# Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-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: [Kate Somerville](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/kate-somerville)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent exfoliation for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts due to lactic acid and salicylic acid, which chemically exfoliate the skin and are highly suitable for your combination skin by clearing pores.
- The presence of papaya fruit and pumpkin ferment extracts further aids in refining skin texture and promoting a smoother complexion.
- The formula is safe for your combination skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and minimizes irritation risks.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Papain, Bromelain, Aloe Barbadensis

## 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/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical papain treatment may slightly decrease pain within 30 minutes in humans stung by Chrysaora chinensis compared to placebo. ([Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26827260/))
- Reflux extraction of Carica papaya leaves yielded higher antioxidant capacity and superior in vitro wound-healing activities including fibroblast proliferation, cell migration, and collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts compared to ultrasonic-assisted extraction and agitation. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31991676/))
- Carica papaya leaf extracts obtained via supercritical fluid and conventional methods demonstrated antioxidant and cytoprotective effects on skin fibroblasts against oxidative stress, driven by their respective lipophilic and hydrophilic constituents. ([Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33803330/))
- Oral bromelain slightly reduced pain compared to controls (mean difference -0.27) and topical bromelain reduced time to complete debridement by 6.89 days, with no major health risks reported. ([Nutrition and Health, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37157782/))
- An upcycled pineapple leaf fibre crosspolymer forms a physical barrier that protects against environmental aggressors while providing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antipollution, UV protection, hydration, and hair benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41524117/))
- A coaxial electrospun core-shell nanofiber scaffold delivering bromelain and salvianolic acid B demonstrated sustained drug release, in vitro endothelial cell migration, increased capillary formation in an in ovo assay, and in vivo efficacy for skin regeneration and wound healing. ([Biomedical Materials, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28580904/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this treatment is widely praised for delivering instant radiance and baby soft skin through a dual-action exfoliation process. It is highly effective for smoothing texture and minimizing pores. However, users with sensitive skin frequently find the tingling sensation and potent ingredients too harsh, leading to redness or irritation.

- Liked: Instant glow (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Pore minimization (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast results (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation & sensitivity (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Small quantity (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying effect (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant PM once a week to start, and gradually increase if your combination skin tolerates it well. Always apply SPF the next morning to protect your clear skin.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer step. This ensures the treatment targets blemishes effectively.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin without rubbing. Let it absorb for a minute before moving to the next step.
- Apply the exfoliant on clean, dry skin to help control breakouts safely. Since your skin is not sensitive, this dry application method ensures good product absorption.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Do not mix this exfoliant with other strong acids in the same routine.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This product is a great fit because it uses lactic acid and salicylic acid to clear pores and help manage breakouts. Papaya and pumpkin extracts further refine skin texture for a smoother complexion while keeping irritation risks low.
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 exfoliant a good fit for acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it contains lactic acid and salicylic acid to clear out pores and help smooth out breakouts. Fruit enzymes like papain and bromelain further help refine your skin texture to leave it feeling smooth.
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 Lactic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Lactic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions with regular topical use. It works well to smooth and calm the skin while managing breakouts safely over time.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17656910/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and calming redness without causing many side effects. It works by dipping deep into pores to clear out blockages and control oil, making it a reliable choice for keeping skin smooth and clear.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant treatment goes in your evening routine once a week. You can carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

This exfoliant is unlikely to work well alongside a retinol treatment on acne-prone skin, as combining potent actives may cause excessive irritation. It is best to use them on different nights or keep retinol for evenings when you skip strong chemical exfoliants.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this treatment once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. This helps clear pores and smooth breakouts while keeping irritation risks low.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14725662/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33448104/)

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it uses lactic acid and salicylic acid to clear out pores and help keep skin smooth. It is a great fit for acne-prone skin, though some users may experience mild irritation.
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?

It contains fragrance (eugenol, limonene, and linalool) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for acne-prone 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/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior 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/acne-prone-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/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 91.81 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 194.99 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B002M3NV2C?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Lactic Acid, Silica, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Pectin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carica Papaya Fruit, Ceteareth-20, Cetyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Dehydroxanthan Gum, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Salicylic Acid, Lactobacillus Pumpkin Extract Ferment, Alcohol Denat, Sorbic Acid, Cinnamal, Honey Mel Miel, Bergamot Oil Fruit, Eugenol, Potassium Sorbate, Limonene, Linalool, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Lavender Oil, Beta-Carotene, Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Bromelain, Papain, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cinnamomum Cassia Oil Leaf, Acetic Acid, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Geranium Oil, Rosewood Extract Wood, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil
## 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/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-intensive-exfoliating-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)