# CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Low Risk.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/cerave)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/serums)

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

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your oily skin as retinol and niacinamide work to resurface and control oil, minimizing shine. While these ingredients are beneficial for your skin type, the presence of alcohol may cause mild irritation.
- The serum provides relevant benefits for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, promoting skin renewal and improving texture.
- The product is generally safe for your oily skin, with a low risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Encapsulated Retinol, Niacinamide, 3 Essential Ceramides, Licorice Root Extract

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- Treatment with a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid improved skin aging signs and demonstrated a senomorphic effect by decreasing SASP and autocrine signaling genes in women. ([Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/))
- 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 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 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical 2% niacinamide significantly decreased sebum excretion rate in Japanese individuals and casual sebum levels in Caucasian individuals compared to placebo or baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is highly regarded as a gentle introduction to retinol, effectively smoothing skin texture and reducing the appearance of post-acne marks with minimal irritation. Many users observe a radiant complexion and diminished pores, though significant improvements in hyperpigmentation typically require consistent application over several weeks to months.

- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades acne marks (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Affordable value (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Initial dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too mild (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol work for oily skin?

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum works moderately well for oily skin by helping to control oil and minimize shine, though some ingredients like alcohol may cause mild irritation. To work best for oily skin, a treatment of this type needs effective ingredients like niacinamide and soothing extracts to control shine and keep the skin comfortable without causing irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/)

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

Encapsulated retinol and niacinamide make this serum a good fit for oily skin by helping to control shine, smooth texture, and renew the skin. To work best for oily skin without causing irritation, this type of product needs effective sebum-controlling ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA, along with soothing extracts and lightweight hydrators.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/)

### What does Encapsulated Retinol do for oily skin?

Encapsulated retinol helps manage oily skin by reducing excess oil and smoothing fine lines while keeping skin irritation low. Formulations using carriers like lipid nanocarriers or silicone particles help deliver the ingredient effectively while keeping the skin calm.
Sources: [Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/), [Life, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39459512/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily skin by significantly reducing excess oil production and shine. It is well tolerated and may improve skin texture without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Oily skin works best with oil-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid and lightweight hydrators to manage shine without clogging pores.

### 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 at night, as that helps prevent irritation. To work best for oily skin, a treatment of this type needs ingredients that control shine without drying alcohol.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works well as an evening treatment, and you can start by applying it once a week to see how your skin responds. Oily skin works best with products that combine oil-controlling and soothing ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause major breakouts for oily skin, though initial breakouts may happen in rare cases. The formula helps control oil and smooth texture, but an oily skin type usually needs lightweight, oil-free hydration and targeted blemish-fighting ingredients to stay clear.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [ANUA PEACH 70% NIACINAMIDE SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/anua/peach-70-niacinamide-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$33.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$25.98 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B09NM9TFF2?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$26.39 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/cerave-resurfacing-retinol-serum-with-niacinamide/p/BB_3606000569232?variantCode=3606000569232)
Prices checked 16 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Niacinamide, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Dimethiconol, Lecithin, Sodium Citrate, Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Alcohol, Isopropyl Myristate, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Pentylene Glycol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, 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/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin