Ingredient spotlight

Retinal vs retinol is one of the most common skincare questions, and for good reason. Both are vitamin A derivatives, both help improve visible signs of ageing and breakouts, and both belong to the wider family of retinoids. But they’re not exactly the same.

At Paula’s Choice, we love to explore and analyse research and spread the word about truly beneficial, emerging ingredients on the skincare scene. One that’s been getting a lot of attention recently is ectoin (“ek-toe-een”), often referred to as “the new niacinamide”.

Retinoids are skincare’s cream of the crop, and for good reason. This group of vitamin A derivatives helps to improve signs of ageing, breakouts, clogged pores and the appearance of post-breakout dark spots.

When we research skincare, we're most invested in two elements: discovering new ingredients that benefit skin health and learning more about existing ingredients & their evolving role in maintaining youthful skin.

In the world of skincare ingredients, squalane oil ranks as one of the most effective for dry skin. Though often labelled an oil...

Tranexamic acid is an exciting topical ingredient to fade the look of several types of skin discolourations.

The truth is there isn’t a single best ingredient for skincare. Research has clearly shown that skin needs an abundance of beneficial ingredients, including omega fatty acids, ceramides and peptides (along with many others), as skin is complicated and needs an array of skin-natural ingredients to look young and healthy.

Retinol is one of those skincare ingredients that has a lot of misinformation surrounding it. We're often asked if AHA and BHA exfoliants reduce how effective your retinol formula can be. Or whether retinol should be in the same routine as vitamin C? Or about the combination of retinol & niacinamide and if it's safe?

In the world of skincare, trending ingredients come and go, but research shows that hyaluronic acid is not just a trend. In fact, it’s one of the best ingredients you can use to replenish and hydrate the skin.

Vitamin C is one of the most popular skincare ingredients, but is it worth the hype?

There are numerous forms of silicones used in cosmetic products, particularly leave-on skin-care products and all manner of hair-care products. Perhaps the most common forms of silicone are cyclopentasiloxane ...

Topical retinoids, including retinol, are research-proven anti-ageing powerhouses that can benefit nearly everyone’s skin. But it isn’t all about giving a youthful look. They also offer many benefits from tackling uneven tone to texture and they are available in formulations that suit a wide range of skin types and concerns.

Peptides are one of the most talked-about ingredients in the field of anti-ageing skincare. When applied to your skin, they demonstrate remarkable benefits, revitalising your skin and making it more resilient and stronger.

In the world of natural ingredients, witch hazel has a somewhat exaggerated reputation as the solution to an endless list of problems.