# True Botanicals Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/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: [True Botanicals](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/true-botanicals)
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.

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your oily skin due to the presence of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, which provides antioxidant activity and mild astringent properties, and Glycerin, a humectant that balances hydration without adding excess oil.
- The formula includes Astaxanthin Powder for antioxidant and anti-aging effects, though it lacks targeted ingredients to address your primary concern of oily shine.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Phyto-Retinol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil Rosehip Seed Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice

## 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/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Combining oral and topical astaxanthin in 30 healthy females improved skin wrinkles, age spots, elasticity, texture, and moisture, while 6 mg daily oral supplementation in 36 healthy males improved crow's feet wrinkles, elasticity, and transepidermal water loss. ([Acta Biochimica Polonica, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22428137/))
- Twice-daily application of a novel topical antioxidant formulation safe, well-tolerated, and effective in improving overall skin quality, fine lines, wrinkles, radiance, and hyperpigmentation in 32 healthy female subjects over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37608511/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- 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/))
- A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract, and mannitol improves inflammatory lesions, Investigator Global Assessment, and seborrhea intensity when added to adapalene 0.1% gel in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/))
- Topical application of a serum containing supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia chebula extract significantly improved barrier function, reduced redness and sensitivity, and improved wrinkles and elasticity in 34 Chinese subjects with sensitive skin after 28 days. ([Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- Topical application of green tea extract encapsulated chitosan microparticles improved skin elasticity, melanin index, and facial wrinkles compared to a placebo in female volunteers without causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34965006/))
- Topical treatments containing rosehip extract may reduce the size and erythema of postsurgical scars through macrophage polarization and inflammatory cytokine inhibition, though current clinical evidence remains insufficient to recommend its routine use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37605366/))
- Sunflower and rosehip oil nanoemulsions prepared with a mix of phospholipids and synthetic emulsifiers permeated intact skin to the dermis and showed a more prominent healing effect in a human organotypic skin explant culture wound model compared to nanoemulsions prepared only with phospholipids. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36986857/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Treatment with 10 μg/mL Hippophae rhamnoides seed oil increased AQP3 mRNA and AQP3 and HAS2 protein levels in normal human epidermis keratinocytes and a reconstructed epidermis skin model compared to a negative control. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32638495/))
- Topical nanoemulsion-loaded cream and gel formulations of Hippophae rhamnoides fruit oil showed superior wound contraction of 78.96% and 72.59% respectively on the 8th day compared to 62.29% for soframycin in female Sprague-Dawley rats, with no acute dermal toxicity. ([Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38687316/))
- Sea buckthorn oil and p-methoxycinnamic acid bioconjugates formulated in oleogels achieved 45% of the sun protection factor of an equivalent octinoxate reference oleogel. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38005272/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))

## 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 find this serum to be a gentle and effective plant-based retinol alternative, frequently reporting smoothed fine lines and improved skin texture without irritation. Many reviewers mention waking up to glowing, hydrated skin, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin types. However, the high price point is a common concern, and a small number of users find the scent too strong or experience breakouts.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydration & glow (often mentioned)
- Liked: Visible anti-aging (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Luxurious scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (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 True Botanicals Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum work for oily skin?

This serum works moderately well for oily skin, providing balanced hydration and soothing benefits without adding excess oil, but it lacks targeted ingredients to control oily shine. An oily skin type needs products with ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, and ferulic acid that specifically manage excess oil and reduce shine while keeping the skin comfortable.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/)

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

This serum works for your oily skin thanks to Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, which provides mild astringent and antioxidant benefits, and glycerin, which balances hydration without adding excess oil. Oily skin works best with products containing ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control shine and manage pores.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/)

### What does Bakuchiol do for oily skin?

Bakuchiol helps oily skin by regulating oil production and reducing redness and acne-related inflammation without causing dryness or irritation. This type of skin needs balancing ingredients that control excess oil while keeping the surface calm and smooth.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27621660/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36176207/)

### What does Green Tea Extract do for oily skin?

Green tea extract helps oily skin by significantly lowering oil production when applied regularly over several weeks. It also calms inflammation and reduces breakouts, making it a great addition to a routine for managing greasy skin.
Sources: [Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20846135/), [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29394016/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, as evening application provides extra safety around sun exposure. For oily skin, a product of this type needs targeted ingredients to control oily shine.

### 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 this helps keep your skin calm and balanced. To give oily skin the best care, this type of product needs targeted ingredients that control shine and excess oil.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in the evening as part of your nighttime routine. Oily skin works best with products that include oil-controlling ingredients to manage shine.

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts on oily skin, as it has a very low complaint rate and includes soothing ingredients like aloe and green tea extract. However, because it is an average fit for oily skin, this skin type needs products with targeted ingredients that control extra shine and oil.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl salicylate, farnesol, linalool, and limonene).

## 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

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Oil, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Primula Veris Flower Extract Primrose Flower Extract, Mauritia Flexuosa Oil Fruit, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil Rosehip Seed Oil, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, Astaxanthin Powder, Persea Gratissima Oil Avocado Oil, Sandalwood Oil, Avena Sativa Bran Extract Oat Bran Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract, Cananga Odorata Oil Flower Ylang Ylang Oil Flower, Boswellia Carterii Oil Gum, Citric Acid, Sodium Phytate, Sclerotium Gum, Tocopherol, Algin, Water, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenethyl Alcohol, Farnesol, Linalool, Limonene
## 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/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin