# Retin-A Cream for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-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: [Retin-A](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/retin-a)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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 treatment for acne and fine lines on your oily skin, as tretinoin effectively reduces acne lesions and minimizes fine lines by promoting skin cell turnover.
- The presence of isopropyl myristate provides mild emollient action, further supporting the regulation of desquamation for your oily skin type.
- This formulation is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Tretinoin, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Xanthan Gum, Sorbic Acid

## 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Propylene glycol increased trans epidermal water loss significantly compared to other skin penetration enhancers, while isopropyl myristate significantly increased kallikrein 5 activity when applied to human subjects. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25305378/))
- Repeated application of concentrated water-in-oil emulsions over four weeks caused no skin irritation, positively affected skin properties, and delivered almost 50% of the applied fluorescein sodium, with isopropyl myristate showing superior penetration performance compared to liquid paraffin in healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31525444/))
- 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 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/))
- Topical tretinoin significantly improved photoaging and caused histologic changes in the forearms and faces of treated patients compared to vehicle cream, with side effects limited to skin irritation. ([JAMA, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3336176/))
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate treatment disrupts the ordered intercellular lipid lamellar structure in hairless mouse stratum corneum, and immersion in a ceramide 3, cholesterol, and stearic acid mixture successfully reorganizes this ordered lamellar structure. ([Biophysical Chemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11254216/))
- Increasing the softness of pressure-sensitive adhesives using isopropyl myristate decreased pain and stripped corneocytes during removal without significantly changing human skin dermal peeling force. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17374065/))
- A modern cold cream formulation using a self-emulsionable excipient with isopropyl myristate shows improved preparation ease, stability, rheological qualities, and moisture and emollient power compared to traditional cerates. ([Bollettino Chimico Farmaceutico, 1996](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8942063/))
- Biodegradable wound dressings functionalized with silver nanoparticles showed >99% pathogen growth inhibition, bactericidal effects, free radical scavenging, reduced inflammatory response in macrophages, and accelerated wound healing in animals. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35780920/))
- A topical xanthan gum nanogel containing gamma-oryzanol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers and nanosized TiO2 and MBBT filters demonstrated high photoprotection with an SPF of 34 and no skin irritation or sensitization in a rat model. ([Pharmaceuticals, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242453/))
- Dense chitosan-xanthan membranes associated with multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells accelerated wound healing in Wistar rats compared to untreated conditions, demonstrating safety and feasibility for dermo-epidermal wound treatment. ([Journal of Biomaterials Applications, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25281644/))
- An optimized levamlodipine-sorbic acid ion-pair transdermal patch reduced skin irritation in rabbits and humans by decreasing drug retention in the epidermis compared to the drug without sorbic acid. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39312986/))
- Preservatives including methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, propyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, potassium sorbate, and propylene glycol exerted antiseptic effects on prominent reference bacteria in both in vitro and clinical settings. ([Dermatologie, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36729161/))

## What reviewers say

Users find this treatment highly effective for acne and anti-aging, leading to smoother skin over time. However, many users experience an initial worsening of acne, significant dryness, peeling, and irritation during the adjustment period, requiring considerable patience for results.

- Liked: Clears acne (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smooths skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Dryness and peeling (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades scars (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces aging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Burning and irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Requires patience (sometimes 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 Retin-A Cream a great fit for oily skin?

Retin-A Cream is a great fit because it helps clear acne and smooth fine lines on oily skin by speeding up skin cell turnover. It is unlikely to cause irritation and gently supports your skin type without harsh ingredients.
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/)

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

Tretinoin makes this cream a great fit for oily skin because it effectively reduces acne and fine lines by speeding up cell turnover. Additionally, isopropyl myristate helps soften the skin and supports healthy shedding without causing irritation.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/)

### 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 Stearic Acid do for oily skin?

Stearic acid helps restore and protect the natural protective barrier of oily skin when it has been stripped or disrupted by harsh treatments. This ingredient works best alongside ceramides and cholesterol to rebuild the normal structure of your skin so it feels smooth and stays balanced.
Sources: [Biophysical Chemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11254216/)

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

This cream goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, and it is also used once a week in weekly routines. Applying tretinoin in the evening helps reduce acne and fine lines while keeping your skin safe around sun exposure.

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

Using this cream with retinol is not recommended because combining multiple strong treatments like tretinoin and retinol is likely to cause severe skin irritation and redness. It is safer to use them on alternate nights or consult a dermatologist before layering such potent ingredients.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this cream?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting once a week and carefully using it more often if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results. Tretinoin helps reduce acne lesions and fine lines by speeding up skin cell turnover.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/)

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

Retin-A Retin-A Cream is a great fit for oily skin because tretinoin speeds up skin cell turnover to clear blemishes and smooth fine lines. Reviewers frequently report initial breakouts, along with dryness and peeling, which is common as your skin adjusts to the faster cell renewal.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €99.41 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €35.80 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.00 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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Butylated Hydroxytoluene Bht, Isopropyl Myristate, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate Peg 40 Stearate, Sorbic Acid, Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, Tretinoin, Water, Xanthan Gum
## 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/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/retin-a/cream/for/oily-skin