# Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/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: [Murad](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/murad)
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 combination skin as retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate work to regulate desquamation and stimulate collagen, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide essential hydration. The inclusion of urea and sodium hyaluronate offers supportive soothing and hydrating effects beneficial for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The formulation is safe for your acne-prone skin, with urea and glycerin present to soothe and hydrate, and an absence of harsh or prohibited ingredients.
- This serum provides general skincare benefits, such as hydration and soothing, which are supportive for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts due to the presence of glycerin and sodium hyaluronate in concentrations that hydrate and soothe.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np, Swertia Chirata Extract, Shea Ethyl Esters Butter

## What the research says

- Combined probiotic supplementation and topical azelaic acid with hydroxypinacolone retinoate reduced non-inflammatory lesions from 11.5 to 7.3 and decreased microscopic acne features measured by reflectance confocal microscopy and dynamic optical coherence tomography in 20 patients over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/))
- 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 0.1% 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, users with aging or textured skin frequently report visible improvements in fine lines and overall radiance, often praising the formula for being significantly gentler than typical retinols. The "Tri-Active" technology is widely credited for delivering effective anti-aging results without the dryness or irritation commonly associated with vitamin A products.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture/tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hygienic packaging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Pump malfunctions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (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 Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum work for acne-prone skin?

This serum works moderately well for acne-prone skin, providing helpful hydration and soothing effects through ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate while retinol helps regulate skin renewal. To achieve a better fit for acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs effective ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, or propolis to target breakouts and control oiliness without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/)

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

This serum works for acne-prone skin because retinol, hydroxypinacolone retinoate, urea, and sodium hyaluronate help regulate skin renewal, soothe blemishes, and provide hydration. Because other products fit this skin type better, a treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to better target breakouts while keeping combination skin balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/)

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

Retinol helps acne-prone skin by speeding up cell turnover and clearing pores to reduce breakouts. It regulates skin growth and fights inflammation, though it may cause some mild peeling or stinging when you first start using it.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816067/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28318351/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps acne-prone skin by soothing irritation, calming redness, and keeping the skin balanced without clogging pores. When combined with targeted ingredients like zinc oxide, it may also help reduce breakouts.
Sources: [Biomedicines, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41007718/), [Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your cleansing toner and before your moisturizer. Putting serums with active ingredients in the evening helps keep things simple and adds 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 serum at night. This keeps your skin calm and lowers the chance of irritation.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in the evening as part of your routine. Acne-prone skin needs a product of this type that contains soothing ingredients like urea and glycerin, along with hydrators like sodium hyaluronate.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on your acne-prone skin, as it is safely formulated without harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like urea and glycerin. However, it may cause mild initial purging because the retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate help speed up skin cell renewal.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (citronellol and parfum).

## 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 231.78 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B088VF6LMG?tag=lovisa02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isopropyl Palmitate, C14-22 Alcohols, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dimethicone, Propanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Shea Ethyl Esters Butter, Retinol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Ceramide Np, Sodium Hyaluronate, Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit Extract Tomato Fruit Extract, Swertia Chirata Extract, Squalane, Punica Granatum Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycine Soja Extract Soybean Extract, Urea, Yeast Amino Acids, Trehalose, Inositol, Taurine, Betaine, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Silica, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Butylene Glycol, Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Cetyl Palmitate, Laureth-23, Polysorbate 20, Trideceth-6 Phosphate, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chlorphenesin, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hydroxide, Tris Tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol Citrate, Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate, Titanium Dioxide Ci 77891, Red 4 Ci 14700, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Citronellol, Parfum
## 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/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/acne-prone-skin