# SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [SkinCeuticals](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/skinceuticals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/serums)

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.

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and anti-inflammatory action suitable for oily skin, with retinol helping to regulate desquamation and bisabolol soothing the skin.
- While it provides general skincare benefits like hydration and cleansing, its primary focus on rejuvenation through retinol may not directly address your main concern of oily shine.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like bisabolol, minimizing irritation risks.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Dimethicone, Bisabolol, Sodium Hyaluronate

## 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/))
- 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/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Topical application of 0.5% boswellic acids in a base cream improved tactile roughness, fine lines, elasticity, sebum excretion, and dermal echographic parameters compared to placebo in fifteen female volunteers with photoaged facial skin. ([Planta Medica, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19918712/))
- A water-soluble Boswellia serrata gum resin extract (LI51202F1) demonstrated broad-spectrum safety, with an oral and dermal LD50 >2000 mg/kg, a 90-day sub-chronic NOAEL of 500 mg/kg/day in rats, and a lack of mutagenicity and clastogenicity. ([Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34886755/))
- The novel AKBA-enriched Boswellia serrata extract 5-Loxin demonstrated a broad spectrum of safety in acute oral, acute dermal, skin and eye irritation, and 90-day subchronic toxicity evaluations. ([Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20021046/))
- 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/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- 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/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums 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/))
- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))

## What reviewers say

Users consistently report smoother skin texture, reduced pore size, and diminished acne, though results typically require consistent long-term use to become visible.

- Liked: Gentle for beginners (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-drying formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces acne & pores (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 work for oily skin?

SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 works moderately well for oily skin by providing gentle exfoliation and soothing care, though it may not directly control oily shine. A treatment for oily skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, and zinc PCA to manage excess oil and enlarged pores while keeping the skin comfortable.

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

Retinol and bisabolol make this cream a moderate fit for oily skin by helping to regulate skin shedding and calm the skin, while dimethicone adds smooth hydration. However, to better manage oily shine, a product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control excess oil and refine pores.

### What does Retinol do for oily skin?

Retinol helps oily skin by keeping pores clear and balancing sebum production, which may reduce shine and breakouts. Because it can sometimes cause dryness or peeling in the beginning, starting slowly is recommended.
Sources: [Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21914489/)

### What does Boswellia Serrata Extract do for oily skin?

Boswellia Serrata Extract helps balance sebum excretion in oily skin while smoothing out fine lines and tactile roughness. Applying it once daily may improve skin elasticity and overall texture without causing irritation.
Sources: [Planta Medica, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19918712/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Oily skin also benefits from ingredients that control excess oil and shine.

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

You can use this treatment with vitamin C by applying your vitamin C in the morning and saving this retinol for your evening routine. This helps you get the benefits of both ingredients while keeping your skin calm and lowering the chance of irritation.

### How often should I use it?

Apply this treatment in the evening, starting once a week to see how your skin adjusts. Retinol and soothing ingredients help calm your skin, and you can slowly use it more often if you tolerate it well.

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

This product is unlikely to clog pores, but initial purging may occasionally happen when you first start using it. Oily skin works best with treatments that actively control excess shine while providing soothing and clarifying ingredients.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €52.57 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €185.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.45 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €97.75 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B07MKXJPXW?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €78.20 (https://www.lookfantastic.ie/p/skinceuticals-retinol-0.3-corrective-treatment-for-mature-skin-30ml/12021428/)
Prices checked 30 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Alcohol Denat, Dipropylene Glycol, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Allyl Methacrylates Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Isopropyl Myristate, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Citrate, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Dimethiconol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Bisabolol, Citric Acid, Bht, Propyl Gallate
## 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/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/retinol-0-3/for/oily-skin