# celimax RETINAL SHOT for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [celimax](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/celimax)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your combination skin, as Retinal helps regulate desquamation and Panthenol provides humectant action, which are supportive for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The presence of Retinal and Matrixyl 3000 offers excellent anti-aging benefits by minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to overall skin repair and hydration.
- The safety profile is good, with no risks of irritation for your acne-prone skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing Panthenol.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinal, Panthenol, Matrixyl 3000

## What the research says

- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- Chronomodulated daytime application of baicalin and nighttime application of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 synergistically improved skin luminance by 16.29%, nasolabial fold depth by -36.35%, and firmness by 24.35% in 30 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this booster treatment is highly praised for its ability to rapidly smooth skin texture and refine pores. Users frequently report a 'glass skin' effect and improved makeup application. The unique tingling sensation from the spicules and the small tube size are common points of discussion.

- Liked: Smoother Skin Texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Visible Firming & Anti-Aging (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Prickly/Tingling Sensation (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Small Quantity (often mentioned)
- Liked: Better Makeup Application (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fast Absorption (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial Irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Yellow Residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does celimax Retinal Shot work for acne-prone skin?

This treatment works moderately well for your acne-prone skin because retinal helps manage breakouts and soothing panthenol keeps irritation low. Treatments that fit this skin better typically need ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc to balance oiliness and provide deep hydration.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Retinal and Panthenol make this cream a good fit for your acne-prone skin by helping regulate skin shedding and keeping moisture balanced while soothing the area. To work even better for acne-prone skin, this type of product needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA that target breakouts and control oiliness while keeping the skin hydrated.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### What does Retinal do for acne-prone skin?

Retinal helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing blemishes, clogged pores, and redness while improving overall skin texture. Side effects are very uncommon when using this ingredient.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42572367/), [Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10564319/)

### What does Panthenol do for acne-prone skin?

Panthenol helps acne-prone skin by soothing redness and supporting the skin barrier while keeping skin hydrated. It is unlikely to cause irritation and works well to calm angry spots without clogging pores.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, as this timing helps keep your skin safe from sun sensitivity. Because this product offers a moderate fit for your acne-prone skin, a treatment for this skin type needs soothing ingredients like panthenol and blemish-clearing ingredients like retinal to properly calm breakouts.

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

You can use this cream with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in the morning and this treatment at night to help prevent irritation on your acne-prone skin. To manage acne effectively, this skin type needs products with ingredients that clear pores and calm breakouts while keeping the skin smooth and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine, starting slowly and building up frequency as your skin adjusts. Acne-prone skin of this type needs soothing ingredients like Panthenol and gentle actives such as Retinal to help clear breakouts without causing irritation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/)

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

This cream is unlikely to cause severe irritation or breakouts for your acne-prone skin, though it offers an average fit compared to other options. It contains Retinal to help clear blemishes and soothing Panthenol to keep skin calm, but an acne-prone skin type needs lightweight, non-pore-clogging hydrators and blemish-clearing ingredients to work best.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €35.80 at Amazon
- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €99.41 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €18.20 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B0DK4Y2YP3?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €22.30 (https://www.notino.nl/celimax/retinol-shot-tightening-booster-gladmakende-gezichtscreme-om-tekenen-van-veroudering-te-corrigeren-met-ratinol/p-16301433/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Retinal, Panthenol, Matrixyl 3000
## 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/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/celimax/retinal-shot/for/acne-prone-skin