# Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum 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/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/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 Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Biossance](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/biossance)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/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

- Offers excellent brightening and evening of skin tone for your combination skin, as 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract work to treat dark spots and regulate melanogenesis.
- The inclusion of Squalane provides emollient action, which is highly suitable for combination skin, while Lentinus Edodes Mycelium Extract offers moderate benefits for your acne and blemishes.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Squalane, White Shiitake Mushroom Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate

## What the research says

- A multi-component dissolving microneedle patch loaded with glabridin, 3-O-ethyl-L-ascorbic acid, and tranexamic acid effectively reduced chloasma and age spots while demonstrating safety in clinical evaluation, alongside significant antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and melanin-reduction effects in vitro and in vivo. ([Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37571190/))
- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Lentinan reduced benzo(a)pyrene-induced oxidative stress, malondialdehyde levels, and inflammatory cytokine production while increasing antioxidant enzyme activities in human keratinocytes. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31135098/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- 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/))
- Shiitake mushroom ethanol extract exhibited moderate antioxidant capacity, 51.99% elastase inhibition, concentration-dependent collagenase suppression, and non-toxicity in human keratinocytes, supporting its safe incorporation into stable topical anti-aging skin-care formulations. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41656649/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is frequently praised for its lightweight, milky texture that hydrates while effectively brightening dull complexions and fading acne scars over time. Many with sensitive skin find it gentle and non-irritating, although a subset of users experienced no visible changes in pigmentation or suffered severe allergic reactions like redness and swelling.

- Liked: Brightens complexion (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: No visible results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Allergic reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Poor packaging (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 Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This serum is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it contains white shiitake mushroom extract to help calm blemishes, along with squalane to keep skin soft without feeling heavy. It is also very safe to use since it avoids harsh ingredients that might cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31135098/)

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

This serum is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it includes Lentinus Edodes Mycelium Extract, which helps calm breakouts and blemishes. Additionally, the formula is safe and unlikely to cause irritation since it leaves out harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31135098/)

### What does Vitamin C do for acne-prone skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out uneven tones, and fade dark spots left behind by breakouts. It is also packed with antioxidants that may help protect acne-prone skin from everyday environmental stress.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37128827/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39231081/)

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

Squalane may help keep acne-prone skin soft and smooth, but peroxidated forms can trigger inflammation in skin cells. For a better fit on acne-prone skin, products need non-clogging, soothing ingredients that balance oil without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine for acne-prone skin, placed after cleansing and before moisturizing for extra safety around sun exposure. It is unlikely to cause irritation and helps fade dark spots while caring for blemishes.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying this vitamin C treatment in the morning and your retinol at night to avoid overwhelming your skin. This product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37571190/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine, and some people may also use it in the morning or twice a day. It is a great fit for your acne-prone skin, helping to brighten dark spots and calm blemishes safely without harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37571190/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

This serum is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it is formulated without harsh ingredients and is unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts. The squalane and mushroom extract help keep your skin calm and balanced while addressing dark spots and blemishes safely.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31135098/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 89.30 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 91.81 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 270.10 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B08R6F1BS5?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Squalane, Lentinus Edodes Mycelium Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)