OBAGI - Retinol + PHA
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About OBAGI - Retinol + PHA
Obagi Retinol + PHA Refining Night Cream
Obagi Retinol + PHA combines 0.3% slow-release retinol with gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid. This evening skincare formulation brings together vitamin A and surface exfoliation in one cream.
Retinol is used in cosmetic skincare for the appearance of fine lines, uneven tone and rough texture. Gluconolactone provides an exfoliating component alongside moisture-attracting properties. Consider both ingredients when deciding how the product fits into your existing routine.
Product Information
| Brand | Obagi Medical |
|---|---|
| Product | Retinol + PHA Refining Night Cream |
| Retinol concentration | 0.3%, slow-release formulation |
| Exfoliating ingredient | Gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) |
| Routine | Evening skincare |
Understanding the Two Active Ingredients
Retinol 0.3%
Retinol is a vitamin A ingredient, distinct from retinaldehyde and prescription tretinoin. Percentages of these different ingredients are not interchangeable. Slow-release delivery describes the formulation; it does not mean that irritation is impossible.
Gluconolactone: the PHA Component
PHA stands for polyhydroxy acid. In this formulation, gluconolactone contributes surface exfoliation and hydration. The cream should therefore be counted as an exfoliating product when reviewing the rest of your routine.
Adding separate acid toners, peel pads or scrubs may be unnecessary. Introducing several exfoliating products together can also make it difficult to identify the cause of a reaction.
Obagi Retinol + PHA and Retinol 1.0
This cream contains 0.3% retinol together with gluconolactone. Obagi Retinol 1.0 contains 1% retinol and is a different formulation. Concentration alone does not establish which product will suit your skin.
Retinol + PHA is a cosmetic night cream, not a prescription medicine, so you can add it to your basket and order it directly. If you would like help choosing between the two, our team is happy to advise.
Introducing Retinol + PHA
- Follow the application amount and frequency on your supplied packaging.
- Introduce evening use gradually, keeping the rest of your routine familiar.
- Avoid the eyes, lips and broken or irritated skin.
- Use a suitable moisturiser if needed for comfort.
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day, alongside other sun protection.
If your skin becomes persistently dry, sore or red, pause and reassess. Do not increase frequency while irritation is present.
Moisturising and Routine Support
A moisturiser you already tolerate can remain part of your routine. If you are comparing formulations, Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturiser is a lightweight cream option.
Our retinol safety and introduction guide explains the vitamin A family, common adverse effects and considerations when combining skincare products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of retinol does it contain?
It contains 0.3% slow-release retinol. PHA refers to a separate ingredient category, not an additional retinol percentage.
Is Retinol + PHA a prescription medicine?
No. It is a cosmetic skincare formulation, not prescription tretinoin, and no prescription or consultation is needed to order it.
Is it automatically suitable for beginners?
A lower concentration does not guarantee suitability. Consider the combined retinol and exfoliating ingredients, your current routine and any history of sensitivity.
Can I use another exfoliating toner with it?
The cream already includes an exfoliating acid. Avoid introducing additional exfoliants at the same time, and review the combination if dryness or irritation develops.
Can I use it alongside prescription skincare?
Ask your prescriber before adding it, particularly if your treatment already contains a retinoid. Another active product may be unnecessary or increase irritation.
Should I expect peeling?
Dryness or flaking can occur, but peeling is not a target or proof of benefit. Seek advice for persistent burning, redness or soreness.
Can sensitive skin use this cream?
Seek individual advice if you have rosacea, eczema, active inflammation or recurrent product reactions. Avoid starting retinoids on already irritated skin.
Can I use it during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Avoid topical retinoids during pregnancy or when planning pregnancy. If breastfeeding, discuss the specific product with your clinician before use.
Related Obagi Skincare
Explore the Obagi Medical skincare collection for other formulations and their individual product information.
Precautions
For external use only. Avoid eye contact and application to broken or irritated skin. Keep out of reach of children. Follow the storage instructions and period-after-opening information on your packaging.
Looking for something stronger? Learn how prescription tretinoin compares →
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