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

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent treatment for your combination skin, as retinol and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate work synergistically to minimize fine lines and wrinkles while regulating desquamation.
- The inclusion of salicylic acid from willow bark extract further targets oily shine by promoting exfoliation and oil control, making it highly suitable for your concerns.
- This formula is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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 botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- 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 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

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment a great fit for combination skin?

This treatment is a great fit because retinol and vitamin C work together to smooth out fine lines while balancing skin shedding. Willow bark extract helps target oily shine by keeping pores clear, and the gentle formula is very unlikely to cause irritation.

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

Retinol and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate make this a great fit for your combination skin because they work together to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles while keeping your skin balanced. Willow bark extract also helps control oily shine and calm the skin, and the formula is unlikely to cause irritation.

### What does Retinol do for combination skin?

Retinol helps smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and improve firmness in combination skin. It works by encouraging faster skin renewal and boosting collagen, though it may occasionally cause mild dryness or scaling while your skin adjusts.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What do Peptides do for combination skin?

Peptides help combination skin by keeping it smooth, supporting firmness, and boosting hydration. They also help reduce the appearance of lines and encourage skin repair, though absorption depends on the formula.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40565185/), [Food & Function, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31497829/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting it on at night helps keep your skin safe from sun exposure while working to smooth fine lines and control oily shine.

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

You can use this treatment with niacinamide, applying the niacinamide first and letting it absorb before applying this treatment. This pairing helps smooth the skin and target fine lines while keeping your skin calm, with a low likelihood of irritation.

### How often should I use it?

Apply this treatment in the evening, starting once a week to let your skin adjust before using it more often. This formula is safe for your skin and is unlikely to cause irritation when introduced gradually.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/), [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for combination skin, though mild peeling or dryness may happen as your skin adjusts. The formula controls oily shine and helps keep skin smooth without harsh ingredients that typically trigger severe reactions.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### Is it 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 combination skin

- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/combination-skin) — High fit — S$28.55 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Whamisa Organic Flowers Toner Deep Rich](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/whamisa/organic-flowers-toner-deep-rich/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$64.81 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$28.72 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## 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/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin