# Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-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 Italy.

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/best/serums)

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.

Works for dry skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate treatment for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, as retinol and palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 work to smooth the skin, which is beneficial for your dry skin type. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate further support hydration, addressing dryness and flakiness.
- The formula is highly suitable for dry skin due to the inclusion of humectants like glycerin and emollients such as dimethicone and shea butter, which help to hydrate and smooth your skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your dry skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing oat kernel and licorice root extracts.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin): Average (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Peptides, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide 2

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users report significant improvements in skin texture, reduction in fine lines, and fading of hyperpigmentation. Many users experience a harsh adjustment period with peeling and irritation, so slow introduction is recommended.

- Liked: Smoother skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Anti-aging results (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Dryness and peeling (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective packaging (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Even skin tone (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Severe irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts/Purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum PM, starting 3×/week and working up to daily use as your skin adjusts.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment work for dry skin?

This treatment works for dry skin by using retinol and peptides to smooth fine lines, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate help hydrate and address flakiness. However, other products fit this skin type better. Dry skin needs formulations rich in deeply hydrating ingredients, barrier-supporting ceramides, and soothing agents like niacinamide or propolis to provide optimal nourishment without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a good fit for dry skin?

This treatment works for your dry skin because it includes retinol and peptides to smooth the skin, alongside glycerin and sodium hyaluronate to help address dryness and flakiness. The formula also features soothing oat kernel and licorice root extracts to help keep irritation away. To fit dry skin even better, a treatment of this type needs rich hydrating ingredients like propolis, niacinamide, ceramides, or bifida fermentation to support your skin barrier and provide extra nourishment.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### 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 do Peptides do for dry skin?

Peptides help dry skin by supporting skin barrier health and improving moisture retention. Regular use may also enhance skin firmness and smooth out the texture of dry skin over time.
Sources: [Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41311286/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

### Can I use this treatment with niacinamide, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with niacinamide by applying niacinamide first and following with this treatment once it absorbs, or by using niacinamide in your morning routine and this treatment at night. Niacinamide helps strengthen the moisture barrier, which is beneficial when using retinol on dry skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine. Dry skin of this type needs formulas packed with hydrating humectants like glycerin and nourishing emollients to keep it soft and comfortable.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This treatment may rarely cause breakouts or purging for dry skin, though this risk is low. Products of this type need soothing ingredients and rich hydrators like ceramides and glycerin to keep dry skin calm and comfortable.

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

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

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €57.00 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €20.29 at Amazon
- [KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kravebeauty/great-barrier-relief/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.70 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €9.19 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €15.16 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €53.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.it: €57.00 (https://www.amazon.it/dp/B07P6M914G?tag=lovi-care-web-product09-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Isononyl Isononanoate, Castor Isostearate Succinate, Glyceryl Stearate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Peg-33, Polysorbate 20, Behenyl Alcohol, Retinol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ceramide 2, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract Oat Kernel Extract, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Willow Bark Extract, Glycine Soja Soybean Sterols, Lecithin, Allantoin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Sorbitan Laurate, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Disodium Edta, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Hydroxide, Tribehenin, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Peg-100 Stearate, Peg-75 Shea Glycerides Butter, Ppg-12, Peg-10 Phytosterol, Peg-8 Dimethicone, Peg-14, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Arachidyl Glucoside, Sclerotium Gum, Arachidyl Alcohol, Benzoic Acid, Carbomer, 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/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin