# Menarini A-Ret Gel for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [Menarini](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/menarini)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as tretinoin promotes skin renewal and regulates desquamation to address oily shine. Propylene glycol acts as a humectant, supporting skin hydration.
- The formulation is highly suitable for combination skin due to tretinoin's keratolytic action, which helps minimize fine lines and reduce blemishes.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Tretinoin, Propylene Glycol, Isopropanol, Carbomer, Butylated Hydroxytoluene

## What the research says

- Topical tretinoin daily application for 10 to 12 months produced an 80 percent increase in collagen I formation in photodamaged human skin compared with a 14 percent decrease with vehicle alone. ([The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/))
- Topical tretinoin improves clinical appearance of photoaging in terms of wrinkling, mottled hyperpigmentation, sallowness, and lentigines and is safe and well tolerated. ([International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/))
- A galenic compound containing essential oils and tretinoin demonstrated anti-acne efficacy and anti-inflammatory activity, significantly reducing papular erythema and retinoid-induced rashes compared to clindamycin-tretinoin gel in sixty volunteers over 30 days. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/))
- Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is safe as used in cosmetic formulations at concentrations ranging from 0.0002% to 0.5% due to low dermal penetration and systemic exposure compared to oral administration. ([International Journal of Toxicology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12396675/))
- Topical tretinoin precursors and tretinoin showed no significant difference in efficacy for moderate to severe facial photodamage in 20 patients, while tretinoin precursors caused erythema six times less frequently. ([JAMA Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35675051/))
- Topical tretinoin significantly improved photoaging and caused histologic changes in the forearms and faces of treated patients compared to vehicle cream, with side effects limited to skin irritation. ([JAMA, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3336176/))
- Adapalene 0.3% gel showed non-inferior efficacy and a similar safety profile compared to tretinoin 0.05% cream as a treatment for cutaneous photoaging. ([European Journal of Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30105991/))
- Treatment with a combination of propylene glycol, ethanol, water, and shampoo was found effective, easy to use, and cosmetically attractive with no observed side effects in patients with dandruff. ([Cutis, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2970946/))
- A moisturizer containing glycerol and propylene glycol reduced transepidermal water loss, decreased epidermal thickness, increased stratum corneum thickness, and reduced dermal inflammatory infiltrate compared to untreated disrupted skin in six healthy beagle dogs. ([Veterinary Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628309/))
- The use of 70% isopropyl alcohol in conjunction with scrubbing with a bristled brush significantly reduced positive bacterial cultures at the nail fold compared to povidone-iodine with soft sponges in volunteers. ([The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15866960/))
- Friction with 70% ethyl or isopropyl alcohol immediately eliminates the heart-shaped pigmented lesion characteristic of terra firma-forme dermatosis in a 14-year-old boy. ([Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38826967/))
- Rubbing 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes cleared persistent reticulated brown patches in five patients with terra firma-forme dermatosis. ([Skinmed, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27871345/))
- Topical chloramphenicol-betamethasone combined with sodium hyaluronate/trehalose/carbomer gel compared to chloramphenicol-betamethasone alone reduced most subjective symptoms at 1 week but increased blurred vision at 4 weeks following strabismus surgery in 31 patients, with no significant differences in conjunctival inflammation between treatments. ([Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31298607/))
- Incorporating nanoemulsions into hydrogels with increasing Carbopol 934 proportions from 1% to 3% progressively decreased the percutaneous flux rates of terbinafine and citral, increased drug accumulation in the stratum corneum while decreasing it in the epidermis/dermis compared to nanoemulsions alone, and shifted delivery routes from skin appendages to intercellular paths. ([International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27877042/))
- Topical liquiritin carbomer gel treatment restored skin barrier function, increased barrier proteins and antioxidant enzymes, and decreased inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress in a mouse model of glucocorticoid-induced skin inflammation. ([Pharmaceutics, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39204346/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this product is highly effective for improving skin texture, clearing acne, and providing an anti-aging glow, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, non-clogging formula. Users frequently mention its affordability. A significant number of reviews note a strong alcohol smell and potential for initial irritation or peeling, suggesting a need for a careful moisturizing routine.

- Liked: Highly effective results (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight, non-clogging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Very affordable (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Alcohol smell and drying (often mentioned)
- Liked: Noticeable skin radiance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Availability and shipping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial irritation and peeling (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Texture inconsistency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Menarini A-Ret Gel work for combination skin?

Menarini A-Ret Gel works moderately well for combination skin by offering renewal and hydration, though other products fit it better. To work best for this skin, a treatment needs ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA that provide balance and manage oily shine without causing dryness.
Sources: [International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/)

### Which ingredients make this gel a good fit for combination skin?

Tretinoin helps renew your combination skin and minimize blemishes, while propylene glycol keeps it hydrated. Because this is an average fit, combination skin often needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to balance oiliness and maintain proper hydration.
Sources: [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/), [International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/)

### What does Tretinoin do for combination skin?

Tretinoin helps clear breakouts and smooth out uneven texture by speeding up skin renewal. Because it can be drying, combination skin needs a gentle moisturizer and daily sunscreen to protect the skin barrier while using this ingredient.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/)

### What does Propylene Glycol do for combination skin?

Propylene glycol helps combination skin by drawing moisture into dry areas and helping other ingredients sink in better. It is unlikely to cause irritation on normal skin, though it can make other active ingredients absorb deeper.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31786711/)

### Where does this gel go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing toners and before your moisturizer. Combination skin needs ingredients like tretinoin and propylene glycol for moderate renewal and hydration alongside a balanced mix of gentle exfoliants and moisturizers.

### Can I use this gel with benzoyl peroxide, and in what order?

You can use this gel with benzoyl peroxide by applying them at different times, such as one in the morning and the other at night, to help prevent strong skin irritation. To balance your combination skin well, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep the skin calm and hydrated.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37356627/)

### How often should I use this gel?

Use this gel in your evening routine, starting once a week and slowly increasing frequency only if your skin tolerates it well. Tretinoin helps renew the skin and reduce blemishes, while propylene glycol supports hydration.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/), [The New England Journal of Medicine, 1993](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336752/)

### Can this gel clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

Menarini A-Ret Gel is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because tretinoin actively helps clear pores and speeds up skin renewal. However, because it promotes fast cell turnover, you may experience temporary initial peeling or purging as your skin adjusts.
Sources: [International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35620028/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/combination-skin) — High fit — S$28.55 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Whamisa Organic Flowers Toner Deep Rich](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/whamisa/organic-flowers-toner-deep-rich/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$64.81 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$28.72 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Singapore has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Tretinoin, Propylene Glycol, Isopropanol, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Methyl Hydroxybenzoate, Propyl Hydroxybenzoate
## 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/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/menarini/a-ret-gel/for/combination-skin