# Kiehl's Better Screen UV Serum 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/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-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 Saudi Arabia.

Brand: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Sunscreens and SPF moisturizers](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/best/sunscreens)

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 sunscreens fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your oily skin, with glycerin and propanediol providing hydration and tocopherol offering antioxidant support, which are generally beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- The formulation provides excellent sun protection with avobenzone and homosalate, but it lacks targeted ingredients to directly address your primary concerns of acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Collagen Peptide

## What the research says

- Topical application of 1,3-propanediol at various concentrations, alone or combined with butylene glycol and/or glycerol, increased skin hydration and reduced trans epidermal water loss in 30 healthy female subjects over an 8-hour period, with the 15% concentration and the addition of glycerol providing greater benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/))
- 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/))
- Chemical sunscreens containing avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, and octisalate showed no to minimal risks of dermal irritation, sensitization, photo-allergy, and photo-irritation in human subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/))
- The application of a sunscreen formulation containing ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, ethylhexyl salicylate, methyl anthranilate, and octocrylene does not significantly affect critical acne-related species such as Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, refuting the induction of facial dysbiosis in men. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39499337/))
- Encapsulation of ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate and butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane in lipid microparticles significantly reduced their in vivo human skin penetration compared to nonencapsulated filters. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21336009/))
- Microencapsulation of the BMDBM/HP-beta-CD complex in lipid microparticles significantly decreased the percutaneous penetration of the UV filter into the stratum corneum of human volunteers compared to the non-encapsulated sunscreen agent. ([Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20934293/))
- Following human skin application of an O/W emulsion containing 2% BMDBM loaded in lipospheres, 15% of the sunscreen accumulated in the uppermost layers of the stratum corneum without remarkably modifying skin permeation compared to unencapsulated sunscreen. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17934329/))
- Dermal application of a sunscreen containing 10% homosalate in four volunteers resulted in delayed elimination with terminal half-times around 24 h and a bioavailability of cis-homosalate a factor of 2 lower than trans-homosalate, while metabolite ratios supported using oral-route urinary excretion fractions for dermal exposure assessments. ([Archives of Toxicology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38485782/))
- Homosalate exhibited the highest permeation among tested filters with a relative permeability rate of 4.2% and a depth of 60 um, and specific thickeners and emulsifiers successfully reduced its permeation without inhibiting the skin permeation of niacinamide. ([Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42594379/))
- An online-SPE-LC-MS/MS method successfully quantified specific urinary homosalate metabolites for up to 96 hours after dermal sunscreen application in a volunteer and detected metabolites exclusively in three German pilot participants who had used sunscreen within five days. ([Analytica Chimica Acta, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34399889/))
- Simulated real-life dermal sunscreen exposure in twenty human volunteers leads to the systemic bioavailability and urinary excretion of the UV filter 2-ethylhexyl salicylate and its metabolite, reaching concentration peaks at 7 to 8 hours with 70-80% of overall excretion within 24 hours. ([Archives of Toxicology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31435713/))
- Controlled single dermal exposure to an EHS-containing sunscreen in three volunteers resulted in delayed systemic resorption with elimination half-lives between 6.6 and 9.7 hours, where the parent compound EHS occurred as the dominant urinary parameter. ([Archives of Toxicology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39134695/))
- Dermal exposure to EHS-containing sunscreen leads to the urinary excretion of EHS as the main biomarker alongside major metabolites 5OH-EHS, 5cx-EPS, 4OH-EHS, and 5oxo-EHS, measured using an extended enzymatic hydrolysis and on-line SPE LC-MS/MS method. ([Talanta, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38728806/))
- Incorporating rosmarinic acid into sunscreens enhanced the in vivo SPF of octocrylene by over 157% and reduced lipid peroxidation in the human stratum corneum. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40227214/))
- Early application of sunscreen after ablative fractional skin resurfacing significantly increased the sensitization rate of the UV-filter, octocrylene, and the sunscreen compared to intact skin. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25633273/))
- Dermal sunscreen exposure in 20 healthy volunteers led to plasma concentrations of avobenzone, octocrylene, and its metabolite CDAA reaching up to 11 μg/L, 25 μg/L, and 1352 μg/L, respectively. ([Environment International, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31470219/))

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

- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users love this product's lightweight, serum-like texture that absorbs quickly and leaves no white cast, making it ideal for darker skin tones and daily wear. Its hydrating formula provides a desirable glow, and it performs well under makeup. However, some users with very oily or acne-prone skin find it too greasy or shiny.

- Liked: Lightweight serum (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: No white cast (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating glow (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good under makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too greasy (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Chemical scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your moisturizing sunscreen every morning. Reapply throughout the day if you are outside.
- Apply this moisturizing sunscreen as the final step of your morning routine after your moisturizer.
- Gently smooth a nickel-sized amount over your face and neck, avoiding harsh rubbing to keep oily areas calm.
- Apply this moisturizing sunscreen on clean, dry skin to ensure even coverage and protection.
- Avoid getting the product into your eyes and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/53e9a436d82fca2a189dd08aa21de2fd.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Kiehl's Better Screen work for oily acne-prone skin?

Kiehl's Better Screen UV Serum works moderately well for oily acne-prone skin, providing reliable sun protection and gentle hydration without irritation. However, a product of this type needs targeted ingredients like niacinamide, centella asiatica, and sodium hyaluronate to directly address breakouts and balance oil levels.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/)

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

Glycerin, propanediol, and tocopherol make this serum a good fit by helping hydrate and protect your skin without causing irritation. However, a product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, and centella asiatica to more directly address acne and blemishes.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/)

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

Avobenzone helps protect your skin from sun damage, but it does not treat oily or acne-prone skin on its own. Sunscreens for this skin type need ingredients that feel light, absorb excess oil, and won't clog your pores.

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

Homosalate acts as a UV filter in sunscreen to protect oily and acne-prone skin from sun damage without feeling heavy. Chemical sunscreens containing this ingredient show a very low likelihood of causing skin irritation or breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/)

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

This moisturizing sunscreen goes in the morning routine as the final step before makeup, right after your moisturizer. It is very gentle on oily skin, but to properly care for acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs targeted blemish-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/)

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

You can use this moisturizing spf in the morning after your retinol routine or on its own, as its safe formula is unlikely to irritate oily skin. However, since it lacks targeted ingredients for acne and breakouts, oily acne-prone skin needs a product that includes acne-fighting and blemish-clearing ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This moisturizing spf is suitable for daily use in your morning routine to provide sun protection and hydration for your oily skin. Because it lacks targeted ingredients to directly address breakouts, this skin type also needs ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help clear blemishes.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/)

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

This moisturizing spf is unlikely to cause irritation for your oily skin, though some shoppers do find it a bit too greasy. Because it lacks ingredients that directly target blemishes and breakouts, oily acne-prone skin needs a product with targeted blemish-fighting ingredients and oil-controlling benefits.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911743/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Eve Lom Daily Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/eve-lom/daily-protection-spf-50/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — SAR 848.00 at Amazon
- [Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/sun-drops-spf-50/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — SAR 985.39 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/beauty-of-joseon/relief-sun-rice-probiotics/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — SAR 59.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 36.33 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 166.90 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 39.70 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sa: SAR 219.15 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B0CVJ8M4ZQ?tag=lovisa02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Water, Glycerin, C15-19 Alkane, Propanediol, C12-22 Alkyl Acrylate Hydroxyethylacrylate Copolymer, Tocopherol, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Butylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sclerotium Gum, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Octenylsuccinate Starch, Glyceryl Stearate, Jojoba Esters, Helianthus Annuus Wax Seed Sunflower Wax Seed, Hydroxypropyl Phosphate Starch, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Carbomer, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Hydroxide, Polysorbate 20, Polyglycerin-3, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
## 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/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/better-screen-uv-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin