# K-SECRET SEOUL 1988 Cream for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [K-SECRET](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/k-secret)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- This product offers excellent moisturizing and anti-aging benefits for your oily skin, with niacinamide and 3-0-ethyl ascorbic acid helping to regulate sebum and provide antioxidant protection.
- While it contains beneficial ingredients like retinal and bakuchiol for texture and fine lines, it lacks targeted components for your primary concerns of acne and blemishes.
- The formulation is safe for your oily skin, as it avoids harsh ingredients and potential irritants.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Lactobacillus Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Retinal

## What the research says

- 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 multi-component dissolving microneedle patch loaded with glabridin, 3-O-ethyl-L-ascorbic acid, and tranexamic acid effectively reduced chloasma and age spots while demonstrating safety in clinical evaluation, alongside significant antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and melanin-reduction effects in vitro and in vivo. ([Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37571190/))
- 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 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/))
- Enzyme-modified ginseng extract cream significantly reduced the global photo-damage score and various roughness measures including total roughness, smoothness depth, and arithmetic roughness average compared to placebo in 23 human subjects. ([Rejuvenation Research, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25867599/))
- A red ginseng hydrogel formulation with 1,2-hexanediol promoted selective growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis and decreased Cutibacterium acnes in 20 female subjects. ([Journal of Ginseng Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35509819/))
- A 1% fermented black ginseng cream significantly reduced eye wrinkles and brightened skin color in twenty-three human subjects compared to control cream and baseline. ([Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part A, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32564709/))
- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))

## Why other moisturizers fit oily acne-prone skin better

- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- 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/))
- A facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo in 66 participants with mild-to-moderate maskne over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, users consistently praise this cream as an excellent entry-level retinal product that effectively smooths skin texture and hydrates without the irritation typically associated with retinoids. While it is highly rated for its gentle formula and non-greasy finish, some users note that it requires consistent long-term use to see significant changes in deep wrinkles or hyperpigmentation.

- Liked: Gentle & Non-Irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant Texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating Formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves Skin Texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Bulky packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Mild scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this AM and PM routine every day to help clear your skin. Always remember to finish with SPF in the morning.
- Apply the moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your SPF during the day.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and avoid rubbing to keep pores clear.
- Apply on clean, slightly damp skin to help the product absorb better and control oil.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a simple patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does K-SECRET SEOUL 1988 Cream work for oily acne-prone skin?

This cream works for your oily acne-prone skin, though other products fit it better because it lacks targeted blemish-fighting components. To truly suit this skin type, a product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and ingredients that manage breakouts and acne without adding heavy oils.

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

Niacinamide and 3-0-ethyl ascorbic acid make this cream a good fit for your oily skin by helping to regulate oil and providing antioxidant protection. To work best for acne-prone skin, a moisturizer of this type needs targeted ingredients that clear blemishes and pimples while avoiding heavy oils that can clog pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/), [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oil production, calms redness, and is unlikely to irritate oily, acne-prone skin while improving blemishes. Clinical tests show it reduces excess oil and helps clear up both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/)

### What does Lactobacillus Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate do for oily acne-prone skin?

Lactobacillus Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate helps balance and soothe oily acne-prone skin while keeping it hydrated. For this skin type, a product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and ingredients that calm redness and support clear pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218728/), [Scientific Reports, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37803101/)

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

This moisturizing treatment goes as the last step in your evening routine, after your cleanser, toner, and treatment. While it provides good moisture and helps control oil, oily acne-prone skin ultimately needs targeted blemish-fighting ingredients to best manage breakouts.

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

You can use this cream alongside an AHA, applying your AHA first and letting it absorb before putting on this moisturizer. This product works well for your skin type, though oily acne-prone skin needs a moisturizer with targeted blemish-fighting ingredients to clear breakouts.

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizing treatment daily as part of your morning and evening routine, applying it after your toner or treatment. Using it twice a day helps keep your skin hydrated and smooth while providing helpful anti-aging and sebum-regulating benefits. To properly care for oily acne-prone skin, this type of product also needs targeted ingredients that help clear blemishes and control breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

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

This cream is safe for your oily skin and avoids harsh ingredients, but because it lacks targeted components for acne and blemishes, this skin type needs products with ingredients that clear breakouts and balance oil.

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

This moisturizing treatment is safe to use, but an average fit for oily acne-prone skin means it lacks targeted ingredients for blemishes, and oily acne-prone skin needs lightweight hydration and blemish-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €14.90 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €17.90 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €34.16 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €34.30 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.fr: €17.50 (https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B0DGGBYDRZ?tag=lovi-care-web-product06-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Sodium Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Lactobacillus Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus Soybean Extract Ferment, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Saccharomyces Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces Potato Extract Ferment Filtrate, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Disodium Edta, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Caprylyl Glycol, Adenosine, Glyceryl Acrylate Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Caprylyl Capryl Glucoside, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Sorbitan Oleate, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Phytosteryl Behenyl Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Retinal, Silica, Aluminum Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Tocopherol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract, 3-0-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Bakuchiol, Sh-Oligopeptide-1, Sh-Oligopeptide-2, Sh-Polypeptide-1
## 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/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/k-secret/seoul-1988-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin