The RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum has 0.3% retinyl propionate. What is this ingredient, and how does it compare to my other products containing retinol?
Retinyl propionate is a retinoid and ester of retinol that metabolizes to retinoic acid deeper in the skin and is considered less irritating than retinol. This ingredient has been known to demonstrate the same benefits of retinol, including visibly reducing fine lines and deep wrinkles, improving uneven skin tone, refining signs of enlarged pores and fading the look of discolorations from sun exposure. This serum is considered a mid-strength retinoid formula and is best suited for those seeing common signs of aging such sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles, barrier impairment and discoloration.
What’s the difference between the RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum and the CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment?
The RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum contains a potent blend of ingredients that work synergistically to visibly reduce signs of aging, making it the perfect treatment for those seeking the most benefit of a product without adding more to their routine. The CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment is a potent concentration of pure retinol and peptides, focused on reducing deep wrinkles and renewing firmness.
Does the RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum replace the other Paula's Choice serums or treatments I'm using?
It will not replace other serums or treatments but will complement your current routine. The RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum can be used in conjunction with ingredients like AHA, BHA, vitamin C, tranexamic acid and azelaic acid. You may want to replace another product you are using with the RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum, or simply add it as an addition to your current skin care routine. It’s important to note: when using multiple actives, see how skin responds and adjust usage accordingly to reduce the risk of irritation.
What’s the difference between the RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum and prescription retinol?
Prescription retinol in general is going to be more potent with a wider variety of options and strengths available; some prescription retinols are designed to treat acne, while others are best for wrinkles. The major difference is that almost all prescription retinols contain a singular active ingredient in a bland base resulting in skin getting little to no other beneficial results including those that enhance efficacy and/or reduce unwanted side effects like flaking and a dry, tight feeling. The RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum provides a synergistic blend of actives proven to rival prescription-level potency for discolorations as well as carefully chosen supporting ingredients that help to gently offset multiple signs of aging.
Can the RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum be used along with a prescription retinol or other prescription skin care products?
You may test alternating the RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum with your prescription products. We recommend consulting with your dermatologist if you're currently using a prescription retinol or an acne medication, or if you've been diagnosed with rosacea and are using prescription products to control symptoms.
Will I experience purging or sensitivity when using the RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum?
As with any topical retinoid product, some people may find their skin is not able to tolerate daily use, so it's important to experiment with frequency of application to see which cadence works best for your skin. Our team has taken steps to ensure the retinoid (retinyl propionate) in this formula is as gentle as it is effective in pairing its formulation with niacinamide and a naturally soothing chestnut leaf extract. Retinyl propionate has proven to be less potentially sensitizing than pure retinol since it metabolizes more slowly on the skin to become retinoic acid. In terms of skin purging, there isn’t specific research indicating retinyl propionate causes this; however, there is a highly individual response possible with any over the counter or prescription retinol. Should purging occur, know that it is temporary, and you'll soon be seeing the effective results this serum is capable of providing. Note that combining this product with a prescription retinol increases the risk of side effects such as dryness, flaking and sensitivity.
Is RESIST Triple Active Total Repair Serum suitable for those with sensitive and/or rosacea-prone skin?
Yes, this serum is suitable for sensitive skin, even skin prone to rosacea, although it will depend on how your skin reacts. This formula contains no fragrance, alcohol, or other ingredients known to cause (or worsen) sensitivity, plus it contains a gentle form of retinol and additional skin-soothing ingredients such as chestnut leaf extract and tocotrienols. If you are currently using a prescription for rosacea, we recommend consulting your doctor for guidance on incorporating this serum into your routine.
