# Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Repair Crème for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-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: [Image Skincare](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/image-skincare)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for combination skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing and treatment for your combination skin, as sodium hyaluronate and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate provide hydration and brightening effects. Glycerin and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice further hydrate and soothe your oily shine without causing irritation.
- While it addresses general skincare needs for combination skin, it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control on your oilier areas.
- The safety profile is excellent, 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/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/oily-skin): Caution
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin): Low (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Ascorbic Acid Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Retinyl Palmitate Vitamin A, Ceramide Np, Squalane

## 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Over-the-counter retinol products provided only weak evidence for a mild ameliorating effect on fine facial skin wrinkle lines in randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trials, and major methodological flaws call the validity of positive results into question. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34980969/))
- A cosmetic niacinamide/peptide/retinyl propionate regimen significantly improved periorbital wrinkle appearance relative to a 0.02% tretinoin regimen at 8 weeks with comparable benefits at 24 weeks, while demonstrating significantly better tolerability in 196 women. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/))
- A novel triple-active cosmetic formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide improved the visual appearance of photoageing similarly to 0.02% tretinoin and reversed a consensus gene signature associated with ageing in female adults while causing less skin irritation. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

It is widely loved for its ability to lock in moisture overnight and its signature citrus scent, though some find the fragrance too strong or the formula too heavy for oily skin.

- Liked: Deep hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Citrus scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothes sensitivity (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Counterfeit concerns (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Heavy feel (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Vital C Hydrating Repair Crème a weak match for combination skin?

This cream is a weak match for combination skin because it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control on your oilier areas. A moisturizing treatment for this skin needs targeted oil-controlling ingredients alongside hydrating and brightening agents to balance shiny and dry zones safely.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a poor fit for combination skin?

This cream is a weak match for combination skin because it lacks sufficient ingredients for oil control on your oilier areas. A moisturizing treatment for this skin needs targeted oil-balancing ingredients along with lightweight hydrators to manage shine.

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### What does Ascorbic Acid do for combination skin?

Ascorbic acid helps protect combination skin from sun damage and supports an even, smooth look. It may also help keep the skin firm and bright by supporting collagen production.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1996](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8869680/), [Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33037252/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This cream goes in the moisturizer step of your morning or evening routine, as it provides hydration and brightening for combination skin. Because it is a weak match for this skin type, a product of this type needs additional oil-control ingredients to properly balance your oilier areas.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol, and applying it after your retinol treatment helps reduce dryness while keeping your skin calm and soft. A product of this type needs balancing ingredients and oil-control components to properly manage oilier areas on combination skin.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizing treatment twice daily as part of your morning and evening routine, applying it after cleansing and toning. This product is a weak match for combination skin because it lacks sufficient ingredients for oil control on oilier areas, so combination skin needs a product of this type that also includes ingredients to balance oil production and keep shine under control.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it has an excellent safety profile with no harsh ingredients, though combination skin needs added oil control for oilier areas.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

You can use this cream on the body and around the eyes, though the thin skin in the periorbital area and the varied thickness across body regions may respond differently. Regular application of creams with ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and vitamin C derivatives helps hydrate and smooth these areas safely.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37896378/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (limonene). Cetearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, and stearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 91.81 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/combination-skin) — High fit — AED 65.00 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — AED 71.00 at Amazon

## Routine for combination skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 145.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 179.45 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 53.12 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 168.76 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 179.45 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 101.09 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kora-organics/turmeric-brightening-and-exfoliating-mask/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 122.93 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 145.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 168.76 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Isostearyl Neopentanoate, Peg-100 Stearate, Jojoba Seed Oil, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Limonene, Brassica Campestris Aleurites Fordi Oil Copolymer, Cetyl Alcohol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Stearyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Tocopherol, Ceteth-10 Phosphate, Dicetyl Phosphate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Panthenol, Squalane, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycine Soja Soybean Sterols, Linoleic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glucosamine Hcl, Hexylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Peg-8, Butylene Glycol, Phytic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Pisum Sativum Extract, Allantoin, Retinyl Palmitate, Bambusa Vulgaris Stem Extract Leaf, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil Mandarin Orange Peel Oil, Yeast Polysaccharides, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hyaluronate, Benzoic Acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Pyruvic Acid, Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract, Citric Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract Grape Seed Extract
## 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/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/vital-c-hydrating-repair-creme/for/combination-skin (this page)