PRODUCT REVIEW
Paula's choice Clinical Discolouration Repair Serum
Buy from Amazon US $55.00
More options from: $46.00
Price as of 4/12/2024 3:12 GMT.
More info
Add to Compare
Cheaper alternatives
Swisse Skincare - Bio-Retinol 0.5% Vitamin B3 10% Renewing Booster Serum
Price: $15.59
Find out more
Product summary
What can the product work for?
Anti-aging
What does the product description say?
It also works to discourage new discolouration from forming and improves the appearance of the skin's tone.With bakuchiol and vitamin B3, this serum works to heal the skin while improving the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines and dullness.Suitable for all skin types, Paula's Choice Clinical Discolouration Serum is ideal for minimising the appearance of stubborn brown or grey patches.
bakuchiol
0.45% -
0.65%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
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
niacinamide
5.5% -
6.7%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture.
The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production
tocopherol
0.45% -
0.7%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Insufficient!
Pure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself
Evens skin tone
What does the product description say?
Disrupt discolouration Clinical Discolouration Repair Serum is a potent yet gentle formula to visibly reduce multiple discolourations including brown and grey patches and dark spots caused by sun damage.
bakuchiol
0.45% -
0.65%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
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
niacinamide
5.5% -
6.7%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture.
The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production
tranexamic acid
2.3% -
2.8%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
An amino acid that is effective in reducing hyperpigmentation and evening out the skin tone. It can also help in skin barrier recovery. It is used to treat melasma, especially with injections and when taken orally
Moisturizing
What does the product description say?
Together, these ingredients melt seamlessly into the skin, layering smoothly under your moisturiser for daily use.
caprylic/capric triglyceride
2% -
2.4%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin
niacinamide
5.5% -
6.7%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture.
The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production
glycerin
4.3% -
5.2%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant
Show more
Anti-blemish
bakuchiol
0.45% -
0.65%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
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
niacinamide
5.5% -
6.7%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture.
The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production
allantoin
0.25% -
0.45%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Insufficient!
Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated
Anti-oxidation
bakuchiol
0.45% -
0.65%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness: HIGH
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
boerhavia diffusa root extract
0.25% -
0.45%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness:
LOW
A plant extract that might help reduce inflammation and neutralize free radicals
silybum marianum seed oil
0.5% -
0.7%
Irritation risk:
Concentration: Effectiveness:
LOW
A plant oil that contains essential oils that can be irritating. Can help soften the upper layer of the skin. Might have some anti-oxidant activity but evidence is lacking
Show more
Honesty check
How honest is this product?
| Promise | Can it deliver? |
|---|---|
| Anti-aging | |
| Moisturizing | |
| Evens skin tone |
Total Promises Fulfilled score:
100/100.
Buy now
We receive a small commission for purchases made through these links at no cost for you. Thank you for your support! Learn more
US Retailers
UK Retailers
Show 1 more from
Paula's Choice UK
Can it cause trouble?
- Overall product irritation risk
- Acne & comedogenic risk ingredients: 2
Potential irritants
silybum marianum seed oil
0.5% -
0.7%
Irritation risk:
Works for:
Moisturizing,
Anti-oxidation
A plant oil that contains essential oils that can be irritating. Can help soften the upper layer of the skin. Might have some anti-oxidant activity but evidence is lacking
caprylic/capric triglyceride
2% -
2.4%
Irritation risk:
Works for:
Moisturizing
A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin
Show more
Comodogenic ingredients
cocos nucifera fruit extract
0.45% -
0.7%
Irritation risk: Comedogenicity: High
Works for:
Moisturizing
An emollient. Found to be as effective as a moisturizer for dry skin as mineral oil. Could be comedogenic
glycine soja oil
0.25% -
0.5%
Irritation risk: Comedogenicity: Medium
Works for:
Moisturizing
A good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.
User reviews (0)
Similar products & dupes
| Paula's choice - Clinical Discolouration Repair Serum |  TONYMOLY - Retinol Red Callus Synergy Ampoule Sponsored | Swisse Skincare - Bio-Retinol 0.5% Vitamin B3 10% Renewing Booster Serum |  Formula 10.0.6 - Mega Serum Vitamin E Restoring Face Serum | Avène - RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum |  Dr Sam's - Flawless Brightly Serum |  Australian Bodycare - Pre-Anti-Age Serum |  Follain - FIRMING SERUM: Collagen Boost |  InstaNatural - 2.5% Retinol Bakuchiol Serum |  Live Tinted - Superhue Hyperpigmentation Serum Stick |  StackedSkincare - Advanced Retinol Serum |  Sepai - Flawless Dark Spots Serum | |
| Price | ||||||||||||
| WIMJ similarity score |
75%
|
90%
|
89%
|
89%
|
87%
|
80%
|
80%
|
79%
|
79%
|
79%
|
76%
| |
| Key ingredients |
| Common:
Other:
| Common:
Other: | Common:
Other: | Common:
Other: | Common:
Other: | Common:
Other: | Common:
Other: | Common:
Other:
| Common:
Other: | Common:
Other:
| Common:
Other:
|
| Irritancy | IRRITANCY
MEDIUM
| IRRITANCY
HIGH
| IRRITANCY
LOW
| IRRITANCY
LOW
| IRRITANCY
LOW
| IRRITANCY
LOW
| IRRITANCY
MEDIUM
| IRRITANCY
MEDIUM
| IRRITANCY
MEDIUM
| IRRITANCY
MEDIUM
| IRRITANCY
MEDIUM
| IRRITANCY
HIGH
|
| Potential Irritants |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| All ingredients |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ingredients & concentrations
All ingredients
Key Actives
niacinamide
5.5% -
6.7%
Irritation risk:
Works for:
Anti-aging,
Evens skin tone,
Moisturizing,
Anti-blemish,
Reduces irritation,
Anti-inflammatory,
Reduces redness,
Antibacterial
Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture.
The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production
allantoin
0.25% -
0.45%
Irritation risk:
Works for:
Anti-inflammatory,
Moisturizing,
Reduces irritation,
Reduces redness,
Anti-blemish,
Exfoliation
Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated
Show more
Potential irritants
silybum marianum seed oil
0.5% -
0.7%
Irritation risk:
Works for:
Moisturizing,
Anti-oxidation
A plant oil that contains essential oils that can be irritating. Can help soften the upper layer of the skin. Might have some anti-oxidant activity but evidence is lacking
caprylic/capric triglyceride
2% -
2.4%
Irritation risk:
Works for:
Moisturizing
A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin
Show more
Comodogenic ingredients
cocos nucifera fruit extract
0.45% -
0.7%
Irritation risk: Comedogenicity: High
Works for:
Moisturizing
An emollient. Found to be as effective as a moisturizer for dry skin as mineral oil. Could be comedogenic
glycine soja oil
0.25% -
0.5%
Irritation risk: Comedogenicity: Medium
Works for:
Moisturizing
A good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.
All ingredients
niacinamide
5.5% -
6.7%
Irritation risk:
Works for:
Anti-aging,
Evens skin tone,
Moisturizing,
Anti-blemish,
Reduces irritation,
Anti-inflammatory,
Reduces redness,
Antibacterial
Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture.
The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production
glycerin
4.3% -
5.2%
Irritation risk:
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
Show more
Ingredient list view
Water, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Lactobacillus, Tranexamic acid, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Dicaprylyl carbonate, Ethyl macadamiate, C13-15 alkane, Behenyl alcohol, Glyceryl stearate, Butylene glycol, Silybum marianum seed oil, Tocopherol, Cocos nucifera fruit extract, Lecithin, Bakuchiol, Xanthan gum, Caprylyl glycol, Hydrogenated lecithin, Allantoin, Glycine soja oil, Hexylene glycol, Boerhavia diffusa root extract, Glycine soja sterols, Citric acid, Sodium phytate, Malic acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
Sources
- Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatology
- Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x
- Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functions
- Effect of tranexamic acid on melasma: a clinical trial with histological evaluation
- Tranexamic acid accelerates skin barrier recovery and upregulates occludin in damaged skin
- The amelioration effect of tranexamic acid in wrinkles induced by skin dryness
- Efficacy and possible mechanisms of topical tranexamic acid in melasma
- Tunisian Milk Thistle: An Investigation of the Chemical Composition and the Characterization of Its Cold-Pressed Seed Oils
- Fatty acids, essential oil and phenolics composition of Silybum marianum seeds and their antioxidant activities
- Vitamin E in dermatology
- Vitamin E and Skin Health
- Bakuchiol in the Management of Acne-affected Skin
- Prospective, randomized, double‐blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing
- A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract and mannitol improves the efficacy of adapalene in patients with acne vulgaris: result from a controlled randomized trial
- Profile of wound healing process induced by allantoin
- Use of boerhavia diffusa extract for skin relief