# innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Saudi Arabia.

Brand: [innisfree](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/innisfree)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/best/serums)

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts due to the presence of retinol and salicylic acid, which promote exfoliation and reduce inflammation for your combination skin.
- Niacinamide and beta-glucan provide soothing effects and help regulate sebum, contributing to overall skin comfort and balance.
- The product is safe for your acne-prone skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and a good profile of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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 and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Innisfree Retinol Cica Ampoule work for acne-prone skin?

This treatment works moderately well for your acne-prone skin, providing gentle exfoliation and soothing benefits that help manage breakouts. It is safe and unlikely to cause irritation, though acne-prone skin typically does better with products that include calming ingredients like niacinamide or propolis alongside targeted blemish fighters to ensure ideal balance and hydration.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

This serum contains retinol and salicylic acid, which help clear pores and calm breakouts on acne-prone skin. It also includes niacinamide and centella asiatica to soothe and balance your skin. Acne-prone skin works best with products that contain soothing ingredients like niacinamide and zinc pca or propolis to control oil and provide hydration without irritation.
Sources: [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Retinol do for acne-prone skin?

Retinol helps clear acne-prone skin by speeding up cell turnover and keeping pores clear. It may also help smooth out uneven texture and fade marks left by breakouts over time. While it is very effective, it is important to start slowly to reduce the likelihood of dry skin, scaling, or stinging.
Sources: [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32869963/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816067/)

### What does Centella Asiatica do for acne-prone skin?

Centella asiatica helps calm acne-prone skin by reducing redness and soothing inflammation while supporting healing. It may also help manage breakouts by addressing factors like acne blemishes and irritation.
Sources: [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/), [Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Acne-prone skin needs a product that provides soothing ingredients like centella asiatica and niacinamide alongside gentle exfoliants to clear breakouts without causing irritation.

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

You can use this serum with vitamin C, but it is best to apply vitamin C in the morning and this treatment at night to keep your skin calm. Using them at different times of day helps prevent dryness and irritation while still giving your skin clear, smooth results.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment fits your acne-prone skin as an average option, working best when applied in the evening. To keep your skin calm and balanced, this type of product needs exfoliating ingredients like retinol and salicylic acid along with soothing components to manage breakouts safely.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause harsh irritation, and may help clear breakouts with retinol and salicylic acid. Acne-prone skin often does better with a product that provides stronger targeted blemish control and oil regulation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 226.83 at Amazon
- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 653.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 865.37 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 36.33 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 53.04 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 78.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sa: SAR 49.99 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B0C463LVC9?tag=lovisa02-21&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/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-repair-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin