# innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-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: [innisfree](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/innisfree)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate treatment for blemishes and oily shine on your combination skin, as retinol and salicylic acid work to exfoliate and regulate sebum production. Niacinamide further supports seboregulation, making it highly suitable for your skin type.
- The presence of ingredients like asiaticoside and madecassic acid provides additional soothing benefits, complementing the primary actions for your skin concerns.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients for your combination skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol Vitamin A, Centella Asiatica, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- 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/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- 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/))
- 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 treatment with 5% vitamin C and 0.1% madecassoside significantly improved clinical scores for wrinkles, suppleness, firmness, roughness, and skin hydration, along with functional and structural remodeling of the elastic fiber network in 20 female volunteers with photoaged skin after 6 months compared to baseline. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503551/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this ampoule is highly recommended as a gentle introduction to retinol, particularly for sensitive skin. Users frequently report that it effectively hydrates and soothes, leading to smoother texture and fewer blemishes without causing irritation. However, individuals with advanced retinol experience may find the concentration too low for significant anti-aging effects, and some note that results can be subtle and require patience.

- Liked: Extremely gentle formula (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and moisturizing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight absorption (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture/blemishes (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow or subtle results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not for advanced (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Pricey for amount (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule work for combination skin?

Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule works moderately well for combination skin by helping to smooth out blemishes and control oily shine without causing irritation. For this skin type, a product needs effective ingredients like niacinamide and propolis or zinc PCA to provide balanced hydration and radiance without excess oiliness.
Sources: [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

Retinol and salicylic acid make this serum a good fit for your combination skin by clearing blemishes and oily shine, while niacinamide helps control oil. Soothing ingredients like asiaticoside and madecassic acid calm your skin, and a product for this skin also needs ingredients like propolis or zinc PCA to balance oiliness without irritation.
Sources: [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

### What does Retinol do for combination skin?

Retinol helps smooth fine lines, improve skin firmness, and even out tone on combination skin. It may cause mild dryness or scaling initially, so start slowly to let your skin adjust.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17515510/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Centella Asiatica do for combination skin?

Centella asiatica helps calm combination skin, keeps it balanced, and supports the moisture barrier without feeling heavy. It may also reduce redness and help keep breakouts under control.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment with vitamin C, but it is best to apply vitamin C in the morning and this product at night to avoid irritation. Combination skin needs a product that provides gentle exfoliation, balances oily shine, and includes soothing ingredients like Centella asiatica to keep the skin calm and smooth.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment works best in your evening routine, starting just once a week and slowly increasing frequency if your skin tolerates it well. Retinol and salicylic acid help manage blemishes and oily shine, while soothing ingredients like centella asiatica keep your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on combination skin, as it has an excellent safety profile without harsh ingredients. It helps manage blemishes and oily shine with retinol and salicylic acid, though combination skin also needs soothing ingredients like centella asiatica and niacinamide to keep the skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $200.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $34.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGHY6D2X?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Dibutyl Adipate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Vp Copolymer, Sunflower Seed Oil, Cholesterol, Allantoin, Soybean Oil, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate, Propanediol, Carrot Extract, Ethylhexyl-Glycerin, Adenosine, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Seed Extract, Asiatic Acid, Retinol, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Mannitol, Ceramide Np, Beta-Glucan, Beta-Carotene, Phytosphingosine, Bht, Salicylic Acid, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11
## 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/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/combination-skin