# No.7 Pure Retinol 0.3% Night Concentrate for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/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 Canada.

Brand: [No.7](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/no-7)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/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.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent wrinkle reduction for you due to retinol and acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester, which minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and is highly suitable for your oily skin with retinol's keratolytic action and bisabolol's anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Provides moderate exfoliation for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts by promoting skin cell turnover, while ingredients like glycerin and butylene glycol offer hydration.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like bisabolol.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Collagen Peptide Technology, Bisabolol, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- A liquid formulation containing hydrolyzed collagen demonstrated structural stability, peptide mass distribution between 0.5 and 19.5 kDa, and faded forehead wrinkles in five volunteers while proving to be non-irritating and hypoallergenic. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32390321/))
- Exposure to collagen peptides increased the expression of COL1A1, ELN, and VCAN genes and collagen protein levels in cultured human dermal fibroblasts compared to untreated controls. ([Frontiers in Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38751975/))
- Salmo salar and Tilapia nilotica skin collagen peptides accelerate wound healing in a rat murine wound model by reducing proinflammatory cytokines, upregulating BD14, NOD2, IL-10, VEGF, and beta-FGF, and favorably altering wound microflora colonization compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31967468/))
- 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/))
- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Chronomodulated daytime application of baicalin and nighttime application of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 synergistically improved skin luminance by 16.29%, nasolabial fold depth by -36.35%, and firmness by 24.35% in 30 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently praise this concentrate as an excellent entry-level retinol that effectively smooths skin texture and minimizes pores without the harsh irritation often associated with retinoids. While many see visible improvements in radiance and fine lines, results require patience and consistent use, with some users experiencing a temporary "purge" or dryness during the initial adjustment period.

- Liked: Gentle for beginners (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant application (often mentioned)
- Liked: Visible anti-aging effects (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial adjustment period (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow to show results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. Value (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 No.7 Pure Retinol 0.3% Night Concentrate a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This concentrate is a great fit because it helps smooth fine wrinkles and clear breakouts with retinol while calming your skin with bisabolol. It also gently exfoliates to keep your skin smooth, and includes glycerin to provide lightweight hydration without causing irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

This treatment is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because retinol helps smooth out blemishes through gentle exfoliation while bisabolol calms redness and irritation. Additionally, glycerin and butylene glycol provide essential hydration to keep your skin balanced without feeling heavy.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### 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/)

### What do Collagen Peptides do for oily acne-prone skin?

Collagen peptides help support skin moisture and elasticity for oily, acne-prone skin, while also helping to balance sebum production. Regular oral intake may improve overall skin texture and help maintain a healthy look without adding heavy oils.
Sources: [Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26904164/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26362110/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, followed by your moisturizer. Using it at night helps keep your skin clear and smooth while avoiding extra sun sensitivity.

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

It is best to separate vitamin C and this retinol into different routines, using vitamin C in the morning and the retinol at night, to help prevent any skin discomfort. Applying them at different times of day allows both ingredients to work effectively while keeping your oily skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin and is used in the evening as part of your nighttime routine. It helps clear breakouts and reduce wrinkles by encouraging skin cell turnover with very low risk of irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

This treatment is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because it uses retinol to gently clear dead cells from pores and bisabolol to calm redness. It helps prevent breakouts and promotes clearer skin with a very low risk of irritation, though you may notice a short adjustment period at first.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$33.98 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-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-acne-prone-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-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 20, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Retinol, Bisabolol, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbitan Laurate, Potassium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Tetrasodium Edta, Behentrimonium Chloride, Sucrose Laurate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Benzoic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
## 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/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin