# Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum 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/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/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 Germany.

Brand: [Biossance](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/biossance)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/serums)

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 serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- This serum is highly suitable for your combination skin, as squalane and niacinamide provide emollient action and seboregulation, respectively, addressing your acne, blemishes, and breakouts by supporting skin clarity and reducing inflammation.
- The formulation also offers excellent skin smoothing and anti-aging effects due to bakuchiol and niacinamide, which improve texture and minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your acne-prone skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like niacinamide and bakuchiol.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Biosaccharide Gum-1

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Treatment with a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid improved skin aging signs and demonstrated a senomorphic effect by decreasing SASP and autocrine signaling genes in women. ([Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/))
- A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract, and mannitol improves inflammatory lesions, Investigator Global Assessment, and seborrhea intensity when added to adapalene 0.1% gel in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/))
- Topical application of a serum containing supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia chebula extract significantly improved barrier function, reduced redness and sensitivity, and improved wrinkles and elasticity in 34 Chinese subjects with sensitive skin after 28 days. ([Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/))
- 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/))
- Bakuchiol functions as an anti-aging compound through retinol-like regulation of gene expression, producing significant improvements in lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, firmness, and photo-damage after 12 weeks of twice-a-day facial application without usual retinol therapy-associated undesirable effects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24471735/))
- A nature-based bakuchiol-containing cleanser and moisturizer improved visual and tactile smoothness, clarity, radiance, overall appearance, global anti-aging, and skin moisture content by 16% in 60 female subjects with sensitive mild to moderate photodamaged skin over 4 weeks. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33346506/))
- Bakuchiol demonstrated multidirectional antiageing efficacy in in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies, sharing features with retinol while uniquely stimulating extracellular matrix components, epidermal regeneration, and wound healing. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35514037/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Topical 2% niacinamide significantly decreased sebum excretion rate in Japanese individuals and casual sebum levels in Caucasian individuals compared to placebo or baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently report improvements in skin texture and significant hydration without the irritation commonly associated with retinoids. Some users find the name misleading and the scent polarizing, while others note the high price and recent availability issues.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and moisturizing (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Availability issues (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Misleading name (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Polarizing scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This serum is a great fit because squalane and niacinamide help balance oil and keep skin clear, while soothing components like bakuchiol calm breakouts without causing irritation. It has an excellent safety profile for acne-prone skin due to the lack of harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Squalane and niacinamide make this serum a great fit for acne-prone skin by helping to balance oil, calm redness, and support clear skin without causing irritation. Bakuchiol also improves texture while being gentle enough to avoid the scaling and stinging often caused by traditional retinol products.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Squalane may help keep acne-prone skin soft and smooth, but peroxidated forms can trigger inflammation in skin cells. For a better fit on acne-prone skin, products need non-clogging, soothing ingredients that balance oil without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

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

Bakuchiol helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and dark spots without the stinging and scaling often caused by stronger treatments. It works well to calm redness and is unlikely to irritate sensitive skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33683079/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. It is unlikely to irritate acne-prone skin because it lacks harsh ingredients and contains soothing components.

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

You can use this serum alongside a retinol product by applying your retinol first and following with this serum to keep your acne-prone skin calm and balanced. This formula contains soothing ingredients like niacinamide and bakuchiol, which help reduce the irritation often caused by retinoids.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum fits well in the evening routine for acne-prone skin, as active treatments are typically used then for simplicity and safety around sun exposure. It has an excellent safety profile with soothing ingredients like niacinamide and bakuchiol, making it very unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This serum is a great fit for acne-prone skin and is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts. Its safe formula includes soothing ingredients like niacinamide and bakuchiol, which help calm the skin and support clarity without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/), [Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/)

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

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

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-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/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €35.29 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €169.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-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/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.67 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Squalane, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Bakuchiol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Citrus Aurantium Amara Peel Oil, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Lecithin, Hexylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Gluconate, Citric Acid, Linalool, Geraniol, Limonene, Yeast Extract, Amino Acids, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
## 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/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin