# No.7 Pure Retinol 0.3% Night Concentrate for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/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 the United Kingdom.

Brand: [No.7](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/no-7)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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.

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your combination skin as retinol promotes cell turnover to address acne and blemishes, while bisabolol calms inflammation and prevents irritation.
- The inclusion of peptides further supports skin texture improvement and wrinkle reduction, complementing the primary concerns.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no harsh ingredients and a formulation designed to minimize irritation for your skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no-7/pure-retinol-0-3-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Collagen Peptide Technology, Bisabolol, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

## What the research says

- 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/))
- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Chronomodulated daytime application of baicalin and nighttime application of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 synergistically improved skin luminance by 16.29%, nasolabial fold depth by -36.35%, and firmness by 24.35% in 30 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))
- 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 stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- A liquid formulation containing hydrolyzed collagen demonstrated structural stability, peptide mass distribution between 0.5 and 19.5 kDa, and faded forehead wrinkles in five volunteers while proving to be non-irritating and hypoallergenic. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32390321/))
- Exposure to collagen peptides increased the expression of COL1A1, ELN, and VCAN genes and collagen protein levels in cultured human dermal fibroblasts compared to untreated controls. ([Frontiers in Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38751975/))
- Salmo salar and Tilapia nilotica skin collagen peptides accelerate wound healing in a rat murine wound model by reducing proinflammatory cytokines, upregulating BD14, NOD2, IL-10, VEGF, and beta-FGF, and favorably altering wound microflora colonization compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31967468/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently praise this concentrate as an excellent entry-level retinol that effectively smooths skin texture and minimizes pores without the harsh irritation often associated with retinoids. While many see visible improvements in radiance and fine lines, results require patience and consistent use, with some users experiencing a temporary "purge" or dryness during the initial adjustment period.

- Liked: Gentle for beginners (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant application (often mentioned)
- Liked: Visible anti-aging effects (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial adjustment period (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow to show results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. Value (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

### What makes No.7 Pure Retinol 0.3% Night Concentrate a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This night concentrate is a great fit because retinol helps clear blemishes by speeding up cell renewal, while bisabolol calms redness and irritation. It also features peptides that help smooth skin texture and keep your skin feeling soft.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/)

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

Retinol makes this treatment a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it promotes cell turnover to address breakouts, while bisabolol helps calm inflammation and prevent irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### 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 do Collagen Peptides do for acne-prone skin?

Collagen peptides are generally safe for acne-prone skin, though they do not directly treat active breakouts. Instead, this type of product focuses on improving skin hydration and elasticity, so acne-prone skin needs added ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to help clear blemishes and control oil.

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening provides simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure.

### Can I use this treatment with vitamin C, and in what order?

You can use this treatment alongside vitamin C by applying your vitamin C in the morning and saving this retinol for your night routine. Using them at different times of day helps you get the smoothing and clearing benefits of both ingredients while keeping your skin calm and avoiding irritation.

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is a great fit for your acne-prone skin and is used in the evening as part of your routine. Retinol helps clear breakouts by speeding up cell turnover, while bisabolol and peptides work to calm inflammation and smooth texture with a very low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/)

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

This treatment is a great fit because retinol speeds up cell turnover to clear blemishes while bisabolol calms inflammation and prevents irritation. It has an excellent safety profile designed to minimize irritation, though an initial adjustment period is normal.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £24.20 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £143.35 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £8.13 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £13.98 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [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/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £11.90 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 20, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Retinol, Bisabolol, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbitan Laurate, Potassium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Tetrasodium Edta, Behentrimonium Chloride, Sucrose Laurate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Benzoic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
## 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

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