PCA SKIN Intensive Clarity Treatment Retinol + Salicylic Acid Serum 0.5% Retinol, 2% BHA for Acne-Prone Skin 1 oz

PCA SKIN Intensive Clarity Treatment is a targeted nighttime serum combining 0.5% pure vitamin A (retinol) with 2% salicylic acid to help reduce breakouts, refine texture, and support clearer-looking skin.

This concentrated gel-serum is formulated for acne-prone and oily complexions that benefit from both a cell-turnover boost and pore-clearing exfoliation. The formula pairs stabilized retinol with salicylic acid, niacinamide and retinopeptide, plus plant stem cell extracts and the OmniSome delivery system to help transport actives deeper into the skin. PCA SKIN designs this product without synthetic fragrances or parabens and recommends sunscreen during daytime use because retinol increases skin’s sensitivity to UV exposure.

How does this serum help reduce breakouts and oiliness?

The dual-action combination targets two common causes of inflammatory and non-inflammatory blemishes: buildup inside pores and sluggish skin cell turnover. Salicylic acid exfoliates inside the pore to help clear excess sebum and debris, while retinol encourages more regular cellular renewal to reduce future congestion.

• 2% salicylic acid helps exfoliate pore linings and remove trapped oil
• 0.5% pure vitamin A (retinol) supports skin cell turnover and smoother texture
• Niacinamide helps balance oil production and support barrier function
• Retinopeptide and plant stem cell extract complement retinol for overall skin resilience

What should I expect when I start using it at night?

During the first few weeks you may notice mild dryness, flaking or increased sensitivity as skin adapts to retinol and BHA exfoliation. These responses are common as cellular turnover accelerates; they usually settle as the skin builds tolerance. Begin slowly and follow the recommended pea-sized nightly application to minimize irritation.

• Start every other night, increasing frequency as tolerated
• Use a pea-sized amount for the entire face after cleansing
• Pair with a gentle moisturizer on drier areas if needed
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning to protect renewed skin

How does the OmniSome delivery and ingredient blend improve results?

OmniSome delivery technology helps shuttle active molecules deeper into skin layers so they can work more effectively where congestion and cellular turnover occur. Alongside delivery benefits, peptide and plant-derived ingredients support skin resilience while niacinamide calms and refines tone.

• OmniSome improves penetration for targeted actives like retinol
• Retinopeptide complements vitamin A for renewal without added harshness
• Plant stem cell extracts add antioxidant support to the formula
• Fragrance- and paraben-free base reduces unnecessary irritants

How should I fit this into my existing skincare routine?

Use this as your dedicated nighttime treatment after cleansing and before any heavier creams. Because retinol and salicylic acid are active ingredients, avoid layering with other strong exfoliants at the same time; instead, introduce new actives one at a time and listen to your skin.

• Cleanse, then apply a pea-sized amount to dry skin at night
• Do not combine with other retinoids or high-strength acids on the same night
• Follow morning routines with gentle cleanser, moisturizer and SPF
• Taper frequency for sensitive skin and consult a dermatologist if needed

Who is this for: PCA SKIN Intensive Clarity Treatment is suited to adults with oily, combination or acne-prone skin who want a science-backed nighttime serum to address breakouts, congestion and uneven texture. It is designed for users willing to introduce retinol gradually, adhere to daytime sun protection, and avoid simultaneous use of other strong chemical exfoliants. This product is not formulated for children, pregnant or nursing people without professional guidance.

Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isododecane, Niacinamide, Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate, Dimethicone, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isoamyl Laurate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Sodium Polyacrylate, Polysilicone-11, Bakuchiol, Maltodextrin, Phenoxyethanol, Polyglyceryl-10 Dipalmitate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Hexylresorcinol, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Ethyl Linoleate, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Caprylyl Glycol, Trideceth-6, Xanthan Gum, Chlorphenesin, Pentylene Glycol, Isoamyl Cocoate, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Citrate, Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Leaf Cell Culture Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Myristoyl Nonapeptide-3, Citric Acid