Paula's Choice Retinol + Bakuchiol Face Serum, 0.3% Retinol · 2% Bakuchiol, Fragrance-Free 1 oz — Anti‑Aging, Peptides & Ceramides

Paula's Choice CLINICAL 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Face Serum is a lightweight, fragrance-free anti-aging treatment that blends retinol, bakuchiol and peptides to visibly reduce deep wrinkles, improve texture, and boost firmness.

This serum pairs a low-dose retinol with a plant-derived bakuchiol and targeted peptides, supported by ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants like vitamins C and E. The formula is designed for easy absorption and daily layering under moisturizers or SPF, giving a multi-pronged approach to concerns such as fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven tone, and loss of elasticity. Clinical testing and consumer panels reported meaningful improvements in elasticity and texture, reflecting its focus on restoring a smoother, more resilient complexion without unnecessary fragrance.

How will this serum affect deep wrinkles and fine lines?

The combination of retinol and bakuchiol works to encourage cellular turnover and support collagen signaling, while peptides help reinforce the skin’s structural proteins. Over consistent use you can expect softer-looking fine lines and reduced prominence of deeper creases, with surface texture becoming more even.

• Contains 0.3% retinol to promote resurfacing and renewal.
• Includes 2% bakuchiol for plant-based retinol-like support with calming potential.
• Peptides aid firmness and the appearance of reduced wrinkle depth.
• Ceramides help maintain a stronger moisture barrier as texture improves.

Can I use this serum with sensitive or combination skin?

The serum is formulated to be lightweight and lotion-like, which helps it layer well and absorb quickly on most skin types, including combination and dry skin. Because it pairs a measured retinol dose with bakuchiol and barrier-supporting ingredients, many users find it tolerable, but patch testing and gradual introduction are recommended to manage sensitivity.

• Fragrance-free formula reduces irritation risk compared with scented products.
• Hyaluronic acid provides hydration without heaviness for oily or combination skin.
• Ceramides support barrier recovery to minimize dryness or flaking.
• Begin with every-other-night use and increase as tolerated to reduce irritation.

How should I incorporate this into my morning or evening routine?

Use the serum in the evening as part of a cleansing and hydrating routine, followed by a nourishing moisturizer; in the morning ensure broad-spectrum sunscreen is applied, since retinoids can increase sun sensitivity. When starting, limit application frequency and combine with gentle cleansers and barrier-supporting creams to optimize results while minimizing flaking or redness.

• Apply on clean, dry skin—typically 2–3 drops for face and neck at night.
• Follow with a moisturizer containing ceramides or emollients to lock in hydration.
• Always use daily SPF during daytime when using retinol products.
• If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or apply a moisturizer first to buffer strength.

What additional skin concerns does this serum address?

Beyond lines and firmness, this formula targets uneven tone, discoloration, and enlarged pores through exfoliation and antioxidant protection. Hyaluronic acid hydrates, while vitamins C and E contribute antioxidant support, helping skin look brighter and more uniform over time.

• Targets dark spots and hyperpigmentation with renewal and antioxidant support.
• Helps minimize the look of enlarged pores by improving surface texture.
• Vitamins C and E assist with environmental protection and radiance.
• Lightweight feel makes it suitable for layering under serums or moisturizers.

Who is this for: This serum is intended for adults seeking clinically minded anti-aging care who want a multi-action treatment for deep wrinkles, texture issues, and loss of firmness. It suits people willing to introduce a retinoid gradually, those who prefer fragrance-free, scientifically formulated skincare, and anyone looking to combine retinol benefits with a plant-based retinol alternative and barrier-supporting ingredients.

Ingredients

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