# Osmosis Skincare Renew Level 4 Vitamin A Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/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: Osmosis Skincare
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

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.

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin is provided by niacinamide and retinal, which regulate sebum and promote skin renewal to address your acne, blemishes, and breakouts. Palmitoyl tripeptide-38 and thioctic acid further enhance skin rejuvenation by boosting collagen synthesis and cellular turnover.
- The inclusion of beta-glucan and sodium hyaluronate offers additional hydration and soothing benefits, supporting overall skin health.
- The product has a favorable safety profile with no reported irritation risks for your skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Vitamin A, Niacinamide, Retinal, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Sodium Hyaluronate

## What the research says

- Treatment with a cream containing 5% alpha-lipoic acid for 12 weeks reduces skin roughness by an average of 50.8% compared to 40.7% with placebo in women with photoaged facial skin. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14616378/))
- Application of 5% cubosomal alpha lipoic acid gel twice daily for 6 months significantly improved global aesthetic scores and increased epidermal thickness compared to placebo in 20 aging female faces. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27873449/))
- Skin care regimens containing beta-glucan improved hemoglobin index, skin hydration, and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in 20 patients undergoing fractional laser therapy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128496/))
- Topical treatment of nicotinamide, alone or in combination with other active ingredients, reduces the progression of skin aging and hyperpigmentation in clinical trials while being well tolerated. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/))
- Over-the-counter retinol products provided only weak evidence for a mild ameliorating effect on fine facial skin wrinkle lines in randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trials, and major methodological flaws call the validity of positive results into question. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34980969/))
- A cosmetic niacinamide/peptide/retinyl propionate regimen significantly improved periorbital wrinkle appearance relative to a 0.02% tretinoin regimen at 8 weeks with comparable benefits at 24 weeks, while demonstrating significantly better tolerability in 196 women. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/))
- A novel triple-active cosmetic formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide improved the visual appearance of photoageing similarly to 0.02% tretinoin and reversed a consensus gene signature associated with ageing in female adults while causing less skin irritation. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 limited data, users find this serum to be a highly effective anti-aging treatment that smooths fine lines and refines skin texture without causing irritation. It is frequently praised for its gentle, hydrating formula and its ability to deliver a noticeable glow. Some users report peeling if the product is overused, and a moderate number find the price point to be high.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective anti-aging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture & tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Dispenser issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Peeling if overused (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Yellow tint (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Osmosis Renew Level 4 a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Osmosis Renew Level 4 is a great fit because its niacinamide and retinal regulate oil and promote skin renewal to help clear breakouts. Ingredients like palmitoyl tripeptide-38 and thioctic acid boost collagen to smooth the skin, while beta-glucan and sodium hyaluronate provide soothing hydration without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128496/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14616378/)

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

This serum is a great fit because niacinamide and retinal help regulate oil and clear breakouts on oily, acne-prone skin. Ingredients like palmitoyl tripeptide-38 and thioctic acid also improve skin renewal, while beta-glucan and sodium hyaluronate provide calming hydration with a very safe profile.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128496/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14616378/)

### What does Vitamin A do for oily acne-prone skin?

Vitamin A helps oily acne-prone skin by clearing out pores and calming inflammation to keep skin smooth and clear. It maintains healthy skin cells and oil glands, though it may cause dryness when you first start using it.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816067/), [Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21914489/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oil production, calms redness, and is unlikely to irritate oily, acne-prone skin while improving blemishes. Clinical tests show it reduces excess oil and helps clear up both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/)

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

This serum goes in your evening routine, placed after cleansing and toning and before your moisturizer. Putting treatments 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 serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in your morning routine and this treatment at night, as recommended in the routine for your skin type. Using strong active ingredients at different times of day helps your skin stay calm and lowers the chance of irritation.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting once a week and slowly increasing frequency if your skin tolerates it well. Retinoids and active serums are generally placed in the evening to keep things simple and avoid extra sun sensitivity.

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

This serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because niacinamide and retinal help control oil and clear breakouts while keeping irritation risks low. Beta-glucan and sodium hyaluronate add soothing hydration to support overall skin health. However, because it promotes skin renewal, you may experience some peeling if you use it too often.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128496/)

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

It contains fragrance (benzyl alcohol) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## 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
- [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
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High 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

- Amazon.com: $92.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014DSPLK8?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Phosphatidylcholine, Glycerin, Asiaticoside, Cyclodextrin, Caprooyl Tetrapeptide-3, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Epilobium Angustifolium Stem Extract Flower Leaf, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactic Acid, Thioctic Acid, Fulvic Acid, Dimethyl Sulfone, Retinal, Beta-Glucan, Hydroxyproline, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Santalum Austrocaledonicum Oil Wood Sandalwood Oil Wood, Rubus Chamaemorus Berry Seed Oil Cloud Berry Seed Oil, Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Extract Honeysuckle Flower Extract, Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract Honeysuckle Flower Extract, Dextran, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Xanthan Gum, Alcohol Denat, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl Alcohol
## 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/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/osmosis-skincare/renew-level-4-vitamin-a-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin