# Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/moisturizers)

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 weak match for oily skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Suboptimal compatibility with your oily skin as ingredients like Caprylic Capric Triglyceride and Dicaprylyl Carbonate may pose risks of worsening oily shine concerns, though squalane and rosa canina oil fruit offer moderate hydration and barrier resilience.
- The formula provides general skincare benefits, but lacks sufficient seboregulating ingredients for optimal results on oily skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Lavender Essential Oil, Oenothera Biennis Oil, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Curcuma Longa Root Extract

## What the research says

- Topical application of a vitamin C-squalene bioconjugate significantly increased epidermal thickness, type III collagen production, and glycosaminoglycans production in human skin explants compared to free vitamin C and vitamin C-palmitate. ([Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33037252/))
- 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/))
- Sunflower and rosehip oil nanoemulsions prepared with a mix of phospholipids and synthetic emulsifiers permeated intact skin to the dermis and showed a more prominent healing effect in a human organotypic skin explant culture wound model compared to nanoemulsions prepared only with phospholipids. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36986857/))
- 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/))
- Polysaccharide-based O/W emulsions incorporated with lavender essential oil applied to cellulosic support are non-irritating, provide softness and moisturizing effects, and are safe for topical patch applications. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34547316/))
- Gellan gum hydrogel films co-encapsulating ofloxacin with tea tree or lavender oil achieved 98% wound contraction and completely healed epidermis in rats after ten days of treatment compared to baseline. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33130262/))
- Topical application of lavender oil significantly promoted wound contraction, collagen synthesis, and fibroblast differentiation with up-regulation of TGF-beta in a rat model compared to control. ([BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27229681/))
- Electrospun poly (vinyl butyral-co-vinyl alcohol-co-vinyl acetate) patches loaded with evening primrose oil applied to the forearm of volunteers for 6 hours increased skin moisture, with pore size, shape, and fiber diameter influencing oil transport. ([Biomaterials Advances, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35929319/))
- A topical preparation containing urea, sunflower oil, evening primrose oil, wheat germ oil, and sodium pyruvate led to clinical improvement after a month in diverse hyperkeratotic skin conditions except pityriasis lichenoides. ([Medicina Cutanea Ibero-latino-americana, 1986](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3528709/))
- Topical application of linseed, evening primrose, and olive oil emulsions accelerated wound closure in rats with excision wounds compared to untreated controls, though via different mechanisms. ([Drug Delivery and Translational Research, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29667150/))
- Topical treatments containing rosehip extract may reduce the size and erythema of postsurgical scars through macrophage polarization and inflammatory cytokine inhibition, though current clinical evidence remains insufficient to recommend its routine use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37605366/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Topical treatment with rosehip seed oil stimulates hair growth in telogenic C57BL/6 mice by inducing the early transition of hair follicles from the telogen to the anagen phase and upregulating hair growth-associated genes. ([Preventive Nutrition and Food Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38188083/))
- Topical application of curcumin or turmeric treats various skin conditions by leveraging antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38008088/))
- Topical formulations of curcumin target oxidative damage and inflammation to improve wound healing in animal models. ([Drug Discovery Today, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28711364/))
- A curcumin-loaded spanlastic anti-aging gel utilizing formula F5 incorporated into 2% HPMC E50 demonstrated sustained release action, compatibility, and the ability to penetrate skin layers to a depth of about 112.5 um without signs of irritation. ([Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38178851/))

## Why other moisturizers fit oily skin better

- 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 peel-off facial mask containing myoinositol and trehalose-loaded liposomes improved adult female acne by decreasing lesion counts, sebum production, GAGS scores, and local androgen levels while increasing beclin-1 levels. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28342238/))

## What reviewers say

This facial oil is widely praised as a holy grail for dry or tired skin, with users consistently reporting a noticeable morning glow and improved plumpness after overnight use. Results are polarized for acne-prone users; while some find it balances oil production, a significant minority experience breakouts or cystic acne due to the essential oils. This summary is based on a very large amount of data and should definitely be taken into account.

- Liked: Restores radiance (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Deep hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Relaxing scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight absorption (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Fragrance irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sits on skin (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine every day to keep your face fresh.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toning, but right before your SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and let it absorb fully.
- Apply on clean, slightly dry skin to help control that oily shine.
- Avoid the eye area and do a quick patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate a weak match for oily skin?

This product is a weak match because it may worsen oily shine and lacks enough oil-controlling ingredients. Oily skin needs a product of this type that has hyaluronic acid to provide hydration, niacinamide to control oil and minimize pores, and soothing allantoin.

### Which ingredients make this serum a poor fit for oily skin?

Caprylic Capric Triglyceride and Dicaprylyl Carbonate make this a poor fit as they may worsen oily shine. An ideal moisturizing treatment for oily skin needs oil-controlling ingredients like Niacinamide, lightweight hydration from hyaluronic acid, and soothing ingredients like Allantoin.

### What does Squalane do for oily skin?

Squalane helps keep oily skin soft and smooth without feeling heavy, though oxidized forms may sometimes trigger irritation. To work well for oily skin, this type of product needs lightweight, non-clogging ingredients that balance moisture without adding excess grease.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

### What does Lavender Essential Oil do for oily skin?

Lavender essential oil helps keep oily skin clear by targeting bacteria that lead to breakouts, and it may also calm redness and soothe irritation. Because it is potent, an oily skin routine needs soothing plant extracts and gentle balancing ingredients to keep the skin barrier healthy.
Sources: [Nanomaterials, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36903722/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41603104/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though an oily skin needs a product with oil-controlling ingredients to manage shine.

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

You can use this treatment alongside retinol by applying it after your retinol has fully absorbed into the skin. This product is a weak match for oily skin because certain ingredients may worsen oily shine, meaning this skin type generally needs lightweight, oil-balancing ingredients and sebum-regulating components for best results.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is best used in the evening as part of your nighttime routine. Because this oil-based product is a weak match for oily skin, a product of this type needs balancing ingredients that help control excess oil and shine.

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

This oil-heavy treatment is a weak match for oily skin and may worsen shine or cause breakouts. A product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and oil-controlling ingredients to properly balance oily skin.

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

This treatment is generally safe to use on the thin skin around your eyes and on your body, but it is a weak match for oily skin because it may worsen oily shine. A product of this type needs lightweight ingredients and oil-balancing extracts to properly care for oily skin.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/allies-of-skin/peptides-and-antioxidants-firming-daily-treatment/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €35.95 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €22.00 at Amazon
- [COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/hydrium-triple-hyaluronic-moisture-ampoule/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €17.99 at Amazon

## Routine for oily skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €17.47 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-skin) — Superior fit — €34.30 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €40.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Pixi Glow Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/pixi/glow-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €29.29 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €86.15 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €17.47 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €40.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €49.00 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Herbivore Botanicals Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/herbivore-botanicals/blue-tansy-bha-and-enzyme-pore-refining-mask/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €79.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €86.15 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.fr: €64.40 (https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B007KKTTLE?tag=lovi-care-web-product06-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €29.90 (https://www.notino.fr/kiehls/midnight-recovery-concentrate-serum-de-nuit-regenerateur-pour-tous-types-de-peau-y-compris-peau-sensible/p-603227/)
- Lookfantastic: €46.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.fr/p/kiehl-s-midnight-recovery-concentrate-various-sizes/12916110/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Squalane, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Oenothera Biennis Evening Primrose Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis Jojoba Seed Oil Oil, Coriandrum Sativum Coriander Seed Oil Oil, Tocopherol, Lavandula Angustifolia Lavender Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil Flower, Linalool, Rosmarinus Officinalis Rosemary Oil Leaf, Citronellol, Geraniol, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Cucumis Sativus Cucumber Fruit Extract Extract, Curcuma Longa Turmeric Root Extract Extract, Limonene, Citral, Sclareolide, Rosa Spp Rose Oil Flower, Jasminum Officinale Jasmine Extract, Helianthus Annuus Sunflower Seed Oil
## 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/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/midnight-recovery-concentrate/for/oily-skin