# Curology Formula for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [Curology](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/brands/curology)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/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.

One of the best serums for oily skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent treatment for acne lesions and blemishes, as tretinoin and azelaic acid work synergistically to exfoliate and regulate sebum production, making it highly suitable for your oily skin.
- Clindamycin further aids in reducing inflammation and preventing breakouts, addressing your primary concern of oily shine.
- The formula is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Tretinoin, Azelaic Acid, Clindamycin

## What the research says

- Azelaic acid nanocrystal hydrogel 10% achieved a higher success rate and greater lesion reduction than azelaic acid cream 20% in patients with mild to moderate facial acne. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/))
- Tretinoin-loaded nano lipid carriers resulted in a significantly higher rate of decrease in acne lesions and greater reduction in porphyrin production compared to conventional tretinoin cream in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/))
- Application of 15% azelaic acid gel significantly reduced post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation, decreased hemoglobin and melanin content, improved quality of life, and contributed to acne improvement in patients with mild to moderate acne compared to placebo. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/))
- Once-daily fixed-dose clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1%/adapalene 0.15% gel achieved superior treatment success (52.5%) and greater reductions in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions compared to vehicle (8.1%) and dyad component gels in participants with moderate-to-severe acne over 12 weeks. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/))
- Topical clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1% gel achieved significantly greater treatment success and lesion reductions compared to vehicle in participants with moderate-to-severe acne. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37656094/))
- A galenic compound containing essential oils and tretinoin demonstrated anti-acne efficacy and anti-inflammatory activity, significantly reducing papular erythema and retinoid-induced rashes compared to clindamycin-tretinoin gel in sixty volunteers over 30 days. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/))
- Topical tretinoin improves clinical appearance of photoaging in terms of wrinkling, mottled hyperpigmentation, sallowness, and lentigines and is safe and well tolerated. ([International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/))
- Topical tretinoin daily application for 10 to 12 months produced an 80 percent increase in collagen I formation in photodamaged human skin compared with a 14 percent decrease with vehicle alone. ([The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/))
- Topical application of a dermocosmetic containing Myrtus communis extract and azelaic acid reduced acne relapses and helped maintain remission compared to a light moisturizing cream in adult females in the acne maintenance phase over 16 weeks. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36729399/))
- Topical administration of 20% azelaic acid cream and 5% tranexamic acid solution comparably improved acne-related postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients with acne vulgaris, while tranexamic acid demonstrated a significantly better safety profile at week 4. ([Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37213446/))
- Azelaic acid 15% gel showed comparable efficacy to adapalene 0.1% gel in reducing lesions, severity, and Dermatology Life Quality Index in women with adult acne, with significantly lower dryness and scaling, and demonstrated superiority during maintenance compared to no further treatment. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25399481/))
- Clindamycin-BPO 2.5% aqueous gel applied once daily provided statistically significant greater efficacy than individual active ingredients and vehicle in reducing inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions and acne severity in 2813 patients with moderate to severe acne vulgaris. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18805603/))
- Topical 4% nicotinamide and 1% clindamycin gels showed similar overall efficacy in reducing acne grade in patients with moderate inflammatory facial acne vulgaris over 8 weeks, with nicotinamide being more effective for oily skin and clindamycin for non-oily skin. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23786503/))
- The incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events and colitis in patients exposed to topical clindamycin for acne vulgaris is extremely low across pharmacovigilance, retrospective, and clinical trial data. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38568005/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users frequently report significant improvements in acne-prone skin, with reduced breakouts and smoother texture being common outcomes. Some users experience initial irritation or purging, and a smaller number encounter issues with subscription management or packaging. Overall satisfaction is high, particularly regarding the effectiveness for acne and skin texture improvement.

- Liked: Acne clearance (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improved texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Simplified routine (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Telehealth access (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging problems (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Subscription issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Customer service (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin reactions (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 Curology Formula a great fit for oily skin?

Curology Formula is a great fit for oily skin because tretinoin and azelaic acid team up to clear blemishes and manage extra oil, while clindamycin helps calm redness and stop breakouts. The formula is very gentle on your skin and carries a very low likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/)

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

Tretinoin, azelaic acid, and clindamycin make this treatment a great fit because they help clear breakouts, control oily shine, and calm redness without harsh irritation. Tretinoin and azelaic acid work together to clear pores and keep oil balanced, while clindamycin helps stop acne-causing bacteria.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/)

### What does Tretinoin do for oily skin?

Tretinoin helps keep oily skin clear by reducing blemishes and clearing clogged pores. It speeds up skin renewal, which may reduce breakouts and leave your skin looking smoother over time.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [Clinical Therapeutics, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1283729/)

### What does Azelaic Acid do for oily skin?

Azelaic acid helps calm acne and clear out pores without changing how much oil your skin makes. It targets multiple causes of breakouts and helps fade dark spots left behind by pimples.
Sources: [Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34731527/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica. Supplementum, 1989](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2475995/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine, keeping things simple and safe around sun exposure. You apply it after cleansing and before moisturizing, following the recommended steps for your oily skin.

### Can I use this treatment with niacinamide, and in what order?

Yes, you can use niacinamide with this treatment by applying your niacinamide product first in your routine to help keep your skin calm and hydrated before putting on the treatment. This combination is unlikely to cause irritation because the formula is safe and free of harsh ingredients, while your supportive skincare helps manage sensitivity.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/), [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine, applying it once a week at first and carefully building up frequency if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results. The formula helps manage breakouts and oily shine safely without harsh irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

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

This treatment is a great fit for oily skin and helps clear breakouts rather than cause them, though new ingredients like tretinoin may occasionally lead to a temporary purging phase as your skin adjusts. The formula is generally safe for your skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients that typically clog pores.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/)

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €169.99 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €29.76 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €29.76 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €20.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €17.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Tretinoin, Azelaic Acid, Clindamycin
## 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/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/curology/formula/for/oily-skin