Compare Products: Clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment vs Glass Skin Refining Serum

Paula's Choice

Clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment

Mid-range20%
$55 / 20ml — $2.75/ml
Peach & Lily

Glass Skin Refining Serum

Mid-range~2-5%
$39 / 40ml — $0.98/ml

Who It's Designed For

Paula's Choice
  • Stubborn enlarged or sagging pores that haven't responded to 10% niacinamide
  • Orange-peel texture and rough, bumpy skin
  • Sebaceous hyperplasia
  • Advanced pore concerns related to aging or sun damage
  • Post-acne marks and uneven texture
Peach & Lily
  • Sensitive or eczema-prone skin seeking gentle actives
  • Those wanting the 'glass skin' luminous hydration look
  • Users who prioritize fragrance-free, clean formulas
  • People new to niacinamide who want a lower concentration
  • K-beauty enthusiasts looking for a multi-benefit serum

Key Ingredients

Paula's Choice

Niacinamide (20%), Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C), Meadowsweet Extract

Peach & Lily

Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid (multiple types), Madecassoside, Peach Extract, Peptides

Product Composition

21% similarity (8 ingredients in common)

Shared Ingredients
water (aqua)niacinamidebutylene glycolglycerinacetyl glucosaminepropanediolsodium phytateethylhexylglycerin
Only in Paula's Choice (17)
pentylene glycolascorbyl glucosideglycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extractspiraea ulmaria (meadowsweet) extractportulaca oleracea (purslane) extractcamellia japonica flower extractepigallocatechin gallateboerhavia diffusa root extractcamellia sinensis (green tea) leaf extractallantoinlecithinpullulanpanthenolsilicaxanthan gumsclerotium gumphenoxyethanol
Only in Peach & Lily (14)
12-hexanediolprunus persica (peach) fruit extractdioscorea japonica root extractadenosinemadecassosidehydrolyzed hyaluronic acidhydrolyzed corn starchbeta-glucansaccharide isomeratephytic acidsucroseasiaticosidecaprylyl glycol

User Feedback Patterns

Paula's Choice
More effective than 10% for stubborn concerns

Users who found the 10% booster insufficient often report better results with this formula, particularly for aging-related pore concerns and textural issues.

Texture and feel

The gel texture feels slightly oily to some users before it dries down. Some report a tacky feel or that it takes time to absorb. Most find it works well under moisturizer.

Potential irritation at high concentration

Some users report sensitivity, flushing, or irritation — especially if used daily from the start. Several reviewers recommend using every other day initially or finding 10% sufficient.

Gradual, cumulative results

Like the 10% booster, results are typically seen over weeks of consistent use rather than immediately. Some users report noticeable improvement within 1-2 weeks; others need longer.

Peach & Lily
Hydration standout

Users consistently report improved hydration and a plumper, more luminous appearance. Many describe the 'glass skin' effect as real.

Sensitive skin safe

Eczema-prone and reactive skin users frequently report no irritation. Popular first serum for those new to actives.

Texture praise

Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly. Some note a slight initial tack that disappears once fully absorbed. Layers well.

Fading scars

Multiple users report gradual fading of acne scars and improved evenness over weeks of use.

Repeat purchase loyalty

High repurchase rate in reviews. Users describe it as a staple they consistently return to.

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