# Olay Retinol24 for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/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: [Olay](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/olay)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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

- Offers excellent moisturizing and anti-aging benefits for your oily skin, as retinol and niacinamide work to hydrate and minimize fine lines while also regulating oil and desquamation.
- While ingredients like dimethicone and glycerin provide general hydration supportive for acne-prone skin, the formula lacks specialized ingredients to directly target blemishes and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risk of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing niacinamide.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/dry-skin): Warning
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Warning
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Dimethicone, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- 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/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))
- 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/))

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

- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently report waking up to noticeably smoother and softer skin, with many praising the product's ability to hydrate without feeling heavy or greasy. While effective for brightening dullness and reducing fine lines over time, some users with sensitive skin experienced initial irritation or breakouts typical of retinol products.

- Liked: Smoother skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Deep hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight feel (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightening effect (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fragrance-free (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Jar packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (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 Olay Retinol24 work for oily acne-prone skin?

Olay Retinol24 works for oily acne-prone skin by hydrating and smoothing fine lines while helping control oil, though other options fit this skin type better. It is safe and unlikely to cause irritation, but a product of this type needs specialized ingredients to directly target blemishes and breakouts, along with lightweight, non-clogging hydrators.

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

This cream works for your oily acne-prone skin because retinol and niacinamide help balance oil and smooth fine lines, while glycerin and dimethicone provide light hydration. However, a product of this type needs specialized blemish-fighting ingredients and lightweight, non-clogging hydrators like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to fully meet the needs of your skin.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Water helps keep oily, acne-prone skin hydrated without making it greasy. Keeping skin hydrated is important because acne treatments can dry it out and irritate the skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40196957/)

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

Dimethicone helps protect oily, acne-prone skin from irritation, but it shows varying performance in keeping skin hydrated compared to other protectants. Because it can feel heavy, this type of skin often needs lighter ingredients like natural plant oils with a higher linoleic acid to oleic acid ratio to keep pores clear and the skin barrier strong.
Sources: [Ostomy/wound Management, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16439809/), [Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, since active serums and treatments are best used at night for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. For your oily and acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs specialized ingredients that directly target blemishes and breakouts.

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

You can use this treatment with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in the morning and this treatment at night, as this routine keeps your oily skin safe and well-balanced. Oily acne-prone skin typically benefits from lightweight hydrators and ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to directly clear breakouts.

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine, applying it after cleansing and toning. This product of this type needs specialized ingredients to directly target blemishes and breakouts for this skin.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26151786/)

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

This product may cause initial breakouts for oily acne-prone skin, as reviewers commonly complain about this effect. Because the formula lacks specialized ingredients to directly target blemishes and breakouts, oily acne-prone skin needs ingredients that clear pores and fight blemishes.

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

You can use this moisturizing treatment on your body and around the eyes, as it is safe for your skin. The skin on the body is thick, while the skin around the eyes is very thin, but this formula's soothing ingredients and gentle profile help it absorb well without irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €37.20 at Amazon
- [COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/hydrium-triple-hyaluronic-moisture-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €35.40 at Amazon
- [MEDI-PEEL Peptide 9 Volume White Cica All-in-one Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medi-peel/peptide-9-volume-white-cica-all-in-one-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €32.09 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
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €15.64 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €24.42 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B0976ZHX9K?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €21.60 (https://www.notino.ie/olay/retinol-24-night-cream-hydrating-and-regenerating-night-cream-with-vitamin-e/p-16356685/)
Prices checked 23 Oct – 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Retinol, Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Laureth-7, Dimethiconol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin