# Menarini A-Ret Gel for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [Menarini](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/menarini)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/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.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent suitability for your oily skin and acne-prone concerns, as tretinoin effectively reduces acne lesions and regulates sebum production, while propylene glycol acts as a humectant to maintain hydration.
- The formulation is well-suited for managing oily shine by promoting exfoliation and desquamation regulation.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Tretinoin, Propylene Glycol, Isopropanol, Carbomer, Butylated Hydroxytoluene

## What the research says

- Tretinoin-loaded nano lipid carriers resulted in a significantly higher rate of decrease in acne lesions and greater reduction in porphyrin production compared to conventional tretinoin cream in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/))
- A galenic compound containing essential oils and tretinoin demonstrated anti-acne efficacy and anti-inflammatory activity, significantly reducing papular erythema and retinoid-induced rashes compared to clindamycin-tretinoin gel in sixty volunteers over 30 days. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/))
- Pranoprofen-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers dispersed in Carbomer 940 and Sepigel 305 gels provided sustained drug release and demonstrated anti-inflammatory efficacy in animal models without causing skin irritation or altering biophysical properties in humans. ([Gels, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37367119/))
- Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is safe as used in cosmetic formulations at concentrations ranging from 0.0002% to 0.5% due to low dermal penetration and systemic exposure compared to oral administration. ([International Journal of Toxicology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12396675/))
- Topical tretinoin improves clinical appearance of photoaging in terms of wrinkling, mottled hyperpigmentation, sallowness, and lentigines and is safe and well tolerated. ([International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/))
- Topical tretinoin daily application for 10 to 12 months produced an 80 percent increase in collagen I formation in photodamaged human skin compared with a 14 percent decrease with vehicle alone. ([The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/))
- Topical tretinoin precursors and tretinoin showed no significant difference in efficacy for moderate to severe facial photodamage in 20 patients, while tretinoin precursors caused erythema six times less frequently. ([JAMA Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35675051/))
- Treatment with a combination of propylene glycol, ethanol, water, and shampoo was found effective, easy to use, and cosmetically attractive with no observed side effects in patients with dandruff. ([Cutis, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2970946/))
- A moisturizer containing glycerol and propylene glycol reduced transepidermal water loss, decreased epidermal thickness, increased stratum corneum thickness, and reduced dermal inflammatory infiltrate compared to untreated disrupted skin in six healthy beagle dogs. ([Veterinary Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628309/))
- The use of 70% isopropyl alcohol in conjunction with scrubbing with a bristled brush significantly reduced positive bacterial cultures at the nail fold compared to povidone-iodine with soft sponges in volunteers. ([The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15866960/))
- Friction with 70% ethyl or isopropyl alcohol immediately eliminates the heart-shaped pigmented lesion characteristic of terra firma-forme dermatosis in a 14-year-old boy. ([Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38826967/))
- Rubbing 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes cleared persistent reticulated brown patches in five patients with terra firma-forme dermatosis. ([Skinmed, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27871345/))
- Topical chloramphenicol-betamethasone combined with sodium hyaluronate/trehalose/carbomer gel compared to chloramphenicol-betamethasone alone reduced most subjective symptoms at 1 week but increased blurred vision at 4 weeks following strabismus surgery in 31 patients, with no significant differences in conjunctival inflammation between treatments. ([Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31298607/))
- Incorporating nanoemulsions into hydrogels with increasing Carbopol 934 proportions from 1% to 3% progressively decreased the percutaneous flux rates of terbinafine and citral, increased drug accumulation in the stratum corneum while decreasing it in the epidermis/dermis compared to nanoemulsions alone, and shifted delivery routes from skin appendages to intercellular paths. ([International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27877042/))
- Topical liquiritin carbomer gel treatment restored skin barrier function, increased barrier proteins and antioxidant enzymes, and decreased inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress in a mouse model of glucocorticoid-induced skin inflammation. ([Pharmaceutics, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39204346/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this product is highly effective for improving skin texture, clearing acne, and providing an anti-aging glow, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, non-clogging formula. Users frequently mention its affordability. A significant number of reviews note a strong alcohol smell and potential for initial irritation or peeling, suggesting a need for a careful moisturizing routine.

- Liked: Highly effective results (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight, non-clogging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Very affordable (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Alcohol smell and drying (often mentioned)
- Liked: Noticeable skin radiance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Availability and shipping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial irritation and peeling (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Texture inconsistency (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

### What makes Menarini A-Ret Gel a great fit for oily skin?

Menarini A-Ret Gel is a great fit for oily skin because tretinoin helps reduce breakouts and controls oil, while propylene glycol maintains hydration without feeling heavy. It manages oily shine by gently promoting skin renewal and safe exfoliation.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/)

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

Tretinoin makes this gel a great fit for your oily skin because it effectively reduces acne blemishes and controls oil, while propylene glycol maintains essential moisture. Together, they help manage oily shine and smooth your skin by encouraging gentle cell renewal.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/)

### What does Tretinoin do for oily skin?

Tretinoin helps keep oily skin clear by reducing blemishes and clearing clogged pores. It speeds up skin renewal, which may reduce breakouts and leave your skin looking smoother over time.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [Clinical Therapeutics, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1283729/)

### What does Propylene Glycol do for oily skin?

Propylene glycol helps other ingredients soak deeper into your skin and works well as a light moisturizer that leaves skin soft without feeling greasy. It is safe for most people, though it is unlikely to cause irritation unless your skin is already sensitive or broken.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31786711/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting it at night helps avoid extra sun sensitivity, while tretinoin actively works to clear acne and oiliness.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11411906/)

### Can I use it with benzoyl peroxide, and in what order?

You can use this treatment alongside benzoyl peroxide, but apply them at different times of the day to keep your skin calm and comfortable. Using them together in the same routine may lead to dryness, so spacing them out helps your skin stay balanced while managing breakouts.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/)

### How often should I use this gel?

Apply this gel in your evening routine, starting just once a week to see how your skin tolerates it. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often.

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores and instead helps clear breakouts for oily skin by reducing acne spots and managing oil production. You may experience some initial peeling or dryness as it encourages skin cell renewal.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €37.99 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €129.99 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €34.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €24.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Tretinoin, Propylene Glycol, Isopropanol, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Methyl Hydroxybenzoate, Propyl Hydroxybenzoate
## 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/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin