Thursday, February 13, 2014

The Compilation: Paula's Choice

The Compilation is an ongoing series of websites, blogs, vlogs, books, and other resources that I have found helpful, informative, innovative, or just awesome in the realm of cosmetics.


Paula Begoun (or the "Cosmetics Cop" if you want to be that guy) isn't exactly a new name in the beauty industry. As a best selling author, (ex)radio and television personality, and founder of a successful cosmetics brand, Begoun is something of a someone. Begoun first rose to fame because of her belief that cosmetic formulations should be based on peer reviewed research, i.e., subject to the microscopes of the 'academic' community (I'm using that term very broadly). A huge portion of cosmetic research is done in house, meaning that the researchers are on a brand's (L’Oréal, Estée Lauder, Shiseido, etc) payroll; further, their research is seldom released to the public. This could be problematic for numerous reasons, most obviously scientific integrity.


Paula's Choice website is a wonderfully informative resource for those interested in the 'how' and 'why' of cosmetics, specifically skin care. The Beautypedia and Expert Advice sections are great for those delving beneath the superficialities of cosmetic claims/ingredient research. The provided information tends to be accurate and comprehensive, though do watch out for inconsistencies. As with all information you find on the internet, it's best to perform your own bit of investigation - in other words, follow Paula's advice and do a bit of peer-review. I personally have found her reviews to occasionally be biased, and not only towards her own brand (that said, I've not regretted anything I have purchased from Paula's Choice).

So for those of you looking for a introduction into the world of skin care, give the Cosmetics Cop a try (and excuse her horrible, gimmicky titles). I don't think you'll be disappointed.

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