# e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-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 United States.

Brand: [e.l.f.](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/e-l-f)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/exfoliators)

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

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

## Why this fit

- Suitable for oily skin as Carica Papaya Leaf Extract and Citrus Reticulata Fruit Extract offer mild exfoliation to smooth texture, while Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate provides soothing benefits.
- Glycerin offers hydration, which is beneficial for your skin, though the product's primary focus is not on directly addressing your acne or breakouts.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risk of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of calming components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Carica Papaya Leaf Extract, Citrus Reticulata Fruit Extract Tangerine Fruit Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Combined essential oils of tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus, and tangerine safely improved skin barrier and morphologic characteristics, increased hydration, and decreased sebum levels in 40 participants compared to a placebo group over 90 days. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34986500/))
- 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/))
- Topical papain treatment may slightly decrease pain within 30 minutes in humans stung by Chrysaora chinensis compared to placebo. ([Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26827260/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- Reflux extraction of Carica papaya leaves yielded higher antioxidant capacity and superior in vitro wound-healing activities including fibroblast proliferation, cell migration, and collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts compared to ultrasonic-assisted extraction and agitation. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31991676/))
- Topical application of Citrus reticulata fruit extract provided instant relief from lactic acid-induced skin discomfort and increased skin tolerance by inhibiting TRPV1 activation and expression. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36575892/))
- Fermented Citrus unshiu peel extract inhibited MMP-1 expression and decreased SA-beta-gal positive cells by approximately 45% at 0.1% concentration in ultraviolet-A-irradiated human dermal fibroblasts compared to untreated irradiated cells. ([Phytotherapy Research, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22422675/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## Why other products fit oily acne-prone skin better

- Adapalene 0.1%-benzoyl peroxide 2.5% fixed-dose combination gel provided significantly greater, synergistic efficacy and a faster onset of action compared with the vehicle, adapalene monotherapy, and benzoyl peroxide monotherapy in patients with acne vulgaris. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19466959/))
- Topical benzoyl peroxide 5% gel treatment improved acne severity, sebum, stratum corneum hydration, and transepidermal water loss, while significantly reducing microbial diversity and the prevalence of Cutibacterium in 33 patients with acne vulgaris. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34962033/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, users generally praise this exfoliant for being effective yet non-abrasive, making it suitable for sensitive skin and frequent use. Many enjoy the satisfying visible peeling effect and the resulting soft skin, although some reviewers suspect the peeling is merely the product balling up rather than actual dead skin.

- Liked: Leaves skin soft (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-abrasive (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Removes dry patches (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Satisfying peeling effect (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Gimmicky peeling action (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Chemical or strong smell (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Messy residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Not strong enough (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant as part of your PM routine once a week to start, increasing frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but before your final moisturizer step.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product directly onto clean, dry skin for the best results against breakouts.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and always use a daily SPF since exfoliating makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant work for oily acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant works for oily acne-prone skin, though other products fit it better. It is safe and helps smooth texture with mild fruit extracts while calming skin, but an ideal product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, benzoyl peroxide, or Vitamin C to actively treat acne and manage breakouts.

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

Carica Papaya Leaf Extract and Citrus Reticulata Fruit Extract help smooth texture with mild exfoliation, while Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate and glycerin provide soothing comfort and hydration. To better fit oily acne-prone skin, an exfoliant of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, benzoyl peroxide, or Vitamin C to directly target breakouts and control excess oil.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Papaya Leaf Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Papaya Leaf Extract helps clear up and soothe oily, acne-prone skin by gently calming breakouts without causing irritation. This ingredient is unlikely to clog your pores, making it a great addition to your daily skincare routine.

### What does Citrus Reticulata Fruit Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Citrus Reticulata Fruit Extract helps calm sensitive skin and may provide instant relief from discomfort. It is also suitable for oily skin by helping to manage blemish-causing bacteria.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36575892/), [Heliyon, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31872120/)

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

This exfoliant treatment goes in the evening routine, starting at once a week, because it uses mild plant extracts to smooth texture while calming and hydrating the skin. Oily acne-prone skin often needs products that also directly target breakouts and clear blemishes.

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

You can use this exfoliant with retinol by using them on different days or by keeping your retinol routine in the evening and applying this gentle treatment at a different time, as it is unlikely to irritate. Because this product works for your skin though others fit better, oily acne-prone skin needs ingredients that directly target breakouts alongside soothing components and hydration like glycerin.

### How often should I use it?

Start using this treatment once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. This type of product works for oily acne-prone skin by offering mild exfoliation and soothing benefits, though this skin type also needs ingredients that directly target breakouts.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on oily acne-prone skin, as it is free of harsh ingredients and includes calming components that help keep skin safe and comfortable. However, because its main focus is smoothing texture rather than directly treating breakouts, this skin type often needs products containing targeted acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clean-and-clear/persa-gel-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $5.43 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.08 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Propylene Glycol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Quaternium-60, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Carica Papaya Leaf Extract, Citrus Reticulata Fruit Extract Tangerine Fruit Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Parfum
## 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/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/e-l-f/gentle-peeling-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin