# Obagi Clear for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/obagi/clear/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 Ireland.

Brand: [Obagi](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/obagi)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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

- Offers moderate skin brightening for your oily skin due to hydroquinone and ascorbic acid, which help even skin tone, while lactic acid provides mild exfoliation. Glycerin and saponins offer general hydration and cleansing benefits that are supportive but not directly targeted at your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The formulation is safe for your oily skin as it lacks harsh ingredients and prohibited substances, ensuring no irritation.
- While the product offers some brightening and mild exfoliation, it lacks sufficient seboregulating ingredients for optimal management of oiliness and breakouts.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Hydroquinone Usp, Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- TFC-1067 and 2% hydroquinone both significantly lightened facial dyschromia after 8 and 12 weeks in 48 healthy female subjects, but only hydroquinone also lightened normal skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33098161/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- A topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced air pollution-induced skin pigmentation and proinflammatory gene expression ex vivo, and improved skin aging signs in 40 healthy adult females after 90 days of daily use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/))

## 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 Obagi Clear a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Obagi Clear is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because it offers moderate skin brightening with hydroquinone and ascorbic acid to help even your skin tone, alongside lactic acid for mild exfoliation. The formula is also safe and lacks harsh ingredients that could cause irritation. However, because it lacks sufficient oil-controlling ingredients to properly manage breakouts, an ideal product of this type for your skin needs dedicated oil-regulating and blemish-targeting ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Obagi Obagi Clear is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because hydroquinone and ascorbic acid help even your skin tone, while lactic acid gently removes dead skin cells. Glycerin adds light hydration, and tocopheryl acetate is unlikely to clog your pores. Because it lacks ingredients that control oil, this type of product also needs specialized oil-balancing components to fully manage breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Hydroquinone helps fade dark spots left behind by acne on oily, acne-prone skin. It is often used alongside other treatments to manage breakouts and improve evenness without causing extra irritation.
Sources: [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15113286/), [Cutis, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16164153/)

### What does Vitamin C do for oily acne-prone skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out texture, and improve uneven spots for oily acne-prone skin. It may also help fade marks left behind by blemishes.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Apply this treatment in the evening after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. This timing helps simplify your routine and adds extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this cream in your evening routine after your cleanser and toner, but apply retinol on alternating nights or at a different time to lower the risk of irritation. This product lacks sufficient oil-controlling and breakout-clearing ingredients, so oily acne-prone skin needs added ingredients like salicylic acid or retinoids to properly manage oil and breakouts.

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this treatment once a week in the evening, and if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you can carefully use it more often. This product is unlikely to cause irritation due to its safe formulation for oily skin.

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your oily skin because it lacks harsh ingredients and has a safe formulation. However, it lacks oil-controlling ingredients, so a product of this type needs added oil-balancing ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to properly manage excess oil and breakouts.
Sources: [Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €29.07 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €31.40 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €95.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Hydroquinone Usp, Ascorbic Acid, Bht, Butylparaben, Cetyl Alcohol, Disodium Edta, Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Methylparaben, Phenyl Trimethicone, Ppg-2 Myristyl Ether Propionate, Propylparaben, Saponins, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Metabisulfite, Stearyl Alcohol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Water
## 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/obagi/clear/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/clear/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/obagi/clear/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/obagi/clear/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/obagi/clear/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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