# St. Ives Renewing Moisturizer for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/st-ives/renewing-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: [St. Ives](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/st-ives)
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 moisturizing for your combination skin, as propylene glycol and dimethicone hydrate and smooth texture, but it lacks specialized ingredients to effectively target acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- While dimethicone provides emollient action suitable for combination skin, the formula's humectant levels are insufficient for optimal hydration, and the absence of acne-fighting ingredients poses a risk of worsening existing conditions.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Collagen, Elastin, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Hydrolyzed Elastin

## What the research says

- Topical application of TAC/Collagen postbiotics gel improved skin moisture score and inflammation index, and reduced porphyrins and brown spots in 20 volunteers with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35818134/))
- Topical collagen tripeptide application improved skin wrinkles, elasticity, and density while reducing advanced glycated end products in 22 Asian women over 4 weeks. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35163025/))
- Marine collagen extracted from Greenland halibut skin showed a non-cytotoxic effect on fibroblast cells and provided a slight skin hydration effect when incorporated into cosmetic hydrogel formulations at dosages of 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5% in 23 healthy volunteers. ([Marine Drugs, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36827098/))
- Topical application of a 0.1% copper-zinc malonate-containing cream significantly enhanced elastin biosynthesis and induced elastic fibre regeneration in photoaged facial skin of 21 female patients after 6 weeks of treatment compared to baseline. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19400831/))
- A betaine-based deep eutectic solvent successfully enhanced the transdermal delivery of elastin peptide, which improved skin barrier repair, reduced melanin secretion and deposition, and stimulated the secretion of procollagen I and elastin. ([Biomaterials Advances, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39053386/))
- Bioactive recombinant humanized elastin (RHE) gel effectively restores skin elasticity, reverses UV-induced damage and oxidative stress, and promotes extracellular matrix remodeling in zebrafish and aged mice models compared to commercial vitamin E and recombinant humanized collagen gels. ([Materials Today. Bio, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40978161/))
- Safflower oil body-human epidermal growth factor microgel emulsions mixed with xanthan gum enhance transdermal absorption, regulate inflammation, accelerate angiogenesis, and promote re-epithelialization and remodeling in full-layer skin wounds in rats. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36126813/))

## Why other moisturizers fit acne-prone skin better

- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- A facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo in 66 participants with mild-to-moderate maskne over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/))

## 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 St. Ives Renewing Moisturizer work for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer gives you moderate hydration and smooth texture, but it lacks targeted ingredients to actively clear blemishes and breakouts. A better choice for acne-prone skin needs soothing agents, specialized blemish-fighting ingredients, and allergen-free formulas that hydrate and repair without causing irritation.
Sources: [Ostomy/wound Management, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16439809/)

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

Propylene glycol and dimethicone make this cream a moderate fit by hydrating and smoothing skin texture. However, because it lacks specialized blemish-fighting ingredients, an acne-prone skin type needs a product formulated with soothing extracts, specific breakout-targeting ingredients, and nourishing peptides to maintain balance without irritation.
Sources: [Ostomy/wound Management, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16439809/)

### What does Collagen do for acne-prone skin?

Collagen does not directly target breakouts, but it helps keep dry or aging acne-prone skin soft and hydrated without clogging pores. Because this skin type often needs lightweight moisture and soothing care, a product of this type needs non-greasy hydrators and calming ingredients to support clear skin.
Sources: [Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38534748/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30681787/)

### What does Hydrolyzed Elastin do for acne-prone skin?

Hydrolyzed elastin helps keep acne-prone skin soft and smooth while supporting moisture retention, though it does not directly treat breakouts. A product of this type for acne-prone skin needs lightweight, non-greasy hydrators and soothing ingredients to maintain skin balance without clogging pores.

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

This moisturizer goes in the final step of your morning routine after toner, and in the evening after your treatment. For acne-prone skin, this type of product needs added acne-fighting ingredients and better hydration to keep blemishes under control.

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

You can use this moisturizer with retinol to help keep your skin smooth, applying the cream after your retinol treatment absorbs. When using products like this on acne-prone skin, a good fit means choosing formulas that add specialized blemish-clearing ingredients and extra hydration to support your routine.
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?

This cream works well for your skin when used daily as a basic moisturizer, though acne-prone skin needs a formula with targeted blemish-fighting ingredients and deeper hydration.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

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

This cream is an average fit for acne-prone skin because it lacks specialized ingredients to target breakouts and blemishes, and it may risk worsening existing conditions. An acne-prone skin needs a product with targeted blemish-fighting ingredients and balanced hydrators that keep pores clear.

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

You can use this cream on your body and around the eyes, as its moisturizing ingredients help hydrate and smooth skin texture. However, because skin is exceptionally thin around the eyes and varies in thickness across the body, products for these areas should be chosen carefully for gentle compatibility.
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 (parfum, coumarin, geraniol, hexyl cinnamal, and linalool). Cetyl 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

Propylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Stearic Acid, Carbomer, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Hydrolyzed Elastin, Triethanolamine, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Disodium Edta, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Coumarin, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool
## 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/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/st-ives/renewing-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin