Advanced Retinoid Care for Clearer, Healthier-Looking Skin Clear skin shouldn't come at the expense of a healthy skin barrier. Skinbetter Science® AlphaRet® Clearing Serum is one of my favorite recommendations for acne-prone clients because it combines the power of Skinbetter's patented AlphaRet® technology with ingredients that help improve the appearance of blemishes, congestion, uneven texture, and post-acne marks—all while keeping the skin hydrated and comfortable. If you've struggled to tolerate traditional retinoids because they leave your skin feeling dry, irritated, or flaky, this is the product I reach for most often. It delivers visible results while being incredibly elegant on the skin. Why I Recommend It One of the biggest challenges with acne is finding products that are effective without overwhelming the skin. Many acne treatments leave the skin feeling stripped, irritated, or dehydrated, making it difficult to stay consistent. AlphaRet Clearing Serum takes a different approach by combining acne support, gentle exfoliation, hydration, and healthy-aging benefits into one treatment. This is one of the products I recommend most often in my treatment room because it helps clients achieve clearer skin while supporting a healthier skin barrier. The Science Behind AlphaRet® Clearing AlphaRet® technology combines a retinoid with an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) in a unique formulation that helps improve the appearance of breakouts, uneven texture, and visible signs of aging with less irritation than many traditional retinoids. This multitasking formula also includes ingredients that help support hydration and the skin barrier, making it an excellent option for clients who have struggled to tolerate prescription-strength or traditional retinol products. Key Benefits Helps improve the appearance of active breakouts Supports clearer-looking skin Helps reduce the appearance of clogged pores and congestion Smooths rough texture Softens the appearance of post-acne marks Supports healthier-looking skin without excessive dryness Hydrates while helping renew the skin Helps improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture over time Ideal For Acne-prone skin Adult acne Congested skin Combination and oily skin Clients new to retinoids Clients who struggle to tolerate traditional retinol Breakout-prone skin with early signs of aging How to Use Apply in the evening after cleansing and treatment serums. If you are new to retinoids, begin using 2–3 evenings per week and gradually increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day while using retinoids. Recommended evening routine: Cleanse Treatment serums AlphaRet® Clearing Serum Moisturizer if needed Katarina's Honest Take This is one of my favorite acne products because it proves that effective acne care doesn't have to be harsh. If you've tried retinol in the past and couldn't tolerate the dryness or irritation, this is the product I usually recommend first. It helps improve breakouts while keeping the skin feeling hydrated and supported, making it much easier to stay consistent. Healthy skin is balanced skin—and consistency always wins over aggressive routines. Pair It With For my favorite acne-supporting routine, pair AlphaRet® Clearing Serum with: Skinbetter Science® Cleansing Gel to gently cleanse without disrupting the skin barrier. SIV Biome Balancing Serum to support a healthy microbiome and calm visible inflammation. Skinbetter Science® Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment to provide lightweight hydration and help maintain a healthy skin barrier. A daily broad-spectrum SPF to protect your skin and maintain your results. Beautiful skin isn't created by stripping it—it's created by supporting it with the right products, used consistently.
