# Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin

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

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

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

A great choice for oily skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your oily skin, this formulation leverages azelaic acid and salicylic acid to effectively regulate sebum and provide moderate exfoliation, addressing oily shine and pore concerns.
- The inclusion of licorice root extract and allantoin further enhances its benefits by calming redness and promoting a smoother skin tone.
- 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 like allantoin and bisabolol.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Azelaic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Licorice Root Extract, Glycerin, Adenosine

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- Azelaic acid nanocrystal hydrogel 10% achieved a higher success rate and greater lesion reduction than azelaic acid cream 20% in patients with mild to moderate facial acne. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/))
- 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/))
- Application of 15% azelaic acid gel significantly reduced post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation, decreased hemoglobin and melanin content, improved quality of life, and contributed to acne improvement in patients with mild to moderate acne compared to placebo. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/))
- Topical application of a dermocosmetic containing Myrtus communis extract and azelaic acid reduced acne relapses and helped maintain remission compared to a light moisturizing cream in adult females in the acne maintenance phase over 16 weeks. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36729399/))
- Topical administration of 20% azelaic acid cream and 5% tranexamic acid solution comparably improved acne-related postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients with acne vulgaris, while tranexamic acid demonstrated a significantly better safety profile at week 4. ([Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37213446/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))
- 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 adenosine treatment significantly increased the anagen hair growth rate and thick hair rate compared to placebo in Japanese women with female pattern hair loss over 12 months. ([The Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19239555/))
- Topical application of a disodium adenosine monophosphate-based formulation reduced wrinkles and hyperpigmentation while improving hydration, barrier function, skin lifting, and epidermal turnover in female participants. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42278371/))
- Adenosine and cordycepin stimulate the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway through adenosine receptor and PKA activation, promoting cell proliferation, migration, and growth factor secretion in cultured dermal fibroblasts. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34070360/))

## What reviewers say

Most find the lightweight texture effective for smoothing bumps and clearing breakouts, though some users find the small tube size expensive and the natural scent off-putting.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces redness (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive for size (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight consistency (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Smooths texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts/Purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Causes irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Product pilling (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Paula's Choice Azelaic Acid Booster a great fit for oily skin?

This product is a great fit for your oily skin because it uses azelaic acid and salicylic acid to control oily shine and help with pores. It also includes soothing ingredients like licorice root extract and allantoin to calm redness and keep your skin feeling smooth and comfortable without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

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

This treatment is a great fit for oily skin because it uses azelaic acid and salicylic acid to control oil and gently exfoliate. Licorice root extract and allantoin also help calm redness and create a smoother skin tone without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Azelaic Acid do for oily skin?

Azelaic acid helps calm acne and clear out pores without changing how much oil your skin makes. It targets multiple causes of breakouts and helps fade dark spots left behind by pimples.
Sources: [Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34731527/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica. Supplementum, 1989](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2475995/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for oily skin?

Salicylic acid helps oily skin by reducing excess oil and keeping pores clear. It may also improve overall skin hydration while managing breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. You can start using it once a week, and if your skin handles it well, you may carefully use it more often.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying the treatment first in your routine, but you should introduce them gradually to avoid possible irritation. Because both products help clear pores and smooth skin, using them together requires watching how your skin feels and scaling back if redness occurs.

### How often should I use this treatment?

Start by using this treatment once a week in the evening, and if your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. It helps control oily shine, clears out pores, and calms redness without harsh irritation.

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

This treatment is a great fit for oily skin because azelaic acid and salicylic acid help regulate oil and clear out pores. It is unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts, as it avoids harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like allantoin and bisabolol.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €35.29 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €169.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [CeraVe CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €38.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €49.00 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B09S9R72XB?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Azelaic Acid, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Dimethicone, Salicylic Acid, Adenosine, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract, Allantoin, Bisabolol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, 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/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-skin