PAULA'SCHOICE Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment Reviews
This Korean review was translated by AI and may contain inaccuracies.
33Reviews
rh********May 4, 2025Oily SkinAcne SkinSebum/BlackheadsDark CirclesWrinkles/ElasticityEnlarged PoresDead Skin CellsReview under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
I purchased this Hwahae product, which is a medium-level one, as the retinol-containing product I was using before didn't seem to be very effective. The retinol and bakuchiol in this product seemed like they would be a good fit for my oily and thicker skin, but after using it for a few days, the majority of my cheeks became red and the texture became rather uneven with small bumps. I applied it all over my face with two pumps, and it may have been too much. I've been avoiding it lately, and the irritation is subsiding. Once it's fully healed, I'll try mixing just a small pump's worth into my cream to gradually acclimate my skin. I recommend starting with a small volume of retinol products and using them every other day, as they can cause immediate sensitivity.
Cons
Apply liberally or it may cause irritation on sensitive skin!
- he********Mar 18, 2025Combination SkinSensitive SkinRedness
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
Here is a 3-week review. I have slightly sensitive skin with redness. To cut to the chase, the effects are extremely good and can be felt immediately. However, those of you with sensitive skin like me should apply it at a lower concentration once every 2-3 days. Absolutely essential!! I had previously used other retinol creams, and even up until recently, I had been mixing Differin into my cream, so I thought the irritation would not be too bad. But I was mistaken. Every night, after applying toner and the Paula's Choice Niacinamide Serum, I would apply it all over my face and finish with a moisturizer. For the first three days, my skin was smooth and the effects were great. Honestly, the effects are really good. In fact, my skin got so smooth and the effects were so good without any irritation that I started applying it all over my face daily. But from the 4th night onwards, my face started feeling irritated and itchy, and for about a week after that, my skin was peeling. My skin was so messed up, it was really difficult. It was burning, itchy, peeling, even the eyelids were peeling a bit. After about 10 days, it started to calm down a bit. But if you can just control the amount, the effects seem to be really good. I was pleasantly surprised every morning when washing my face in the first 3 days of use. I will use it again, adjusting the amount properly. I would definitely recommend it to my acquaintances. But for those of you with sensitive skin like me, please do check the QR code on the product and do a patch test before applying. Those of you with retinol experience, like me, who thought a day or two of being fine meant you could apply it daily, your face may end up peeling off! Anyway, the combination of the Paula's Choice Niacinamide Serum and this cream is really good. I recommend it.
Cons
Contrary to expectations, the product is not a medication but rather has a high degree of irritation. For those experiencing flushing or facial heat sensations, and for individuals with sensitive skin, it is recommended to thoroughly test and apply the product with caution.
Tip
Use the niacinamide ampoule together! The dermatologist on YouTube also said that the two of them have a synergistic effect. (Not a Polaris Choice employee. The combination of these two is truly effective)
- ch*******Mar 5, 2025Combination SkinBrightening/Dark SpotsSebum/BlackheadsWrinkles/Elasticity
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
A little goes a long way. The ingredients are to my liking.
Cons
At first it was fine, but my face turned red :(
ni******Dec 21, 2024Dehydrated SkinSensitive SkinEnlarged PoresReview under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
It absorbs well and has good spreadability. It's not as irritating as I expected, but the effects are excellent, so I'm satisfied with it. It has hardly any scent, and the container itself seems to be in a vacuum state, so it's easy to store and use. About a week after using it, I felt the fine wrinkles on my forehead becoming tighter.
Cons
The tip of the bottle's nozzle is coated with dried product, which looks a bit messy and bothersome.
Tip
Using the Esthe* Squalane Cream with two pumps leaves the skin with a smooth, radiant glow. After use, sunscreen is a must during the day!
- rv********Dec 11, 2024Dehydrated SkinSensitive SkinBrightening/Dark SpotsSebum/BlackheadsInner DrynessEnlarged PoresDead Skin Cells
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
I've been using it consistently as I've seen my pores appear less visible.
Cons
I'm not sure about the wrinkles. When I apply the cream on top, it gets pushed away.
Tip
I'm applying it gently, pressing it down like it's filling in my pores, with a warm sensation. The moisture is always kept supple!
- no******Oct 11, 2024Combination SkinAcne Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
First of all, I'm a man with combination skin. Certain areas are dry while others are oily, making it difficult to manage. This product has a moisturizing effect, so I don't feel any tightness or experience breakouts.
Cons
The concentration was a bit strong, so it felt a little irritating and caused some redness. You need to be careful with the amount you use.
- ch******Jul 1, 2024Combination SkinAcne Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
I used another brand for about 2 years at 0.2%, and then switched to 0.3%. Since I've been using retinol for a long time, I didn't feel any irritation at all. I pump it out twice and apply it all over my face every day. My skin texture has improved, and my makeup applies well!! The packaging is so great. Other brands have tube-type packaging, which can tear when used, and doesn't seem very hygienic, but this has a pump, so I can always dispense the right amount. Next time, I'll try the 1% version!
Cons
I wish they would have more sales! It's just so good, I can't get enough ㅠㅠㅠ
Tip
Use it only at night! It doesn't play well with sunlight... And don't use it with vitamin C either... it can make your skin flip out... If it's hard to adjust, try mixing a small amount into an ampoule or lotion to ease into it!~
- ha**********Apr 30, 2024Dry SkinSensitive SkinAtopic SkinInner DrynessWrinkles/ElasticityEnlarged PoresRednessDead Skin Cells
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
This product seems suitable for those with healthy skin. It was too irritating for my sensitive skin.
Cons
Even when I mixed a tiny amount with other skincare products and applied it, my eyes became red and inflamed on the second day, turning scaly like a lizard's skin. It took over 2 weeks to recover. Hoping it was a one-time issue, I tried using it a few more times afterwards, but it was the same every time. For those with sensitive skin like mine, it's better to use a lower concentration product. Lower concentration retinol worked well for me.
Tip
Be sure to do a patch test before using any retinol products!
- yo*******Apr 20, 2024Combination SkinWrinkles/Elasticity
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
I'm glad that there were no issues with breakouts on my face. As someone with sensitive skin, that's my top priority when trying a new product, so I'm relieved I was able to use it without any problems.
Cons
I used this product consistently for 3 months, applying it twice a week in the amount of a chickpea. While there weren't any bad effects, there also weren't any noticeable benefits. It was kind of like taking a general multivitamin - I figured it might be good for my body, but I didn't see any tangible results. Given the lack of visible effects for the price, I don't plan to repurchase. These days, there are so many retinol products out there with great formulas and good prices, so I think I'll try something else.
Tip
I've noticed that Coupang sometimes offers Pola's Choice products at huge discounts - I've seen this one selling for around 40,000 won. If you're interested in trying it, I'd recommend adding it to your wishlist and keeping an eye out for sales.
su********Apr 2, 2024Dehydrated SkinSensitive SkinAcne SkinSebum/BlackheadsInner DrynessEnlarged PoresRednessReview under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.Pros
Multifunctional Skin Care Cream with Retinol: This cream contains a high concentration of retinol along with bakuchiol, resulting in excellent efficacy.
Cons
The fragrance is highly disliked, with a strong medicinal disinfectant smell that can be unpleasant when applying the product.
Tip
Since this product contains a high concentration of retinol, it is recommended to use it only in the evenings. For those who prefer a light morning cleansing routine, be sure to apply sunscreen before going out.
