# Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-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: [Youth To The People](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/youth-to-the-people)
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.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and sebum regulation for your oily skin, as retinal and niacinamide work to refine texture and control oiliness. The inclusion of squalane and hyaluronic acid derivatives provides essential hydration without clogging pores, supporting overall skin health.
- The formulation includes various botanical extracts and ceramides that offer soothing and barrier-strengthening benefits, which are generally supportive for oily skin.
- This product is safe for your oily skin, with no reported irritation risks due to its gentle formulation and absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Retinal, Niacinamide, Ceramides, Squalane, Adaptogens

## What the research says

- Application of Body Lotion for 5 weeks on cosmetic dry skin improved barrier properties, increased levels of cholesterol, ceramides, and long-chain fatty acids, increased beneficial skin bacteria, and enhanced microbiome functional potential compared to baseline. ([Scientific Reports, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/))
- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))
- 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))

## What reviewers say

Users with acne-prone and textured skin report significant improvements in smoothness and clarity, often seeing faster results than with traditional retinols without the typical irritation. While the yellow tint and high price point are common complaints, the majority find it to be a gentle, effective solution for brightening dark spots and refining pores.

- Liked: Smoother texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Yellow tint (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightening and glow (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fast visible results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating feel (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Dryness and flaking (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for some (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Pump issues (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

### How well does Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum work for oily acne-prone skin?

Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum works moderately well for your oily acne-prone skin, offering oil control and texture refinement with minimal irritation risk. A treatment for this skin needs targeted ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin C for oil and blemishes, plus lightweight hydrators and soothing extracts that keep the face comfortable without feeling heavy or causing breakouts.

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

Retinal and niacinamide help refine texture and control oiliness, while squalane and hyaluronic acid derivatives provide lightweight hydration. To work best for oily acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs targeted oil-control ingredients, soothing botanical extracts, and non-clogging hydrators.

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

Retinal helps clear clogged pores, reduces bumps and pimples, and helps balance oil production for oily, acne-prone skin. It is generally well tolerated when used regularly as part of an acne skincare routine.
Sources: [Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10564319/), [European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25219827/)

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

Niacinamide helps balance oil production, calms redness, and is unlikely to irritate oily, acne-prone skin while improving blemishes. Clinical tests show it reduces excess oil and helps clear up both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/)

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

This treatment serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, followed by a moisturizer. Oily acne-prone skin often does better with a lightweight product containing retinoids, niacinamide, and ceramides to help control oil, refine texture, and support the skin barrier without clogging pores.

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

You can use this serum with AHA, but to lower the likelihood of irritation you should use AHA in your morning routine and this serum at night. This product helps control oiliness and refine texture, yet an oily acne-prone skin type also needs targeted exfoliating acids and lightweight hydrators to fully clear pores.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is used in the evening routine. A product of this type needs ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lightweight clays to better refine texture, control oiliness, and clear pores for oily acne-prone skin.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it uses light hydrators that keep skin soft without heavy oils. To work best for oily acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid and oil-controlling elements to properly manage 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

- Amazon.ae: AED 389.00 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B0BFC2F2ZG?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 31 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Triethylhexanoin, Niacinamide, Squalane, Cyclodextrin, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Grifola Frondosa Fruiting Body Extract, Rubus Chamaemorus Seed Oil, Arginine, Retinal, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum Stem Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Cucumis Sativus Seed Oil, Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract Honeysuckle Flower Extract, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Letinus Edodes Mycelium Extract, Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Extract Honeysuckle Flower Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii Oil Shea Oil, Ceramide Eop, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Capryloyl Glycerin Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Carbomer, Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pentylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Diheptyl Succinate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phytosterols, Propanediol, Benzyl Glycol, Raspberry Ketone
## 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/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/youth-to-the-people/retinal-niacinamide-youth-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)