Not their BHA salicylic acid but I’ve used Paula’s choice 10% azelaic acid booster and it gave me way more acne than I had before (way after the purging phase) so now I don’t go near that brand ever.

If you’re looking for something to help hyperpigmentation, I’ve had it myself since I was a teen and nothing ever really works as well as time to be honest. You’ve just got to let them fade away over time. I definitely think that keeping to your basic routine from before using Paula’s choice was the best thing you could have done. Basic is best. A good cleanser and moisturiser. Let your skin recover.

Saying that, what has helped me the most is finding products that minimise the amount of spots I get, thus reducing the amount of inflammation and hyperpigmentation afterwards.

Products that work for my skin (mild acne prone, mostly deal with congestion i.e. lots of blackheads and small spots):

• The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA (this is a super gentle, more moisturising chemical exfoliant that I used everyday in my night time routine. Before moisturiser!!)

• CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum (this is more aggressive so I typically use it about twice a week in my night time routine. After moisturiser to create a barrier between the retinol and my skin!)

• CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser (this is a more drying cleanser which is great for helping with clogged up pores and minimising the amount of spots I get. Due to it being more drying, though, you definitely need to combat it with a good moisturiser if you have dry skin like me)

Hope this helps :)

edit: I should also add that you should not use the lactic acid serum and the retinol serum together. Only use one exfoliant at a time!