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

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Low Risk.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your oily skin as retinol and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate promote skin renewal and antioxidant activity, though these ingredients do not directly address oily shine.
- The formula provides general hydration and cleansing, which are supportive but not primary concerns for your oily skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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/))
- 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/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- 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

### How well does Paula's Choice Retinol Body Treatment work for oily skin?

This body treatment works moderately well for oily skin because its retinol helps smooth the skin, though it does not directly control oily shine. Products that fit oily skin better need lightweight textures, ingredients that manage excess oil without clogging pores, and agents that support the skin barrier.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for oily skin?

This cream works for oily skin because retinol and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate help renew the skin, while panthenol and other hydrators keep it moisturized without feeling heavy. To be a better fit for oily skin, a product of this type needs ingredients that directly control oily shine, avoid heavy oils, and use lightweight soothing agents and peptides.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### What does Retinol do for oily skin?

Retinol helps oily skin by keeping pores clear and balancing sebum production, which may reduce shine and breakouts. Because it can sometimes cause dryness or peeling in the beginning, starting slowly is recommended.
Sources: [Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21914489/)

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

Butyrospermum parkii butter is a rich ingredient that may feel too heavy for oily skin and can sometimes clog pores. For oily skin, a moisturizer needs lighter ingredients that hydrate without feeling greasy or heavy.

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. It is an average fit for oily skin because it offers moderate benefits like skin renewal without directly addressing oily shine, which oily skin needs lighter balancing ingredients to fully manage.

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

You can use this treatment cream alongside AHAs by applying the AHA first and following with this product, but oily skin often does better with lightweight, oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid rather than rich, heavy creams.

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this treatment in the evening as part of your routine. Because it contains retinol, start by applying it once a week to see how your skin reacts, and slowly increase the frequency if your skin tolerates it well.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

This cream may cause breakouts or purging because retinol speeds up skin renewal, which can bring clogged pores to the surface. Oily skin often needs lightweight, oil-balancing ingredients and non-greasy hydrators that help control excess shine without heavy butters.
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 oily skin

- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €25.29 at Amazon
- [Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/allies-of-skin/peptides-and-antioxidants-firming-daily-treatment/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €104.95 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €13.02 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Netherlands 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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/for/oily-skin