# Paula's Choice 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Low Risk.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your normal skin, as Dimethicone and Glycerin provide emollient and humectant actions, while retinol and bakuchiol work to smooth skin texture and reduce fine lines.
- The inclusion of Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate and Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract offers soothing benefits for your redness and irritation.
- The formulation is generally safe for your sensitive skin, though the presence of retinol and ascorbic acid carries a slight risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Bakuchiol, Peptides, Ascorbic Acid, Ceramide Ng

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract, and mannitol improves inflammatory lesions, Investigator Global Assessment, and seborrhea intensity when added to adapalene 0.1% gel in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/))
- Topical application of a serum containing supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia chebula extract significantly improved barrier function, reduced redness and sensitivity, and improved wrinkles and elasticity in 34 Chinese subjects with sensitive skin after 28 days. ([Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/))
- Bakuchiol functions as an anti-aging compound through retinol-like regulation of gene expression, producing significant improvements in lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, firmness, and photo-damage after 12 weeks of twice-a-day facial application without usual retinol therapy-associated undesirable effects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24471735/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit sensitive skin better

- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users find this treatment to be a gentle and effective beginner-friendly retinol, especially beneficial for sensitive or dry skin. Many report improved skin texture and a reduction in fine lines, with a healthy glow and no typical retinol irritation. Some users experienced issues with the packaging pump and found the price point to be high.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good for beginners (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating, glowing (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging pump issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture/smell (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Paula's Choice 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment work for sensitive skin?

This treatment works moderately well for sensitive skin, as it helps smooth texture and calm redness with retinol, bakuchiol, and licorice root, though the active ingredients carry a slight risk of irritation. A product of this type needs soothing and calming ingredients that reduce redness and irritation without any risk of irritation while being highly compatible with sensitive skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Dipotassium glycyrrhizate and licorice root extract help soothe sensitive skin and calm redness. This treatment needs soothing ingredients and calming plant extracts, along with gentle hydrators and zero irritating fragrance or active ingredients, to be a top fit for sensitive skin.

### What does Retinol do for sensitive skin?

Retinol is generally too harsh for sensitive skin and may cause stinging, scaling, and irritation. A product for this skin needs gentle ingredients that smooth and calm without causing redness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Toxicology Letters, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14615068/)

### What does Bakuchiol do for sensitive skin?

Bakuchiol helps improve barrier function, reduces redness and sensitivity, and softens fine lines in sensitive skin with a very low likelihood of scaling and stinging.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine, after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing. Sensitive skin needs a product of this type that also includes calming ingredients and gentle hydrators to keep the skin calm and soft.

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

You can use this treatment alongside niacinamide by applying your niacinamide product first, letting it absorb, and then following with this treatment. This combination helps smooth skin texture while keeping the skin calm, though the active ingredients may cause slight irritation on sensitive skin. To work best for this skin type, a product needs soothing plant extracts and gentle hydrators like ceramides to keep the skin comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is a good fit to use in the evening. Sensitive skin needs a product with soothing ingredients like licorice root extract and ceramides to keep skin calm and comfortable while using retinol.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores, but the retinol inside may cause initial breakouts for sensitive skin. To work well for this skin type, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients like ceramides and licorice root to calm irritation and keep skin soft.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Arachidyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, and cetearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £143.35 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £25.95 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £16.11 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/broad-spectrum-spf-50-mineral-sunscreen-fluid-for-face/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £21.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £15.00 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F198DWXW?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dimethicone, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisoostearate, Isononyl Isononanoate, Butylene Glycol, Bakuchiol, Arachidyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Behenyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Peg-75 Shea Glycerides Butter, 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 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, 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
## 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/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/0-3-retinol-2-bakuchiol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin