# Kiehl's Vital Skin-Strengthening Super Serum for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-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 Australia.

Brand: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/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 suitability for your oily skin, as capryloyl salicylic acid and glycerin provide mild exfoliation and hydration, though it may not fully address excess oil concerns.
- Panax Ginseng Root Extract and Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract work to strengthen your skin's barrier resilience, offering general skincare benefits.
- The formula is generally safe for your oily skin, with minimal risks of irritation from alcohol denat and fragrance.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

11kda Hyaluronic Acid, Adaptogenic Herbal Complex, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid

## What the research says

- Daily treatment with a facial serum containing multiple acids reduced post-inflammatory hyperchromia lesion grade and number by 29.4% at 56 days, and decreased skin oiliness by 30.7% at 7 days in Brazilian patients with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/))
- 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/))
- Aqueous Schisandra chinensis extracts promoted keratinocyte growth, demonstrated high antioxidant potential and strong tyrosinase inhibitory activity, and reduced skin irritation when added to body wash gel formulations. ([Molecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36558009/))
- 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/))
- Enzyme-modified ginseng extract cream significantly reduced the global photo-damage score and various roughness measures including total roughness, smoothness depth, and arithmetic roughness average compared to placebo in 23 human subjects. ([Rejuvenation Research, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25867599/))
- A red ginseng hydrogel formulation with 1,2-hexanediol promoted selective growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis and decreased Cutibacterium acnes in 20 female subjects. ([Journal of Ginseng Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35509819/))
- A 1% fermented black ginseng cream significantly reduced eye wrinkles and brightened skin color in twenty-three human subjects compared to control cream and baseline. ([Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part A, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32564709/))
- Exposure of epidermal full-thickness skin equivalents to a blend of betaine, pentylene glycol, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Rhodiola rosea root extract significantly increased antioxidant, skin barrier, and oxidative stress biomarkers while reducing the negative impact of hydrogen peroxide on MMP3, MMP12, FBN2, ANXA1, and HGF, whereas a blend of Narcissus tazetta bulb extract and Schisandra chinensis fruit extract significantly increased 8 growth factors, 7 signaling, 7 structural/barrier function, 7 oxidative stress biomarkers, and specific microRNAs over control levels. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30373163/))
- Omija essential oil obtained by supercritical fluid extraction significantly reduced UV-B-induced ROS production in HaCaT keratinocytes and inhibited NO production in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages by suppressing iNOS expression and the NF-kappaB pathway. ([Foods, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34359489/))
- Schisandrin B protected human keratinocyte-derived HaCaT cells from tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced oxidative damage by reducing cell death, oxidative stress, and DNA damage while enhancing antioxidant enzyme expression through the Nrf2 signaling pathway. ([International Journal of Molecular Medicine, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30272282/))
- Capryloyl salicylic acid peel reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation comparably to glycolic acid peel in 44 female volunteers, with no statistically significant differences between the two treatments. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146601/))
- Combining a salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acid facial serum and mask improved closed comedones and acne severity significantly more than serum alone in adults with acne over 8 weeks, with no adverse reactions reported. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36999489/))
- Parity was demonstrated between an OTC BPO 5.5% formulation with lipohydroxy acid and tretinoin cream 0.025% versus prescription clindamycin 1%-BPO 5% gel and tretinoin cream 0.025% in participants with mild to moderate acne vulgaris at 12 weeks. ([Cutis, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22838094/))

## 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 frequently praise this serum for its lightweight, milky texture that deeply hydrates and visibly plumps the skin, often noting a "glowy" and more resilient complexion after consistent use. The product is polarizing due to its strong herbal scent and high alcohol/essential oil content, which has caused irritation and breakouts for those with sensitive skin conditions.

- Liked: Deep hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Radiance boost (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Strong scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Skin strengthening (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ingredient concerns (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 Kiehl's Vital Skin-Strengthening Super Serum work for oily skin?

This serum offers moderate suitability for oily skin, as capryloyl salicylic acid and glycerin provide mild exfoliation and hydration, but it may not fully address excess oil concerns. Oily skin needs treatments with ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control sebum production and manage shine.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Capryloyl salicylic acid and glycerin make this serum work for oily skin by providing mild exfoliation and hydration, though other products fit this skin better. Oily skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc pca, and ferulic acid that control shine, manage excess oil, and refine pores while keeping the skin comfortable and balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps oily skin by reducing oil production and sebum in the skin. Studies show it decreases lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/)

### What does Adaptogenic Herbal Complex do for oily skin?

Adaptogenic Herbal Complex helps keep oily skin balanced by calming stress and protecting the skin barrier. It is unlikely to cause greasiness, but oily skin also needs lightweight hydration and ingredients that help control shine.
Sources: [Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36776447/)

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

This treatment serum goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Oily skin works best with products that use ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid to help control excess oil and keep pores clear.

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

You can use this treatment in the evening after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing, though it may not fully control excess oil. To use it alongside retinol without causing irritation, apply them on alternate nights or space them out in your routine, as oily skin needs ingredients that actively balance oil production and gently clear pores.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in the evening as part of your routine. Oily skin typically needs a product with stronger oil-controlling ingredients to manage excess shine effectively.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily skin, though it may not fully address excess oil concerns. Oily skin works best with lightweight oil-balancing ingredients and targeted pore-clearing acids.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/)

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

It contains fragrance (limonene, eugenol, citral, citronellol, linalool, and geraniol) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$52.32 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — A$50.60 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$34.66 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$464.54 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B08MQSNXLD?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat, Hamamelis Virginiana Water Witch Hazel Water, Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopherol, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Peg-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Disodium Edta, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Orange Peel Oil, Limonene, Adenosine, Sodium Hydroxide, Methyldihydrojasmonate, Citric Acid, Eugenol, Sodium Benzoate, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil Flower, Citral, Potassium Sorbate, Lavandula Angustifolia Lavender Oil, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Oil, Citronellol, Linalool, Geraniol, Rosmarinus Officinalis Rosemary Oil Leaf
## 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/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/vital-skin-strengthening-super-serum/for/oily-skin