# Obagi Tretinoin Cream 0.05% for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-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: [Obagi](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/obagi)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for combination skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your combination skin, tretinoin effectively targets oily shine and fine lines by regulating sebum production and promoting cell turnover.
- The formulation is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients that would cause irritation.
- This product offers excellent treatment for acne and fine lines due to the presence of tretinoin in a moderate concentration for reducing blemishes and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Tretinoin, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Xanthan Gum

## What the research says

- Topical tretinoin daily application for 10 to 12 months produced an 80 percent increase in collagen I formation in photodamaged human skin compared with a 14 percent decrease with vehicle alone. ([The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/))
- Tretinoin-loaded nano lipid carriers resulted in a significantly higher rate of decrease in acne lesions and greater reduction in porphyrin production compared to conventional tretinoin cream in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/))
- Topical tretinoin improves clinical appearance of photoaging in terms of wrinkling, mottled hyperpigmentation, sallowness, and lentigines and is safe and well tolerated. ([International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/))
- Repeated application of concentrated water-in-oil emulsions over four weeks caused no skin irritation, positively affected skin properties, and delivered almost 50% of the applied fluorescein sodium, with isopropyl myristate showing superior penetration performance compared to liquid paraffin in healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31525444/))
- A galenic compound containing essential oils and tretinoin demonstrated anti-acne efficacy and anti-inflammatory activity, significantly reducing papular erythema and retinoid-induced rashes compared to clindamycin-tretinoin gel in sixty volunteers over 30 days. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/))
- Topical tretinoin precursors and tretinoin showed no significant difference in efficacy for moderate to severe facial photodamage in 20 patients, while tretinoin precursors caused erythema six times less frequently. ([JAMA Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35675051/))
- Topical tretinoin significantly improved photoaging and caused histologic changes in the forearms and faces of treated patients compared to vehicle cream, with side effects limited to skin irritation. ([JAMA, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3336176/))
- Adapalene 0.3% gel showed non-inferior efficacy and a similar safety profile compared to tretinoin 0.05% cream as a treatment for cutaneous photoaging. ([European Journal of Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30105991/))
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate treatment disrupts the ordered intercellular lipid lamellar structure in hairless mouse stratum corneum, and immersion in a ceramide 3, cholesterol, and stearic acid mixture successfully reorganizes this ordered lamellar structure. ([Biophysical Chemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11254216/))
- Increasing the softness of pressure-sensitive adhesives using isopropyl myristate decreased pain and stripped corneocytes during removal without significantly changing human skin dermal peeling force. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17374065/))
- A modern cold cream formulation using a self-emulsionable excipient with isopropyl myristate shows improved preparation ease, stability, rheological qualities, and moisture and emollient power compared to traditional cerates. ([Bollettino Chimico Farmaceutico, 1996](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8942063/))
- Biodegradable wound dressings functionalized with silver nanoparticles showed >99% pathogen growth inhibition, bactericidal effects, free radical scavenging, reduced inflammatory response in macrophages, and accelerated wound healing in animals. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35780920/))
- A topical xanthan gum nanogel containing gamma-oryzanol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers and nanosized TiO2 and MBBT filters demonstrated high photoprotection with an SPF of 34 and no skin irritation or sensitization in a rat model. ([Pharmaceuticals, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242453/))
- Dense chitosan-xanthan membranes associated with multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells accelerated wound healing in Wistar rats compared to untreated conditions, demonstrating safety and feasibility for dermo-epidermal wound treatment. ([Journal of Biomaterials Applications, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25281644/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, users describe this cream as a transformative medical-grade treatment for acne and aging. It is frequently praised for delivering a smooth, clear, and youthful complexion. However, nearly all users report a challenging adjustment period with significant peeling, irritation, and dryness before visible results emerge.

- Liked: Transforms skin (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Intense peeling (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces aging (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Initial irritation (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Severe dryness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades hyperpigmentation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Purging phase (sometimes noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Obagi Tretinoin Cream 0.05% a great fit for combination skin?

Obagi Tretinoin Cream 0.05% is a great fit for your combination skin because it helps control oily shine and smooths out fine lines by speeding up cell renewal. The formula also has a safe profile, which is unlikely to cause harsh irritation while clearing up blemishes.
Sources: [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for combination skin?

Tretinoin makes this cream a great fit for your combination skin because it helps control oily shine and smooths out fine lines by speeding up cell renewal. Additionally, isopropyl myristate helps the formula sink in smoothly without causing irritation.
Sources: [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/)

### What does Tretinoin do for combination skin?

Tretinoin helps clear breakouts and smooth out uneven texture by speeding up skin renewal. Because it can be drying, combination skin needs a gentle moisturizer and daily sunscreen to protect the skin barrier while using this ingredient.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/)

### What does Stearic Acid do for combination skin?

Stearic acid helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by supporting the skin's natural barrier so it loses less moisture. It is generally safe for daily use on combination skin, though very rich formulas containing this ingredient may occasionally feel heavy on oily areas.

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, helping to target oily shine and fine lines safely. Using it at night also helps keep the skin protected around sun exposure.

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

You should not use this cream in the same routine as retinol, as combining multiple strong vitamin A products is likely to cause excessive dryness and irritation. Instead, alternate nights or use retinol on nights you do not apply this treatment to keep your skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this cream?

Apply this cream in your evening routine, starting just once a week and slowly using it more often if your skin handles it well. Tretinoin helps manage oily shine and fine lines by speeding up cell turnover.
Sources: [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

Yes, this cream may cause initial breakouts, a purging phase, intense peeling, and severe dryness on combination skin. Tretinoin actively speeds up cell turnover to clear blemishes and smooth fine lines, which frequently triggers temporary skin shedding and breakouts at the start.
Sources: [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 1,348.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 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/combination-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/combination-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

Tretinoin, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Sorbic Acid, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Water
## 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/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin (this page)