# Neutrogena Stubborn Marks PM Treatment for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/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 Italy.

Brand: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/best/serums)

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 serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent treatment for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, as retinol and sodium hyaluronate work to plump and smooth texture, which is highly suitable for your combination skin.
- The presence of retinol and ascorbic acid promotes skin renewal and aids in fading post-acne marks, addressing your concerns with acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The formula is safe for your acne-prone skin, containing soothing ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and lacking harsh components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol Sa, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf Extract

## 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/))
- Hyaluronic acid extracts are safe and efficacious products for skin repair when used in tissue regeneration alone or in combination with herbal or Western medicine. ([Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877441/))
- 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/))
- 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 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 treatments including podophyllotoxin, sodium nitrite, myrtle leaf extract, phenol, salicylic acid with lactic acid, SB206, and VP-102 were more efficacious than control in patients with molluscum contagiosum, whereas cantharidin, potassium hydroxide, and imiquimod showed varying degrees of efficacy. ([Clinics in Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34920817/))
- Topical Myrtle solution significantly reduced inflammatory lesions and acne severity index compared to 1% clindamycin solution in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Pharmacopuncture, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33408898/))

## What reviewers say

Users with acne-prone skin report that this treatment effectively fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and dark spots, often showing visible results within a few weeks. While many praise its ability to smooth skin texture and even out tone, a significant number of users experience initial dryness, flaking, or stinging as their skin adjusts to the retinol formula.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Small quantity (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Prevents breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective on wrinkles (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Neutrogena Stubborn Marks PM Treatment a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This treatment is a great fit because retinol and ascorbic acid promote skin renewal to help fade post-acne marks. It also includes soothing sodium hyaluronate to keep acne-prone skin comfortable without harsh components.

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

Retinol and ascorbic acid are the key ingredients that make this treatment a great fit because they promote skin renewal and help fade post-acne marks. Additionally, soothing sodium hyaluronate keeps acne-prone skin comfortable while minimizing fine lines.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Retinol helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing blemishes and keeping pores unclogged, though it may cause some dryness or flaking initially. This type of product works best when paired with soothing and hydrating ingredients to keep the skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38787441/)

### What does Vitamin C do for acne-prone skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out uneven tones, and fade dark spots left behind by breakouts. It is also packed with antioxidants that may help protect acne-prone skin from everyday environmental stress.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37128827/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39231081/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your cleansing toner and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening helps keep your skin safe around sun exposure while working to fade post-acne marks.

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

It is best to use this treatment and benzoyl peroxide at different times, such as applying benzoyl peroxide in the morning and this retinol treatment at night. Combining them both at the same time may cause too much dryness and irritation for your skin.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is meant for your evening routine, starting at once a week and slowly working up in frequency if your skin feels comfortable. Using it this way helps renew your skin and fade marks while keeping your skin calm and safe from irritation.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it is safe for acne-prone skin and contains soothing ingredients. However, it may cause initial purging as retinol promotes skin renewal.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Stearyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €37.99 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €129.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €35.10 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.43 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.06 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Ppg-15 Stearyl Ether, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Ceteareth-20, Isohexadecane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Trisiloxane, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Chlorphenesin, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf Extract, Polysorbate 20, Bht, Retinol, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ascorbic Acid, Laureth-7, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin