# Drunk Elephant Lala Retro™ Whipped Cream for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/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 Australia.

Brand: [Drunk Elephant](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/drunk-elephant)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/moisturizers)

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.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for combination skin as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer provide essential hydration without overwhelming the skin. However, the formula lacks targeted ingredients to effectively address your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- Plantago lanceolata leaf extract and watermelon seed oil offer some soothing benefits, but stronger oil-controlling agents would better complement your combination skin type.
- The product has a favorable safety profile with no harsh ingredients and includes ceramides and plant extracts to support your skin's barrier function.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

6 African Oils, Ceramides, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical application of an aucubin-containing cosmetic macroemulsion decreases transepidermal water loss, increases skin hydration, and improves SELS and skin macrorelief parameters in 25 female volunteers compared to a base cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32750209/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Plantain leaf proteins exhibit a wound-healing effect on vertebrate skin both in vitro and in vivo. ([Prikladnaia Biokhimiia I Mikrobiologiia, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22808737/))
- Plantago lanceolata water extract improves skin wound healing in rats by inducing the transition of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, increasing wound contraction rates, and enhancing tensile strength through greater extracellular matrix protein organization compared to untreated wounds. ([The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25244603/))
- Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata extracts incorporated into 3D-printed polysaccharide dressings enhanced fibroblast wound closure to 64% and 52%, respectively, compared to 29% for the control. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41592645/))

## Why other moisturizers fit acne-prone skin better

- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- A facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo in 66 participants with mild-to-moderate maskne over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this rich, whipped moisturizer is widely praised as a "rescue" cream for dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin, particularly effective at repairing the skin barrier and combating winter dryness. While many users report plump, soothed skin without irritation, those with oily or acne-prone skin often find it too heavy or occlusive, occasionally leading to congestion.

- Liked: Intense hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hygienic packaging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothing texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive product (often mentioned)
- Liked: Barrier support (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Heavy feel (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your moisturizer twice a day in your AM and PM routines. Apply it daily to help keep breakouts under control.
- Apply after your cleanser and toner, and make sure to use your SPF right after in the morning.
- Gently spread a small amount of moisturizer over your face using soft motions. Let it absorb into the skin for a minute before getting dressed or applying makeup.
- Apply on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture. This keeps your combination skin balanced without feeling heavy.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Stop using if you feel any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Drunk Elephant Lala Retro work for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer works reasonably well for acne-prone skin by providing essential hydration and strengthening the skin barrier with ceramides and glycerin. However, it lacks targeted blemish-fighting ingredients and oil-controlling agents to properly address breakouts. An acne-friendly moisturizer for this skin needs specialized blemish-fighting and oil-controlling ingredients alongside hydrating components.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer help provide essential hydration, while plantago lanceolata leaf extract and ceramides support your skin with soothing benefits and barrier care. Because acne-prone skin needs more targeted oil-controlling agents and blemish-fighting ingredients to work best, a moisturizer for this skin type also needs active ingredients that help clear breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What do African Oils do for acne-prone skin?

African Oils help acne-prone skin by delivering antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits that soothe breakouts and support healing. A product of this type needs ingredients like Nigella sativa oil to calm redness and keep skin clear.
Sources: [Journal of Tropical Medicine, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29358959/)

### What do Ceramides do for acne-prone skin?

Ceramides help acne-prone skin by restoring a damaged water barrier, reducing dryness and redness from acne treatments, and lowering inflammation. Because acne-prone skin often lacks these key fats, products for this skin type need ceramides to soothe irritation and keep the barrier strong.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7763094/)

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

This moisturizer goes in the third step of your morning routine after a cleanser and hydrating toner, and as the final step of your evening routine after a treatment. While it provides good hydration and supports your skin barrier, acne-prone skin works best with a product of this type that also includes targeted oil-controlling ingredients to help manage blemishes and breakouts.

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

You can use this cream alongside retinol by applying the retinol first and following it with the moisturizer to help keep your skin comfortable and support its barrier. This type of routine is unlikely to cause irritation and may help your skin tolerate acne treatments better.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [The Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24930436/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. Regular daily application helps keep your skin hydrated and supports its natural barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

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

This cream is unlikely to cause purging, but it may lead to breakouts for acne-prone skin because it lacks targeted ingredients to control oil and blemishes. Acne-prone skin needs lightweight hydration and strong oil-controlling agents to stay clear and balanced.

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

You can use this cream around your eyes and on your body because its gentle blend provides deep hydration and supports your skin barrier without harsh ingredients. However, acne-prone skin on the face needs a moisturizer that also includes stronger oil-controlling agents and targeted blemish-clearing ingredients.

### Is this cream 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 acne-prone skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.00 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$18.90 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — A$50.56 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$34.66 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$80.43 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Australia has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Isopropyl Isostearate, Pseudozyma Epicola Camellia Sinensis Glucose Glycine Soja Seed Oil Extract Ferment Filtrate Soybean Seed Oil Extract Ferment Filtrate Meal Malt Yeast Seed Oil Extract Ferment Filtrate, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Cetearyl Alcohol, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Watermelon Seed Oil, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Schinziophyton Rautanenii Kernel Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-6 Ximenia Americana Seedate, Cholesterol, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Ceramide Np, Phytosphingosine, Ceteareth-20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/drunk-elephant/lala-retrotm-whipped-cream/for/acne-prone-skin