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Paula's Choice Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% Aha - Product image showing packaging and label for comedogenic ingredient analysis
Paula's ChoiceExfoliant

Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% Aha

Low Risk(2)
42 ingredients1 flagged

Paula’s Choice Resist Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% AHA is a sophisticated, multi-acid exfoliant designed to target the signs of aging while refining skin texture. This concentrated treatment features a potent blend of Glycolic and Lactic acids (AHAs), which work effectively to dissolve dead skin cell buildup and reveal a more radiant, even-toned complexion. Unlike traditional scrubs, this liquid treatment penetrates the skin surface to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The inclusion of Glycerin and Butylene Glycol provides essential hydration, ensuring the skin remains supple and preventing the irritation often associated with high-strength acid treatments. The texture is lightweight and fluid, absorbing rapidly into the skin without leaving a tacky or oily residue. Ideal for those dealing with sun damage or dullness, this Paula’s Choice formula combines exfoliation with soothing antioxidants to support long-term skin health. Regular use results in a noticeably smoother, firmer, and more glowing appearance, making it a staple for any advanced skincare routine.

Our Analysis

Our analysis of the Paula’s Choice Resist Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% AHA indicates a LOW comedogenic risk. The formula is excellently structured for clarity and efficacy. The only flagged ingredient is capric/caprylic triglyceride, which holds a low rating of 2/5. While derived from coconut oil, this fractionated version has most of the clogging long-chain fatty acids removed, making it much safer for acne-prone individuals than raw coconut oil. However, it may still affect users who are highly sensitive to coconut derivatives. Overall, the water-based, glycerin-rich formula is unlikely to cause breakouts for most users.

Skin Type Recommendations

This product is best suited for dry, combination, and mature skin types looking to improve texture and tone. Its low-clogging profile makes it safe for most acne-prone individuals. However, those with extremely oily skin or hypersensitive conditions should patch-test first due to the 10% acid concentration and triglyceride content.

Flagged Ingredients

2
capric/caprylic triglyceride

Fractionated coconut oil; removed most clogging long-chain acids but can still affect some.

Want Deeper Analysis?

Run our MACR (Multi-Axis Comedogenic Risk) analysis to get a comprehensive 5-axis risk assessment. This AI-powered analysis evaluates ingredients for Plugging Risk, Barrier Damage, Fungal Acne Risk, Oxidation Risk, and real-world User Reports — giving you personalized scores for your skin type.

Full Ingredient List(42 ingredients)

Water (Aqua)Butylene GlycolGlycolic AcidGlycerinLactic AcidCaprylic/​Capric TriglycerideMalic AcidTartaric AcidPalmitoyl Tripeptide-1Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7Ceramide NgSalicylic AcidGlycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root ExtractCamellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf ExtractAvena Sativa (Oat) Bran ExtractPunica Granatum Fruit ExtractLycium Barbarum Fruit ExtractVitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed ExtractSambucus Nigra Fruit ExtractCamellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf ExtractChamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower ExtractPeucedanum Graveolens (Dill) ExtractAllantoinAdenosineHydrogenated LecithinBisabololPolyquaternium-10Xanthan GumCarbomerPolysorbate 20Sodium BicarbonateSodium HydroxideAminomethyl PropanolPhenoxyethanolBenzyl AlcoholCaprylic/Capric TriglycerideRead all the geeky details about Glycolic Acid here >>Read all the geeky details about Glycerin here >>Read all the geeky details about Lactic Acid here >>Read all the geeky details about Salicylic Acid here >>Read all the geeky details about Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract here >>[more]

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Our analysis is powered by AI and backed by extensive research on comedogenic ingredients — but it's not medical advice. For skin concerns, please consult a dermatologist.