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

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/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: [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 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 great choice for oily skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin is provided by salicylic acid and 4-terpineol, which work to exfoliate and combat acne-causing bacteria, addressing your oily shine effectively.
- The inclusion of hexylresorcinol further aids in skin clarification and blemish reduction, complementing the primary actions for a clearer complexion.
- The product is safe for your skin, featuring soothing ingredients like Chamomilla Recutita Oil Flower and Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract with no harsh or prohibited substances.

## 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 (this page)
- [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
- [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

- Topical 5% tea tree oil gel significantly improved total acne lesions and acne severity index compared to placebo in 60 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, showing 3.55 times and 5.75 times greater efficacy respectively. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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

### What makes Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil a great fit for oily skin?

Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil is a great fit because salicylic acid and 4-terpineol clear away oily shine and combat acne-causing bacteria. Hexylresorcinol further helps reduce blemishes for a clearer complexion, while soothing chamomile and aloe keep skin calm and safe from harsh effects.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid and 4-terpineol make this face oil a great fit because they help clear away dead skin and combat breakout-causing bacteria to keep oily shine under control. Hexylresorcinol further helps reduce blemishes for a clearer look, while soothing chamomile and aloe keep your skin calm and safe.
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 Salicylic Acid do for oily skin?

Salicylic acid helps oily skin by reducing excess oil and keeping pores clear. It may also improve overall skin hydration while managing breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

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

Licorice root extract helps calm redness and balances oil production, making it a great addition for keeping oily skin clear and comfortable. It is unlikely to clog pores and may help soothe irritation or breakouts associated with excess oil.
Sources: [Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine, as treatments with active ingredients are typically used then for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. Salicylic acid and soothing extracts help clear pores and calm your oily skin.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying your retinol first and following with this oil in your evening routine, or by alternating nights. Because both ingredients help clear blemishes and smooth your skin, starting slowly helps you see how your skin adjusts without causing extra dryness.

### How often should I use it?

Use this treatment in your evening routine once a week to start. People who tolerate it well and see good results may carefully use it more often.

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

This face oil is a great fit for your oily skin, though it may cause mild breakouts or purging for some people as the salicylic acid works to clear out pores. It is very unlikely to cause major breakouts since it features soothing ingredients and a safe profile with no harsh substances.
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 it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

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

## 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

## Pairs well with

- 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

## 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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/oily-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/u-f-o-ultra-clarifying-face-oil/for/oily-skin
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