# Obagi Professional-C Serum 10% for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening for your dry and sensitive skin as ascorbic acid effectively evens skin tone and propylene glycol acts as a humectant to retain moisture.
- While the formula provides general skincare benefits, its primary function is not directly targeted at alleviating dryness or flakiness.
- The product is safe for your dry and sensitive skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Propylene Carbonate

## 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/))
- Treatment with a combination of propylene glycol, ethanol, water, and shampoo was found effective, easy to use, and cosmetically attractive with no observed side effects in patients with dandruff. ([Cutis, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2970946/))
- A moisturizer containing glycerol and propylene glycol reduced transepidermal water loss, decreased epidermal thickness, increased stratum corneum thickness, and reduced dermal inflammatory infiltrate compared to untreated disrupted skin in six healthy beagle dogs. ([Veterinary Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628309/))

## Why other serums fit dry sensitive skin better

- A formulation containing glycerol (5%) and xylitol (5%) applied twice daily for 14 days increased skin hydration, filaggrin protein quantity, interdigitation index, and biomechanical properties, and decreased transepidermal water loss compared to untreated and vehicle-treated skin in twelve volunteers with dry skin. ([Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/))
- Glycerol accelerates barrier repair and improves stratum corneum hydration compared to untreated and base-treated sites. ([Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10598752/))
- In 50 participants with sensitive skin, a Ceramide NP C15-containing emollient improved skin barrier function with a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss and induced modest changes in skin microbiota compared to the vehicle. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758783/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is highly favored by users with sensitive or dry skin for its ability to brighten the complexion and smooth texture without causing irritation. While many report a noticeable "glow" and faded dark spots, some users are disappointed by the high price point and occasional issues with the product oxidizing (turning orange) or having faulty packaging.

- Liked: Brightens skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: No results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging problems (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Product oxidation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this PM routine for your evening skincare. Start using the serum 3 times a week and increase to daily use if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer. This step locks in deep hydration for dry skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin using your palms. Let it absorb completely for a minute ⏱ before applying your next product.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the serum on completely dry skin for better tolerance and less irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Always do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Obagi Professional-C Serum 10% work for dry sensitive skin?

Obagi Professional-C Serum 10% works moderately well for dry sensitive skin by brightening your tone and helping retain moisture safely without irritation, though other products fit it better. Treatments that fit this skin best need rich hydrating and nourishing ingredients, skin barrier support, and a blend of potent antioxidants and ceramides.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Ascorbic acid helps even skin tone, and propylene glycol retains moisture for your dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs rich hydrating and nourishing ingredients, such as ceramides, along with vitamin C to properly care for dry skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Vitamin C do for dry sensitive skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten and smooth dry sensitive skin while reducing wrinkles and improving elasticity. It is generally well tolerated and unlikely to cause irritation when properly formulated, leaving the skin looking more radiant.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/), [Antioxidants, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38397772/)

### What does Propylene Glycol do for dry sensitive skin?

Propylene glycol is unlikely to irritate normal skin, but it may occasionally cause allergic reactions or sensitivity in some people. For dry skin, this type of product needs hydrating ingredients like glycerin and soothing elements to help lock in moisture and keep the skin soft and smooth.
Sources: [Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36702195/)

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

This serum goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing, to keep things simple and safe around sun exposure. Dry and sensitive skin needs a treatment with extra hydrating ingredients and gentle soothing agents to lock in moisture and prevent flakiness.

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

You can use this treatment in your evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer, but apply retinol on alternating nights to prevent irritation. This product needs soothing ingredients and extra moisture to properly care for dry and sensitive skin.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this serum in the evening as part of your routine for dry and sensitive skin. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients and extra moisture to properly care for dry skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores, cause breakouts, or lead to purging on your dry sensitive skin. It is safe for your skin type with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$639.95 at Amazon
- [KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kravebeauty/great-barrier-relief/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$75.11 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$19.39 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$54.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Propylene Glycol, Water, Propylene Carbonate, Ascorbic Acid
## 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/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin