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A bottle of this $13 exfoliant sells every 12 seconds: 'I finally have great skin at 50'

A strong but sensitive exfoliant can do wonders for your skin, helping to slough away dead skin cells, reduce signs of aging and brighten your complexion. There are so many on the market, though, that you may not know where to begin. We'll shortcut it for you: More than 71,000 Amazon reviewers of all ages and skin types swear by this cult favorite from Paula's Choice. The company's No. 1 bestselling Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which starts at $13 on Amazon for the travel size, cleanses skin and helps with cell turnover, but that's just the tip of the iceberg.

The key ingredient is beta hydroxy acid, or BHA, which helps clear away dead skin cells, as well as dirt and grime that can clog pores. As this exfoliator takes away layers of dead skin, it exposes newer skin. The result? A brighter complexion and minimized fine lines and wrinkles.

$13 at Amazon
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$13 at Kohl's$13 at Sephora

Because this is a gentle exfoliant, it can be used daily (though, if you notice dry patches developing, dial down usage to a few times a week). Along with unclogging pores, it also works to unclog blackheads and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, both of which can contribute to adult acne.

"I am 50. Love the sun and have had acne issues in the past," one five-star reviewer explained. "This has evened my skin tone, reduced the look of fine lines, evened out dark patches and made my skin smooth and soft like butter. Everything feels tighter. This is some dark magic sh*t and I love it!"

To help reduce dryness or redness, this exfoliant includes green tea extract, which adds a dose of soothing moisture. Paula's Choice is also free of fragrances, dyes and parabens, so you can feel good knowing no unnecessary additives went into your cleanser.

A photo of three bottles of Paula's Choice exfoliant
Looks like Paula isn't the only one who loves this miracle worker — according to the brand, five people snap up one of these every minute. (Amazon)

Reviewers with all types of skin concerns rave about Paula's Choice exfoliant.

"I finally have great skin," said another shopper. "Love this product. I wish I had it my whole life. It has helped diminish pores, clear adult acne and even reduce wrinkles. It makes my skin soft, too. I finally, at 50, have great skin. It is also working for my 20-year-old daughter who suffers from acne."

Another reviewer said her results were almost instant: "I am over 50 and still have issues with acne," she explained. "I started using this about two weeks ago and noticed an improvement the first day. Now, two weeks later, my skin is completely clear."

"When I first tried it, I was skeptical, but the next day I noticed how soft, smooth and clean my face felt," wrote a final fan. "I have very sensitive skin and this doesn't dry me out, burn or leave me feeling oily or sticky. I have naturally dry skin, so hydration can be a struggle for me. This makes my skin feel so soft and hydrated! The scent, however, is not good. I wish they would work on the smell, but otherwise, I can't wait to try their other products!"

This 1-ounce bottle is perfect for throwing in your toiletry bag, so you can keep up with your skincare even on a weekend getaway.

$13 at Amazon
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$13 at Kohl's$13 at Sephora

And for those Paula's Choice superfans who'd prefer to buy in bulk and grab a larger-sized bottle ... we have good news for you:

The 4-ounce bottle is better bang for your buck at $9 an ounce.

$35 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.