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

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/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.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your oily skin, as squalane and glycerin provide excellent moisturizing benefits and enhance barrier resilience without causing irritation. While beneficial for general skin health, these ingredients do not directly target your primary concerns of acne and oiliness.
- The formula is highly suitable for oily skin due to its humectant properties, though it could be improved with more potent ingredients to regulate sebum production.
- The product has a safe profile with no risks of irritation for your oily skin, thanks to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Avocado Oil, Butylene Glycol

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- A facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo in 66 participants with mild-to-moderate maskne over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/))

## What reviewers say

Users find this moisturizer to be a rich, fragrance-free lotion that deeply hydrates, benefiting dry, combination, and sensitive skin, especially in winter. Many appreciate its ability to repair the skin barrier. However, a notable number of reviewers mention it can leave a greasy or sticky residue if not fully absorbed, making it less ideal for very oily or acne-prone skin.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and fragrance-free (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy or sticky (often mentioned)
- Liked: Key ingredients (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Value and longevity (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not for oily (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Expensive price (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture issues (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

### How well does Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer work for oily acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer works reasonably well for oily skin by providing light hydration without causing irritation, but it does not directly target acne or oiliness. An ideal product for this skin type needs ingredients that regulate oil production and clear blemishes while keeping the skin soft and balanced.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Squalane and glycerin make this moisturizer a good fit because they provide gentle hydration without causing irritation. However, a product for oily acne-prone skin needs powerful ingredients that target acne and regulate oil production.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### 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/)

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

Glycerin helps keep oily acne-prone skin hydrated without feeling heavy. It draws moisture into the skin while supporting the skin barrier so it stays soft and balanced.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This moisturizer goes as the third step in your morning routine after a cleanser and hydrating toner, and as the last step in your evening routine after your treatment. It provides moderate hydration for oily skin, but an average fit for this skin type needs ingredients that directly target acne and control oil production.

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

You can use this moisturizer with retinol, applying it after your retinol treatment to help reduce irritation and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth. Using a barrier-supporting moisturizer alongside active treatments helps manage dryness and improves how well your skin handles the routine.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22648223/)

### How often should I use this moisturizer?

You can use this moisturizer daily in the morning and evening as part of your routine. Daily application helps keep your skin soft and maintains moisture without causing irritation.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14571069/)

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

This moisturizer is unlikely to cause irritation for your oily skin, but reviewers frequently mention that it can feel greasy or leave a sticky residue. Because it does not directly target breakouts or oiliness, oily acne-prone skin generally needs lightweight hydrators and ingredients that help balance oil production.

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

You can use this moisturizer around the eyes and on your body, as its gentle formula is well tolerated by different skin areas. Since the skin around the eyes is much thinner than on other parts of the body, a product used there needs to be mild and safe against irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Myristyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, 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

## Pairs well with

- 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
- 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

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Squalane, Glycerin, Peg-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbitan Oleate, Carbomer, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Stearic Acid, Alba Beeswax Cera, Myristyl Alcohol, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Sweet Almond Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Apricot Kernel Oil, Tocopherol, Persea Gratissima Avocado Oil
## 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-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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