Paula's Choice vs The Ordinary
A detailed head-to-head comparison of Paula's Choice and The Ordinary based on our 100-point scoring system.
Winner
Paula's Choice
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
91/100
Excellent4.7
9,800 reviews
The Ordinary
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
85/100
Very Good4.6
68,000 reviews
Side-by-Side Comparison
Metric
Paula's Choice
The Ordinary
Overall Score
91/100
85/100
Price
$34.00
$7.00
Customer Rating
4.7/5
4.6/5
Review Count
9,800
68,000
Best For
Best Chemical Exfoliant
Best Budget Serum
About Page
Yes
Yes
Contact Info
Yes
Yes
Paula's Choice — Score Breakdown
Ingredient Quality & Safety19/20
Effectiveness & Results19/20
Price vs Value12/15
Sustainability & Packaging8/10
Customer Reviews & Satisfaction13/15
Brand Transparency10/10
Brand Ethics & Values10/10
The Ordinary — Score Breakdown
Ingredient Quality & Safety17/20
Effectiveness & Results16/20
Price vs Value15/15
Sustainability & Packaging8/10
Customer Reviews & Satisfaction12/15
Brand Transparency10/10
Brand Ethics & Values7/10
Pros & Cons
Paula's Choice
The gold standard BHA formulation — 2% salicylic acid at the correct pH with a penetration enhancer, backed by decades of consistent results.
Cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny certified), vegan, and fragrance-free — among the strongest ethical and formulation credentials in the category.
Endorsed and recommended by dermatologists worldwide as a benchmark leave-on exfoliant for pore clarity and texture improvement.
At $34 for 4 ounces, it is one of the pricier options in the BHA segment — a meaningful consideration when alternatives like The Ordinary offer lower-cost exfoliants.
Daily BHA use can over-exfoliate sensitive or dry skin types — requires careful introduction and may not be suitable every day for all users.
The Ordinary
Clinically relevant 10% niacinamide concentration at an unmatched price point of $7 per 30ml bottle.
Fully vegan and fragrance-free with a fully disclosed, minimal ingredient list — a model of formula transparency.
Proven multi-benefit formula that visibly addresses pores, oiliness, and hyperpigmentation with consistent use.
Not cruelty-free — The Ordinary's parent company DECIEM is now majority-owned by Estée Lauder, which requires animal testing in some markets.
The 10% niacinamide concentration can cause temporary flushing or tingling in highly reactive or sensitized skin types.
No dermatologist testing label — the brand prioritizes ingredient science transparency over third-party clinical validation marketing.
Our Verdict
Paula's Choice comes out ahead with a score of 91/100 compared to 85/100. Paula's Choice is best for best chemical exfoliant. However, The Ordinary may be a better fit if you prioritize best budget serum.
Results may vary. Individual outcomes depend on personal factors. Consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for medical skin or hair conditions.