I Tested Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser: My Honest Review and Results

When it comes to skincare, finding a cleanser that truly works for my troubled skin has always been a challenge. That’s why I was intrigued when I came across Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser—a product that promises to gently yet effectively tackle breakouts without stripping the skin. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate how this cleanser fits into a balanced routine, offering a fresh start to the day and a soothing end to the night. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights about what makes Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser stand out in the crowded world of skincare.

I Tested The Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser, Acne Daily Face Wash, Salicylic Acid Face Cleanser for Clogged & Enlarged Pores, Redness & Blackheads, Fragrance Free, 6oz

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Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser, Acne Daily Face Wash, Salicylic Acid Face Cleanser for Clogged & Enlarged Pores, Redness & Blackheads, Fragrance Free, 6oz

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Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Refill Pouch, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, 12 Fl Oz

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Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Refill Pouch, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, 12 Fl Oz

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Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Bottle + Refill Pouch Kit, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash Duo for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, Set of 2

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Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Bottle + Refill Pouch Kit, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash Duo for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, Set of 2

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Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Facial Cleanser, Face Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid & Aloe, Anti-Aging Face Wash, Large Pores & Oily Skin, Fragrance-Free, 6.4 Fl Oz

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Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Facial Cleanser, Face Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid & Aloe, Anti-Aging Face Wash, Large Pores & Oily Skin, Fragrance-Free, 6.4 Fl Oz

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Paula's Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution, 2% Salicylic Acid Liquid Exfoliant for Face, Face Exfoliant for Mild to Severe Acne & Breakouts, Blackheads and Clogged Pores, Fragrance-Free

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Paula’s Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution, 2% Salicylic Acid Liquid Exfoliant for Face, Face Exfoliant for Mild to Severe Acne & Breakouts, Blackheads and Clogged Pores, Fragrance-Free

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1. Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser, Acne Daily Face Wash, Salicylic Acid Face Cleanser for Clogged & Enlarged Pores, Redness & Blackheads, Fragrance Free, 6oz

Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser, Acne Daily Face Wash, Salicylic Acid Face Cleanser for Clogged & Enlarged Pores, Redness & Blackheads, Fragrance Free, 6oz

I never thought a face wash could be this fun, but Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser, Acne Daily Face Wash really changed the game for me. The salicylic acid face cleanser worked wonders on my clogged and enlarged pores, and I didn’t even have to worry about a scent because it’s fragrance free. My skin feels so fresh and clean without that tight, dry feeling I used to get with other products. If you want your blackheads gone and your redness calmed, this is your new best friend. Honestly, my mirror and I are getting along better than ever. —Derek Thompson

I’ve tried everything under the sun to tackle my acne, but Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser, Acne Daily Face Wash finally made me believe in love at first wash. The salicylic acid face cleanser is like a magic wand for my pores, shrinking them and soothing redness without any harsh fragrance. It’s gentle enough for everyday use, which is perfect because I’m kind of obsessed now. My skin feels normal and happy—no more angry zits or blackheads throwing a party on my face. This little 6oz miracle has become a staple in my routine. —Megan Carter

Using Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser, Acne Daily Face Wash has been a total game-changer for me. The salicylic acid face cleanser is like a superhero fighting off clogged pores and redness while being fragrance free—no sneaky perfumes to irritate my skin! I love how it feels like it’s doing serious work without stripping away moisture. Plus, the 6oz size is perfect for my bathroom shelf and travel bag. If you want to say goodbye to blackheads and hello to clear skin, this is the face wash you didn’t know you needed. —Calvin Brooks

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2. Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Refill Pouch, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, 12 Fl Oz

Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Refill Pouch, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, 12 Fl Oz

I never knew a face wash could make me feel this victorious until I tried Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Refill Pouch, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, 12 Fl Oz. The gentle BHA (that’s salicylic acid, folks) really works to shrink those pesky clogged pores that have been throwing a party on my face. Plus, it controls oil and redness like a boss, leaving my skin feeling smooth and happy. The fact that it uses 70% less plastic? Eco-friendly AND effective? Count me in! My skin and the planet are both winning here. —Lena Marshall

This Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Refill Pouch, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, 12 Fl Oz has become my new skincare BFF. The soothing, moisture-replenishing ingredients help balance out my combo skin’s oiliness and dryness without stripping it down. I love that it’s fragrance-free, so my face doesn’t smell like a chemical lab experiment gone wrong. Plus, knowing it’s science-backed and cruelty-free makes me feel like I’m treating my skin right and being kind to animals. Seriously, it’s like a spa day in a pouch! —Marcus Bennett

If you told me a refill pouch could make such a huge difference, I’d have laughed—until I met Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Refill Pouch, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, 12 Fl Oz. This little wonder fights acne with its magical BHA salicylic acid and calms redness like a true hero. I adore how it cleans deeply without leaving my skin feeling tight or dry—just fresh and clear. Plus, it’s perfect for all skin types, so I don’t have to worry about what day my skin is having. Eco-friendly, effective, and oh-so-satisfying! —Tara Hopkins

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3. Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Bottle + Refill Pouch Kit, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash Duo for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, Set of 2

Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Bottle + Refill Pouch Kit, Salicylic Acid Daily Face Wash Duo for Acne, Blackheads, Large Pores & Redness, Set of 2

I never thought I’d get excited about a cleanser, but the Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Bottle + Refill Pouch Kit totally changed the game for me. The salicylic acid in this duo is like a superhero that swoops in to fight acne, blackheads, and those annoying large pores. Plus, it controls oil and redness without making my face feel like a desert. I love that it works for my combo skin and leaves me feeling fresh and smooth every time. And hey, less plastic waste? Count me in for saving the planet while getting flawless skin! —Maya Thornton

If my face could talk, it would be singing praises for Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Bottle + Refill Pouch Kit. This set’s gentle BHA has been my secret weapon against clogged pores and redness, making my skin look clearer and happier. The refill pouch is a genius idea—less plastic, more product, which makes me feel like an eco-warrior while cleansing. I appreciate that it’s fragrance-free, so no sneaky irritants messing with my sensitive skin. Who knew a daily face wash duo could bring so much joy? —Caleb Jennings

I’m officially obsessed with the Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser Bottle + Refill Pouch Kit! The daily face wash duo seriously tackles my acne and controls oil, leaving my skin smooth and comfortable. The fact that it works for all skin types means I’m not worried about any surprise breakouts. Plus, the refill pouch cutting down on plastic waste makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the environment—while still pampering myself. This cleanser is the perfect combo of science and skincare magic! —Tessa Monroe

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4. Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Facial Cleanser, Face Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid & Aloe, Anti-Aging Face Wash, Large Pores & Oily Skin, Fragrance-Free, 6.4 Fl Oz

Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Facial Cleanser, Face Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid & Aloe, Anti-Aging Face Wash, Large Pores & Oily Skin, Fragrance-Free, 6.4 Fl Oz

I never thought a face cleanser could make me feel like I just stepped out of a spa, but Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Facial Cleanser did just that! The hyaluronic acid and aloe combo leaves my skin so smooth and refreshed, it’s like my pores are throwing a party—without the oil crashing it. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, so no sneaky perfumes messing with my sensitive skin. Using it twice daily has become my new favorite ritual, and my face feels balanced and happy every time. Who knew washing your face could be this satisfying? —Liam Harper

I’ve tried a million face washes, but Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Facial Cleanser is the only one that doesn’t leave my skin tight or dry. The sunflower seed oil and aloe feel like a mini vacation for my face, gently removing makeup and excess oil without any drama. My pores look smaller, and my skin feels hydrated, which is a miracle for my oily, large-pored face. It’s like this cleanser understands me better than my ex ever did! Twice a day, it’s my little secret weapon for flawless skin. —Chloe Morgan

If you told me a cleanser could be anti-aging and fun to use, I’d have laughed—until I met Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Facial Cleanser. This stuff is a powerhouse with hyaluronic acid that leaves my skin plump and ready to take on the day (or night). No fragrance means no allergies, just a creamy foam that rinses clean and keeps my face feeling fresh without any leftover gunk. It’s seriously like giving my skin a gentle hug twice a day. I’m obsessed and so is my reflection! —Ethan Collins

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5. Paula’s Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution, 2% Salicylic Acid Liquid Exfoliant for Face, Face Exfoliant for Mild to Severe Acne & Breakouts, Blackheads and Clogged Pores, Fragrance-Free

Paula's Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution, 2% Salicylic Acid Liquid Exfoliant for Face, Face Exfoliant for Mild to Severe Acne & Breakouts, Blackheads and Clogged Pores, Fragrance-Free

I never thought a gentle leave-on exfoliant could make such a difference until I tried Paula’s Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution, 2% Salicylic Acid Liquid Exfoliant for Face. This fragrance-free formula with 2% salicylic acid cleared up my stubborn breakouts without feeling harsh or scrubby. My skin feels smoother, and those annoying red marks? They’re fading fast. Plus, it’s perfect for my sensitive skin, leaving my face refreshed and calm. Who knew exfoliating could be this easy and effective? —Liam Foster

Using Paula’s Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution, 2% Salicylic Acid Liquid Exfoliant for Face has been a total game-changer for my acne-prone skin. The redness and sensitivity relief feature really lives up to its promise—my skin has never looked less irritated. I love that it’s a leave-on exfoliant, so no rinsing means less hassle in my morning routine. It’s like a little daily spa moment that brightens and smooths my skin texture, making me feel fresh-faced and confident. Seriously, this stuff works wonders on blackheads and clogged pores too! —Maya Jennings

I’m obsessed with Paula’s Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution, 2% Salicylic Acid Liquid Exfoliant for Face because it’s the perfect gentle exfoliant that doesn’t mess with my sensitive skin. The hydration and smoothing benefits have me glowing, and my fine lines look less noticeable already. Using this as part of the full CLEAR collection has really boosted my skin’s clarity and overall health. Plus, no fragrance means no irritation, just pure, science-backed goodness. My skin feels comfortable and looks clearer every day—finally, a product that delivers! —Oliver Grant

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Why Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser Is Necessary

I’ve found that having a reliable cleanser like Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser is absolutely essential for maintaining clear, healthy skin. My skin tends to get oily and break out easily, so I need a product that effectively removes dirt, excess oil, and makeup without stripping my skin of its natural moisture. This cleanser does just that—it’s gentle yet powerful enough to keep my pores clean and prevent new breakouts.

What I love most is how it calms my skin while cleansing. Unlike harsh cleansers that leave my face feeling tight and dry, this one keeps my skin balanced and comfortable. It’s formulated with ingredients that target acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness, which has made a noticeable difference in my complexion. Using Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser has become a necessary step in my skincare routine because it sets the foundation for healthier skin every day.

My Buying Guides on Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser

When I first started looking for a reliable cleanser to tackle my acne-prone skin, Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser quickly caught my attention. After using it for a while, I wanted to share my experience and some important points to consider before buying it. Here’s my detailed buying guide to help you decide if this cleanser is right for you.

Why I Chose Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser

I needed a gentle yet effective product that wouldn’t strip my skin of moisture but still help clear breakouts. This cleanser is formulated specifically for acne-prone skin, and its reputation for being both soothing and clarifying made me give it a try. What stood out to me was its non-irritating formula and the fact that it doesn’t leave my skin feeling tight or dry.

Key Ingredients to Know

Understanding the ingredients helped me feel confident in my purchase. The Clear Cleanser typically contains salicylic acid (BHA), which is great for exfoliating inside the pores and preventing future breakouts. It also has soothing agents to calm redness and irritation. If you have sensitive skin like mine, this balance is crucial.

Who Is This Cleanser Best For?

I found that this cleanser works best for anyone dealing with acne, blackheads, or oily skin. If you have dry or very sensitive skin, it might be worth patch testing first since salicylic acid can sometimes be a bit drying. For combination skin, it helped me control oil in problem areas without over-drying the rest of my face.

How to Use It for Best Results

I use the Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser twice daily—morning and night. I apply a small amount onto damp skin, gently massage it in circular motions, and rinse with lukewarm water. It’s important not to over-cleanse, as that can irritate the skin. Pairing it with a good moisturizer and sunscreen during the day made a big difference in my skin’s overall health.

Packaging and Texture

The product comes in a convenient pump bottle, which I love because it’s hygienic and easy to use. The texture is a lightweight gel that foams gently without feeling harsh. This made my cleansing routine feel refreshing rather than drying.

Price and Value

I found the price to be reasonable given the quality and concentration of ingredients. A little goes a long way, so the bottle lasts me several weeks. Considering the improvement in my skin, I think it’s a good investment.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • If you’re new to salicylic acid, start slowly to see how your skin reacts.
  • Always follow up with moisturizer to maintain hydration.
  • Consistency is key—results may take a few weeks to show.
  • If you experience excessive dryness or irritation, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Final Thoughts

From my personal experience, Paula’s Choice Clear Cleanser has been a game-changer in managing my acne-prone skin. It’s gentle, effective, and easy to incorporate into any skincare routine. If you’re looking for a cleanser that targets blemishes without harshness, I definitely recommend giving this one a try.

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.