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

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

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

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

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers high suitability for your oily skin, as azelaic acid and salicylic acid work to reduce redness, even skin tone, and provide moderate exfoliation to address your acne, blemishes, and breakouts. Licorice root extract and bisabolol further calm inflammation, complementing the seboregulating actions of these key ingredients.
- Adenosine and allantoin contribute to skin hydration and renewal, supporting the overall health of your oily skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

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

## 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patches showed similar or better efficacy on skin wrinkles, dermal density, elasticity, and hydration compared to adenosine cream in 22 female subjects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29574973/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

This treatment is a great fit because azelaic acid and salicylic acid reduce redness, even skin tone, and gently clear breakouts on oily skin. Licorice root extract and bisabolol help calm inflammation, while soothing ingredients keep the risk of irritation very low.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Azelaic acid and salicylic acid make this treatment a great fit by helping to reduce redness, clear breakouts, and smooth your oily skin. Licorice root extract and bisabolol calm inflammation, while other soothing ingredients ensure an excellent safety profile without harsh irritation.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Azelaic acid helps calm angry blemishes, clears out pores, and fades leftover dark marks on oily, acne-prone skin. It targets multiple root causes of breakouts by keeping bacteria in check and reducing swelling, which makes it very helpful for everyday management.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear breakouts and keeps oily skin balanced by reducing oil levels and calming inflammation. It is well suited for oily, acne-prone skin because it targets pimples while helping keep the skin hydrated and protected.
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 acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening provides simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure for oily acne-prone skin.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying your retinol first and following with this treatment, or by using them on alternate nights to keep your skin calm. Because both ingredients help clear breakouts and smooth skin, using them together carefully helps you avoid dryness and irritation.

### How often should I use this treatment?

Start using this treatment once a week in the evening, and if your skin handles it well, you can carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps prevent irritation while managing blemishes and breakouts.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on oily skin, as azelaic acid and salicylic acid work to reduce redness and provide moderate exfoliation while licorice root extract calms inflammation. It is very safe for this skin type with a low likelihood of irritation, thanks to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### 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 acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clean-and-clear/persa-gel-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $5.43 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.08 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $42.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V4PNAI4?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&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-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/10-azelaic-acid-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin