# Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Risky.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/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 the United Kingdom.

Brand: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/moisturizers)

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.

A weak match for oily acne-prone skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent moisturizing for your oily skin due to glycerin and squalane, which hydrate and enhance barrier resilience, but the occlusive nature of squalane and avocado oil may worsen acne and oiliness.
- Salicylic acid provides mild keratolytic action suitable for oily skin, though the formula lacks sufficient seboregulating ingredients to fully address excess oil.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Caution
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low (this page)

## Key ingredients

Glacial Glycoprotein, Squalane, Glycerin, Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil

## What the research says

- Peroxidated squalene induces an early activation of NF-kappaB, an increase in PPARalpha levels, and an upregulation of IL-6 production in HaCaT keratinocytes, which is subsequently counteracted by PPARalpha activation. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Topical cream containing saffron extract and avocado oil improved wrinkle grading, reduced nasolabial fold area and volume, and increased skin elasticity in twenty healthy volunteers over 12 weeks without allergic reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31957954/))
- Topical treatment with SSFAO 50% or avocado oil increased wound contraction, reepithelialization, collagen density, and tensile strength while showing anti-inflammatory activity compared to petroleum jelly in rats. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23573130/))

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

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this moisturizer is widely celebrated for restoring the moisture barrier, particularly for those with dry, sensitive, or dehydrated skin in harsh winter climates. Users consistently report that it provides deep, long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy. A minority with oily or acne-prone skin experienced breakouts or found it too rich for humid weather.

- Liked: Deep, long-lasting hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle for sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight, non-greasy texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Excellent makeup base (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin barrier (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too greasy for oily skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unhygienic jar packaging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts/stinging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Not rich enough (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this AM and PM routine every day to help clear your skin. Always remember to finish with SPF in the morning.
- Apply the moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your SPF during the day.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and avoid rubbing to keep pores clear.
- Apply on clean, slightly damp skin to help the product absorb better and control oil.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a simple patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream a weak match for oily acne-prone skin?

This cream is a weak match because its heavy oils may worsen acne and oiliness, even though it hydrates well. A moisturizer for this skin needs lightweight ingredients that provide hydration and clear pores without adding extra oil.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a poor fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Squalane and avocado oil make this cream a poor fit because their heavy, sealing nature may worsen breakouts and oiliness. Oily acne-prone skin needs a moisturizer with lightweight textures, ingredients that control excess oil without heavy oils, and effective hydration that does not clog pores.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

### What does Glacial Glycoprotein do for oily acne-prone skin?

Glacial Glycoprotein helps keep oily, acne-prone skin hydrated without feeling heavy or greasy. It supports the skin barrier so your face stays smooth and comfortable.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/)

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

Squalane may help keep oily skin soft and smooth, but oxidized squalene can trigger inflammation in acne-prone skin. Because of this, oily acne-prone skin needs lightweight, non-greasy ingredients that balance moisture without clogging pores.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

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

This moisturizer goes as the final step in the morning and evening routines for oily acne-prone skin. While it provides good hydration, it contains heavy oils that may worsen oiliness and breakouts, so this skin type needs a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with ingredients that balance oil production.

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

You can use this moisturizer with retinol by applying the retinol first, letting it absorb, and then following with the cream to help keep your skin comfortable. Because this product is a weak match for oily acne-prone skin, a moisturizer for this skin type needs oil-balancing ingredients and a lightweight texture that will not clog pores or make breakouts worse.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [The Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24930436/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a weak match for your oily acne-prone skin because heavy ingredients like squalane and avocado oil may worsen breakouts and excess oiliness. To properly care for this skin type, a moisturizer needs lightweight hydrators and oil-balancing ingredients that keep the skin clear without heavy oils.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

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

Yes, this cream may clog pores and trigger breakouts on oily acne-prone skin because heavy ingredients like squalane and avocado oil can feel too greasy and worsen oiliness. This skin type needs lightweight, oil-free hydration and ingredients that help control excess oil without heavy sealing oils.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

You can use this moisturizing cream around your eyes and on your body, but it is a weak match for oily acne-prone skin. This skin type needs lightweight hydration and ingredients that clear excess oil without heavy oils that may worsen breakouts.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Stearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £12.21 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £11.90 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £32.00 at Amazon

## Routine for oily acne-prone skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £27.50 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £23.92 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Rodial Vitamin C Brightening Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/rodial/vitamin-c-brightening-tonic/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £29.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £23.92 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £19.00 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [VT Cosmetics Cica Purifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vt-cosmetics/cica-purifying-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £19.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £15.75 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B016Z69QF2?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: £17.85 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/kiehl-s-ultra-facial-cream-various-sizes/12916102/)
- Notino: £18.70 (https://www.notino.co.uk/kiehls/ultra-facial-cream-24-hour-daily-face-moisturizer/p-602509/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Squalane, Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Sucrose Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Peg-8 Stearate, Myristyl Myristate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethlhexanoate, Prunus Armeniaca Apricot Kernel Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Persea Gratissima Avocado Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Oryza Sativa Rice Bran Oil, Olea Europaea Olive Oil Fruit, Chlorphenesin, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Disodium Edta, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Sweet Almond Oil, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Glycine Soja Soybean Oil, Pseudoalteromonas Extract Ferment, Myristic Acid, Hydroxypalmitol Sphinganine, Bht, Salicylic Acid, Citric Acid
## 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/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin