# La Roche-Posay PURE VITAMIN C12 SÉRUM for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-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: [La Roche-Posay](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/la-roche-posay)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening and smoothing for your oily skin due to ascorbic acid and hyaluronic acid, which hydrate and improve skin tone.
- While tocopherol provides general skincare benefits, the formula lacks sufficient seboregulating ingredients to optimally address your oily shine concern.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid

## What the research says

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

## Why other serums fit oily skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- 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

Users consistently praise the serum for its ability to smooth skin texture and boost radiance, often noting it absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue. While many with sensitive skin find the formula gentle and effective for brightening, some users express frustration with the product oxidizing too quickly and the dropper design leading to wastage.

- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight feel (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Oxidizes quickly (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Poor dropper (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C12 Sérum work for oily skin?

La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C12 Sérum works moderately well for oily skin by offering brightening and smoothing, but it lacks sufficient ingredients to control excess shine. A product for this skin type needs seboregulating ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, and ferulic acid to manage oil and pores, along with barrier-supporting agents like ceramides and panthenol.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Ascorbic acid and hyaluronic acid make this serum a fit by brightening and smoothing your oily skin while keeping it hydrated. However, to truly manage oily shine and excess oil, a treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, and soothing extracts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Vitamin C do for oily skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin tone and smooth texture while providing antioxidant protection that prevents sebum oxidation. For oily skin, this type of product typically needs to be paired with oil-controlling or pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid or plant extracts.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492184/)

### What does Glycerin do for oily skin?

Glycerin helps keep oily skin hydrated without feeling heavy and supports the skin barrier. Because this product is a weak fit for your skin, an ideal product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and ingredients that balance oil while protecting the skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31840548/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though some serums can also be used in the morning or twice a day. An oily skin type needs a product of this type to include ingredients that help control oil and shine.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the vitamin C serum in the morning and your retinol at night. Because this product lacks sufficient oil-controlling ingredients, oily skin types also need dedicated oil-regulating ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to properly manage excess shine.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in the evening, as Lovi routines place treatments in the evening for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. This serum is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients. To better manage oily shine, an oily skin product needs ingredients that help balance oil production.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on oily skin because it has a safe formula with no harsh ingredients that typically trigger irritation. However, a product for oily skin really needs extra ingredients to help control shine and balance oil throughout the day.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily 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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High 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/oily-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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 143.65 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B07PM79MSC?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat, Propylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide, Hyaluronic Acid, Adenosine, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
