# Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/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: [Sunday Riley](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/sunday-riley)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/serums)

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.

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Excellent for your oily skin, this serum effectively targets acne and breakouts with hydroxypinacolone retinoate and retinol, which regulate sebum production and promote cell turnover to refine pores and texture.
- The inclusion of honey extract and bisabolol provides soothing benefits, ensuring comfort for your skin type.
- This formula is safe for your skin, with no risk of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of calming components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Retinoid Blend, Ubiquinone, Honey Extract, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

## What the research says

- Combined probiotic supplementation and topical azelaic acid with hydroxypinacolone retinoate reduced non-inflammatory lesions from 11.5 to 7.3 and decreased microscopic acne features measured by reflectance confocal microscopy and dynamic optical coherence tomography in 20 patients over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/))
- Hydroxypinacolone retinoate and retinyl propionate at a 5:9 weight ratio synergistically enhanced antiaging gene expressions in vitro and improved skin wrinkles, smoothness, transepidermal water loss, and elasticity in 42 Chinese urban women over an 8-week period without adverse reactions compared to retinol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36762391/))
- Topical retinoids improve global assessment scores and reduce lesion counts compared to vehicle in patients with acne vulgaris, with adapalene demonstrating a superior tolerability profile and benzoyl peroxide combination optimizing results. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/))
- Topical application of all-trans-retinol induced epidermal thickening and increased retinoid binding protein expression similar to all-trans-retinoic acid in normal human skin, but without causing significant erythema or measurable retinoic acid levels. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7561157/))
- Trifarotene cream 0.005% resulted in a significantly greater reduction in total atrophic acne scar count compared with vehicle at Week 24 (55.2% vs 29.9%) in patients with atrophic acne scarring. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39984798/))
- Topical application of CoQ10 improves mitochondrial function in aging skin in vivo, combating cellular signs of aging caused by an age-dependent shift to a functionally anaerobic energy metabolism. ([BioFactors, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19096122/))
- Encapsulating coenzyme Q10 in lipid nanoparticles for topical use improves skin compatibility, protects against degradation, increases skin penetration, and provides controlled release to counteract aging effects. ([Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37574615/))
- Review of topical administration of carotenoids and coenzyme Q10 loaded in lipid nanoparticles highlights their improved bioavailability, chemical stability, skin absorption, and photoprotective effects. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34206935/))
- Honey-based dressings reduced mean healing duration, length of hospital stay, and VAS pain scores compared with povidone iodine-based dressings in 1236 participants. ([Journal of Wound Care, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33856925/))
- Topical honey application improved the mean duration of attacks and pain, occurrence of crusting, and healing time compared to acyclovir cream in 16 adult patients with recurrent labial and genital herpes lesions. ([Medical Science Monitor, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15278008/))
- A topical serum containing hydroxypinacolone retinoate and peptides used twice daily for 16 weeks achieved parity or statistically significantly better improvement in facial aging parameters compared to a single fractional CO2 laser treatment in women with moderate global photodamage. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39394831/))
- A new topical gel formulation reduced total acne lesions by 80% and GAGS scores by 78% after 8 weeks in 22 female patients with mild facial acne without impairing skin barrier function or causing side effects. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32869963/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently praise this serum for its ability to deliver retinoid benefits like smoothed texture and reduced fine lines with minimal irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin or retinoid beginners. The formula includes soothing botanicals that help mitigate dryness and redness, improving overall skin clarity and radiance.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive product (often mentioned)
- Liked: Anti-aging results (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Moisturizing formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strength claims (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Sunday Riley A+ Serum a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum is a great fit because it effectively targets acne and breakouts by regulating oil production and clearing pores with retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate. Honey extract and bisabolol add soothing benefits to keep your skin comfortable, and the formula is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36762391/)

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

This serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because it contains retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate, which help control excess oil and clear pores. It also includes honey extract and bisabolol to keep your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/)

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

Retinoid helps clear oily acne-prone skin by clearing out pores and calming redness. It is a reliable first-line choice that keeps skin smooth and manages breakouts over the long term.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18973403/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/)

### What does Coenzyme Q10 do for oily acne-prone skin?

Coenzyme Q10 helps energize skin cells and provides antioxidant protection to reduce daily stress on oily, acne-prone skin. It is unlikely to clog pores and may improve the overall health and appearance of aging skin.
Sources: [BioFactors, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19096122/), [BioFactors, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26648450/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening provides extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in your morning routine and this treatment at night, as the page recommends using treatments in the evening to target breakouts while avoiding potential irritation from mixing potent actives at the same time.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment serum in your evening routine. Starting it once a week helps your skin adjust comfortably, and you may carefully use it more often as your skin tolerates it well.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36762391/)

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

This serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because it uses retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate to clear pores and refine texture without harsh ingredients. Initial breakouts are unlikely, and calming ingredients like honey extract and bisabolol help keep your skin comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36762391/)

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

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol).

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.25 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €37.67 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €37.67 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
- 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-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €17.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water Eau Agua, Propanediol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Triheptanoin, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Hexyldecanol, Disiloxane, Cetyl Peg Ppg-10 1 Dimethicone, Diheptyl Succinate, Propylene Carbonate, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Ppg-24-Glycereth-24, Phenyl Trimethicone, Retinol, Ubiquinone, Honey Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Algae Extract, Zingiber Officinale Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Bisabolol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Yeast Extract, Lecithin, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, 1,2-Hexanediol, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Sorbitol, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Polysilicone-11, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Phytate, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Polysorbate, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Stearic Acid, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Pvp, Capryloyl Glycerin Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Alcohol, Potassium Phosphate, Decyl Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopherol
## 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

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- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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