Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment

Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
5.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.7 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
7.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants

Review

Results you may expect from using Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment:

Based on the ingredient analysis by CreamScan, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment:

  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.4 out of 10.
  • Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 7.5 out of 10, Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

How moisturizing is it?

Quite moisturizing: Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment has a moisturizing rating of 5.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of humectancy and occlusivity: a moderate humectancy of 5.7 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈2.1%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.2 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%) and Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate (est. ≈4.0%).

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 7.5 out of 10. It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Retinol (est. ≈0.3%),
 the most effective non-prescription ingredient with well-proven efficacy to reduce wrinkles.
 
Among others, Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment also contains some ingredients marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Bakuchiol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Antioxidant benefits

We estimate that Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Bakuchiol (est. ≈2.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
Water
6
Dimethicone
4
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate
3
Isononyl Isononanoate
2.1
Butylene Glycol
2
Bakuchiol
1.3
Arachidyl Alcohol
1
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
0.3
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
0.3
Behenyl Alcohol
0.3
Glycerin
0.3
PEG-75 Shea Butter Glycerides
0.3
Glyceryl Stearate
0.3
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
0.3
Polysorbate 20
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
0.3
Retinol
0.3
Ceramide NG
0.3
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
0.3
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
0.3
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
0.3
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
0.3
Arctium Lappa Root Extract
0.3
Salix Alba (Willow) Extract
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols
0.3
Lecithin
0.3
Allantoin
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
0.3
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
0.3
Sodium Hydroxide
0.3
Tribehenin
0.3
Caprylyl Glycol
0.3
Dipeptide-2
0.3
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
0.3
PEG-10 Phytosterol
0.3
PEG-8
0.3
Magnesium Aluminum Silicate
0.3
Arachidyl Glucoside
0.3
Pentylene Glycol
0.3
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
0.3
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
0.3
Cetearyl Alcohol
0.3
Coco-Glucoside
0.3
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone
0.3
N-Hydroxysuccinimide
0.3
Disodium EDTA
0.3
Phenoxyethanol
0.3
Benzoic Acid
0.3
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Isononyl Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Bakuchiol
Function:
Origin:
Arachidyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
PEG-75 Shea Butter Glycerides
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NG
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Function:
Origin:
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Arctium Lappa Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Salix Alba (Willow) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Tribehenin
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Dipeptide-2
Function:
Origin:
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Phytosterol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-8
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Aluminum Silicate
Function:
Origin:
Arachidyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone
Function:
Origin:
N-Hydroxysuccinimide
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.7
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
10.3
6.0
4.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.7 10
5.7
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 10.3 20
5.2
6.0
4.0
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.7 10
5.7
All humectants
5.7
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
4
0.3
All occlusives 10.3 20
5.2
All occlusives
10.3
6.0
4.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.3 7.5
n/a
- 2 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
7.5
Retinol
7.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Bakuchiol
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
2
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
7.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.7 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.7
Bakuchiol
2
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
0.3
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
0.3
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
0.3
Arctium Lappa Root Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
0.3
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.1 5 No
All soothing
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %65
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Dimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Pentaerythrityl TetraisostearateAn emollient ester with high gloss and thickening properties.
Isononyl Isononanoate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Isononyl IsononanoateAn ester of a branched fatty acid with a branched fatty alcohol. It is an easily spreadable emollient that has a silky, dry, non-greasy feel on the skin.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %2.1
Function
Origin
Butylene GlycolA clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.
Bakuchiol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
BakuchiolA newly discovered bioactive obtained from the seeds of Babchi. It boosts collagen production like retinol, but with fewer side effects. Its effects include reduced wrinkles and faded pigmentation.
Arachidyl Alcohol
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Arachidyl AlcoholA non-drying fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and viscosity controlling agent. It also produces a mattifying effect when applied in a skincare product onto the skin.
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Glyceryl PolymethacrylateA synthetic polymer that is typically used as a viscosity modifier. Its benefits include a light after-feel on the skin and soft film, which is why it is frequently used in serums. It can form transparent gels and suspend some oils and particulates.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone CrosspolymerA group of ingredients that are typically added to skincare products to adjust the formula. Dimethicone Crosspolymers stabilize a formula, regulate its thickness and consistency and give the product a velvety feel.
Behenyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Behenyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol with emollient properties. It is used as a co-emulsifier and thickener and tends to result in a product with a smooth and creamy application texture.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

PEG-75 Shea Butter Glycerides
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-75 Shea Butter Glycerides
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl StearateAn emollient and emulsifier typically derived from vegetable sources through a chemical reaction with glycerin. It provides stability, texture, and consistency to formulations. Its main function is to allow oil and water to mix.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateA lipid-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. According to a recent clinical study, THDA has all the capabilities of regular vitamin C, including anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment activity.
Retinol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Retinol

One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne.

Ceramide NG
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NGA lipid that is mainly found on scalp skin and that helps with the barrier repair. It is one of the less popular ceramides and is usually used in combination with other ceramides for better barrier repair properties.
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

A synthetic peptide that mimics the activity of immunoglobulin G and signals to the skin to stop the inflammation. It has been shown in studies to reduce wrinkles and enhance collagen content.

Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12

A short, synthetically made peptide similar to elastin fragments. It works as a signal peptide, stimulating the growth of skin cells and facilitating skin repair. It has been tested mostly in test-tube experiments so far.

Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateA licorice root derivative with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing activities. It is often used as a flavoring agent in lip products.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root ExtractAn extract from the licorice root. It contains a well-researched anti-inflammatory compound called glycyrrhizin that can reduce inflammation. Licorice root extract is also used for its powerful antioxidant effects and ability to treat pigmentation.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel ExtractA beneficial extract obtained from Oat groats popular in products aimed at eczema-prone skin. It contains skin healing beta-glucan, anti-inflammatory phenolic compounds, antioxidant flavonoids, various lipids, proteins, and moisturizing amino acids.
Arctium Lappa Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arctium Lappa Root ExtractA soothing and antiseborrheic extract derived from the roots of the greater burdock.
Salix Alba (Willow) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salix Alba (Willow) Extract
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) SterolsA mixture of phytosterols isolated from soybean oil. Phytosterols, when used in skincare products, have emollient properties and can make the skin feel softer and smoother.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Allantoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AllantoinA fluffy, white powder that acts as a humectant due to its water-loving chemistry and as an exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells. It has also been shown to be very soothing to irritated and inflamed skin.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Soy ProteinA mixture of proteins obtained from soybeans. It can have many different functions depending on the manufacturer, although it is most commonly used in skincare products as a humectant moisturizing ingredient.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

A small peptide consisting of three amino acids with anti-wrinkle effects. Together with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, it is a part of the popular anti-wrinkle complex called Matrixyl™ 3000.

Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Tribehenin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TribeheninA soft, pliable wax that serves as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. It improves the spreadability of skincare products, including the increased payoff of stick products, and imparts a pleasant, smooth feel upon application.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Dipeptide-2
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipeptide-2
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root ExtractAn extract from the roots of the Japanese knotweed, a plant from East Asia that has spread around the world as an invasive plant. It contains various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially anti-pigment (more tests are necessary) phytochemicals.
PEG-10 Phytosterol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-10 Phytosterol
PEG-8
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-8A synthetic liquid that serves as a humectant. It also works as a solvent because of its ability to dissolve a wide range of ingredients.
Magnesium Aluminum Silicate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium Aluminum SilicateA naturally occurring clay that is hygroscopic, which means that it easily absorbs water. This ingredient is thus commonly used as an absorbent and emulsion stabilizer. It also modifies slip by improving the spreadability of the products it is used in.
Arachidyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidyl GlucosideA mild cleanser and emulsifier that helps oil and water to mix and form emulsions.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Acrylates CopolymerA synthetic polymer that can come in various forms and is often used to create light gel-like textures. Some versions can also create a light film on the skin.
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerAn emulsion stabilizer and thickener that helps to create a pleasant, satiny, and light formula texture. It works by forming a gel-like network within water or oil, which both stabilizes other ingredients and produces a thickening effect.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
Coco-Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coco-GlucosideA mild cleansing and foaming agent. It can be used on its own as a gentle cleanser in a skin cleansing product or can be combined with more powerful cleansing agents, called anionic surfactants, to make them milder on the skin.
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hesperidin Methyl ChalconeAn antioxidant and soothing flavonoid compound that is found in abundance in citrus fruit peels. It has been chemically modified for better absorption.
N-Hydroxysuccinimide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
N-HydroxysuccinimideN-Hydroxysuccinimide is thought to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. However, more research is needed to confirm if this ingredient is truly effective in this manner.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Benzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzoic AcidA preservative effective against fungi, yeast, and some bacteria. It is commonly paired with phenoxyethanol to create a broad spectrum preservation system. Benzoic acid can also serve as a pH adjuster, fragrance, and bulking agent.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.