# Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Germany.

Brand: [Sunday Riley](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/sunday-riley)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination skin and oily shine is provided by salicylic acid and hexylresorcinol, which effectively reduce blemishes and control oil production. Ethyl linoleate further aids in seboregulation, complementing the clarifying action.
- Licorice root extract and chamomile offer soothing benefits, minimizing potential irritation for your combination skin.
- The formulation is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and incorporating soothing agents.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Licorice Root Extract, Nigella Sativa Seed Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Silybum Marianum Seed Oil Milk

## What the research says

- A lotion containing triethyl citrate and ethyl linoleate reduced Leeds grading, total, inflammatory, and noninflammatory lesion counts, and sebum production compared with a placebo in patients with mild to moderate acne. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17635508/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bakuchiol and ethyl (linoleate/oleate) synergistically inhibit eCB degradation to favor eCB mobilization and repress inflammatory mediators in keratinocytes. ([JID Innovations, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36992949/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))
- Topical application of Glycyrrhiza glabra and Sophora japonica flavonoid-rich fractions individually and in combination significantly increased the wound healing rate and reduced oxidative stress compared to wound and Nolaver-treated groups. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37049756/))
- Thymoquinone-loaded liposomal chitosan gel demonstrated superior in vivo anti-inflammatory activity over thymoquinone gel and a comparable effect to marketed indomethacin gel in rats with carrageenan-induced paw edema. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30218265/))
- Thymoquinone pre-treatment attenuated UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial apoptosis in human HaCaT keratinocytes through COX-2 inhibition via the activation of the NrF2/ARE pathway. ([Molecular Immunology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33857815/))
- Topical application of thymoquinone treated with cold plasma significantly improved wound healing potential, augmenting skin regeneration indices, reducing tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and enhancing hyaluronic acid, collagen type I, interleukin-10, alpha smooth muscle actin, and vascular endothelial growth factor compared to thymoquinone alone in a rat wound model. ([International Immunopharmacology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37451012/))
- Silybum marianum flower extract increased human hair follicle dermal papilla cell proliferation and VEGF production while suppressing cellular senescence, and in a clinical study using hair shampoo, it significantly increased hair density and total hair count at 16 and 24 weeks compared with a placebo group. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37675655/))
- Topical 0.5% silymarin-loaded antioxidant serum applied twice daily significantly reduced clinical acne severity, lesion counts, and melanin pigmentation in 22 Korean acne patients over 4 weeks without associated adverse events. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36204969/))
- Topical silymarin cream 1.4% showed comparable results to salicylic acid 30% peels in reducing acne severity in 30 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37942562/))

## What reviewers say

This medicated dry oil is widely praised by users with oily and acne-prone skin for its ability to rapidly clear cystic acne and congestion without causing dryness. While many users report smoother texture and diminished redness overnight, results regarding blackhead removal are mixed, and the product's potent herbal scent is a polarizing feature.

- Liked: Rapidly clears acne (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Strong medicinal scent (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades scars/redness (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-drying formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts/purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for blackheads (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil one of the best fits for combination skin?

This oil is a great fit for your combination skin because salicylic acid and hexylresorcinol help clear blemishes and control oily shine. Licorice root and chamomile also calm your skin to keep irritation low.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/)

### Which ingredients make this oil a good fit for combination skin?

Salicylic acid and hexylresorcinol make this oil a great fit by clearing blemishes and controlling oily shine, while ethyl linoleate helps balance oil production. Licorice root extract and chamomile add soothing benefits that keep your skin calm and minimize any irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17635508/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for combination skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Licorice Root Extract do for combination skin?

Licorice root extract helps calm redness and lower oxidative stress in combination skin. It is unlikely to irritate dry or oily areas while helping keep the skin balanced and comfortable.
Sources: [Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14522625/)

### Where does this oil go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine, applied after your cleanser and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and helps avoid extra sensitivity around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment alongside retinol by applying your retinol first in your evening routine, letting it absorb, and then following with this oil. Because this product contains soothing ingredients like licorice root extract and chamomile, it is unlikely to cause extra irritation when paired with your retinoid.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this oil?

Start using this treatment once a week in the evening, and if your skin feels comfortable, you may carefully use it more often. Salicylic acid helps clear blemishes and control oil, while licorice root and chamomile calm irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Can this oil clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This oil is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for combination skin, as it contains salicylic acid to clear blemishes and control oil, along with soothing ingredients to keep irritation low. Reviewers rarely report breakouts or purging from using it.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

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

It contains fragrance (linalool, limonene, farnesol, and geraniol) and drying alcohol (isopropyl alcohol).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €35.29 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €333.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €39.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 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/combination-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

Silybum Marianum Seed Oil Milk, Nigella Sativa Seed Oil, Cucumis Sativus Seed Oil, Punica Granatum Seed Oil, Diisopropyl Sebacate, Cranberry Seed Oil, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Linum Usitatissimum Seed Oil, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Licorice Root Extract, Prunus Armeniaca Apricot Kernel Oil, Hexylresorcinol, Ethyl Linoleate, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Oil Flower, Citrus Aurantium Amara Oil Flower, Melia Azadirachta Neem Flower Extract, Helianthus Annuus Sunflower Seed Oil, 4-Terpineol, Linalool, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Limonene, Solanum Melongena Fruit Extract, Amber Powder, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Isopropyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Rosemary Leaf Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Farnesol, Geraniol, Water, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Ocimum Basilicum Leaf Extract Flower, Salicylic Acid
## 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/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/combination-skin