Paula Begoun
Founder
For over three decades, Paula Begoun has done what few in the beauty industry have—told the truth. Long before formulating her own products, she was a consumer struggling with acne and eczema, desperately trying to find products that wouldn’t make her skin worse. That’s when her lifelong career of research and formulating effective products began. She is the author of 20+ best-selling books that have sold more than 2.8 million copies worldwide. Her work as a nationally recognized consumer expert for the cosmetics industry has led to repeat appearances on CNN, as well as programs such as Oprah, The Today Show, 20/20, Dateline NBC, and The View.
Bryan Barron
Director of Global Research and Clinical Development
Bryan has worked closely with Paula for nearly 24 years, researching, advising on product development and writing several editions of the international best-selling books, Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me and The Best Skin of Your Life Starts Here. He also researches, writes and edits articles and cosmetic ingredient entries for our website. You can find his expertise in various print and online media outlets around the world—including a regular YouTube series where he breaks down the nitty-gritty science of skin care. In recent years, Bryan has played an integral role in new product innovations and claims that epitomize the brand’s research-driven philosophy.
Deborah Kilgore
Global Director of Skin Care Knowledge
Deborah has been with Paula’s Choice for 24 years and has played a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s identity and educating consumers about the science of skin care. She’s also the creative force behind Paula’s Choice University—a digital learning platform that trains and educates people on the brand’s history, products and ingredients. She regularly contributes to the brand’s social media channels and actively amplifies Paula’s Choice’s messaging through company communications, PR and media. Deb is passionate about helping people achieve their healthiest, most radiant skin possible and believes everyone deserves access to quality skin care.
Mercedes Santaella-Lam
Content Specialist
Mercedes brings nearly 25 years of professional research and journalism experience to the Paula’s Choice Research and Education Team. She is responsible for writing robust articles, objective science-based ingredient reviews and developing content that makes skin care accessible for all. During her 11 years at Paula’s Choice, Mercedes has authored countless articles, cosmetic ingredient dictionary entries and helped produce several of Paula’s best-selling books with the goal of helping consumers feel empowered, informed and prepared to make the right choices for their skin.