PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin Review

PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin
3.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
6.5 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
7Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Ingredients

PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Isododecane, Caprylic Acid, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Isoamyl Laurate, Tapioca Starch Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dimethicone, PEG-8, Panthenol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Polysilicone-11, Hexylresorcinol, Phenoxyethanol, Coco-Caprylate, Bisabolol, Tocopherol, Hexyldecanol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Sodium Polyacrylate, Pentylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Isoamyl Cocoate, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Ceramide NP, Xanthan Gum, Chlorphenesin, Propyl Gallate, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Sodium Phytate, 4-t-Butylcyclohexanol, Trideceth-6, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Potassium Sorbate, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Stearic Acid, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
Review

Does PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin has to offer:
 
✅ Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.6 out of 10.
✅ Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 7.0 out of 10, PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin:
 

🔵 Lightweight Moisturizer Well-Suited for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.8 out of 10 and a high humectancy of 6.5 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈2.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is well-suited for oily skin, providing moderate hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients.

It can also be a good option for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

💧 A Humectant Enhancement for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant enhancement will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

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

🟣🟣 Significant Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 7.0 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

1️⃣ Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%),
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
2️⃣ Retinol (est. ≈0.1%),
 the most effective non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. Numerous clinical studies have shown its positive effects at concentrations as low as 0.1%. A study with 36 participants (Kafi et al.) confirmed that a lotion containing 0.4% retinol reduced wrinkle severity by 21% after 24 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without retinol (vehicle).
 

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

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%).

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.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol

This product contains retinol, which offers powerful anti-wrinkle benefits. The mechanism behind retinol’s action is boosting cell turnover. This process exposes new, more delicate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

As a result, using products with retinol may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To protect the skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment, along with avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be used at night, as it is sensitive to sunlight and can lose its potency when exposed to UV rays.

📌 Please always check the manufacturer's instructions for using the retinol-containing products, either on their website or product label.

Pros & Cons of PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing well-suited for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
Delivers signficant anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Niacinamide and Retinol
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol
   

Summary: PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin
 is specifically effective in treating wrinkles, containing ingredients with solid, robust evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy.
 

When used alone, it delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing that is well-suited for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant enhancement, beneficial for all skin types.

With its high antioxidant content, PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation.
 
That said, there are some things about PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment For Sensitive Skin worth noting.
 
This product contains retinol, the most powerful and well-researched non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. However, retinol can make your skin more prone to sun damage and increase sensitivity, so it’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Isododecane
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Isoamyl Laurate
Function:
Origin:
Tapioca Starch Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
PEG-8
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
Hexylresorcinol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Hexyldecanol
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Polyacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Isoamyl Cocoate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Chlorphenesin
Function:
Origin:
Propyl Gallate
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Phytate
Function:
Origin:
4-t-Butylcyclohexanol
Function:
Origin:
Trideceth-6
Function:
Origin:
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Decyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
6.5
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
1.6
1.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 6.5 10
6.5
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 1.6 20
0.8
1.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 6.5 10
6.5
All humectants
6.5
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
1
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 1.6 20
0.8
All occlusives
1.6
1.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 3 4.5
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
Total
7
Niacinamide
4.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
3
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Anti-wrinkle rating
7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.5 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.5
Niacinamide
3
Hexylresorcinol
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Propyl Gallate
0.3
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
0.3
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 4.8 5 No
All soothing
4.8
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
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.
Isododecane
Est. %6
Function
Origin
IsododecaneAn emollient derived from petroleum with high spreadability. It is often used as a replacement for oils and silicones because it leaves no residue behind on the skin. When a product is labeled as “oil-free” it may contain isododecane instead of heavier oils.
Caprylic Acid
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Caprylic Acid
Niacinamide
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Glycerin
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Isoamyl Laurate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Isoamyl LaurateA naturally-derived or synthetically produced ester (simple oil) and is often used as a silicone alternative. It is has a light feeling and improves the spreadability of products while making skin feel soft and non-sticky.
Tapioca Starch Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Tapioca Starch Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Dimethicone
Est. %1
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.
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.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
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.
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.
PEG-100 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-100 StearateThis surfactant is more specifically classified as an emulsifier that produces oil-in-water emulsions. PEG-100 stearate can also be used as a cleansing agent.
Polysilicone-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-11A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
Hexylresorcinol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HexylresorcinolA synthetic compound. It is an anti-pigment ingredient that has been shown to be effective in inhibiting tyrosinase activity.
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.
Coco-Caprylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coco-CaprylateA naturally-derived or synthetically produced oil with a very light feel. An alternative to silicones, this ingredient spreads quickly and doesn't leave a residue on skin.
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bisabolol

An anti-inflammatory compound found naturally in German chamomile essential oil. It has a pleasant, sweet, and floral scent. Bisabolol also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties but can cause an allergic reaction in more sensitive individuals.

Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Hexyldecanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HexyldecanolAn oil-like ingredient (ester) that is more stable and easy to incorporate than some other oil-based emollients. It is used in water-free and stick products.
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
Sodium Polyacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PolyacrylateThis white powder is primarily used as a viscosity controlling agent. It is added to the water phase, which then thickens to form a clear gel. Sodium polyacrylate can also serve as an emollient, absorbent, and emulsion stabilizer.
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.

Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A 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.

Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate
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.
Isoamyl Cocoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isoamyl Cocoate
Ethylhexyl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl StearateA palm-derived emollient ester with good lubricity that leaves a smooth after-feel on the skin.
Ceramide NP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NPAlso known as ceramide 3, it is the most common ceramide in our skin. It helps to restore the skin’s lipid barrier and alleviate the symptoms of dry and cracked skin. Research has shown that skin suffering from conditions such as AD lacks ceramides.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChlorphenesinA preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
Propyl Gallate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propyl GallateA semi-synthetic antioxidant manufactured from plant-based gallic acid. It protects the oils in the formulation from degrading and going rancid.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
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.

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.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Sodium Phytate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PhytateSodium phytate is a chelating agent that serves to remove heavy metal ions from water. Removing metal ions helps other ingredients, such as antioxidants and preservatives, to perform better and keep products from separating.
4-t-Butylcyclohexanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
4-t-ButylcyclohexanolA powerful bioactive compound designed to soothe irritated, burning, and itchy skin. The effectiveness of its soothing properties has been proven by clinical trials and it is often combined with other soothing ingredients.
Trideceth-6
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trideceth-6
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.
Decyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Decyl GlucosideA surfactant that can function as both a cleansing agent and emulsifier. As a cleansing agent, it is very mild on the skin. As an emulsifier, decyl glucoside will produce oil-in-water emulsions. It is naturally derived from vegetable oils and starch.
Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) SterolsBrassica campestris sterols are a mixture of sterols (fat-like compounds) obtained from rapeseed oil. They are used as an emollient additive to the oil base of a cosmetic product. Read more about rapeseed oil here: Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Seed Oil.
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root ExtractA fragrant and anti-inflammatory extract derived from ginger roots. It is a major part of Chinese traditional medicine. In can increase blood circulation, which helps with skin healing and skin metabolism.