Want to know if a product really works? Welcome to Slow Beauty. Since it can take up to six weeks to see results from using a new formula, we have testers try the best and buzziest in hair and skin care for double that amount of time to determine what actually makes a difference.
As a beauty writer, I spend hours every day researching the best products on the market, so you would think I’d have my skin care routine down pat. But ever since I turned 30, I’ve been at a loss. My once-clear complexion became tired-looking, and I was suddenly plagued by the occasional breakout. My sun spots and acne scars were looking darker, and lines began to set in between my brows—even my derm-approved products weren’t making much of a difference. So when the ELLE team asked if I wanted to test the newly launched Paula’s Choice Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment for 12 weeks, I figured I had nothing to lose.
Ahead, see my skin’s 12-week transformation using the retinoid.
Courtesy of Paula’s Choice
Ugh. Here we go again with hormonal breakouts and congested skin. I haven’t experienced a spot this large (or painful) in years, and remnants of my latest cystic breakout linger on my chin. My pores are also enlarged, and my former acne scars aren’t budging, even with a consistent routine. Today, I picked up Paula’s Choice Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment. I’m excited to try this new retinal-based product and hope it helps my skin.
I just used the retinal in my evening routine, and it’s the first one I’ve tried that doesn’t have an odd scent. The texture is light and immediately melted into my skin. There was only a slight tingling sensation, so let’s see what it does!
My skin is still adjusting to the double-retinoid formula, so I’ve only been using the product twice a week. This week, more breakouts appeared outside of my typical hormonal spots. I chalked it up to the retinoids “purging” my skin. I was surprised this week that even after spending multiple days at the beach, I didn’t experience any irritation or redness. I haven’t noticed any changes, but I know it takes a few weeks to see results from any skin care product.
This week, I didn’t experience any new breakouts, and my existing ones cleared up without using any other treatments. I also noticed that my skin looks brighter, and my acne spots have slightly lightened—there’s no damn way this formula is working this fast, right?
I also have not experienced any irritation or redness after applying the retinal. I have been religiously applying my favorite sunscreen throughout the day to combat the typically harsh effects of retinal, and the Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream is a lifesaver for warding off the dry skin that retinoids can cause.
I’ve reached a month of testing the product, and after a rocky start, I am so happy with the results. I started with breakouts when I first began using the product. Now, I’m not experiencing any discomfort. I can also use the double-retinoid formula regularly instead of two nights a week. One of the most significant changes I’ve documented is how my skin looks more radiant and even. I had multiple acne scars, and those have lifted as well. I can’t stop staring at the subtle plumpness in my skin.
Courtesy of Paula’s Choice
Week five has been the best yet. For the first time in about a year, I haven’t experienced any hormonal breakouts during my cycle—none of those painful under-the-skin bumps. I also noticed that my skin has a new dewy finish, and my complexion looks and feels smooth; my makeup goes on seamlessly. After testing the retinal for a month, I can confirm that it takes at least four weeks to see results—a good rule to follow for any new skin care product.
I’m flying through this testing process—six weeks in, and another six to go to see how this formula will transform my skin. I’m always surprised by how different each week is. This week, my skin started with the same bouncy glow I had in week five, but on Thursday, I noticed my complexion looking dull and tired again. My pores were also enlarged. I’m unsure if this is due to my skin getting used to the product or what. Maybe it’s just an off week? I definitely miss the clear, bright skin from the previous weeks, and I hope it returns in week seven. I’m impressed that I have yet to experience any noticeable breakouts, which is a consistent benefit of the formula.
Week seven came and went. I cannot report any significant skin changes. Even though my skin still looks brighter, I can see a bit of the dullness from last week. This might have been because I went to pilates five times during week six instead of my usual three, and I was up later than usual finishing work. My pores still look large compared to former weeks, which I hope diminishes as I continue to test.
How has it been two months already? After a week or so of some tired-looking skin, I’m happy to report the radiance is back. This week, my skin was stable—not many blemishes or dullness. I noticed how the retinal lifted dark spots, acne scars, and uneven texture. It feels softer, too. The best benefit is that I have not needed to layer on so much makeup, since my complexion is clearer and brighter. Another visible change is that some lines around my mouth are less noticeable.
Courtesy of Paula’s Choice
I was under the weather for week nine, so my skin wasn’t in good shape. There were still no breakouts, though. My skin stayed clear for the most part. I have noticed that my previous acne spots are still fading, and the one blemish I had late last week cleared up in two days.
Week 10, and my skin has never looked so good. It’s never been this glowy! I also love that I’m noticing less dryness—a new benefit this week. Instead, my skin feels hydrated and plump all day, sans excess oil. All of my former acne scars are nearly invisible, and the hyperpigmentation I had is less noticeable, too. I did find a small breakout under my nose, but it’s already clearing up. I expected to run out of the product by now, but I’m happy to report I still have enough for three more weeks.
I’m convinced that it takes eight weeks (at least) of consistent testing to see steady and visible results. The double-retinoid formula definitely staves off hormonal breakouts and clogged pores. I’ve gushed about this 100 times, but I love my skin’s suppleness, especially now that it’s summer. I don’t have to use as many makeup products since my skin is so clear. My 11 lines also have a smoother appearance.
The last week of testing produced smooth, clear skin. Looking back, it’s wonderful to see the transformation of my skin over three months. The retinal has diminished my uneven texture and tone, added radiance, controlled breakouts, and even smoothed lines. Don’t get me wrong—I still have a long way to go to banish my wrinkles, but it was nice to see even the slightest difference. I can’t wait to keep using this formula.
Courtesy of Taylor Lane
The author before and after testing the Paula’s Choice Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment.
Final Thoughts
Beauty enthusiasts know that retinoid is a superhero skin care product, and this Paula’s Choice formula is no exception. This serum actually delivers on its promises to smooth texture, combat acne, and fight signs of aging, and I loved that it was a breeze to layer into my existing routine. The formula was lightweight and refreshing to massage into the skin. It was never harsh, making it an excellent match for those with compromised or sensitive skin. With results this good, you should already have two in your cart by now.
Paula’s Choice Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment
