# Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin

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

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

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 serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for oily shine due to retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate, which promote skin renewal and help regulate oil production for your oily skin. Urea, yeast amino acids, trehalose, inositol, taurine, and betaine are included to soothe and hydrate, preventing potential irritation.
- The formulation includes ingredients like shea ethyl esters butter and squalane which provide nourishment, though lighter emollients might offer better compatibility for your oily skin type.

## Fit by skin type

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

- Soaps containing betaine caused the least skin irritation compared to other tested soaps in twenty-eight healthy subjects, though irritation did not decrease with increasing concentrations of betaine. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/))
- A combination of Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine in a 1:1 mass ratio synergistically increased aquaporin 3 expression by up to 380% in keratinocytes and safely improved skin hydration in healthy volunteers. ([Molecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38611819/))
- Topical application of a vitamin C-squalene bioconjugate significantly increased epidermal thickness, type III collagen production, and glycosaminoglycans production in human skin explants compared to free vitamin C and vitamin C-palmitate. ([Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33037252/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- 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 this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum work for oily skin?

This serum works moderately well for oily skin, helping manage shine with retinol while soothing the skin with amino acids and urea. However, because it contains heavier nourishing ingredients, this skin type needs lighter, oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to better manage excess oil without extra weight.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/)

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

Retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate help manage oily shine by supporting skin renewal and regulating oil production. Meanwhile, urea, yeast amino acids, trehalose, inositol, taurine, and betaine soothe and hydrate the skin to keep potential irritation down. Oily skin often benefits most from ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, and zinc PCA to control excess oil and pores, paired with light hydrators and barrier supporters that do not clog pores.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/)

### What does Retinol do for oily skin?

Retinol helps oily skin by keeping pores clear and balancing sebum production, which may reduce shine and breakouts. Because it can sometimes cause dryness or peeling in the beginning, starting slowly is recommended.
Sources: [Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21914489/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps oily skin by reducing extra oil and sebum production without causing irritation. Clinical studies show it successfully balances oil levels while keeping the skin comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Oily skin works best with lighter, oil-free hydrators instead of heavier nourishing butters.

### 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 the morning and this retinol treatment at night, as using them separately helps prevent irritation. Oily skin works best with lighter nourishing ingredients that balance oil without heaviness.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works well in your evening routine, and a product of this type needs lighter, oil-free hydrators and non-clogging emollients to better balance oily skin.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily skin, though an oily skin type typically needs lighter hydrators and oils to keep the skin clear and smooth.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

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

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [TROIAREUKE H+Cocktail Purifying Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/troiareuke/h-cocktail-purifying-ampoule-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$33.87 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sg: S$142.14 (https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B088VF6LMG?tag=lovi-care-web-product0e-22&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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/murad/retinol-youth-renewal-serum/for/oily-skin