# SpaLife retinol night serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/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: [SpaLife](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/spalife)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/serums)

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 serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate treatment for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles due to the presence of retinol for smoothing texture, which is also supportive for acne and oiliness on your oily skin.
- Hyaluronic acid provides hydration, which is beneficial for oily skin, but the formula lacks specialized ingredients to directly target your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your oily skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like Hyaluronic Acid.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

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

- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))

## What reviewers say

The product is designed to target fine lines, uneven skin texture, and dark spots through a lightweight, retinol-infused formula. Because there is a lack of consumer feedback, its real-world efficacy for specific skin conditions remains unverified by user experience. This summary is based on limited data.

- Liked: Adds luminosity (rarely noted)
- Liked: Improves texture (rarely noted)
- Liked: Lightweight formula (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Limited availability (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Weak active ingredients (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SPALIFE Retinol Night Serum work for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum works moderately well for your oily acne-prone skin, smoothing texture with retinol while keeping skin hydrated with hyaluronic acid and glycerin. However, it lacks specialized ingredients to directly target breakouts. Products that fit this skin better need ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or Vitamin C to control excess oil and clear blemishes.

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

Retinol and hyaluronic acid make this serum a good fit by helping smooth texture, balance oiliness, and provide lightweight hydration. Because it lacks specialized blemish-fighting ingredients, an oily acne-prone skin type needs products with ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or vitamin C to specifically target breakouts and excess oil.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Retinol helps oily acne-prone skin by clearing up breakouts and smoothing the skin, though it may occasionally cause some mild scaling or stinging. This ingredient works by addressing the root causes of acne, making it a reliable choice for keeping pores clear and skin smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30586483/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

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

This treatment serum goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. It is safe for oily skin, but to properly care for acne and breakouts, this skin type needs targeted ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

### 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 your morning routine and this retinol serum at night to avoid overwhelming your skin. This product of this type needs specialized acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to directly target breakouts on oily, acne-prone skin.

### How often should I use this serum?

Apply this serum in your evening routine, starting just once a week to see how your skin responds. This product of this type needs specialized blemish-fighting ingredients to properly care for oily acne-prone skin.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on oily skin, as it avoids heavy, pore-blocking ingredients and includes soothing components. However, because it contains retinol, it may cause mild initial peeling or purging as your skin adjusts to the smoothing treatment. An oily acne-prone skin type needs a formula that actively targets blemishes and breakouts alongside gentle hydrating ingredients.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

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

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £25.95 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £25.95 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
- 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

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Peg Ppg-17 6 Copolymer, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Glycol, Agar, Calcium Alginate, Carbon Black, Ci 60725, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Retinol, Xanthan Gum, Hyaluronic Acid, Disodium Edta, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, 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/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/spalife/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin