Papa Recipe Blemish Serum Dupes & Cheaper Alternatives
From 7 Reddit threads · Updated November 5, 2026
Niacinamide and bakuchiol serum boosts glow and hydration; stings reactive skin. The catch: can sting tretinoin-compromised skin, likely from niacinamide. Here's what Redditors reach for instead.
The short answer
Best Overall AlternativeCholesterol-supported barrier repair · $21.99 · 29.6 ml
Best for AcneResearch-backed acne active; Reddit’s go-to for redness · $19.80 · 29.9 ml
#1
Best Overall Alternative
- Size: 29.6 ml
- Price per ml: $0.74/ml (original $0.07/ml)
The why
A thick, lotion-like ceramide serum with jojoba oil, squalane, cholesterol, and beta-glucan for moisture-barrier support. It shines under tretinoin on peeling, dry skin, though damaged skin can burn and acne-prone users occasionally report breakouts.
One minus
Burns on damaged or cut skin
Good forDry Skin, Sensitive Skin
“Cocokind makes great serums without niacinamide btw”
— Reddit, r/SkincareAddiction
The original, at a glance
- Why people love it
- Lightweight pump serum with a surprisingly dewy finish
- Price
- $9.99 · 149.9 ml · $0.07/ml
#2
Best for Acne
Azelaic Acid Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
Anua·Serum
See alternativesResearch-backed acne active; Reddit’s go-to for redness
- Size: 29.9 ml
- Price per ml: $0.66/ml (original $0.07/ml)
The why
This watery 10% azelaic acid serum adds panthenol, sodium hyaluronate, and centella for a beginner-friendly active targeting breakouts, redness, and leftover marks. Redditors call it gentle; studies support acne results, but sensitive or barrier-damaged skin can sting.
One minus
Can trigger burning, peeling, flushing, or whiteheads
Good forDry Skin
“Was getting really bad acne all around jawline, started Anua Azaelic Acid and it’s completely cleared up!!!”
— Reddit, r/SkincareAddiction
Other alternatives worth a look
10% OTC azelaic acid, below prescription 15% strength · 53 recs
LightweightRedness / Irritation
Featherlight, watery texture; layers cleanly under makeup · 267 recs
Combination SkinGel Texture
15% L-ascorbic acid with tocopherol and ferulic acid · 67 recs
Dark SpotsFine Lines & Wrinkles
Next-morning glow with visibly smoother texture · 63 recs
Combination SkinAcne Scarring
Browse more
Reddit's best serums by concern or ingredient list
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