Paula's choice

Paula's choice 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment

Name: Paula's choice - 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
Brand: Paula's choice

Efficacy100/100IrritancyMedium

See all ingredients

Works for

Anti-aging

Retinol, Bakuchiol + 7 more

Works well

What the product description says

“The Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment is an advanced formula, specially developed to reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, restore firmness and even out skin tone.”

Source: Paula's Choice UK

This product can help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and firmness because it contains retinol, bakuchiol, palmitoyl hexapeptide-12.

These ingredients in the product can also be helpful, even though there is less evidence for their effectiveness: dipeptide-2, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, palmitoyl tripeptide-1.

Keep in mind that it typically takes at least 6 weeks to notice any results because the changes that are needed to improve fine lines and elasticity happen in the deeper layers of the skin. No topical anti-aging product can “erase” wrinkles or fully reverse signs of aging.

RetinolHeroEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~0.25–0.45%

BakuchiolKey activeEffect: HighA plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritation~1.8–2.2%

Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7Key activeEffect: MediumA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%

Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12Key activeEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.35%

Palmitoyl tripeptide-1Key activeEffect: MediumA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.35%

Dipeptide-2Key activeEffect: MediumA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.15–0.25%

Magnesium aluminum silicateEffect: LowMight be helpful in restoring skin barrier function and, when combined with zinc carbonate and malonic acid, reducing fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating elastin production. Also helps stabilize the product formulation~0.15–0.3%

ChrysinEffect: LowMight be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as lightening the skin, but solid evidence is missing. Could somewhat help in reducing the darkness of the under-eye area. Helps to neutralise free radicals in skin~0.15–0.25%

Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateUnder-dosedBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~0.3–0.55%

Moisturizing

Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, Ceramide ng + 25 more

Works well

What the product description says

“Antioxidants: soothe and hydrate to keep skin soft and healthy”

Source: Dermstore

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: glycerin, sodium hyaluronate.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: dimethicone, glycine soja sterols.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: ceramide ng, dipeptide-2, palmitoyl hexapeptide-12, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, palmitoyl tripeptide-1

Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7Hero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%

Ceramide ngHero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin~0.25–0.5%

Palmitoyl tripeptide-1Hero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.35%

Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12HeroEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.35%

Dipeptide-2HeroEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.15–0.25%

DimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish~5.8–7%

Dimethicone crosspolymerKey activeEffect: MediumUsed to create a thicker product texture. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and might be able to prevent moisture loss from its surface~1–1.3%

GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~0.6–0.9%

C12-15 alkyl benzoateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumEnhances the product texture and makes it more spreadable. Helps reduce water loss from the outer layer of skin. Extands the shelf life by preventing bacteria growth~0.35–0.6%

Glycine soja sterolsKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that helps soften the skin~0.2–0.35%

Cetearyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture~0.2–0.4%

Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.3%

Hydrolyzed soy proteinKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Might have some anti-aging, anti-oxidant, and skin lightening properties, but solid evidence is missing~0.15–0.25%

Isononyl isononanoate· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: LowForms a protective film on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss. Gives a velvety feel to products while reducing tackiness~3.2–3.9%

Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~2.2–2.7%

Arachidyl alcohol· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to soften the upper layer of the skin and create a thicker product consistency~1.6–1.9%

Glyceryl polymethacrylate· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture~1.3–1.6%

Behenyl alcohol· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: LowNon-drying alcohol that helps water and oil mix together. Also serves as an emollient~0.8–1.2%

Glyceryl stearate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together~0.45–0.7%

Pentylene glycol· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture~0.2–0.35%

Tribehenin· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to create a thicker product consistency and soften the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.3%

Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.15–0.3%

Peg-8· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product consistency~0.15–0.3%

LecithinEffect: Low, below effective doseUsed mostly for creating emulsions - helping oil and water mix together. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.2–0.35%

Dipotassium glycyrrhizateUnder-dosedA salt derived from licorice. Works as an emollient to soften the upper layer of the skin and can help calm down inflammation. Might be helpful for skin lightening~0.15–0.3%

Avena sativa kernel extractUnder-dosedAn effective moisturizing and skin barrier repair ingredient. Helps calm down inflammation and has some anti-oxidant properties~0.15–0.3%

AllantoinUnder-dosedHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.1–0.25%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy

1 strong irritant: Retinol

Medium risk

We flagged 22 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.

IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount

RetinolTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritatingHigh~0.25–0.45%est.

Arctium lappa root extractPlant extract. Has some anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties. Can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.25%est.

Coco-glucosideUsed as a cleansing agent (surfactant) in cleansers. Helps water and oil mix together in lotions. Can be irritatingHigh~0.2–0.4%est.

Hesperidin methyl chalconeMight help neutralize free radicals in skin. Is claimed to be able to improve the appearance of undereye darkness but evidence is missing. Can be an allergen and cause irritationHigh~0.15–0.25%est.

N-hydroxysuccinimideIs claimed to be able to brighten skin tone by removing some blood-related pigmented compounds in skin (hemoglobin and related elements) but solid research is missing. Can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.25%est.

Pentaerythrityl tetraisostearateUsed to create a thicker product consistencyMedium~3.8–4.6%est.

BakuchiolA plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritationMedium~1.8–2.2%est.

Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.Medium~0.3–0.55%est.

Glycyrrhiza glabra root extractA plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicalsMedium~0.1–0.2%est.

Tocopheryl acetateA more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.Medium~0.15–0.3%est.

Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

Polygonum cuspidatum root extractA plant extract that can contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. The effectiveness depends on the extract quality and concentration in the productMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

Peg-10 phytosterolHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

Peg-8Used to create a nice product consistencyMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

ChrysinMight be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as lightening the skin, but solid evidence is missing. Could somewhat help in reducing the darkness of the under-eye area. Helps to neutralise free radicals in skinMedium~0.15–0.25%est.

Pentylene glycolUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product textureMedium~0.2–0.35%est.

Sodium acrylates copolymerUsed to create a thicker product consistencyMedium~0.1–0.2%est.

Steareth-20Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.2–0.4%est.

Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymerA gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finishMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.1–0.25%est.

Benzoic acidA preservativeMedium~0.1–0.2%est.

EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.05–0.1%est.

Comedogenic

1 ingredient rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale

1 flagged

These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.

IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount

Cetearyl alcoholA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture2/5~0.2–0.4%est.

Alternatives

Cheaper, or higher on efficacy

ISNTREE Hyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum

Cheaper73% match

$13.61

SKIN&LAB retinol repair serum

Cheaper70% match

$13.99

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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

Dimethicone~5.8–7%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingMattifying

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

More about Dimethicone

Pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate~3.8–4.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate

Isononyl isononanoate~3.2–3.9%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Forms a protective film on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss. Gives a velvety feel to products while reducing tackiness

More about Isononyl isononanoate

Butylene glycol~2.2–2.7%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol

Bakuchiol~1.8–2.2%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidationAnti-inflammatoryAnti-blemishEvens skin toneAnti-aging

A plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritation

More about Bakuchiol

Arachidyl alcohol~1.6–1.9%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to soften the upper layer of the skin and create a thicker product consistency

More about Arachidyl alcohol

Glyceryl polymethacrylate~1.3–1.6%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture

More about Glyceryl polymethacrylate

Dimethicone crosspolymer~1–1.3%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to create a thicker product texture. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and might be able to prevent moisture loss from its surface

More about Dimethicone crosspolymer

Behenyl alcohol~0.8–1.2%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Non-drying alcohol that helps water and oil mix together. Also serves as an emollient

More about Behenyl alcohol

Glycerin~0.6–0.9%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin

Peg-75 shea butter glycerides~0.5–0.75%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

More about Peg-75 shea butter glycerides

Glyceryl stearate~0.45–0.7%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together

More about Glyceryl stearate

C12-15 alkyl benzoate~0.35–0.6%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Enhances the product texture and makes it more spreadable. Helps reduce water loss from the outer layer of skin. Extands the shelf life by preventing bacteria growth

More about C12-15 alkyl benzoate

Polysorbate 20~0.3–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polysorbate 20

Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate~0.3–0.55%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Evens skin toneAnti-agingAnti-oxidation

Being a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.

More about Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate

Retinol~0.25–0.45%

Hero · Anti-agingIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-blemishMattifyingExfoliationAnti-oxidation

Two steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating

More about Retinol

Ceramide ng~0.25–0.5%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-inflammatory

A type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin

More about Ceramide ng

Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7~0.25–0.45%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-aging

A type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7

Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12~0.2–0.35%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-agingMoisturizing

A type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12

Sodium hyaluronate~0.15–0.3%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate

Dipotassium glycyrrhizate~0.15–0.3%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryEvens skin tone

A salt derived from licorice. Works as an emollient to soften the upper layer of the skin and can help calm down inflammation. Might be helpful for skin lightening

More about Dipotassium glycyrrhizate

Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract~0.1–0.2%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidationReduces rednessEvens skin toneAnti-inflammatoryAntibacterial

A plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals

More about Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract

Avena sativa kernel extract~0.15–0.3%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-inflammatoryMoisturizingReduces irritationReduces rednessAnti-oxidation

An effective moisturizing and skin barrier repair ingredient. Helps calm down inflammation and has some anti-oxidant properties

More about Avena sativa kernel extract

Arctium lappa root extract~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

Plant extract. Has some anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties. Can be irritating

More about Arctium lappa root extract

Alba bark extract

Not recognized

Glycine soja sterols~0.2–0.35%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin

More about Glycine soja sterols

Lecithin~0.2–0.35%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

Used mostly for creating emulsions - helping oil and water mix together. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Lecithin

Allantoin~0.1–0.25%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-inflammatoryMoisturizingReduces irritationReduces rednessAnti-blemishExfoliation

Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated

More about Allantoin

Tocopheryl acetate~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.

More about Tocopheryl acetate

Hydrolyzed soy protein~0.15–0.25%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingEvens skin toneAnti-oxidationAnti-inflammatory

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Might have some anti-aging, anti-oxidant, and skin lightening properties, but solid evidence is missing

More about Hydrolyzed soy protein

Palmitoyl tripeptide-1~0.2–0.35%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-aging

A type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Palmitoyl tripeptide-1

Sodium hydroxide~0.15–0.25%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide

Tribehenin~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to create a thicker product consistency and soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Tribehenin

Caprylyl glycol~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol

Dipeptide-2~0.15–0.25%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-aging

A type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Dipeptide-2

Polygonum cuspidatum root extract~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that can contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. The effectiveness depends on the extract quality and concentration in the product

More about Polygonum cuspidatum root extract

Peg-10 phytosterol~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Peg-10 phytosterol

Peg-8~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product consistency

More about Peg-8

Magnesium aluminum silicate~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-aging

Might be helpful in restoring skin barrier function and, when combined with zinc carbonate and malonic acid, reducing fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating elastin production. Also helps stabilize the product formulation

More about Magnesium aluminum silicate

Arachidyl glucoside~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Arachidyl glucoside

Chrysin~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Evens skin toneAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

Might be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as lightening the skin, but solid evidence is missing. Could somewhat help in reducing the darkness of the under-eye area. Helps to neutralise free radicals in skin

More about Chrysin

Pentylene glycol~0.2–0.35%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture

More about Pentylene glycol

Sodium acrylates copolymer~0.1–0.2%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Sodium acrylates copolymer

Steareth-20~0.2–0.4%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Steareth-20

Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finish

More about Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer

Cetearyl alcohol~0.2–0.4%

Key activeComedogenic 2/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 2/5

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture

More about Cetearyl alcohol

Coco-glucoside~0.2–0.4%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Cleansing

Used as a cleansing agent (surfactant) in cleansers. Helps water and oil mix together in lotions. Can be irritating

More about Coco-glucoside

Hesperidin methyl chalcone~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

Might help neutralize free radicals in skin. Is claimed to be able to improve the appearance of undereye darkness but evidence is missing. Can be an allergen and cause irritation

More about Hesperidin methyl chalcone

N-hydroxysuccinimide~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Evens skin tone

Is claimed to be able to brighten skin tone by removing some blood-related pigmented compounds in skin (hemoglobin and related elements) but solid research is missing. Can be irritating

More about N-hydroxysuccinimide

Disodium edta~0.1–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta

Phenoxyethanol~0.15–0.25%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol

Benzoic acid~0.1–0.2%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Benzoic acid

Ethylhexylglycerin~0.05–0.1%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin

Ingredient list view

Water, Dimethicone, Pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate, Isononyl isononanoate, Butylene glycol, Bakuchiol, Arachidyl alcohol, Glyceryl polymethacrylate, Dimethicone crosspolymer, Behenyl alcohol, Glycerin, Peg-75 shea butter glycerides, Glyceryl stearate, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, Polysorbate 20, Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, Retinol, Ceramide ng, Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12, Sodium hyaluronate, Dipotassium glycyrrhizate, Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, Avena sativa kernel extract, Arctium lappa root extract, Unknown, Glycine soja sterols, Lecithin, Allantoin, Tocopheryl acetate, Hydrolyzed soy protein, Palmitoyl tripeptide-1, Sodium hydroxide, Tribehenin, Caprylyl glycol, Dipeptide-2, Polygonum cuspidatum root extract, Peg-10 phytosterol, Peg-8, Magnesium aluminum silicate, Arachidyl glucoside, Chrysin, Pentylene glycol, Sodium acrylates copolymer, Steareth-20, Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, Cetearyl alcohol, Coco-glucoside, Hesperidin methyl chalcone, N-hydroxysuccinimide, Disodium edta, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic acid, Ethylhexylglycerin

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Amazon USPrice as of 11/10 00:16 GMT

$65.00

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Dermstore1 fl. oz

$65.00

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Paula's Choice US

$65.00

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Sephora

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SpaceNK US

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Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
	Paula's choice0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol TreatmentYOUR PRODUCT	ISNTREEHyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum	SKIN&LABretinol repair serum	Elizabeth GrantWonder Effect Advanced Retinol Gentle Serum
Match	—	73%	70%	66%
Price	$65.00	$13.61−$51.39	$13.99−$51.01	—
Shared key ingredients	—	5 of 13	6 of 13	9 of 13
Key difference	—	Copper Tripeptide-1	Sh-Polypeptide-22	Gluconolactone
Irritancy	Medium	Medium	Medium	High
Drying alcohol	—	—	—	—
	View product	Shop	Shop	Shop

More alternatives: Indeed Labs Retinol Reface Retinol Skin Resurfacer ZO Skin Health Clear Renewal

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Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 35 studies and safety reviews.

1
Dimethicone as a protective ingredient in topical medicationsjaad.org
2
Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Dimethicone Copolyoljournals.sagepub.com
3
Safety Assessment of Pentaerythrityl Tetraesters as Used in Cosmeticsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
4
Bakuchiol in the Management of Acne-affected Skinresearchgate.net
5
Prospective, randomized, double‐blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageingonlinelibrary.wiley.com
6
A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract and mannitol improves the efficacy of adapalene in patients with acne vulgaris: result from a controlled randomized trialncbi.nlm.nih.gov
7
Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
8
Double-blind, half-face study comparing topical vitamin C and vehicle for rejuvenation of photodamagencbi.nlm.nih.gov
9
Application of tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid in cosmetic formulations: Stability studies and in vivo efficacysciencedirect.com
10
Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safetyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
11
Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol)ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
12
A comparative study of the effects of retinol and retinoic acid on histological, molecular, and clinical properties of human skinonlinelibrary.wiley.com
13
Topical emulsions containing ceramides: Effects on the skin barrier function and anti‐inflammatory propertiesonlinelibrary.wiley.com
14
Topically Applied Ceramides Interact with the Stratum Corneum Lipid Matrix in Compromised Ex Vivo Skinncbi.nlm.nih.gov
15
Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin agingncbi.nlm.nih.gov
16
Hyaluronan (Hyaluronic Acid): a natural moisturizer for skin careresearchgate.net
17
Ameliorating effect of dipotassium glycyrrhizinate on an IL-4- and IL-13-induced atopic dermatitis-like skin-equivalent modelresearchgate.net
18
Final report on the safety assessment of Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Potassium Glycyrrhetinate, Disodium Succinoyl Glycyrrhetinate, Glyceryl Glycyrrhetinate, Glycyrrhetinyl Stearate, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Glycyrrhizic Acid, Ammonium Glycyrrhizate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Disodium Glycyrrhizate, Trisodium Glycyrrhizate, Methyl Glycyrrhizate, and Potassium Glycyrrhizinate.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
19
Contact dermatitis as an adverse reaction to some topically used European herbal medicinal products – part 1: Achillea millefolium–Curcuma longaonlinelibrary.wiley.com
20
Profile of wound healing process induced by allantoinscielo.br
21
Extracts from Glycine max (soybean) induce elastin synthesis and inhibit elastase activityonlinelibrary.wiley.com
22
Dermatological and cosmeceutical benefits of Glycine max (soybean) and its active componentsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
23
Safety Assessment of Soy Peptides as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
24
Nuclear Factor Kappa B Inhibition as a Therapeutic Target of Nutraceuticals in Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, and Related Inflammationsciencedirect.com
25
Resveratrol as an active ingredient for cosmetic and dermatological applications: a reviewncbi.nlm.nih.gov
26
Final report on the safety assessment of aluminum silicate, calcium silicate, magnesium aluminum silicate, magnesium silicate, magnesium trisilicate, sodium magnesium silicate, zirconium silicate, attapulgite, bentonite, Fuller's earth, hectorite, kaolin, lithium magnesium silicate, lithium magnesium sodium silicate, montmorillonite, pyrophyllite, and zeolitencbi.nlm.nih.gov
27
Extracellular matrix in cutaneous ageing: the effects of 0.1% copper-zinc malonate-containing cream on elastin biosynthesisncbi.nlm.nih.gov
28
Anti-photoageing and anti-melanogenesis activities of chrysinncbi.nlm.nih.gov
29
Chrysin Protects Epidermal Keratinocytes from UVA- and UVB-Induced Damagepubs.acs.org
30
Inhibition of melanogenesis by 5,7-dihydroxyflavone (chrysin) via blocking adenylyl cyclase activitysciencedirect.com
31
Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Acrylates Copolymer and 33 Related Cosmetic Ingredientsjournals.sagepub.com
32
In Vitro Assessment of Skin Irritation Potential of Surfactant-based Formulations by Using a 3-D Skin Reconstructed Tissue Model and Cytokine Responseresearchgate.net
33
Allergen of the Year—Alkyl Glucosidepracticeupdate.com
34
Hesperidin methyl chalcone - a new cosmetic contact allergenncbi.nlm.nih.gov
35
Benefits of Hesperidin for Cutaneous Functionshindawi.com

Paula's choice0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment

Buy at Dermstore$65.00 $65.00as of 11/10 00:16 GMT

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Buy at Dermstore$65.00 $65.00as of 11/10 00:16 GMT

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.