# Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum for skin with dark spots

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-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 Canada.

Brand: [Biossance](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/biossance)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/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.

One of the best serums for skin with dark spots.

## Why this fit

- This serum offers excellent skin smoothing and anti-aging benefits for your normal skin, with bakuchiol and niacinamide effectively improving texture and minimizing fine lines.
- Squalane and hyaluronic acid provide essential hydration and barrier support, though the formula does not specifically target your main goal of pigmentation.
- The product is safe for your normal skin, featuring soothing ingredients like squalane and niacinamide with no harsh or prohibited components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots): High (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Biosaccharide Gum-1

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Treatment with a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid improved skin aging signs and demonstrated a senomorphic effect by decreasing SASP and autocrine signaling genes in women. ([Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Topical hyaluronic acid filler serum combined with Botulinum toxin type A lengthened the duration of the toxin's effect in reducing wrinkles compared to Botulinum toxin type A alone. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36200921/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract, and mannitol improves inflammatory lesions, Investigator Global Assessment, and seborrhea intensity when added to adapalene 0.1% gel in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/))
- Topical application of a serum containing supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia chebula extract significantly improved barrier function, reduced redness and sensitivity, and improved wrinkles and elasticity in 34 Chinese subjects with sensitive skin after 28 days. ([Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/))
- Bakuchiol functions as an anti-aging compound through retinol-like regulation of gene expression, producing significant improvements in lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, firmness, and photo-damage after 12 weeks of twice-a-day facial application without usual retinol therapy-associated undesirable effects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24471735/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently report improvements in skin texture and significant hydration without the irritation commonly associated with retinoids. Some users find the name misleading and the scent polarizing, while others note the high price and recent availability issues.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and moisturizing (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Availability issues (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Misleading name (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Polarizing scent (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

### What makes Biossance Phyto-Retinol Serum a great fit for skin with dark spots?

This serum is a great fit because bakuchiol helps smooth your skin and improve texture while working on dark spots. It also includes niacinamide and squalane to keep your skin soft and calm without any harsh effects.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Bakuchiol and niacinamide make this serum a good fit for skin with dark spots by helping improve skin texture and reduce dark spots. Studies show that bakuchiol significantly decreases hyperpigmentation and improves skin appearance.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Squalane do for skin with dark spots?

Squalane helps keep skin soft and smooth, but it is unlikely to directly fade dark spots on its own. For hyperpigmentation, this type of product needs added brightening ingredients like vitamin C or antioxidants to help even out skin tone.

### What does Bakuchiol do for skin with dark spots?

Bakuchiol helps reduce dark spots and uneven color, making skin look more balanced and even-toned. It works well on hyperpigmentation while being gentle, with a low likelihood of the scaling or stinging sometimes caused by other anti-aging ingredients.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### 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. Putting treatments in the evening helps keep your routine simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying your retinol product first and following with this serum. This approach helps keep skin smooth and calm while minimizing the irritation that retinol may sometimes cause.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum is used in the evening as part of your routine for skin with dark spots. It helps smooth skin and keep it soft with a safe and gentle formula.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your skin with dark spots because it features lightweight, soothing ingredients like squalane and niacinamide with no harsh components. It may also help keep your skin smooth and calm.
Sources: [Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (linalool, geraniol, and limonene).

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Guerlain Abeille Royale Double R Renew & Repair Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/guerlain/abeille-royale-double-r-renew-and-repair-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$250.04 at Amazon
- [Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/rapid-tone-repair-20-vitamin-c-face-serum-capsules/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$63.07 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/buffet-copper-peptides-1/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$39.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$23.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/allies-of-skin/peptides-and-antioxidants-firming-daily-treatment/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$98.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Squalane, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Bakuchiol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Citrus Aurantium Amara Peel Oil, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Lecithin, Hexylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Gluconate, Citric Acid, Linalool, Geraniol, Limonene, Yeast Extract, Amino Acids, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
## 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/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots