# Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your oily skin, as Ascorbic Acid and Tocopherol provide antioxidant activity and aid in sebum regulation, while Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid offers hydration. The formula lacks targeted ingredients to directly address your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The serum provides general skincare advantages, including brightening and smoothing texture, which are supportive but not primary solutions for your specific concerns.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risk of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components like Tocopherol and Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone, Tocopherol Vitamin E, Pinus Pinaster Bud Extract Bark

## 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/))
- Profhilo gel combined with Dysport Botox significantly improved skin hydration, skin thickness, and GAIS scores compared to Dysport Botox injection alone in 19 participants seeking neck rejuvenation. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35775872/))
- A topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced air pollution-induced skin pigmentation and proinflammatory gene expression ex vivo, and improved skin aging signs in 40 healthy adult females after 90 days of daily use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/))
- Profhilo treatment led to significant improvements in superficial skin hydration and transepidermal water loss over time in Chinese females, while demonstrating good product tolerability. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- A xanthan gum and alginate-based bioadhesive film loaded with pycnogenol provides sustained drug release within 24 hours, achieves a safe maximum concentration of ~ 0.2 mg/mL for keratinocytes, and absorbs simulated wound fluid, demonstrating suitability for topical wound treatment. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33802607/))
- Topical treatment with Pinus brutia bark extract cream significantly accelerated incision wound healing in albino rats, demonstrating a 35% decrease in MDA and a 46.8% increase in SOD activity compared to the control group. ([Die Pharmazie, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23444785/))
- Pretreatment with pycnogenol significantly inhibited interferon-gamma-induced adherence of T cells and expression of ICAM-1 in human HaCaT keratinocytes in a dose- and time-dependent manner by suppressing Stat1 activation. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11281289/))

## Why other serums fit oily acne-prone skin better

- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- 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

Based on a very large amount of data, users report this serum effectively brightens dull complexions and evens skin tone, with many seeing radiance within weeks. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing texture is often appreciated, even by those with sensitive skin. Some users note a sticky finish, and a smaller number experience issues with the product oxidizing or an unpleasant smell.

- Liked: Brightens complexion (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Evens skin tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle on skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Oxidation issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging flaws (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum work for oily acne-prone skin?

Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum offers moderate benefits for oily acne-prone skin by providing antioxidant support and brightening, but it lacks targeted ingredients to directly address breakouts. To truly fit this skin type, a product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide and propolis that help control excess oil and actively clear blemishes.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Ascorbic acid and tocopherol help regulate oil and provide antioxidant benefits, while hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid offers gentle hydration for oily skin. To truly fit oily acne-prone skin, this type of product needs ingredients like niacinamide and propolis that directly target breakouts and blemishes while controlling excess oil.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Vitamin C do for oily acne-prone skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out texture, and improve uneven spots for oily acne-prone skin. It may also help fade marks left behind by blemishes.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid helps hydrate oily acne-prone skin without clogging pores, keeping it soft and smooth. It is generally well tolerated and unlikely to cause irritation when used daily.
Sources: [Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36279763/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Oily acne-prone skin needs a product that includes targeted ingredients to directly address acne, blemishes, and breakouts.

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

You can use this serum in your morning routine before your moisturizer and sunscreen, keeping your retinol for the evening routine. This serum is unlikely to irritate your skin, but since it lacks ingredients that directly target breakouts, oily acne-prone skin needs a treatment containing targeted anti-acne ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/), [Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum fits your oily acne-prone skin on an average level, so you can safely use it in the evening as part of your routine. It helps brighten your skin and keep it hydrated, but an oily acne-prone skin type of this fit also needs targeted ingredients to directly address acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/), [Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on your oily skin, as it avoids harsh ingredients and includes soothing components. However, because it lacks targeted ingredients to directly clear blemishes, this skin type needs formulas with active blemish-fighting ingredients to properly manage breakouts.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

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

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.00 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/oily-acne-prone-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/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$86.25 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B073ZJLF1H?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Ascorbic Acid, Alcohol Denat, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Laureth-23, Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Pinus Pinaster Bud Extract Bark
## 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/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin