Paula's Choice Resist Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
Paula's Choice Resist Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment is a specialized moisturizing cream designed to address signs of aging, uneven skin tone, and rough texture below the neck. This treatment leverages the power of retinol to stimulate collagen production and smooth the skin's surface, making it a popular choice for those dealing with sun damage or loss of firmness. The formula is enriched with beneficial ingredients like evening primrose oil, which is high in gamma-linolenic acid, and skin-soothing antioxidants like vitamin C and grape seed oil. In terms of texture, the product feels rich and emollient, utilizing a blend of dimethicone and fatty alcohols to provide a silky, hydrating barrier. While it excels at nourishing dry, mature skin, the ingredient profile is complex. It provides deep hydration and long-term anti-aging benefits, making it an effective solution for smoothing bumpy skin on the arms and legs while maintaining a healthy moisture barrier.
Our Analysis
Our analysis of Paula's Choice Resist Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment reveals a HIGH comedogenic risk level. The formula contains several ingredients that may pose issues for those prone to body acne. Specifically, cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are present; while generally low-risk, their comedogenicity can increase when combined with other emulsifiers. The inclusion of beeswax and capric/caprylic triglyceride further increases the likelihood of pore-clogging, as these can trap oils against the skin. For individuals prone to 'bacne' or chest breakouts, these ingredients may outweigh the anti-aging benefits of the retinol.
Skin Type Recommendations
This body treatment is best suited for dry, mature, or sun-damaged skin that requires intense hydration and resurfacing. We do not recommend this product for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin on the body. The high comedogenic rating makes it risky for those prone to breakouts on the back and chest.
Flagged Ingredients
Fatty alcohol emollient with low-moderate comedogenicity on its own. However, when combined with Ceteareth-20, the synergistic effect can significantly increase pore-clogging potential (combined rating of 4).
High in GLA (gamma-linolenic acid); good for hormonal acne, low clog risk.
A fatty alcohol (emollient) that is generally safe, but can be problematic for very sensitive individuals.
Fractionated coconut oil; removed most clogging long-chain acids but can still affect some.
Forms a breathable barrier; rarely clogs pores directly but can trap other comedogenic ingredients underneath it.
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.
