1% Retinol Treatment

An advanced 1% retinol formula with skin-supportive peptides and vitamin C, smooths wrinkles and firms skin to reduce visible signs of aging.

• Vitamin A (retinol) visibly fights sun damage, fine lines & wrinkles
• Triple peptide complex enhances retinol & visibly firms skin
• Soothing plant extracts boost antioxidant factors & gently calm skin
• Light lotion-texture delivers powerful results in a controlled-release formula

Learn more about retinol.

After cleansing, toning & exfoliating. Start with 3x/week & gradually increase frequency to every night as tolerated. For daytime, always finish with sunscreen.

Smooth 1–2 pea-sized pumps over face & neck, avoiding contact with eyes.

Note: Some people may experience a delayed sensitized reaction to 1% retinol. Do not assume that if no reaction is seen after a few applications that you can apply this product more frequently. Pay close attention to how your skin responds and adjust usage accordingly.

Retinol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Salix Alba Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Arctium Lappa, Glycine Soja Sterols, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract, Lecithin, Dimethicone, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Glycyrrhiza Glabra, Ceramide NS, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Tocopheryl Acetate

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

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.

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

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.

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

If your skin becomes very dry, red, or irritated, scale back retinol usage (for example, use it less often and apply a moisturizer) and see if your skin settles over the next 1–2 weeks. If irritation persists or feels severe, discontinue use and consider checking with a healthcare provider.
Not everyone experiences it, but retinoids can sometimes cause a temporary “purging” period as they help increase skin cell turnover—this may bring existing congestion to the surface. Remember, purging is temporary so be patient and know that this surface cell turnover will bring about smooth, radiant benefits in the end.

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

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.

How do I know which retinol strength to use?

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 low, medium, high, or pro retinol strengths based on your specific skin concerns.

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?

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.

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

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.

When do I use retinol in my routine?

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.

Is retinol safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

You should avoid using retinol if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. As an alternative, consider products with niacinamide, vitamin C, or peptides, and check with your healthcare provider before starting any new skincare regimen during this time.

How long should you wait to apply moisturizer after retinol?

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.

At what age should you start using retinol?

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.

What ingredients can I use with the CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment?

Retinol can pair well with many skincare ingredients, but it’s best to introduce combinations gradually, especially if your skin is sensitive. Retinol works well with niacinamide (to help support the skin barrier and calm visible sensitivity) and can be paired with vitamin C (many people prefer vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night). If you use AHA or BHA exfoliants, consider alternating days/nights or using your exfoliant at a different time of day.