# Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-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 Australia.

Brand: [Glow Recipe](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/glow-recipe)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/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.

One of the best serums for oily acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin and acne concerns is provided by retinol and retinal, which effectively regulate sebum and promote blemish reduction, complemented by ectoin and bisabolol for anti-inflammatory action.
- The inclusion of retinyl linoleate further aids in desquamation regulation, enhancing the overall efficacy for managing breakouts and oiliness.
- The product is safe for your skin, featuring soothing ingredients like Bisabolol and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice with no harsh or prohibited substances.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior (this page)

## Key ingredients

Blackberry Extract, Retinol, Squalane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Bisabolol

## What the research says

- 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/))
- A blackberry and dill extract combination synergistically increased skin elasticity and induced elastogenesis compared to each ingredient alone and placebo. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32583541/))
- Tropical highland blackberry juice reduced UVB-mediated DNA damage and increased apoptosis in human epidermal keratinocytes and a reconstituted skin equivalent model. ([Photochemistry and Photobiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23711186/))
- Strawberry and blackberry crude extracts, anthocyanin-enriched fractions, and proanthocyanidin-enriched fractions demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects through ROS reduction, gene expression inhibition, and NO suppression, while anthocyanin fractions promoted fibroblast migration in vitro. ([Food Research International, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31108769/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is widely praised as a gentle yet effective entry-level retinol that clears acne and smooths texture without the irritation typical of stronger retinoids. While many users with sensitive skin report excellent results in fading dark spots and reducing breakouts, a notable minority experienced adverse reactions to the fragrance or found the formula too weak for advanced needs.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too weak (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 Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum one of the best fits for oily acne-prone skin?

Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum is one of the best fits because retinol and retinal help control oil and clear breakouts, while ectoin and bisabolol calm redness and irritation. It also has a very safe profile for your skin with soothing ingredients and no harsh substances.

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

Retinol and retinal help regulate oil and clear breakouts, while ectoin and bisabolol calm redness and irritation. Retinyl linoleate also supports blemish control by helping smooth skin turnover.

### What does Blackberry Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Blackberry Extract helps keep oily, acne-prone skin calm and clear by fighting off everyday stress that can lead to breakouts. It is unlikely to feel heavy or greasy, making it a great lightweight addition to your daily routine.

### 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/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening helps keep things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment with vitamin C, but it is best to apply vitamin C in the morning and save this treatment for your evening routine to keep your skin calm. Using them at different times of day helps your skin adjust and prevents irritation while you manage breakouts and oiliness.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is designed for your evening routine, starting at once a week and gradually increasing as your skin adjusts well. Retinol and retinal help regulate oil and clear breakouts safely, while soothing ingredients like bisabolol and aloe leaf juice keep skin calm.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

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

This serum is one of the best fits for your oily acne-prone skin because it uses retinol and retinal to regulate oil and help clear breakouts, while soothing ingredients like bisabolol and aloe leaf juice keep irritation low. Reviewers rarely complain about breakouts, and the formula is safe and unlikely to clog your pores.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$50.60 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — A$50.60 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Ectoin, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil, Blackberry Fruit Extract, Bisabolol, Retinyl Linoleate, Epilobium Angustifolium Stem Extract Flower Leaf, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Retinal, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Fruit Extract, Retinol, Tocopherol, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Erythritol, Citric Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Glycine Soja Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum
## 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/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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