# Paula's Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/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 suitability for your combination skin as retinol and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate provide antioxidant benefits and regulate texture, but these ingredients are not specialized enough to significantly address oily shine and may pose risks of worsening the condition.
- While bisabolol and chamomile extract offer soothing properties, the formula lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control, which is your main concern.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/oily-skin): Caution
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin): Low (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Tocopherol, Bisabolol, Astaxanthin

## What the research says

- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))
- Oral astaxanthin supplementation significantly restored moisture content and improved elasticity but did not significantly decrease wrinkle depth compared to placebo in humans. ([Nutrients, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34578794/))
- Combining oral and topical astaxanthin in 30 healthy females improved skin wrinkles, age spots, elasticity, texture, and moisture, while 6 mg daily oral supplementation in 36 healthy males improved crow's feet wrinkles, elasticity, and transepidermal water loss. ([Acta Biochimica Polonica, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22428137/))
- Twice-daily application of a novel topical antioxidant formulation safe, well-tolerated, and effective in improving overall skin quality, fine lines, wrinkles, radiance, and hyperpigmentation in 32 healthy female subjects over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37608511/))

## Why other moisturizers fit combination skin better

- A peel-off facial mask containing myoinositol and trehalose-loaded liposomes improved adult female acne by decreasing lesion counts, sebum production, GAGS scores, and local androgen levels while increasing beclin-1 levels. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28342238/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this viscous, silicone-based serum is highly praised by users with dry or mature skin for its deep hydration and ability to create a smooth, protective barrier. Many report brighter, calmer skin and improved texture. Users with combination or oily skin frequently find the finish too heavy or greasy.

- Liked: Deep hydration protection (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy or shiny finish (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture tone (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Silky application (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Soothing sensitive skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow absorption (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (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 Paula's Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum a weak match for combination skin?

This serum is a weak match for combination skin because it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control. While it provides antioxidants, it is not specialized enough to significantly address oily shine and may pose risks of worsening the condition. A product for this skin needs effective hydrating and skin-repairing ingredients that balance moisture levels without causing excess oiliness.

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

This serum is a weak match because it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control to handle your oily shine. A product of this type needs effective hydrating and skin-repairing ingredients, humectants, and soothing agents to balance moisture levels without causing excess oiliness.

### What does Retinol do for combination skin?

Retinol helps smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and improve firmness in combination skin. It works by encouraging faster skin renewal and boosting collagen, though it may occasionally cause mild dryness or scaling while your skin adjusts.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17515510/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Vitamin C helps brighten combination skin, smooth out uneven texture, and protect against daily environmental stress while keeping it balanced. It may also improve hydration and reduce redness in areas that tend to be dry or irritated.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38525606/), [Photochemistry and Photobiology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33529350/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though some serums of this type can also be used in the morning or twice a day. Because it is a weak match for combination skin, a product of this type needs balancing ingredients like niacinamide or lightweight oil-controlling elements to keep oily shine under control.

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

You can use this serum with niacinamide, applying the niacinamide first and letting it absorb before layering this treatment on top. Because this serum is a weak match for combination skin, a product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and oil-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to keep oily shine balanced.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment serum in the evening as part of your routine. Combination skin needs a product with targeted oil control ingredients to effectively manage oily shine.

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

This serum is unlikely to cause purging, but its heavy and oily texture may worsen shine and lead to breakouts on combination skin. A product for this skin needs lightweight, oil-controlling ingredients that balance moisture without adding excess grease.

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

This serum is unlikely to harm the delicate skin around the eyes or on the body, but a product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and oil-controlling ingredients to properly care for combination skin.

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

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (sd alcohol 40 alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Elizavecca Witch Piggy Hell Pore Control Hyaluronic Acid 97%](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/elizavecca/witch-piggy-hell-pore-control-hyaluronic-acid-97/for/combination-skin) — High fit — A$25.90 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — A$26.00 at Amazon
- [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — A$34.00 at Amazon

## Routine for combination skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$30.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$29.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$30.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$35.50 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Herbivore Botanicals Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/herbivore-botanicals/blue-tansy-bha-and-enzyme-pore-refining-mask/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$118.35 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Olea Europaea Oil Fruit Olive Oil Fruit, Tocopherol, Retinol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Bisabolol, Tocotrienols, Adenosine, Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil Grape Seed Oil, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract Matricaria Flower Extract, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Stearyl Dimethicone, Astaxanthin, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract Grape Seed Extract, Oenothera Biennis Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil Raspberry Seed Oil, Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Oil, Palm Oil, Sd Alcohol 40 Alcohol Denat
## 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/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/combination-skin