# Replenix Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Cream for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/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: [Replenix](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/replenix)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/exfoliators)

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 products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your oily skin due to the presence of Glycolic Acid, which provides resurfacing benefits and helps manage oiliness.
- Glycerin and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice offer hydration and soothing effects, complementing the exfoliating action for your skin type.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, as it contains soothing ingredients like Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract and lacks harsh or prohibited substances.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Vitamins A, Vitamins C, Vitamins E

## What the research says

- A combination of dermapen and glycolic acid peel significantly decreased acne scar grades and resulted in higher patient satisfaction compared to either monotherapy in 30 patients. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Over-the-counter retinol products provided only weak evidence for a mild ameliorating effect on fine facial skin wrinkle lines in randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trials, and major methodological flaws call the validity of positive results into question. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34980969/))
- A cosmetic niacinamide/peptide/retinyl propionate regimen significantly improved periorbital wrinkle appearance relative to a 0.02% tretinoin regimen at 8 weeks with comparable benefits at 24 weeks, while demonstrating significantly better tolerability in 196 women. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/))
- A novel triple-active cosmetic formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide improved the visual appearance of photoageing similarly to 0.02% tretinoin and reversed a consensus gene signature associated with ageing in female adults while causing less skin irritation. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## What reviewers say

Users with mature, dry, and acne-prone skin report significant exfoliation and smoothing of rough textures, with many noting a reduction in hyperpigmentation and fine lines. While the product is praised for improving radiance and pore appearance, some users with sensitive skin mention experiencing stinging and redness, suggesting a need to build tolerance.

- Liked: Smoothes skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne and pores (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Stinging and burning (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes skin redness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lacks deep moisture (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant product as part of your PM routine once a week. Start slowly and build up frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb fully. Avoid any harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the exfoliant directly onto completely dry skin to get the best balance and results. Clean, dry skin helps the product work evenly.
- Always avoid the delicate eye area when applying. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily while using exfoliating acids.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Replenix Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Cream work for oily skin?

This cream works for your oily skin by offering moderate exfoliation with glycolic acid to help manage oiliness, while glycerin and aloe leaf juice provide soothing hydration. However, an exfoliant treatment for oily skin needs ingredients like niacinamide to control sebum, along with soothing extracts and barrier-supporting hydrators that keep the skin comfortable without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycolic acid makes this cream a fit for oily skin by providing moderate exfoliation that helps manage oiliness, while glycerin and aloe leaf juice offer soothing hydration. To fit oily skin even better, an exfoliant of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control excess oil and pores without irritation, along with barrier-supporting ceramides.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for oily skin?

Glycolic acid helps clear away dead skin and excess oil for a smooth, clean feel. It gently removes buildup from the surface, which keeps pores clear and skin looking fresh.
Sources: [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37894698/), [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21029205/)

### What does Vitamin A do for oily skin?

Vitamin A helps oily skin by slowing down oil buildup and calming swelling. This type of ingredient works best for oily skin when it includes soothing botanical oils to keep pores clear without feeling too heavy.
Sources: [Drug Research, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41125087/), [Journal of Dermatological Science, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23473858/)

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

Apply this cream in the evening as a treatment step after cleansing and before moisturizing. Oily skin works best with an exfoliant treatment that also contains soothing ingredients and hydration boosters to keep the skin calm and balanced.

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

You can use this cream in the evening before your moisturizer, but it is best to use retinol on alternate nights to prevent irritation on oily skin. Combining strong exfoliating acids and retinol at the same time is likely to cause dryness and redness.

### How often should I use this cream?

Start using this cream once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often. This product of this type works best for oily skin when it provides moderate exfoliation with glycolic acid alongside soothing and hydrating ingredients to keep the skin calm.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356917/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/)

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

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily skin, though the glycolic acid may cause some initial purging as it clears out dead skin. It helps manage oiliness and includes soothing ingredients like aloe to calm the skin, but an oily skin type may need a lighter, oil-free formula with salicylic acid for better breakout control.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and cetearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## 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

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycolic Acid, Ammonium Hydroxide, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Dimethicone, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E, Ascorbic Acid, Retinyl Palmitate Vitamin A, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract Matricaria Flower Extract, Allantoin, Phenoxyethanol, 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/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/replenix/glycolic-acid-20-resurfacing-cream/for/oily-skin