# ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/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 United States.

Brand: [ZO Skin Health](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/zo-skin-health)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/exfoliators)

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.

Works for oily skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your oily skin due to the presence of sodium bicarbonate and magnesium oxide, which provide physical exfoliation and aid in oil control.
- The inclusion of melaleuca alternifolia leaf oil offers mild antiseptic properties beneficial for oily skin.
- The product is safe for your skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and is formulated without known irritants.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Topical 5% tea tree oil gel significantly improved total acne lesions and acne severity index compared to placebo in 60 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, showing 3.55 times and 5.75 times greater efficacy respectively. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/))
- Lactobacillus-fermented Chamaecyparis obtusa reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 65.3% compared to 38.2% with tea tree oil in 34 patients over 8 weeks, demonstrating superior efficacy, faster onset, and safety. ([Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25228478/))
- 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/))
- Menstrual pads containing sodium bicarbonate caused no clinical signs or subclinical vulvar skin irritant reactions in 50 healthy women after 24 hours of patch testing. ([The Journal of Reproductive Medicine, 1991](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1658321/))
- 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 application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- Tea tree oil nanoemulsion containing adapalene gel demonstrated significantly greater reductions in total, inflammatory, and non-inflammatory acne lesions as well as acne severity index compared to adapalene marketed gel in 100 patients with acne vulgaris over 12 weeks. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34251536/))
- Topical tea tree oil treatment confirmed efficacy on Demodex mite blepharitis across fourteen papers evaluating chronic blepharitis compared to no treatment or alternative management. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35941981/))
- Weekly treatment with tea tree oil-saturated human amniotic membrane showed superior efficacy in healing pityriasis versicolor lesions and fungicidal activity compared to daily application of 1% tioconazole cream in 120 patients. ([Cell and Tissue Banking, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32162164/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dull, rough, or congestion-prone skin consistently report immediate improvements in texture and radiance, often describing a "glass skin" effect. While highly effective for smoothing fine lines and clearing pores, those with active acne or extreme sensitivity occasionally find the physical exfoliation too abrasive.

- Liked: Instant skin smoothness (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Radiant glow (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: High efficiency (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant experience (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Rinsing difficulty (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too abrasive (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant product as part of your PM routine once a week. Start slowly and build up frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb fully. Avoid any harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the exfoliant directly onto completely dry skin to get the best balance and results. Clean, dry skin helps the product work evenly.
- Always avoid the delicate eye area when applying. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily while using exfoliating acids.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does ZO Exfoliating Polish work for oily skin?

ZO Exfoliating Polish works moderately well for oily skin by providing physical exfoliation and helping to control oil. It also features tea tree oil, which has mild antiseptic properties that may help manage breakouts. To fit oily skin even better, an exfoliant treatment needs ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, or zinc PCA to control excess oil and reduce pores, along with soothing extracts for daily comfort.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

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

This exfoliant fits your oily skin through sodium bicarbonate and magnesium oxide, which provide physical exfoliation and help manage oil. Tea tree oil adds mild antiseptic benefits, while vitamins and glycerin support the formula safely.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### What does Retinyl Palmitate do for oily skin?

Retinyl palmitate helps manage breakouts and smooth texture in oily skin with a low likelihood of irritation. This type of skin also benefits from ingredients that balance oil production and keep pores clear.
Sources: [International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34211271/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/)

### What does Vitamin E do for oily skin?

Vitamin E is unlikely to clog pores on oily skin and helps keep moisture locked in without feeling heavy. It is often paired with lightweight oils and ingredients that control excess shine and balance oil production.
Sources: [Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/), [Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/)

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

This exfoliant treatment goes into an evening routine once a week, and people who tolerate it well and see good results may carefully use it more often. Oily skin needs a product of this type that provides moderate exfoliation to help control oil, along with soothing ingredients to keep skin calm.

### 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 spacing them apart in your routine, since combining strong treatments may cause dryness or irritation. Oily skin works best with gentle chemical exfoliants and soothing hydrators that clear pores without scrubbing.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week, and if your oily skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. Oily skin works well with a product of this type when it combines oil-controlling ingredients with gentle physical polishers and soothing components to keep pores clear and skin calm.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily skin, as it helps clear oil and lacks harsh ingredients that typically cause irritation. However, an ideal product for this skin type should focus more on gentle chemical exfoliants and oil-balancing ingredients to keep pores clear.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — $39.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 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-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $64.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MG7TR4S?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Peg-8, Sodium Bicarbonate, Magnesium Oxide, Ethoxydiglycol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Oleth-20, Trihydroxystearin, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Paraffinum Liquidum Huile Minérale Mineral Oil, Water, Tocopheryl Acetate, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Glycine Soja Soybean Sterols, Parfum, Limonene, Linalool, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Retinyl Palmitate, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Linoleic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Green 6 Ci 61565
## 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/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/zo-skin-health/exfoliating-polish/for/oily-skin