# NATURIUM Retinol Complex Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-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: [NATURIUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/naturium)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums)

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent treatment for your oily skin by regulating desquamation and providing mild exfoliation with retinol and bakuchiol, which are beneficial for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.
- While glycerin and sodium hyaluronate offer general hydration, they are supportive rather than primary treatments for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The formula is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Bakuchiol, Vitamin E, Sodium Hyaluronate, Astrocaryum Murumuru Seed Butter

## What the research says

- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Topical application of all-trans-retinol induced epidermal thickening and increased retinoid binding protein expression similar to all-trans-retinoic acid in normal human skin, but without causing significant erythema or measurable retinoic acid levels. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7561157/))
- A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract, and mannitol improves inflammatory lesions, Investigator Global Assessment, and seborrhea intensity when added to adapalene 0.1% gel in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/))
- Topical application of a serum containing supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia chebula extract significantly improved barrier function, reduced redness and sensitivity, and improved wrinkles and elasticity in 34 Chinese subjects with sensitive skin after 28 days. ([Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/))
- Bakuchiol functions as an anti-aging compound through retinol-like regulation of gene expression, producing significant improvements in lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, firmness, and photo-damage after 12 weeks of twice-a-day facial application without usual retinol therapy-associated undesirable effects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24471735/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical 5% Jucá ethanolic extract formulations in Carbopol and Astrocaryum murumuru butter improved wound retraction and fibroplasia in dermal wounds of dogs compared to a commercial ointment control. ([Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32656247/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is widely praised as a gentle, entry-level retinol that effectively smooths skin texture and improves tone without the harsh irritation often associated with retinoids. While many users with sensitive or acne-prone skin report clearer, brighter complexions, a subset of reviewers experienced significant purging, breakouts, or found the undisclosed retinol percentage frustrating.

- Liked: Improves skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle for beginners (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant consistency (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Purging phase (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Brand controversy (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Undisclosed percentage (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Naturium Retinol Complex Serum a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Naturium Retinol Complex Serum is a great fit because it uses retinol and bakuchiol to regulate skin shedding and gently exfoliate, helping keep oily, acne-prone skin clear and smooth. This blend also helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles safely without harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Retinol and bakuchiol make this serum a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin by providing mild exfoliation and regulating skin shedding, which helps smooth out fine lines. They are also gentle on your skin because the formula avoids harsh ingredients.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### What does Retinol do for oily acne-prone skin?

Retinol helps oily acne-prone skin by clearing up breakouts and smoothing the skin, though it may occasionally cause some mild scaling or stinging. This ingredient works by addressing the root causes of acne, making it a reliable choice for keeping pores clear and skin smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30586483/)

### What does Bakuchiol do for oily acne-prone skin?

Bakuchiol helps clear oily acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and dark spots left behind. It is gentle on the face and is unlikely to cause the heavy peeling or stinging that often comes with traditional acne treatments.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33683079/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

### Can I use this serum with vitamin C, and in what order?

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in your morning routine and this treatment serum at night. This keeps your skin calm and lowers the chance of irritation.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this serum in your evening routine. It helps smooth and treat oily skin safely when applied as part of your nighttime steps.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause irritation for your oily skin, though you may experience a moderate purging phase as it helps regulate skin shedding. While ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and glycerin provide helpful hydration, they are supportive rather than primary treatments for your breakouts.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily 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/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 89.30 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — AED 89.30 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 138.20 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 145.00 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-acne-prone-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, Propanediol, Astrocaryum Murumuru Seed Butter, Gossypium Herbaceum Fruit Water, Retinol, Glycerin, Bakuchiol, Bidens Pilosa Extract, Linum Usitatissimum Seed Oil, Humulus Lupulus Extract Cone Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Caprylyl Glycol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Carnauba Wax, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Potassium Sorbate, Xanthan Gum, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Hexylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethyl Ferulate
## 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/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/retinol-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)