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

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/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 Canada.

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

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 serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent wrinkle reduction and skin smoothing for your oily skin, as retinol and palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 work effectively to combat aging signs while salicylic acid from willow bark extract helps regulate oil production and exfoliate pores. Licorice root extract and oat kernel extract further soothe your skin, minimizing potential irritation from active ingredients.
- The formulation provides relevant benefits for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts by promoting exfoliation and regulating oil production.
- This product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

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

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- Bioactive lipid nanocarriers co-loaded with willow bark or ivy leaf extracts and UV-filters provided pronounced UVA photoprotection up to an SPF-equivalent value of 13 and a maximum in vivo skin hydration effect of 97% when prepared with pomegranate oil. ([Nanomaterials, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889587/))
- 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/))
- 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

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment is a great fit because retinol smooths fine lines while willow bark extract helps regulate oil production and clear pores. Soothing ingredients like licorice root and oat kernel extracts are included to help keep your skin calm and minimize any irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Retinol and palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 make this treatment a great fit by smoothing the skin, while willow bark extract helps regulate oil and clear pores. Licorice root and oat kernel extracts further calm the skin to keep irritation unlikely.

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

Retinol helps oily acne-prone skin by clearing up breakouts and smoothing the skin, though it may occasionally cause some mild scaling or stinging. This ingredient works by addressing the root causes of acne, making it a reliable choice for keeping pores clear and skin smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30586483/)

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

Peptides help calm oily, acne-prone skin by targeting acne-causing bacteria and reducing redness and swelling. Advanced delivery methods like nanomicelles may also improve how deeply these helpful ingredients sink into the skin.
Sources: [Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/), [Bioorganic Chemistry, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40925226/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening helps ensure safety around sun exposure.

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

Yes, you can use niacinamide with this treatment by applying niacinamide first and following with the retinol treatment, or by choosing a niacinamide product for your moisturizer step. Using them together helps smooth your skin and control oil while keeping your skin calm.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

Apply this treatment in the evening, starting once a week and slowly using it more often if your skin tolerates it well. This routine helps your skin adjust to the active ingredients safely while smoothing texture and managing oil production.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores, though mild purging may happen initially as it promotes pore exfoliation and regulates oil production. Soothing ingredients like licorice root and oat kernel extracts are included to help keep irritation low.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### 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 oily acne-prone skin

- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$33.98 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$70.50 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CKWP1Z9J?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Sephora: CA$70.50 (https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/paula-s-choice-clinical-1-retinol-treatment-P469510?skuId=2767689)
Prices checked 17 Oct – 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/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/1-retinol-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin