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

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.

Skin By Science requires a consultation before supplying Obagi retinol above 0.3%. This particular concentration-based requirement does not apply to Retinol + PHA at 0.3%. Individual skincare advice remains available where needed.

Introducing Retinol + PHA

1. Follow the application amount and frequency on your supplied packaging.
2. Introduce evening use gradually, keeping the rest of your routine familiar.
3. Avoid the eyes, lips and broken or irritated skin.
4. Use a suitable moisturiser if needed for comfort.
5. 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?

It is a cosmetic skincare formulation, not prescription tretinoin. Skin By Science’s consultation policy for Obagi retinol above 0.3% does not apply to this 0.3% product.

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.