# Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant 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/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/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 Kingdom.

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/exfoliators)

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 products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers highly effective exfoliation for your oily skin, as mandelic acid and lactic acid work to smooth texture and regulate desquamation, targeting your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The inclusion of Myrica Cerifera Fruit Extract and Akebia Quinata Stem Extract further supports oiliness control and provides a refined complexion.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid, Myrica Cerifera Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus Lysate Ferment, Achillea Millefolium Extract

## What the research says

- Treatment with 45% mandelic acid peel showed nearly equal overall efficacy as 30% salicylic acid peel in patients with mild-to-moderate facial acne vulgaris, but with fewer adverse effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/))
- Commonly used chemical peels showed no significant differences in effectiveness for acne vulgaris in most comparisons, though combined salicylic and mandelic acid peeling was superior to glycolic acid and glycolic acid was superior to placebo, based on twelve randomized controlled trials. ([BMJ Open, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29705755/))
- Chemical peels using 35% glycolic acid, 20% salicylic-10% mandelic acid, and phytic acid reduce acne scores by 70.55%, 74.14%, and 69.7% respectively, and significantly decline the postacne hyperpigmentation index in Asian patients with mild to moderate acne. ([Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31619887/))
- Treatment with 30% lactic acid peel showed a significantly greater reduction in pigmentation and higher patient satisfaction compared to 30% mandelic acid peel in patients with periorbital melanosis. ([Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41051381/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- Myricetin nanofibers (MyNF) enhanced water solubility and skin penetration, reduced cytotoxicity, and showed better antioxidant and photoprotective activity than raw myricetin in a UVB-induced HaCaT keratinocytes damage model. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36986766/))
- Myricetin suppresses UVB-induced wrinkle formation, epidermal thickening, and MMP-9 expression by inhibiting Raf kinase activity in mouse skin. ([Biochemical Pharmacology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20093107/))
- Myricetin suppresses cell proliferation, induces cell cycle arrest and calcium influx, enhances differentiation markers, and promotes tight junction formation in mouse primary keratinocytes via TRPV4 channel activation. ([International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39907058/))
- Probiotic-derived lotion successfully reduced inflammatory acne lesion counts and erythema index comparably to 2.5% benzoyl peroxide in patients with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris, while causing fewer side effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35384257/))
- Topical application of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 enhanced collagen synthesis and SPTSSA gene expression while reducing melanin synthesis, Staphylococcus aureus biofilm, and Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, leading to clinical improvements in skin moisture, color, spots, wrinkles, UV spots, and porphyrins in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/))
- Lactobacillus plantarum extracellular vesicles modulated extracellular matrix related gene expression in vitro and suppressed wrinkle formation and pigmentation in clinical trials. ([Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35723322/))
- Topical application of yarrow oil extracts demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by successfully restoring skin pH, hydration, and erythema index to baseline values in artificially irritated skin of volunteers. ([Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163113/))
- Treatment with 2% Achillea millefolium extract significantly improved the appearance of wrinkles and pores compared with placebo in human skin over a 2-month period. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21711463/))
- Achillea millefolium essential oil demonstrated bacteriostatic activity against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, and topical treatment with 1% and 2% AMEO significantly increased wound closure percentages and hydroxyproline content compared to the non-treatment group in rats. ([Journal of Pharmacopuncture, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37405118/))

## What reviewers say

It is frequently reported to improve skin texture, impart a noticeable glow, and reduce redness and dark spots without causing irritation. Some users dislike the natural scent, and a small number experienced initial breakouts or found the price and bottle size to be less than ideal.

- Liked: Extremely gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens and glows (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight feel (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces redness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. size (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant as part of your PM routine once a week to start, increasing frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but before your final moisturizer step.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product directly onto clean, dry skin for the best results against breakouts.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and always use a daily SPF since exfoliating makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Paula's Choice 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant is a great fit because mandelic acid and lactic acid smooth texture and clear breakouts while keeping oiliness under control. It is also unlikely to cause irritation since it leaves out harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [BMJ Open, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29705755/)

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

Mandelic acid and lactic acid make this exfoliant a great fit because they smooth texture and help clear breakouts on oily skin. Myrica Cerifera Fruit Extract and Akebia Quinata Stem Extract also support oil control for a more refined complexion.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [BMJ Open, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29705755/)

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

Mandelic acid helps clear breakouts and manage oil on acne-prone skin with a lower chance of irritation than many other acids. It gently removes dead skin cells to keep pores clean and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41715896/)

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

Lactic acid helps oily acne-prone skin by gently clearing pores and reducing breakouts, which supports a smoother and clearer face. Using appropriate cosmetic acids helps calm red bumps and works well alongside acne treatments.
Sources: [Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift Fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und Verwandte Gebiete, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20107752/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37228782/)

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

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine as a treatment step, used once a week to start. You can carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results.

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

You can use this exfoliant with retinol by applying them on alternate nights to help prevent any extra irritation on oily acne-prone skin. If you do use them in the same routine, apply this exfoliant first on clean skin, let it absorb fully, and then follow with your retinol.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. It helps smooth texture and target breakouts while keeping your skin calm and safe from irritation.

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

This exfoliant is a great fit for oily acne-prone skin because its acids smooth texture and help clear breakouts, though initial breakouts may happen as your skin adjusts. The formula's gentle ingredients control oil without harshness, making it unlikely to clog pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [BMJ Open, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29705755/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £25.95 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £25.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £36.00 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRDWPGG6?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, 2,3-Butanediol, Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Myrica Cerifera Fruit Extract, Akebia Quinata Stem Extract Chocolate Vine Stem Extract, Prunus Lannesiana Flower Extract Cherry Blossom Flower Extract, Lactobacillus Lysate Ferment, Saccharomyces Lysate, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Saccharide Isomerate, Arginine, Hydroxyacetophenone, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Phytate, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Benzoate
## 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/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin