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

**Lovi Fit: High fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

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

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your normal skin with sensitivity, this product effectively addresses redness and evens skin tone with azelaic acid and licorice root extract, which calm inflammation and brighten. Salicylic acid also helps regulate skin cell turnover, further supporting your skin's needs.
- Glycerin, allantoin, and bisabolol provide essential hydration and soothing benefits, complementing the primary actives and enhancing overall skin comfort.
- The formulation is safe for your skin, containing no harsh or prohibited ingredients that would cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 application of Glycyrrhiza glabra and Sophora japonica flavonoid-rich fractions individually and in combination significantly increased the wound healing rate and reduced oxidative stress compared to wound and Nolaver-treated groups. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37049756/))
- 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 your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster a great fit for sensitive skin?

Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster is a great fit for sensitive skin because azelaic acid and licorice root extract calm redness and even your skin tone. Glycerin, allantoin, and bisabolol add comforting hydration, while the formula avoids harsh ingredients that may cause irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/)

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

Azelaic acid and licorice root extract make this treatment a great fit by calming redness and brightening sensitive skin. Salicylic acid helps keep skin clear, while glycerin, allantoin, and bisabolol add soothing hydration and comfort.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/)

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

Azelaic acid helps calm sensitive, red, or easily irritated skin by soothing inflammation and reducing redness. It is generally well-tolerated and is unlikely to cause severe reactions, making it a gentle option for skin that flares up easily.
Sources: [Experimental Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20545756/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21637903/)

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

Salicylic acid may cause irritation on sensitive skin, so it requires careful use and good sun protection to keep skin comfortable. A product for this skin type needs gentle, soothing ingredients and a mild formula that respects the skin barrier.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10233334/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14617432/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying the treatment first and then following with your retinol on separate nights or spaced carefully to keep sensitive skin calm and comfortable.

### How often should I use this treatment?

Start by using this treatment once a week in your evening routine, and carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results. Azelaic acid and licorice root extract help calm redness and even your tone, while glycerin, allantoin, and bisabolol soothe and hydrate your skin.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/)

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on sensitive skin, as it contains salicylic acid to help keep pores clear and has a safe formulation without harsh ingredients. It may cause mild irritation in rare cases, but ingredients like glycerin, allantoin, and bisabolol help soothe and comfort the skin.

### 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 sensitive skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €57.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €129.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €35.10 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.59 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Pixi Milky Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pixi/milky-tonic/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €30.10 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/broad-spectrum-spf-50-mineral-sunscreen-fluid-for-face/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.21 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.it: €49.00 (https://www.amazon.it/dp/B09S9R72XB?tag=lovi-care-web-product09-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 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/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/sensitive-skin