# Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Glow Moisturizer for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/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 Canada.

Brand: [Kate Somerville](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/kate-somerville)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/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 exfoliation for your acne and blemishes due to lactic acid and glycolic acid, which smooth texture and hydrate combination skin. Pumpkin fruit ferment filtrate and bromelain further aid in exfoliation, providing general skincare benefits.
- The presence of yeast extract and opuntia ficus-indica fruit extract contributes to soothing effects, enhancing overall comfort for your skin.
- The safety profile is good, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of beneficial components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Squalane, Bromelain, Papain

## What the research says

- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- Topical moisturizers improved skin barrier function and surface moisture, while a postbiotic moisturizer with yeast extract uniquely supported microbiome balance and modulated biomarkers of skin barrier, structure, and inflammation in participants and ex vivo explants exposed to environmental aggressors. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37763018/))
- Opuntia ficus-indica extract and its isorhamnetin-glucosyl-rhamnoside suppressed nitric oxide, COX-2, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 production in vitro and inhibited croton oil-induced ear edema in vivo. ([BioMed Research International, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25821823/))
- Opuntia ficus-indica extract activated AHR-NRF2 signaling, inhibited reactive oxygen species generation, and upregulated filaggrin and loricrin expression in human keratinocytes. ([Journal of Medicinal Food, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26061570/))
- 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/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- 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/))
- Oral bromelain slightly reduced pain compared to controls (mean difference -0.27) and topical bromelain reduced time to complete debridement by 6.89 days, with no major health risks reported. ([Nutrition and Health, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37157782/))
- An upcycled pineapple leaf fibre crosspolymer forms a physical barrier that protects against environmental aggressors while providing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antipollution, UV protection, hydration, and hair benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41524117/))
- A coaxial electrospun core-shell nanofiber scaffold delivering bromelain and salvianolic acid B demonstrated sustained drug release, in vitro endothelial cell migration, increased capillary formation in an in ovo assay, and in vivo efficacy for skin regeneration and wound healing. ([Biomedical Materials, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28580904/))
- Topical papain treatment may slightly decrease pain within 30 minutes in humans stung by Chrysaora chinensis compared to placebo. ([Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26827260/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- Reflux extraction of Carica papaya leaves yielded higher antioxidant capacity and superior in vitro wound-healing activities including fibroblast proliferation, cell migration, and collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts compared to ultrasonic-assisted extraction and agitation. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31991676/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dull or uneven skin tone frequently praise this moisturizer for delivering an immediate glow and smoother texture through gentle chemical exfoliation. While highly effective for boosting radiance, those with very dry or sensitive skin sometimes find it insufficiently hydrating for winter months or slightly irritating due to the active ingredients.

- Liked: Instant glow (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Insufficient hydration (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sensitivity & tingling (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture & absorption (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 ExfoliKate Glow Moisturizer work for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer works reasonably well for acne-prone skin, offering moderate exfoliation and smoothing texture with acids and fruit enzymes while soothing your skin with plant extracts. To fit this skin type even better, a product needs effective targeted ingredients for blemishes, excellent overall suitability without irritation, and components that support hydration and balance.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37763018/)

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

Lactic acid, glycolic acid, pumpkin fruit ferment filtrate, and bromelain make this cream a good fit by offering moderate exfoliation that helps smooth texture for acne-prone skin. To achieve a better fit for this skin type, a product of this type needs effective ingredients that provide excellent benefits for breakouts, offer hydration and repair, and include soothing agents and peptides without causing irritation or unsuitability.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37763018/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Glycolic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and breakouts. It also helps fade dark spots left behind by acne and controls skin oiliness, with very few side effects when used properly.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24447110/)

### What does Lactic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Lactic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions with regular topical use. It works well to smooth and calm the skin while managing breakouts safely over time.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17656910/)

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

This moisturizer is used in the evening routine for acne-prone skin. It offers moderate exfoliation and soothing comfort, though acne-prone skin often does better with products that include stronger blemish-fighting ingredients and oil-balancing components.

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

You can use this cream with retinol, and applying a barrier-enhancing moisturizer first helps keep acne-prone skin comfortable and less prone to irritation. This type of product needs soothing ingredients and barrier support to keep your skin calm while using strong treatments.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use it?

Use this moisturizing treatment once a week to start, and if your acne-prone skin handles it well, you may carefully use it more often. To get a better fit for acne-prone skin, this type of product needs soothing ingredients to calm blemishes and gentle exfoliating acids to keep your skin smooth.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37763018/)

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

This cream is unlikely to cause severe irritation, but because it only offers moderate exfoliation and hydration, acne-prone skin often needs a product with stronger clarifying acids and lighter, oil-free hydration to truly keep pores clear.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37763018/)

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

This moisturizer is generally meant for the face rather than the thin skin around the eyes or the skin on the body, which have very different thicknesses. Products intended for those areas typically require specialized formulas tailored to their specific sensitivity and barrier needs.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (citronellol, citral, limonene, linalool, and geraniol). Myristyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.99 at Amazon
- [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$95.99 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$49.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$22.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$41.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/innisfree/daily-uv-defense-mineral-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Cetyl Ricinoleate, Isostearyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Squalane, Lactic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Propanediol, Glycolic Acid, Myristyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Sodium Hydroxide, Lactobacillus Pumpkin Fruit Ferment Filtrate, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Bromelain, Papain, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Yeast Extract, Polysilicone-11, Bergamot Oil Fruit, Rosewood Extract Wood, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Geranium Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Myristyl Glucoside, Cyclohexasiloxane, Peg-40 Stearate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edta, Maltodextrin, Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex, T-Butyl Alcohol, Citronellol, Benzyl Benzoate, Citral, Limonene, Linalool, Geraniol
## 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/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kate-somerville/exfolikate-glow-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin