Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment

Common questions

Is Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment healthy?

Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product contains several beneficial ingredients such as retinol, sodium hyaluronate, and ceramide 2, which are known for their anti-aging and hydrating properties.

How does Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment compare to other skin care?

Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment ranks #46 of 63 skin care in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is BASED Skin Revival Spray at 100/100.

Which ingredients drive Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Glycerin, Retinol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate count in its favor; Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

More from Paula's Choice

See more

Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment

Paula's Choice
70 Good
$48.75 · 1 oz · $48.75 / ounce
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 6
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Unilever
Category Skin Care
Summary

This product contains several beneficial ingredients such as retinol, sodium hyaluronate, and ceramide 2, which are known for their anti-aging and hydrating properties. However, the presence of phenoxyethanol, a preservative that can cause skin irritation, slightly detracts from its overall safety profile. The formulation is processed, which limits its score despite the inclusion of effective skin actives.

Key ingredients 9

Retinol
Very Good

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A known for its anti-aging benefits. It promotes cell turnover and improves skin texture.

Risks

Retinol can cause irritation, redness, and peeling, especially in sensitive skin.

Benefits

It reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin tone.

See more about Retinol →
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Very Good

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a stable form of Vitamin C. It is used for its antioxidant properties and ability to brighten the skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though some may experience mild irritation.

Benefits

It helps in collagen production and reduces signs of aging.

See more about Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate →
Ceramide 2
Very Good

Ceramide 2 is a lipid that helps restore the skin barrier. It is crucial for maintaining skin hydration and integrity.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though some may experience sensitivity.

Benefits

It strengthens the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss.

See more about Ceramide 2 →
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Very Good

Palmitoyl Oligopeptide is a peptide used for its anti-aging benefits. It stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though some may experience mild irritation.

Benefits

It helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improves skin firmness.

See more about Palmitoyl Oligopeptide →
Glycerin
Good

Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It is widely used for its hydrating properties.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though overuse can lead to a sticky feeling.

Benefits

It helps maintain skin hydration and improves skin barrier function.

See more about Glycerin →
Sodium Hyaluronate
Good

Sodium Hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that provides intense hydration. It is known for its ability to hold water and plump the skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It enhances skin moisture and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

See more about Sodium Hyaluronate →
Aqua
Neutral

Aqua, or water, is a common solvent used in cosmetics. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the formulation.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.

Benefits

Water is essential for hydration and helps in the application of the product.

See more about Aqua →
Dimethicone
Bad

Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.

Risks

Some individuals may experience skin irritation or breakouts from silicones.

Benefits

It provides a silky texture and can help improve the appearance of fine lines.

See more about Dimethicone →
Phenoxyethanol
Bad

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth. It is considered a safer alternative to parabens.

Risks

It can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.

Benefits

It helps maintain product integrity by preventing bacterial contamination.

See more about Phenoxyethanol →

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play
Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.