Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The main difference between CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment and our other high-strength retinol formulas is texture.  CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment’s lotion texture is ideal 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. 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 aging as well as rough, bumpy texture and blemish/pore-related concerns. It is considered a professional strength, yet gentle, option for those seeking dermatologist-level results without needing a prescription. If you have had increased sensitization 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.

Question 2

How does CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment compare to prescription retinoids?

Accepted Answer

This product contains retinol, which is weaker than prescription retinoids but produces comparable anti-aging and pore-minimizing results over time. This 1% retinol is comparable to a prescription retinoid with 0.02 tretinoin and contains numerous soothing ingredients, so it has a much lower risk of side effects like redness, flaking and sensitivity. For optimum results, consistent use and daily sun protection are crucial.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

How do I know which retinol strength to use?

Accepted Answer

Retinol is a powerhouse anti-aging 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.

Question 6

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?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

This product utilizes an airless pump, which needs to be primed before first use. See this guide in our Help Center to learn how to prime an airless pump.

Question 8

When do I use retinol in my routine?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

Is retinol safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

How long should you wait to apply moisturizer after retinol?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

At what age should you start using retinol?

Accepted Answer

You can start using retinol at any age. Many blemish-prone people start using it as teenagers to help with clogged pores, but there’s no right (or wrong) age to start using this multifaceted antioxidant.