# No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Serum for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [No7](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/no7)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for skin with dark spots; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate anti-aging benefits for your normal skin, as Palmitoyl Oligopeptide and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 stimulate collagen to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, while Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin provide essential hydration.
- While the serum offers general skincare benefits, it lacks specialized ingredients to effectively target your pigmentation concerns.
- The product is safe for your normal skin, with no reported risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots): Average (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Retinyl Palmitate, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Dimethicone

## What the research says

- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- 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/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))
- 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/))
- Cosmetic products containing 4-t-butylcyclohexanol demonstrated a faster and more pronounced soothing effect on capsaicin-induced burning compared to those containing acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester in volunteers with sensitive skin. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26805418/))
- Rice protein hydrolysate and its characteristic peptides Leu-Leu-Lys, Leu-Pro-Lys, and pyroGlu-Lys reduced melanin content, tyrosinase activity, and ROS production in UVB-induced human epidermal melanocyte PIG1 cells by regulating the JNK/Β-Trcp/NFΗB-p65/MITF signaling pathway and lowering TRP-1 and TRP-2 expression. ([Food & Function, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32955075/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))

## Why other serums fit skin with dark spots better

- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- Treatment with 14% ferulic acid and 12% l-ascorbic acid significantly reduced pigmentation and erythema while improving hydration and elasticity in 20 women with photoaged skin, with neither acid proving definitively more effective overall though ascorbic acid showed slightly greater skin lightening. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34877760/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with aging, dry, or combination skin frequently praise this serum for its silky texture and ability to instantly smooth and hydrate the skin. While many report visible improvements in fine lines and overall radiance after consistent use, results regarding deep wrinkles are mixed, with some users seeing significant firming and others noticing little change.

- Liked: Instant skin smoothing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Silky, lightweight texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Quick absorption (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydration and radiance (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Lack of visible results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Silicone-heavy feel (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Greasiness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum as part of your PM routine starting 3x/week and build up to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute for it to absorb.
- Apply the serum on dry skin to help fade pigmentation effectively.
- Avoid the eye area and always use SPF 30+ during the day.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does No7 Protect & Perfect Serum work for skin with dark spots?

This serum is an average fit for skin with dark spots because it lacks specialized ingredients to effectively target pigmentation concerns, even though it provides general anti-aging and hydration benefits. A treatment of this type needs a blend of effective antioxidants and soothing ingredients that provide significant benefits for pigmentation concerns without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for skin with dark spots?

This serum lacks specialized ingredients to effectively target your dark spots, though it provides general anti-aging benefits and hydration through sodium hyaluronate and glycerin. For skin with dark spots, a product of this type needs a blend of effective antioxidants and soothing ingredients like niacinamide and propolis to fade dark spots safely.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Vitamin C do for skin with dark spots?

Vitamin C helps fade dark spots and evens out skin tone by slowing down the processes that create excess pigment. It also brightens overall complexion while helping protect against further sun-induced discoloration.
Sources: [Experimental Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22142309/)

### What does Retinyl Palmitate do for skin with dark spots?

Retinyl palmitate helps fade dark spots and evens out skin tone across the body. It supports smoother and clearer skin with a low likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23438139/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This treatment serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, which keeps it simple and safe around sun exposure. Because this product lacks specialized ingredients to target dark spots, skin with dark spots needs a product of this type that includes targeted brightening ingredients like vitamin C, retinoids, or niacinamide.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first to keep your normal skin hydrated and smooth, followed by your retinol product. This routine is unlikely to cause irritation because the formula has a very safe profile, but treating dark spots effectively requires products with targeted brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works well in the evening as part of your routine. To better target your dark spots, this skin needs specialized brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on skin with dark spots, as it has a very low risk of irritation and features a safe formulation. However, because it lacks specialized ingredients to fade dark spots, this skin needs targeted brightening agents like vitamin C or niacinamide alongside hydration.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- [Guerlain Abeille Royale Double R Renew & Repair Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/guerlain/abeille-royale-double-r-renew-and-repair-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — A$210.41 at Amazon
- [La Mer The Regenerating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-mer/the-regenerating-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — A$740.13 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — A$13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — A$23.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — A$34.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$56.59 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01NCUXCIE?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Water, Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Cetyl Peg Ppg-10 1 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ethylparaben, Glycerin, Hexyl Laurate, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Magnesium Sulfate, Medicago Sativa Extract, Methylparaben, Morus Alba Leaf Extract, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Peg Ppg-18 18 Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Polysorbate 20, Propylene Glycol, Retinyl Palmitate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sorbitan Laurate, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate
## 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/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots