skinbetter science AlphaRet Clearing Serum | Retinoid Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin

Adult acne is one of the most complex skin concerns to treat: it needs active blemish control, but also anti-ageing correction, and the aggressive treatments typically used for teenage acne are far too harsh for adult skin experiencing both simultaneously. The skinbetter science AlphaRet Clearing Serum is the only product in the range designed to solve both at the same time.

Built on the patented AlphaRet molecule, it delivers retinoid-level renewal and resurfacing to address ageing, uneven texture and post-acne marks, while Salicylic Acid targets active blemishes and congestion at the source. No other serum currently available pairs these two concerns with this level of clinical precision.

Who is AlphaRet Clearing Serum best for?

• Adult acne and blemish-prone skin that is also showing signs of ageing
• Congested pores and blackheads in skin that also has fine lines or uneven texture
• Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation alongside ongoing breakouts
• Those who have tried acne treatments that worked on blemishes but accelerated skin ageing
• Those who have tried anti-ageing products that worsened breakouts
• Oily skin wanting retinoid renewal without increased pore congestion

Key ingredients and why they matter

• AlphaRet (Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate, patented): A double-conjugated retinoid combining a retinoid and Lactic Acid at a molecular level to deliver retinoid renewal, resurfacing and anti-ageing correction with significantly better tolerability than traditional retinoids or retinol
• Salicylic Acid (BHA): Penetrates inside pores to dissolve the sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria that cause active blemishes and congestion, the only acid class capable of working inside the pore lining rather than on the skin's surface
• Glycolic Acid (AHA): Works in tandem with AlphaRet to resurface the skin's surface, improve texture, fade post-acne marks and stimulate collagen production
• Niacinamide: Reduces redness, supports barrier integrity and helps regulate sebum production alongside the BHA and AHA actives

What results can you expect?

A reduction in active breakouts and congestion within 2 to 4 weeks. Improved skin texture, fading of post-acne marks and progressive anti-ageing correction over 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use. Most users notice their skin becomes progressively less oily, less prone to breakouts and more even in texture and tone over time.

How we use AlphaRet Clearing Serum at Face for Soul

As a pharmacist prescriber specialising in skin health, AlphaRet Clearing Serum is the product I reach for when a patient's skin is dealing with adult acne and ageing at the same time and they are frustrated that every product they try addresses one at the expense of the other. The combination of AlphaRet and Salicylic Acid in one serum is genuinely novel and clinically meaningful.

Build your skinbetter science acne and anti-ageing routine

Apply AlphaRet Clearing Serum in the evening after cleansing with the skinbetter science Refresh Refining Foam Cleanser. Follow with the skinbetter science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment to support barrier integrity alongside the active treatment. In the morning, apply the skinbetter science Alto Defense Serum for antioxidant protection, then a broad-spectrum SPF. The Even Tone Correcting Serum can be added in the morning to address any residual post-acne pigmentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use it every night?
Start with every other night for the first 2 to 4 weeks and build to nightly use as your skin adjusts. The AlphaRet technology makes this significantly more tolerable than standard retinol serums at equivalent strength.

Does it increase sun sensitivity?
Yes. It contains AHAs and a retinoid which may increase sun sensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF daily.

Is skinbetter science cruelty-free?
Yes. skinbetter science does not test on animals.

Is it vegan?
Yes. AlphaRet Clearing Serum is formulated without animal-derived ingredients.

How to Use

Apply to clean, dry skin on the face each evening. Start every other night and build to nightly use. Follow with moisturiser. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF the following morning.