# Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/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: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Sunscreens and SPF moisturizers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/sunscreens)

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.

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few sunscreens fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your acne and blemishes due to salicylic acid and capryloyl salicylic acid, which provide mild exfoliation and pore-clearing effects suitable for your combination skin.
- The inclusion of glycerin and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid ensures excellent moisturization, while UV filters like avobenzone and homosalate offer protection, complementing your skin's needs.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Glacial Glycoprotein, Fountain Plant Extracts, Squalane, Avobenzone, Homosalate

## What the research says

- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- 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/))
- Chemical sunscreens containing avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, and octisalate showed no to minimal risks of dermal irritation, sensitization, photo-allergy, and photo-irritation in human subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/))
- 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/))
- Encapsulation of ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate and butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane in lipid microparticles significantly reduced their in vivo human skin penetration compared to nonencapsulated filters. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21336009/))
- Microencapsulation of the BMDBM/HP-beta-CD complex in lipid microparticles significantly decreased the percutaneous penetration of the UV filter into the stratum corneum of human volunteers compared to the non-encapsulated sunscreen agent. ([Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20934293/))
- Following human skin application of an O/W emulsion containing 2% BMDBM loaded in lipospheres, 15% of the sunscreen accumulated in the uppermost layers of the stratum corneum without remarkably modifying skin permeation compared to unencapsulated sunscreen. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17934329/))
- Dermal application of a sunscreen containing 10% homosalate in four volunteers resulted in delayed elimination with terminal half-times around 24 h and a bioavailability of cis-homosalate a factor of 2 lower than trans-homosalate, while metabolite ratios supported using oral-route urinary excretion fractions for dermal exposure assessments. ([Archives of Toxicology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38485782/))
- Homosalate exhibited the highest permeation among tested filters with a relative permeability rate of 4.2% and a depth of 60 um, and specific thickeners and emulsifiers successfully reduced its permeation without inhibiting the skin permeation of niacinamide. ([Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42594379/))
- An online-SPE-LC-MS/MS method successfully quantified specific urinary homosalate metabolites for up to 96 hours after dermal sunscreen application in a volunteer and detected metabolites exclusively in three German pilot participants who had used sunscreen within five days. ([Analytica Chimica Acta, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34399889/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this moisturizer is highly praised for its effective and long-lasting hydration, leaving skin soft and preventing dryness. It is also noted for its ability to absorb without leaving a white cast, making it suitable for various skin tones. Some users with oily or combination skin find the finish too greasy or shiny, and a moderate number report eye irritation. A low number of users experience pilling under makeup or find the scent unpleasant.

- Liked: Provides hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: No white cast (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy or shiny finish (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Smooth texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes eye irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pills under makeup (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this moisturizing sunscreen AM every morning as the final step of your daily routine.
- Layer the moisturizing sunscreen after your moisturizer has fully absorbed, right before heading out into the sun .
- Smooth a nickel-sized amount of the moisturizing sunscreen evenly over your face, avoiding harsh rubbing.
- Apply the moisturizing sunscreen onto clean, dry skin to ensure even coverage and protection.
- Perform a patch test before first use and avoid direct contact with the eyes.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/53e9a436d82fca2a189dd08aa21de2fd.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer is a great fit because it includes salicylic acid and capryloyl salicylic acid, which gently clear pores and help manage breakouts on acne-prone skin. It also provides deep moisture with glycerin and hyaluronic acid while protecting your skin from the sun.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

This cream is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it contains salicylic acid and capryloyl salicylic acid, which help clear pores and gently exfoliate. It also features glycerin and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid for great moisture, alongside UV filters that protect your skin without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

### What does Glacial Glycoprotein do for acne-prone skin?

Glacial Glycoprotein helps keep dry skin feeling soft and smooth while protecting it from moisture loss. For acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs lightweight hydration and ingredients that calm irritation without clogging pores.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/)

### What does Fountain Plant Extract do for acne-prone skin?

Fountain Plant Extract helps calm red, irritated acne-prone skin and supports a clear, smooth complexion without clogging your pores. It provides gentle hydration that keeps oily skin balanced and comfortable.

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

This cream goes in the morning routine as the moisturizer step after your cleanser and hydrating toner, and before your sunscreen. It helps keep your skin soft and hydrated while clearing pores.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

You can use this moisturizing spf with retinol by applying the moisturizer first in the morning or waiting until your skin feels calm if you use retinol at night. Using a gentle moisturizer alongside acne treatments like retinol helps keep your skin soft and is unlikely to cause irritation.
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 moisturizing spf every morning as part of your daily routine. Daily application helps keep your skin protected from the sun while maintaining moisture and clearing pores without irritation.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14571069/)

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

This moisturizer is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it contains salicylic acid and capryloyl salicylic acid, which help clear pores and reduce blemishes without causing irritation. It keeps skin soft and hydrated with glycerin and hyaluronic acid while protecting it from the sun, though some reviewers mention it can leave a greasy or shiny finish.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

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

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer SPF 30](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-double-repair-face-moisturizer-uv-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$31.00 at Amazon
- [Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream SPF 30](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/regenerist-micro-sculpting-cream-face-moisturizer-with-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$35.96 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
- Moisturizer: [CeraVe CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$52.00 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01N788Z2A?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Sephora: CA$52.00 (https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/ultra-facial-cream-spf-30-P422012?skuId=1988625)
Prices checked 16 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Dimethicone, Peg-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Silica, Octyldodecanol, Stearic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Palmitic Acid, Tocopherol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Steareth-100, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract, Carbomer, Chlorphenesin, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Dimethicone Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hydroxide, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Limonene, Ectoin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Myristic Acid, Peppermint Oil, Pseudoalteromonas Extract Ferment, Ethylhexylglycerin, Linalool, Salicylic Acid, Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene
## 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/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer-spf-30/for/acne-prone-skin