# SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/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: [SkinCeuticals](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/skinceuticals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for normal skin, as glycolic acid and salicylic acid provide effective exfoliation to address acne lesions, but the formula lacks sufficient emollient ingredients for optimal hydration.
- While beneficial for general exfoliation, the product's primary ingredients are not specifically targeted to alleviate your redness and irritation.
- The product is safe for your sensitive skin, containing no harsh or prohibited ingredients that would cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Lha Lipo Hydroxy Acid, Citric Acid

## What the research says

- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- 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/))
- A novel composition containing salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, HEPES, glycolic acid, citric acid, and dioic acid showed similar tolerance and efficacy compared with clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in subjects with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23545907/))
- 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/))
- Topical 20% citric acid lotion increases viable epidermal thickness and dermal glycosaminoglycan content in sun-damaged skin compared to vehicle alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9256916/))

## Why other serums fit sensitive skin better

- Topical application of TAT-SOD significantly suppresses UVB-induced erythema formation, blood flow rise, and apoptotic sunburn cell formation in human volunteers compared to a vehicle control. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27460952/))

## What reviewers say

This dual-action serum is widely praised by adults with oily and combination skin for simultaneously treating cystic acne and smoothing fine lines. While highly effective at reducing sebum and clearing congestion, users note it can be drying and may cause an initial "purge" period before results become visible. The summary is based on a very large amount of data and should definitely be taken into account.

- Liked: Clears stubborn acne (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces excess oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Anti-aging benefits (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying or irritating (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong chemical scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial skin purging (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense work for sensitive skin?

SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense is an average fit for sensitive skin because its strong acids exfoliate well, but the formula lacks enough moisturizing ingredients to keep skin soft. A treatment of this type needs soothing ingredients, antioxidants, and hydrating components to calm redness and irritation without causing dryness.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

This serum is a fair fit for sensitive skin because it contains salicylic acid and glycolic acid to help clear breakouts, though it lacks soothing hydrators to calm redness. A treatment for sensitive skin needs soothing ingredients like niacinamide or snail secretion filtrate and extra moisture to keep the skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Salicylic acid may cause irritation on sensitive skin, so it requires careful use and good sun protection to keep skin comfortable. A product for this skin type needs gentle, soothing ingredients and a mild formula that respects the skin barrier.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10233334/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14617432/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Glycolic acid can be too harsh for sensitive skin, leaving it dry and irritated, so this type of skin needs a gentler exfoliating ingredient and calming plant extracts to keep the skin barrier safe and comfortable.
Sources: [Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35920724/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

Apply this treatment in the evening, starting just once a week to see how your skin responds before using it more often. Because this product lacks sufficient hydrating and calming ingredients for your sensitive skin, a routine for this skin type needs extra soothing and moisturizing ingredients to keep it comfortable.

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

It is best to use this serum on alternating nights rather than mixing it with retinol, because combining strong exfoliating acids and retinol is likely to cause excessive dryness and irritation on sensitive skin. When you do use this treatment, apply it after cleansing and toning, and follow with a rich moisturizing cream to keep your skin soft and comfortable.

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this treatment once a week in the evening to see how your skin tolerates the exfoliating acids. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. Sensitive skin needs products that provide soothing hydration alongside exfoliation to keep it calm and soft.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

It is unlikely to clog pores, but initial breakouts or purging may happen with sensitive skin since it contains exfoliating acids. Reviewers note it can sometimes be drying or irritating. A treatment for sensitive skin needs soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep skin calm.

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

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

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$50.60 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$27.50 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$34.41 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/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/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

Alcohol Denat, Water, Methylpropanediol, Glycolic Acid, Diisopropyl Adipate, Octadecenedioic Acid, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Citric Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Polyquaternium-10, Salicylic 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/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin