# Paula's Choice Skin-Smoothing Retinol Body Treatment for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/paula-s-choice)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for dry skin; the products alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your dry or flaky skin due to the presence of retinol and shea butter, which provide some hydration and skin renewal, but the overall value is not enough for your present issues, hence poses major risks of worsening them directly or indirectly.
- Highly suitable for your dry skin due to the presence of glycerin and shea butter, which provide humectant and emollient actions, respectively, alongside retinol for skin renewal.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin): Low (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil Grape Seed Oil, Panthenol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate

## What the research says

- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Topical application of all-trans-retinol induced epidermal thickening and increased retinoid binding protein expression similar to all-trans-retinoic acid in normal human skin, but without causing significant erythema or measurable retinoic acid levels. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7561157/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))
- Grapeseed oil-loaded dermocosmetic nanoemulgel applied on the cheeks of healthy volunteers significantly reduced skin melanin, erythema, sebum production, and pores while increasing moisture and elasticity compared to a placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35713012/))
- Topical treatment with cranberry oil and grape oil improved wound healing in rats, with cranberry oil showing an 88.1% wound area reduction and grape oil showing 84.6% compared to 74.1% in controls and 78.4% in the mupirocin standard group on day 13. ([Phytotherapy Research, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21305631/))
- An ionic liquid-based grapeseed oil emulsion increased transdermal penetration by 4.63-fold and improved skin hydration, firmness, elasticity, and facial wrinkles after 28 days of continuous use compared to ordinary emulsion. ([Pharmaceuticals, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39458914/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))

## What reviewers say

This treatment is highly regarded for its ability to significantly improve skin texture, making it feel exceptionally soft and smooth. It is also frequently noted for effectively reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, leading to a more even skin tone. Many users, particularly those with mature skin, have observed improvements in skin firmness, especially in areas prone to crepiness. A recurring concern is the small bottle size, which many find insufficient for regular full-body application, leading to frequent repurchases.

- Liked: Smoothes rough texture (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Small bottle size (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades discoloration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-greasy feel (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Firms crepey skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant base scent (rarely noted)

## Questions and answers

### Why is Paula's Choice Skin-Smoothing Retinol Body Treatment a weak match for dry skin?

This product is a weak match because, although it contains shea butter and retinol for hydration and renewal, its overall formula does not provide enough value for dry skin and may risk worsening dryness. A product of this type needs rich, deeply nourishing moisturizers and barrier-supporting ingredients without any risk of irritation to properly care for dry skin.
Sources: [Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a poor fit for dry skin?

This cream is a weak match for dry skin because its overall benefits are not enough for your present issues, posing major risks of worsening them. A product of this type needs richer moisturizing and nourishing ingredients that directly address the needs of dry skin, ensuring optimal hydration and skin barrier support without any risk of irritation.

### What does Retinol do for dry skin?

Retinol is a poor fit for dry skin because it frequently causes scaling, stinging, and dryness. To care for dry skin properly, a product needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and keep the skin barrier calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### What does Butyrospermum Parkii Butter do for dry skin?

Butyrospermum parkii butter helps soften dry skin and supports the skin barrier so it stays smooth and comfortable. It may also help increase moisture and protect against irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37556521/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for dry skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Dry skin needs a rich moisturizer with nourishing butters and hydrating ingredients to lock in moisture and prevent flaking.

### Can I use this cream with AHA, and in what order?

You can use this cream in the evening, applying it after your cleanser and before your moisturizer, but you should avoid using it at the same time as AHA to limit irritation. Because this is a weak match for your dry skin, a product of this type needs richer oils, ceramides, and extra soothing hydrators to protect your skin barrier.

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a treatment best used in the evening, starting just once a week to help your dry skin adjust safely. Because it is a weak match for your dry skin, a product of this type needs extra soothing ingredients and rich moisturizers like glycerin and shea butter to prevent dryness and irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry skin, though the retinol may cause mild skin renewal or flaking at first. To properly care for dry skin, a product of this type needs rich moisture-locking ingredients and soothing oils that deeply comfort dry patches.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 34.80 at Amazon
- [Obagi Hydrate Luxe Moisture-Rich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/hydrate-luxe/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 244.74 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 65.00 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 32.95 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 34.80 at Amazon
- SPF: [Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun+](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dr-g/green-mild-up-sun/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 81.00 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 35.29 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 32.95 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/round-lab/1025-dokdo-cleansing-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 38.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 168.76 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 34.80 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 35.29 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 32.95 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [VT Cica Mild Powder Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vt/cica-mild-powder-wash/for/dry-skin) — High fit — AED 47.62 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Mediheal Watermide Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/mediheal/watermide-essential-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 65.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 168.76 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 34.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United Arab Emirates has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Palmitate, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Oenothera Biennis Oil, Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil Grape Seed Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Retinol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Panthenol, Carnosine, Dimethiconol, Dimethicone Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Alba Cera Beeswax Cera, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Decylene Glycol, Disodium Edta, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin (this page)