# Advanced Clinicals Retinol Advanced Firming Cream for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-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 Germany.

Brand: [Advanced Clinicals](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/advanced-clinicals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/serums)

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.

A weak match for oily skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate anti-aging benefits for your oily skin due to retinol promoting cell turnover, but the inclusion of mineral oil may exacerbate oiliness and shine.
- While retinol helps regulate desquamation, the formulation lacks sufficient seboregulating ingredients to fully address your primary concern of oily shine.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin): Low (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Low
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Aloe Barbadensis, Camellia Sinensis, Chamomile, Glycerin

## 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/))
- 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/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Apigenin protects against UVA-induced cytotoxicity and senescence in normal human dermal fibroblasts, decreases MMP-1 expression, and when applied topically as a cream in human subjects, increases dermal density and elasticity while reducing fine wrinkle length, skin evenness, moisture content, and transepidermal water loss compared to control cream. ([International Journal of Molecular Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27279007/))
- Topical chamomile oil combined with a night splint significantly improved the symptomatic and functional status of patients with severe carpal tunnel syndrome compared to placebo, while electrodiagnostic parameters showed no significant changes. ([Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26573447/))
- German chamomile solution applied twice a day healed peristomal skin lesions significantly faster than once-a-day 1% hydrocortisone ointment in colostomy patients, with a mean healing time of 8.89 days versus 14.53 days. ([Ostomy/wound Management, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21617262/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))

## Why other serums fit oily skin better

- 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/))
- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this product is highly praised for enhancing skin texture, increasing elasticity, and diminishing fine lines, particularly for aging and sensitive skin types. Some users with very dry skin report it can be drying and may require additional moisturizers. The product is frequently noted for its quick absorption, excellent value, and fragrance-free formulation.

- Liked: Absorbs quickly (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fragrance-free formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes skin dryness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Faulty pump packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Watery consistency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Advanced Clinicals Retinol Firming Cream a weak match for oily skin?

This cream is a weak match for oily skin because the heavy mineral oil may increase shine and oiliness, and it lacks enough oil-controlling ingredients to manage excess sebum. A product for this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, zinc PCA, and lightweight hydrators to control oil and pores without clogging them or causing breakouts.

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

This cream is a weak match for your oily skin because mineral oil may increase oiliness and shine. To truly fit oily skin, a product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, and zinc PCA to control excess oil and reduce pores, along with light hydrators and soothing extracts.

### What does Retinol do for oily skin?

Retinol helps oily skin by keeping pores clear and balancing sebum production, which may reduce shine and breakouts. Because it can sometimes cause dryness or peeling in the beginning, starting slowly is recommended.
Sources: [Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21914489/)

### What does Aloe Vera do for oily skin?

Aloe vera helps calm oily skin while keeping it comfortable and protected. It is unlikely to feel heavy, and it provides soothing and skin-protective properties that support a clear, smooth look.
Sources: [Phytomedicine, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31272819/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. A product of this type for oily skin also needs ingredients that help control oil and shine.

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

You can use this cream in your PM routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, but it is best to use vitamin C in your AM routine instead to avoid overloading your skin. Using strong actives separately helps reduce the likelihood of irritation and keeps your skin calm.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a weak match for your oily skin because mineral oil may make your shine worse, so oily skin needs a treatment with lightweight ingredients and oil-balancing extracts instead. When you choose to use it in your evening routine, retinol helps renew your skin over time.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This cream is a weak match for oily skin because heavy ingredients like mineral oil may clog pores, cause breakouts, and add extra shine. A product for this skin needs lightweight, oil-balancing ingredients that control excess oil without heavy oils.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €35.29 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €169.99 at Amazon

## Routine for oily skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [CeraVe CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €38.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €32.80 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €104.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Caudalie Vinopure Clear Skin Purifying Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/caudalie/vinopure-purifying-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €5.80 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [CeraVe CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €38.99 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €104.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €48.55 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Dr. Sebagh Deep Exfoliating Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-sebagh/deep-exfoliating-mask/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €81.80 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.59 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €5.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Mineral Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Isopropyl Myristate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Ceteareth-20, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Disodium Edta, Maltodextrin, Phenoxyethanol, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin
