# Paula's Choice PRO Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-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 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 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.

One of the best serums for acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent for your combination, acne-prone skin as retinaldehyde and retinol promote skin renewal and reduce inflammation, while niacinamide and humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid regulate oil and provide hydration.
- The inclusion of bisabolol and licorice root extract further soothes your skin, enhancing the overall treatment efficacy for blemishes and breakouts.
- This formula is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of calming components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinaldehyde, Retinol, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane

## 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 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/))
- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))

## What reviewers say

Users with acne-prone and aging skin report significant improvements in skin clarity and texture, often describing the product as a "game changer" for stubborn breakouts and fine lines. While the dual-retinoid formula is praised for being surprisingly gentle and effective where other retinols failed, some users experienced an initial purging phase and noted the bright yellow formula can stain fabrics.

- Liked: Clears acne (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial purging phase (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Stains fabric yellow (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow to show results (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 Paula's Choice PRO Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment one of the best fits for acne-prone skin?

This treatment is a superior fit because retinaldehyde and retinol promote skin renewal and reduce inflammation, while niacinamide and hydrators like glycerin and hyaluronic acid balance oil and add moisture. Soothing ingredients like bisabolol and licorice root further calm blemishes and breakouts without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This treatment is a great fit because retinaldehyde and retinol renew skin and calm redness, while niacinamide and hyaluronic acid balance oil and add moisture. Soothing ingredients like bisabolol and licorice root also help keep blemishes under control.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Retinal helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing blemishes, clogged pores, and redness while improving overall skin texture. Side effects are very uncommon when using this ingredient.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42572367/), [Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10564319/)

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

Retinol helps acne-prone skin by speeding up cell turnover and clearing pores to reduce breakouts. It regulates skin growth and fights inflammation, though it may cause some mild peeling or stinging when you first start using it.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816067/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28318351/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening helps keep your skin safe around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in the morning and this treatment at night to avoid overwhelming your skin. Using them at different times of day helps reduce the chance of irritation while still letting you target both breakouts and brightness.

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment fits your acne-prone skin exceptionally well because retinaldehyde and retinol renew skin and calm redness, while niacinamide and hyaluronic acid manage oil and maintain moisture. It is safe for daily evening use, helping to keep breakouts under control without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

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

Yes, this treatment may cause an initial purging phase as the retinoids promote skin renewal and bring underlying breakouts to the surface. However, it is unlikely to clog pores because it includes ingredients that regulate oil and soothe your skin.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### 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 acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $68.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCQ8LY95?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Retinaldehyde, Retinol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Squalane, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Niacinamide, Tocopherol Vitamin E, Panthenol, Hyaluronic Acid, Allantoin, Bisabolol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract Matricaria Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Xanthan Gum, 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/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/pro-retinaldehyde-dual-retinoid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin