

The Ordinary

Pros:

Affordable
Effective skincare
Wide range of products
Targets various skin concerns
Cruelty-free
Many fragrance-free options
Transparent about ingredients

Cons:

Dropper applicators can be messy
Some products can cause irritation
Some products have grainy or oily textures

User Experiences and Feedback

Paula's Choice

What Users Love

Many users report seeing visible results within a week.
Many users feel Paula's Choice products are effective and worth the money, especially compared to other brands with similar formulations.
Many customers express loyalty to Paula's Choice and would repurchase their favorite products due to their effectiveness.

Common Complaints

Some users have reported irritation, especially with products like the 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant or the Niacinamide 20% Treatment, particularly when used with other active ingredients.
Some users with very dry skin in cold climates find they need an additional moisturizer.
Some users find certain products leave an oily feeling.
Some find the prices high and feel the brand's value has decreased since its acquisition by Unilever.

Value Perception

Many users feel Paula's Choice products are effective and worth the money, especially compared to other brands with similar formulations.
Some find the prices high and feel the brand's value has decreased since its acquisition by Unilever.

User Recommendations

The 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is often praised for clearing pores, smoothing texture, and reducing breakouts.
The Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum is reported to smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
The Skin Recovery Moisturizer is designed for dry skin, providing a rich and nourishing feel.
The Skin Restoring Moisturizer with SPF 50 is reported to work well as a primer before applying foundation.

The Ordinary

What Users Love

Effective for acne (Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%)
Effective for wrinkles (Retinol 1% in Squalane, Matrixyl 10% + HA, Argireline Solution 10%)
Effective for dryness (Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5)
Sits well under makeup (Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner)
Often compared favorably to more expensive brands
Some users report seeing results within a week

Common Complaints

Some users have reported irritation (AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%)
Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% can have a grainy texture
Some oils have an earthy scent
Some users would not repurchase specific products due to issues like irritation or texture

Value Perception

The Ordinary is often compared favorably to more expensive brands, with many users finding the products just as effective at a fraction of the cost.

User Recommendations

The Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is recommended by dermatologists for acne-prone skin.
The Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum can help control oil production and reduce inflammation.
Retinol 1% in Squalane targets signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles.
The Matrixyl 10% + HA serum is designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA moisturizer is recommended for dry skin.
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum is a hydrating serum suitable for dry skin.
The AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution can fade acne scars within a few weeks.