# Obagi Tretinoin Cream 0.05% 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/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/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: [Obagi](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/obagi)
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, tretinoin effectively targets acne and fine lines by promoting exfoliation and regulating cell turnover to normalize texture and pore appearance.
- The formulation is free from harsh ingredients, ensuring a low risk of irritation for your acne-prone skin.
- This product offers a safe profile with no significant risks of adverse reactions.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Tretinoin, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Xanthan Gum

## 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/))
- 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/))
- Tretinoin-loaded nano lipid carriers resulted in a significantly higher rate of decrease in acne lesions and greater reduction in porphyrin production compared to conventional tretinoin cream in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/))
- Repeated application of concentrated water-in-oil emulsions over four weeks caused no skin irritation, positively affected skin properties, and delivered almost 50% of the applied fluorescein sodium, with isopropyl myristate showing superior penetration performance compared to liquid paraffin in healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31525444/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate treatment disrupts the ordered intercellular lipid lamellar structure in hairless mouse stratum corneum, and immersion in a ceramide 3, cholesterol, and stearic acid mixture successfully reorganizes this ordered lamellar structure. ([Biophysical Chemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11254216/))
- Increasing the softness of pressure-sensitive adhesives using isopropyl myristate decreased pain and stripped corneocytes during removal without significantly changing human skin dermal peeling force. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17374065/))
- A modern cold cream formulation using a self-emulsionable excipient with isopropyl myristate shows improved preparation ease, stability, rheological qualities, and moisture and emollient power compared to traditional cerates. ([Bollettino Chimico Farmaceutico, 1996](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8942063/))
- Biodegradable wound dressings functionalized with silver nanoparticles showed >99% pathogen growth inhibition, bactericidal effects, free radical scavenging, reduced inflammatory response in macrophages, and accelerated wound healing in animals. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35780920/))
- A topical xanthan gum nanogel containing gamma-oryzanol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers and nanosized TiO2 and MBBT filters demonstrated high photoprotection with an SPF of 34 and no skin irritation or sensitization in a rat model. ([Pharmaceuticals, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242453/))
- Dense chitosan-xanthan membranes associated with multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells accelerated wound healing in Wistar rats compared to untreated conditions, demonstrating safety and feasibility for dermo-epidermal wound treatment. ([Journal of Biomaterials Applications, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25281644/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, users describe this cream as a transformative medical-grade treatment for acne and aging. It is frequently praised for delivering a smooth, clear, and youthful complexion. However, nearly all users report a challenging adjustment period with significant peeling, irritation, and dryness before visible results emerge.

- Liked: Transforms skin (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Intense peeling (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces aging (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Initial irritation (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Severe dryness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades hyperpigmentation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Purging phase (sometimes 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 Obagi Tretinoin Cream 0.05% a great fit for acne-prone skin?

Obagi Tretinoin Cream 0.05% is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it targets breakouts and fine lines by encouraging skin renewal to keep pores clear and texture smooth. Its gentle formula has a very low chance of causing irritation or adverse reactions.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/)

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

Tretinoin is the key ingredient that makes this cream a great fit because it helps clear acne and smooth your skin by speeding up cell turnover. Other ingredients like isopropyl myristate help the formula sink in smoothly with a low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31525444/)

### What does Tretinoin do for acne-prone skin?

Tretinoin helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing acne lesions and porphyrin production. It works to smooth the skin and is generally well tolerated, though it may cause temporary scaling and barrier impairment.
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 Stearic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Stearic acid may help support the skin barrier, but for acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs non-clogging, lightweight moisturizers and soothing ingredients to calm irritation without triggering breakouts.

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

This cream goes in your evening routine as a treatment step, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Using it at night helps keep your skin safe from extra sun exposure while it works to clear blemishes and smooth your pores.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

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

It is best not to use this cream in the same routine as retinol, as combining multiple strong treatments like tretinoin greatly increases the likelihood of redness, peeling, and skin discomfort. Instead, use them on alternate nights or consult a dermatologist to safely manage your routine for acne-prone skin.
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 cream?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting just once a week so your skin can adjust comfortably. If your skin handles it well and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

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

Obagi Tretinoin Cream 0.05% is a great fit because it helps clear acne and smooth pores by speeding up skin cell turnover. You may experience a purging phase with temporary breakouts as it works, along with a high likelihood of initial dryness and peeling.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146120/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210603/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## 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

Tretinoin, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Sorbic Acid, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Water
## 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/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/tretinoin-cream-0-05/for/acne-prone-skin