# Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- This treatment offers excellent wrinkle reduction and skin smoothing for your combination skin, as retinol and palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 work to reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture. Willow bark extract and niacinamide further support your goal of managing acne and breakouts by promoting exfoliation and regulating oil production.
- The inclusion of oat kernel extract and licorice root extract provides soothing benefits, enhancing overall skin comfort.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of calming components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Peptides, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide 2

## What the research says

- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users report significant improvements in skin texture, reduction in fine lines, and fading of hyperpigmentation. Many users experience a harsh adjustment period with peeling and irritation, so slow introduction is recommended.

- Liked: Smoother skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Anti-aging results (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Dryness and peeling (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective packaging (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Even skin tone (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Severe irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts/Purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This treatment is a great fit because retinol smooths your skin while willow bark extract helps manage acne by clearing pores and controlling oil. Soothing ingredients like oat kernel and licorice root help keep your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Willow bark extract helps manage acne and breakouts by encouraging gentle exfoliation and balancing oil production. Soothing ingredients like oat kernel and licorice root extract keep your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### What does Retinol do for acne-prone skin?

Retinol helps acne-prone skin by speeding up cell turnover and clearing pores to reduce breakouts. It regulates skin growth and fights inflammation, though it may cause some mild peeling or stinging when you first start using it.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816067/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28318351/)

### What do Peptides do for acne-prone skin?

Peptides help calm acne-prone skin by reducing redness and soothing inflammation while supporting the skin barrier. Certain advanced peptide formulas also work to target acne-causing bacteria and help balance oil production.
Sources: [Biochemical Pharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39662606/), [Bioresources and Bioprocessing, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42219443/)

### Where does this treatment go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

### Can I use this treatment with niacinamide, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with niacinamide by applying your niacinamide product first in your routine and following with this treatment. This pairing helps manage breakouts and smooth your skin while maintaining an excellent safety profile with very low risks of irritation.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is a great fit for your acne-prone skin and is used in the evening. Start by applying it once a week, and if your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/), [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

### Can this treatment clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This treatment is unlikely to cause new breakouts, though mild purging may happen at first as retinol helps clear out pores. Soothing ingredients like oat kernel extract and licorice root root extract help keep irritation low.

### Is this treatment fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Behenyl alcohol and arachidyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 89.30 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 91.81 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 255.32 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B00L5O2ZXK?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Isononyl Isononanoate, Castor Isostearate Succinate, Glyceryl Stearate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Peg-33, Polysorbate 20, Behenyl Alcohol, Retinol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ceramide 2, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract Oat Kernel Extract, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Willow Bark Extract, Glycine Soja Soybean Sterols, Lecithin, Allantoin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Sorbitan Laurate, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Disodium Edta, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Hydroxide, Tribehenin, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Peg-100 Stearate, Peg-75 Shea Glycerides Butter, Ppg-12, Peg-10 Phytosterol, Peg-8 Dimethicone, Peg-14, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Arachidyl Glucoside, Sclerotium Gum, Arachidyl Alcohol, Benzoic Acid, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)