# Bayer Skinoren Cream 20% for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/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 the Netherlands.

Brand: [Bayer](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/bayer)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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 your acne, blemishes, and breakouts due to the high concentration of azelaic acid, which effectively reduces inflammation and combats bacteria, complemented by glycerin to maintain skin hydration.
- The formulation is highly suitable for your combination skin, with azelaic acid providing anti-inflammatory and mild exfoliating benefits while glycerin ensures adequate moisture.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your acne-prone skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components like glycerin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Azelaic Acid, Benzoic Acid, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- Azelaic acid 15% gel showed comparable efficacy to adapalene 0.1% gel in reducing lesions, severity, and Dermatology Life Quality Index in women with adult acne, with significantly lower dryness and scaling, and demonstrated superiority during maintenance compared to no further treatment. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25399481/))
- Trioxsalen bath PUVA therapy suppressed nonimmunologic immediate contact reactions to benzoic acid and methyl nicotinate in 12 dermatologic patients, with the suppressive effect intensifying during therapy. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 1989](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2583908/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## What reviewers say

A significant number of reviewers note that patience is required due to a slow initial working period and common side effects like intense itching and dryness upon application.

- Liked: Clears active acne (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Itching and stinging (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying and flaking (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces redness (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Smooths skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial purging phase (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow onset (sometimes 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 Skinoren Cream 20% a great fit for acne-prone skin?

Skinoren Cream 20% is a great fit because its high concentration of azelaic acid helps calm breakouts and fights bacteria, while glycerin keeps your skin hydrated. This combination provides excellent treatment for blemishes while maintaining a very safe profile that is unlikely to irritate your skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This cream is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it contains azelaic acid to target blemishes and reduce redness, along with glycerin to keep your skin hydrated. Azelaic acid helps calm breakouts while fighting bacteria, and the formula avoids harsh ingredients to keep your skin comfortable and soft.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/)

### What does Azelaic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Azelaic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by fighting bacteria and calming redness, while also fading dark spots left behind by breakouts. It targets multiple causes of acne at once to keep your skin smooth and even-toned.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26355614/), [Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38282869/)

### What does Benzoic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Benzoic acid helps target bacteria linked to breakouts and supports a clear complexion. It has a safe profile with a low likelihood of causing irritation when used as directed.
Sources: [Phytotherapy Research, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25219371/), [Expert Opinion on Drug Safety, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32347138/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, keeping it simple and safe around sun exposure. You can start using it once a week and slowly build up if your skin tolerates it well.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying them on alternating nights to help prevent skin irritation. If you use them together, apply retinol first, let it absorb fully, and then apply this cream.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/), [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This treatment is used in the evening routine, starting at once a week to see how your skin tolerates it. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often.

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

This cream is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it reduces blemishes and fights bacteria while keeping your skin hydrated. It is unlikely to cause irritation, though you may experience some itching, stinging, or mild breakouts at first as your skin adjusts.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/)

### 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

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €35.80 at Amazon
- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €99.41 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Azelaic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Palmitate, Water, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Cocoglycerides, Benzoic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate Malate, Cetearyl Nonanoate, Cetearyl Octanoate, Stearoyl Macrogolglycerides, Peg-30 Stearate
## 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/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/bayer/skinoren-cream-20/for/acne-prone-skin