# Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing PHA Exfoliator for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [Aveeno](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/aveeno)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/exfoliators)

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your acne-prone and oily skin due to gluconolactone, which gently removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores, complemented by sunflower seed oil for emollient action.
- The inclusion of Avena Sativa Kernel Oil provides soothing benefits, enhancing overall skin comfort for your oily skin type.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Pha Polyhydroxy Acid, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil Oat Kernel Oil, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Allantoin

## What the research says

- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- Combining 10% gluconolactone chemical peeling with oxybrasion or microneedle mesotherapy increased skin hydration and decreased sebum, pH, and TEWL in twenty-one Caucasian women, with no significant differences between the two methods. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this chemical exfoliator is highly recommended for sensitive skin, effectively smoothing texture without causing irritation. Users frequently report that the formula leaves skin feeling hydrated and soft. Some users note a chemical scent and find the thin consistency difficult to manage with the current packaging.

- Liked: Extremely gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smooths texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor packaging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fragrance-free (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-drying (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Oily residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too gentle (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant as part of your PM routine once a week to start, increasing frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but before your final moisturizer step.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product directly onto clean, dry skin for the best results against breakouts.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and always use a daily SPF since exfoliating makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Aveeno Nourishing PHA Exfoliator a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing PHA Exfoliator is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because it offers gentle exfoliation with gluconolactone to clear pores without irritation. It also includes sunflower seed oil and oat kernel oil to calm your skin, keep it comfortable, and maintain hydration.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/)

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

This exfoliant is a great fit because gluconolactone gently clears dead skin cells and unclogs pores, while sunflower seed oil keeps the skin barrier healthy. Additionally, oat kernel oil and allantoin provide soothing benefits that help keep oily acne-prone skin comfortable and calm without irritation.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/)

### What does Polyhydroxy Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Polyhydroxy Acid helps clear mild to moderate acne by reducing both inflamed and non-inflamed spots similarly to stronger treatments while keeping your skin calm and comfortable. It is unlikely to cause irritation or damage your skin barrier, making it a well-tolerated choice for oily and acne-prone skin.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/)

### What does Avena Sativa Kernel Oil do for oily acne-prone skin?

Avena Sativa Kernel Oil is a weak fit for oily acne-prone skin because it can feel too heavy and clog pores. A product of this type needs lightweight, non-greasy ingredients that help balance oil and calm irritation without adding extra weight.

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

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine as a treatment step, starting at once a week and increasing carefully if your skin tolerates it well. It offers gentle exfoliation to unclog pores and smooth your skin while keeping irritation unlikely.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this exfoliant in your evening routine, but use it on nights when you do not apply retinol to keep your skin calm and comfortable. Applying both on the same night may cause irritation, so alternating nights helps your skin tolerate active ingredients safely.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin feels comfortable and handles it well, you may carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps clear dead skin cells and unclog pores while keeping your oily and acne-prone skin calm.

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

This exfoliant is a great fit because it gently removes dead skin cells and clears pores without causing irritation, making it very unlikely to clog pores, cause breakouts, or lead to purging for oily, acne-prone skin.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clean-and-clear/persa-gel-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$29.99 at Amazon
- [COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/galactomyces-95-tone-balancing-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$33.00 at Amazon
- [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — A$32.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Australia has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Glycerin, Gluconolactone, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Sorbitol, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil Oat Kernel Oil, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Lecithin, Sodium Citrate, P-Anisic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Allantoin
## 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/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
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