# Paula's Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/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 Germany.

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

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 moisturizers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your combination skin, as niacinamide helps regulate oil production while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide essential hydration without clogging pores. The inclusion of licorice root extract further supports soothing effects beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- The blend of ceramides and panthenol strengthens the skin barrier and aids in calming inflammation, contributing to overall skin health.
- The product is safe for your skin, free from harsh ingredients and containing beneficial components like licorice root extract and niacinamide.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Blueberry Fruit Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Ceramide Np, Hydrolyzed Pumpkin Seedcake

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Applying a topical product containing blueberry extract and Pro-xylane following micro-focused ultrasound significantly improved global aesthetic improvement, skin elasticity, and fine lines compared to standard moisturizer in 50 patients. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40635529/))
- Topical usage of blueberries may prevent skin damage from environmental stressors by inducing an active skin response against noxious effects. ([Antioxidants, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37371992/))
- Pretreatment with blueberry extracts prevented ozone-induced ROS production, NLRP1-ASC scaffold formation, and CASP1 and IL-18 transcripts across 2D, 3D, and human skin explant models. ([Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32855770/))
- 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/))
- Topical treatment with pumpkin seed oil-loaded niosomes decreased fallen hairs by 44.42% and increased the anagen to telogen ratio by 1.4-fold after 8 weeks compared to initial conditions. ([Pharmaceuticals, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36015077/))
- Topical application of prickly pear, pumpkin, and linseed oils significantly reduced clinical signs of acute inflammation, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress in carrageenan-treated rats compared to the normal saline-treated group. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32802857/))

## What reviewers say

This lightweight gel-cream moisturizer is highly recommended for oily and acne-prone skin, effectively hydrating without causing breakouts or a greasy feel. However, users with combination or dry skin report it's not moisturizing enough, especially in colder weather, and some notice an initial scent.

- Liked: Lightweight, non-greasy (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Acne-prone skin safe (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Insufficient hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces redness, soothes (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Poor price-value (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your moisturizer twice a day in your AM and PM routines. Apply it daily to help keep breakouts under control.
- Apply after your cleanser and toner, and make sure to use your SPF right after in the morning.
- Gently spread a small amount of moisturizer over your face using soft motions. Let it absorb into the skin for a minute before getting dressed or applying makeup.
- Apply on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture. This keeps your combination skin balanced without feeling heavy.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Stop using if you feel any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Paula's Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer a great fit for acne-prone skin?

Paula's Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer is a great fit for acne-prone skin because niacinamide helps balance oil, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide hydration without clogging pores. Licorice root extract and panthenol also calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

Niacinamide helps regulate oil production while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide essential hydration without clogging pores, making this cream a great fit for acne-prone skin. Additionally, licorice root extract, ceramides, and panthenol strengthen the skin barrier and help calm redness and inflammation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Niacinamide helps acne-prone skin by reducing both inflamed and uninflamed breakouts and calming redness. It is also very helpful for keeping oily skin balanced by cutting down on excess oil production, and it is well tolerated by most people.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/), [Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38725769/)

### What does Blueberry Fruit Extract do for acne-prone skin?

Blueberry Fruit Extract helps calm red, irritated acne-prone skin and defends against daily damage from the environment. It is packed with antioxidants that soothe the skin and keep it feeling soft and balanced.
Sources: [Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19199288/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34679686/)

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

This moisturizer goes near the end of your morning and evening routines after your cleanser, toner, and any treatments. Using a moisturizer like this daily helps hydrate acne-prone skin without clogging pores while supporting your skin barrier.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

### Can I use this cream with salicylic acid, and in what order?

You can use this cream alongside salicylic acid by applying your salicylic acid treatment first and following with the moisturizer. This routine helps deliver needed hydration and calms irritation while keeping pores clear.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26293170/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day, in the morning and evening, to keep your skin hydrated and calm. Regular daily use helps maintain your skin barrier and is unlikely to clog pores.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14571069/)

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

This moisturizer is a great fit for acne-prone skin because niacinamide helps balance oil while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide lightweight hydration without clogging pores. The formula also includes ceramides and panthenol to strengthen your skin barrier and calm irritation, making it very unlikely to cause breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

Yes, you can use this moisturizing treatment around the eyes and on your body because its gentle formula hydrates and calms easily irritated areas. Ingredients like panthenol help improve moisture and soothe dry skin safely.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### Is this cream 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 acne-prone skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.67 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €36.14 at Amazon
- [ANUA Heartleaf 70% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/anua/heartleaf-70-soothing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €25.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-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/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.59 at Amazon
- SPF: [innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/daily-uv-defense-mineral-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €65.41 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €42.00 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B07SC3JQ9M?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Ethyl Macadamiate, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Propanediol, Triethylhexanoin, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Hydrolyzed Pumpkin Seedcake, Blueberry Fruit Extract, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Prunus Serotina Fruit Extract Prunus Avium Fruit Extract, Niacinamide, Tripeptide-29, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Panthenol, Sodium Pca, Adenosine, Lecithin, Arginine, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Gluconate, Citric Acid, Isohexadecane, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/clear-oil-free-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
