Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment

What’s the difference between CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment and other Paula’s Choice high-strength retinols?

Paula's Choice has four powerful retinol products, each with a unique mix of retinoids and skin-supporting ingredients to fight signs of ageing and improve skin health. The key difference between CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment and the 1% Retinol Booster is their texture. Although suitable for all skin types, the CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment’s lotion texture is often preferred if you have normal to dry skin. 1% Retinol Booster has a thinner, fluid texture that works best if you have oily, combination and/or breakout-prone skin. The CLINICAL 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment contains a slightly lower amount of retinol (0.3%) but is still considered a high-strength option because it’s paired with 2% bakuchiol, an ingredient with similar benefits to retinol that amplifies retinol’s benefits. This treatment may be preferred if you have sensitive skin. The CLINICAL Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment is a fast-absorbing light lotion that combines retinaldehyde (also known as retinal) and oleyl adapalenate (known as Adapinoid ®) to address multiple signs of ageing as well as rough, bumpy texture and blemish/pore-related concerns. It is considered a professional strength, yet gentle, option for those seeking advanced results. If you have had increased sensitisation from using the CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment in the past, you may want to consider trying the CLINICAL Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment to see how your skin responds to this formula.

What should I do if I have a skin reaction to retinol?

If your skin reacts strongly to this potent retinol (resulting in redness or extra dry skin), use it less frequently for the following two weeks to see if your skin improves. If no improvement is shown, discontinue use.

If I see great results after the first or second use, should I use retinol every day?

Because skin has a delayed response to retinol, we recommend using this product at a reduced rate for the first two weeks. If your skin is responding well, you can increase to once per day if desired.

How do I know which retinol strength to use?

Retinol is a powerhouse anti-ageing ingredient that’s proven to be effective even in concentrations as low as 0.01%. You can choose to use a low, moderate or high-strength retinol based on your specific skin concerns.

Do I build up a retinol tolerance so that I must move up to 1% even if I start out with a milder retinol strength? Will my retinol tolerance increase? If so, will I have to use a higher retinol strength?

Not necessarily. Everyone’s skin retains retinol differently so a milder formula may work better for some while others may need a stronger formula. We recommend evaluating your results with your current retinol and possibly increasing frequency of use prior to switching to a stronger retinol. If your skin is doing well with your current retinol, there’s no need to switch.

I keep pushing on the pump, but no product is coming out.

This product uses an airless pump, which needs to be primed before first use. To prime, simply pump the dispenser slowly about 10-15 times. If the problem cannot be solved, please contact our Customer Service so we can offer an appropriate solution.

When do I use retinol in my routine?

In general, most people can use retinol daily, after cleansing, toning and exfoliating. Because this product contains a potent strength of retinol, we recommend introducing it slowly into your routine and alternating days until you know how it works for you. You can use retinol either during the daytime or at night, depending on personal preference. If using it during the day, be sure to liberally apply a sunscreen rated SPF 30+ as your routine last step.

Is retinol safe during pregnancy?

You should avoid using retinol if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. As an alternative, you can talk with your healthcare provider about using a product with niacinamide, vitamin C or peptides during this time.

How long should you wait to apply moisturiser after retinol?

You can apply moisturiser immediately after using retinol. There’s no need to wait between applying retinol products and your moisturiser or any other product.

At what age should you start using retinol?

There’s no right or wrong age to start using retinol. Many blemish-prone customers start in their teens to help with clogged pores and breakouts, while those with fine lines, sun damage or loss of firmness often add it to their routine in their 20s or 30s. We don’t recommend high-strength retinoids for skin without advanced signs of ageing or congestion.