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

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/aveeno/calm-restore-nourishing-pha-exfoliator/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 Canada.

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

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 products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent benefits for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts due to the presence of gluconolactone, a PHA, which provides gentle yet effective exfoliation suitable for your combination skin. Sunflower seed oil and oat kernel oil offer emollient benefits without being overly heavy, complementing the mild keratolytic and humectant properties of gluconolactone.
- The formulation provides moderate exfoliation, gently removing dead skin cells and impurities to help clear pores and reduce breakouts.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like sunflower seed oil and oat kernel oil.

## Fit by skin type

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

## 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 PM once a week to start, and gradually increase if your combination skin tolerates it well. Always apply SPF the next morning to protect your clear skin.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer step. This ensures the treatment targets blemishes effectively.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin without rubbing. Let it absorb for a minute before moving to the next step.
- Apply the exfoliant on clean, dry skin to help control breakouts safely. Since your skin is not sensitive, this dry application method ensures good product absorption.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Do not mix this exfoliant with other strong acids in the same routine.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

Aveeno Nourishing PHA Exfoliator is a great fit because it uses gluconolactone to gently clear pores and reduce breakouts without harsh irritation. Soothing ingredients like sunflower seed oil and oat kernel oil help keep your skin calm and balanced while lightly softening it.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/)

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

This exfoliant is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it features gluconolactone, a gentle acid that helps clear pores and reduce breakouts without irritation. It also includes soothing sunflower seed oil and oat kernel oil, which keep the skin calm and soft.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/)

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

Polyhydroxy Acid helps clear mild to moderate acne by reducing pimples and bumps while keeping your skin calm and comfortable. It is unlikely to cause irritation or dryness, making it a gentle option for sensitive skin types prone to breakouts.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002656/)

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

Avena Sativa Kernel Oil helps calm dry and irritated skin, but its fit for acne-prone skin depends on its specific fatty acid balance. Oils with a higher linoleic acid to oleic acid ratio support skin health, whereas those with more oleic acid may clog pores.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28707186/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27272074/)

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

This exfoliant treatment goes in your evening routine, starting at once a week so you can see how your skin tolerates it. Lovi routines put treatments in the evening for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure, and you may carefully use it more often if you see good results.

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

You can use this exfoliant with retinol by applying the exfoliant first to clear pores, followed by your retinol, though you should watch for any dryness or irritation since both ingredients actively renew the skin.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results. The gentle PHA removes dead skin cells and impurities to help clear pores and reduce breakouts without causing irritation.

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

This exfoliant is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it uses gluconolactone to gently clear pores and reduce breakouts without being overly heavy. Its very safe formula is unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts.
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 it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/galactomyces-95-tone-balancing-essence/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.49 at Amazon
- [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.25 at Amazon
- [PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/panoxyl/acne-foaming-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$11.75 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$22.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$41.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [CeraVe CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada 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

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