Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0
A potent yet gentle retinol treatment featuring encapsulated retinol technology and peptides for visible anti-aging results with minimal irritation.
Price
$36.00
Size
1 oz / 30ml
Brand
Paula's Choice
Testing Period
10 weeks
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment represents a well-formulated approach to retinol delivery. After 10 weeks of comprehensive testing, we found it to be an effective anti-aging treatment that manages to deliver results with less irritation than many retinol products at this concentration.
Our testing involved evening application (3-4 times per week initially, increasing to nightly) on participants with various skin types and aging concerns. The treatment was tested for efficacy in reducing fine lines, improving skin texture, and managing irritation.
Fine Line Reduction: After 8-10 weeks of consistent use, testers reported visible reduction in fine lines, particularly around the eyes and mouth. The improvement was gradual but noticeable, with the most significant changes appearing after 6-8 weeks.
Skin Texture Improvement: The treatment effectively improved skin texture and smoothness. Participants noted a more refined, even skin surface with reduced roughness and improved radiance.
Collagen Stimulation: Retinol is proven to stimulate collagen production, and this product delivers on that promise. While collagen changes take months to become visible, testers reported improved skin firmness and elasticity over the testing period.
The star ingredient is retinol at 1% concentration, which is a potent but manageable strength for most users. The encapsulation technology is crucial here—it helps protect retinol from degradation and allows for controlled release, reducing irritation while maintaining efficacy.
How Encapsulation Works: The retinol is wrapped in a protective coating that gradually breaks down, releasing the active ingredient slowly over time. This means less immediate irritation and more consistent delivery.
The formula includes peptides that work synergistically with retinol. Peptides help signal the skin to produce more collagen and can provide additional anti-aging benefits.
The inclusion of antioxidants helps protect retinol from degradation and provides additional skin benefits. This is important because retinol can be unstable when exposed to light and air.
The formula includes ingredients to help minimize irritation, such as allantoin and bisabolol, which soothe the skin and reduce redness.
The formula is well-balanced with a pH that allows retinol to work effectively. The encapsulation technology is a significant advantage, as it protects the retinol from degradation and reduces irritation. The product comes in an opaque, airless pump, which helps preserve the retinol's stability.
Stability: Retinol is notoriously unstable, but Paula's Choice has formulated this product to maintain efficacy. The packaging and formulation work together to protect the active ingredient.
Saw fine line reduction
Improved skin texture
Minimal irritation
Weeks 1-2
Initial adjustment period. Some testers experienced mild dryness or flaking. Skin may feel slightly sensitive.
Weeks 3-6
Skin begins to adjust. Initial improvements in texture and radiance may be noticed. Some testers experience purging.
Weeks 7-10
Visible improvements in fine lines and skin texture. Maximum benefits observed with consistent use.
The treatment has a lightweight, silky texture that absorbs well into the skin. It's not greasy or heavy, making it suitable for use under moisturizer. The formula spreads easily and doesn't pill with other products.
Application Tips:
Retinol Adjustment Period: It's normal to experience some dryness, flaking, or mild irritation during the first 2-4 weeks. This is the "retinization" period as your skin adjusts. Reduce frequency if irritation is significant, and always use a good moisturizer.
At $36.00 for 1 oz, this retinol treatment is at a mid-to-premium price point. The cost per ounce is $36, which is reasonable for a well-formulated retinol product with encapsulation technology. A bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with regular use, making it a worthwhile investment for anti-aging.
Cost per oz
$36.00
Typical duration
2-3 months
Value rating
Good
4.5 / 5.0
Overall Rating
Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment is a well-formulated anti-aging product that delivers visible results with less irritation than many retinol products. The encapsulated retinol technology is a significant advantage, making this a good choice for retinol beginners or those who have experienced irritation with other retinol products.
While results take time to appear (typically 6-8 weeks for visible improvements), the treatment is effective at reducing fine lines, improving skin texture, and promoting collagen production. The inclusion of peptides and antioxidants adds value beyond just retinol.
Recommendation: Recommended for those seeking an effective retinol treatment with reduced irritation potential. Particularly good for retinol beginners and those with normal to combination skin. Requires patience and commitment to see results, but delivers on its anti-aging promises.