# CeraVe Acne Control Gel for oily skin **Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.** Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High. Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates. Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/cerave) Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums) This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app. Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better. ## Why this fit - Offers moderate exfoliation for your oily skin, as glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid work to decongest pores and manage oiliness. Niacinamide further supports oil regulation, though the hydration provided by glycerin and sodium hyaluronate is not a primary concern for your oily shine. - The formula is safe for your oily skin, with no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation. - This product is suitable for acne-prone skin, providing general skincare benefits that support your skin's needs. ## Fit by skin type - [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin): Average (this page) - [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/dry-skin): Low - [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/combination-skin): Average - [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/sensitive-skin): Average - [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/acne-prone-skin): Average - [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/dark-spots): Average - [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/mature-skin): Average - [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution - [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior ## Key ingredients Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Niacinamide, 3 Essential Ceramides ## What the research says - A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)) - Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)) - The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)) - Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)) - Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/)) - Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/)) - Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/)) - Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/)) - Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/)) - Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/)) - Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/)) - A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/)) - Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/)) - Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/)) - Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/)) ## What reviewers say Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily and acne-prone skin report that this gel effectively reduces active breakouts, hormonal cysts, and blackheads while smoothing skin texture. Some users experience significant clearing within days, while others report initial purging or dryness that requires a consistent moisturizing routine to manage. - Liked: Clears acne (mostly mentioned) - Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned) - Liked: Lightweight formula (often mentioned) - Liked: Gentle for many (sometimes noted) - Disliked: Causes dryness (sometimes noted) - Disliked: Small size (sometimes noted) - Disliked: Initial purging (rarely noted) - Disliked: Sticky residue (rarely noted) ## How to apply - Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well. - Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results. - Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product. - Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night. - Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time. - Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4 ## Questions and answers ### How well does CeraVe Acne Control Gel work for oily skin? CeraVe Acne Control Gel works reasonably well for oily skin by using salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid to clear pores and manage shine. It is safe and helps control oil, though an oily skin type typically needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, and ferulic acid combined with soothing agents to better balance oil and support skin health without clogging pores. Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/) ### Which ingredients make this treatment a good fit for oily skin? Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid decongest pores and manage oiliness, while niacinamide helps regulate oil. To work best for oily skin, this type of product also needs ingredients like zinc PCA and soothing extracts that control sebum, promote a healthy glow, and keep the skin comfortable without clogging pores. Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/) ### What does Salicylic Acid do for oily skin? Salicylic acid helps oily skin by reducing excess oil and keeping pores clear. It may also improve overall skin hydration while managing breakouts. Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/) ### What does Glycolic Acid do for oily skin? Glycolic acid helps clear away dead skin and excess oil for a smooth, clean feel. It gently removes buildup from the surface, which keeps pores clear and skin looking fresh. Sources: [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37894698/), [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21029205/) ### Where does this treatment go in a skincare routine for oily skin? This treatment goes in the evening routine for oily skin, as treatments with actives are placed at night for simplicity and safety around sun exposure. It is safe for oily skin and unlikely to cause irritation. ### Can I use it with retinol, and in what order? This product works well on your oily skin, though an oily skin routine also needs products with ingredients that clear pores and control oiliness safely without heavy hydration. ### How often should I use it? Start using this treatment once a week in the evening, and if your oily skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often. Oily skin of this type needs exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid to clear pores and manage oiliness, along with niacinamide to help regulate oil. Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/) ### Can this treatment clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin? This treatment is unlikely to clog pores and may cause initial purging at a low likelihood. While it helps clear oiliness, an oily skin type often benefits more from a formula with stronger oil control and targeted acne-fighting ingredients. Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/) ### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free? Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin. ## Alternatives for oily skin - [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon - [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon - [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — AED 89.30 at Amazon ## Pairs well with - Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 at Amazon - Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 at Amazon - Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon ## Where to buy No store in United Arab Emirates has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none. ## Ingredients Water, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Chlorphenesin, Disodium Edta, Hydroxypropyl Guar, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Phytosphingosine, Benzoic Acid ## About the Lovi Fit Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes. Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning. Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board). Page built Nov 8, 2026. More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt ## This page in other countries - United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin - United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/acne-control-gel/for/oily-skin (this page)