Retinol
Retinol is a powerful ingredient that lets skin cells behave younger. Paula's Choice retinol products that contain retinol are very effective against signs of ageing.
What is retinol?
Retinol - also known as Vitamin A - is a popular cell-communicating ingredient that tells skin cells to behave younger. Everyone can benefit from it, no matter what your skin type or concerns are.
Benefits
Using retinol has many anti-aging benefits. It smooths out wrinkles and helps to stimulate the production of collagen. Also, retinol can improve uneven skin tone, (dark) spots and discoloration. Overall, it's a highly effective ingredient for younger-looking skin. If you are new to using retinol, it's important to mention that it's best to gradually build up the use of this ingredient in your routine and monitor your skin's response. Start with a lower percentage of retinol, if your skin responds well - you can try higher percentages. Read on if you want to learn more about our formulas and which retinol product (and percentage) is right for you.
Paula's Choice retinol products
Paula's Choice has many retinol formulas to add to your routine. As retinol is a strong ingredient, you may want to start with a low percentage, monitor how your skin responds and increase from there. Wondering which Paula's Choice products you can find vitamin A (retinol) in? Discover retinol products.
Retinol cream, serums, and moisturizer
Most day and night creams with retinol contain a low percentage of vitamin A. The perfect way to start. A retinol serum or treatment with 0.1% can already make a difference. Would you like to work with higher concentrations? Our 1% Retinol Booster or Clinical 1% Treatment are real retinol powerhouses and can be blended with your favorite moisturizer. Discover more products with retinol.
The truth about retinol
Is it impossible to use retinol together with your BHA exfoliant? Is it bad for your skin if you use retinol during the day? There is so much misinformation on the internet about retinol. We want to make sure you can get the most out of your retinol products. That's why we've consulted the research to debunk some myths surrounding this hero skincare ingredient.
FAQ's
1. What are the benefits of using retinol in my skincare routine?
Retinol (a form of vitamin A) is clinically proven to:
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Stimulate collagen production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles
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Improve skin texture and tone
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Minimize pores and refine skin's surface
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Help fade post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation
Paula's Choice retinol products are stabilized for maximum efficacy without unnecessary irritation.
2. Which Paula's Choice retinol product should I start with?
Our retinol lineup accommodates all experience levels:
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Beginners: 0.1% Retinol Treatment (gentle introduction)
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Intermediate: 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
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Advanced: 1% Retinol Treatment (maximum strength)
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Sensitive Skin: Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol (soother formula)
3. How often should I use retinol and when will I see results?
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Start with 1-2 nights weekly, gradually increasing to every other night or nightly as tolerated
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Most users see initial results in 4-6 weeks
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Optimal results typically appear after 3-6 months of consistent use
Always follow with moisturizer and daily SPF 30+ sunscreen
4. Can I use retinol with other active ingredients?
Yes, but with strategic pairing:
✔ Good combinations:
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Hyaluronic acid (helps counteract dryness)
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Niacinamide (soothes irritation)
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Peptides (boosts anti-aging benefits)
✖ Avoid combining with: -
Other retinoids
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High-percentage AHAs/BHAs (can increase irritation)
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Vitamin C (use in AM instead)
5. How can I minimize retinol irritation?
Our PRO tips:
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Apply pea-sized amount to dry skin after cleansing
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"Sandwich method": Apply moisturizer before AND after retinol
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Avoid eye area (use dedicated eye cream instead)
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Skip retinol on nights when using other exfoliants
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Always use sunscreen the next morning
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Try our 0.3% Retinol + Bakuchiol formula for gentler results