Go beyond retouching with built-in LUTs, cinematic color wheels, and a “Match Look” tool that analyzes any reference image and applies its color signature to your work.
Magic Retouch Pro is compatible with Adobe Photoshop CC versions (generally CC 2015 through to the latest 2024 updates). Installation involves a proprietary installer that places the plugin in the correct extensions folder.
Once installed, it is accessed via the "Window > Extensions" menu. The activation process usually requires a license key, which ties the software to a specific machine ID, ensuring security for the developers and stability for the user.
Platform: Windows & macOS Category: Photoshop Plugin / Retouching Utility
At its core, Magic Retouch Pro is not a singular filter; it is a comprehensive retouching suite condensed into a user-friendly interface. Unlike actions that simply playback recorded steps, Magic Retouch Pro utilizes advanced algorithms to analyze image data pixel-by-pixel. Go beyond retouching with built-in LUTs, cinematic color
The "Pro 43" iteration (referencing the version number within the specific distribution lifecycle) represents a refined stability in the plugin’s evolution. It operates as a non-destructive panel within Photoshop. This is a critical distinction for professionals: it does not permanently alter your original pixel data. Instead, it creates layered adjustments, masks, and blend modes that can be tweaked or discarded, preserving the integrity of the raw file.
Version 4.3 includes advanced algorithms for skin tone unification. It analyzes the image to identify redness, yellowness, or uneven pigmentation, allowing the user to normalize skin tones across the subject’s face and body with slider-based controls.
Let’s simulate a real-world fashion edit using the Magic Retouch Pro 43 plugin.
Step 1: Raw Conversion (1 minute) Open your RAW file in Camera Raw or Lightroom. Do basic exposure and white balance. Do not sharpen the skin. Export as a TIFF or PSD to Photoshop. Once installed, it is accessed via the "Window
Step 2: Instant Cleanup (30 seconds) Open the Magic Retouch Pro panel. Click Smart Heal. Brush over zits, flyaways, and dust spots. The algorithm samples texture, not just color.
Step 3: Frequency Separation (30 seconds) Click FS Pro. The plugin creates a "Color" layer and a "Texture" layer in a group. Go to the Color layer. Use a soft brush set to 20% opacity to paint over skin discoloration (red noses, dark under-eyes). Go to the Texture layer. Use the Healing Brush to remove wrinkles without moving color.
Step 4: Dodge & Burn (1 minute) Click D&B Panel. The plugin creates a 50% grey overlay layer. Use the white brush to dodge (brighten) the forehead, bridge of the nose, and cheekbones. Use the black brush to burn (darken) the jawline and sides of the nose. This sculpts the face non-destructively.
Step 5: Eye & Lip Polish (30 seconds) Select the Face Tools tab. Click Eye Doctor. The plugin adds a subtle brightness to the sclera (white of the eye) and increases iris contrast. Click Lip Velvet to add a matte, non-greasy shine to the lips. it creates layered adjustments
Step 6: Final Color & Export (1 minute) Click Skin Tone Equalizer to even out the neck vs. face color. Then go to Export > Instagram 4:5. The plugin will resize, sharpen, and save a JPEG to your desktop while keeping your original PSD open.
Total time: ~5 minutes per hero image. Using manual Photoshop tools, this process would take 20-30 minutes.
Magic Retouch Pro is divided into several distinct modules, each targeting a specific pain point in the beauty retouching workflow.