# Image Skincare the MAX™ Stem Cell Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-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 Canada.

Brand: [Image Skincare](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/image-skincare)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/serums)

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.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- This serum offers excellent anti-aging benefits for your combination skin, with Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 effectively minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. While Sodium Hyaluronate and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract provide beneficial hydration and antioxidant support, they do not specifically target your oily shine concerns.
- The formula is highly suitable for combination skin due to the presence of soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica Extract and a lack of harsh components.
- It is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation identified.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Pyrus Malus Extract Cell Fruit Culture, Sodium Hyaluronate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate

## What the research says

- Argireline treatment twice daily for 4 weeks produced a significant anti-wrinkle effect with 48.9% total efficacy and decreased skin roughness in Chinese subjects compared with 0% efficacy and no decrease in roughness in the placebo group. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/))
- Argireline applied twice daily for 4 weeks achieved a total anti-wrinkle efficiency of 48.9% and notably reduced wrinkle depth compared to placebo in Chinese subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23607739/))
- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- A cosmetic cream with 6% standardized wild apple fruit extract and a conventional emulsifier demonstrated stable antioxidant activity of 19.25 %RSC, increased skin moisturization, and a decreased melanin index by -31.40 without causing skin irritation. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31050807/))
- A novel facial serum containing apple stem cell extract, pro-collagen lipopeptide, creatine, and urea improved mitochondrial function in human senescent cultured fibroblasts and demonstrated anti-wrinkle, dermal density, and skin elasticity benefits in 32 women with sensitive skin applied twice daily for 28 days compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26424007/))
- 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/))
- Acetyl hexapeptide-3 and tripeptide-10 citrulline demonstrated antiwrinkle efficacy and decreased transepidermal water loss in twenty-four healthy volunteers compared to control groups, though synergistic effects between the two peptides remained unclear. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28150423/))
- Daily topical acetyl hexapeptide-8 showed a trend toward a longer time until return to baseline Jankovic Blepharospasm Rating Scale scores compared to placebo (3.7 months vs. 3.0 months) in 24 patients with blepharospasm receiving botulinum toxin therapy. ([European Journal of Neurology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23146065/))
- Dissolving microneedles loaded with 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid and acetyl hexapeptide-8 achieved higher cumulative transdermal delivery than aqueous solutions and significantly reduced photoaging signs while restoring oxidative balance in a UV/D-galactose-induced mouse model. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41628877/))
- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Chronomodulated daytime application of baicalin and nighttime application of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 synergistically improved skin luminance by 16.29%, nasolabial fold depth by -36.35%, and firmness by 24.35% in 30 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit combination skin better

- 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/))
- 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

Users with mature, dry, or environmentally stressed skin frequently praise this serum for its hydrating, firming, and smoothing effects, which target fine lines and improve elasticity for a more youthful appearance. Some users note that consistent, long-term use is necessary to see the full benefits.

- Liked: Firms and tightens (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrates and smooths (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Faulty pump (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow to show (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does the MAX Stem Cell Serum work for combination skin?

This serum works well for combination skin by smoothing fine lines and keeping skin calm, though it does not target oily shine. To work best for this skin type, a treatment needs ingredients like niacinamide and zinc or propolis to balance oiliness while providing hydration.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/), [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23607739/)

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

Centella Asiatica Extract makes this serum a good fit for combination skin because it helps calm the skin, while peptides like Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 smooth out fine lines. To be a better fit for this skin type, a treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to manage oily shine.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/)

### What does Apple Fruit Cell Culture Extract do for combination skin?

Apple fruit cell culture extract helps protect skin cells and improve skin smoothness, elasticity, and overall radiance. It supports skin regeneration and helps reduce the look of wrinkles while keeping skin comfortable and balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26424007/), [Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25362798/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. A product of this type for combination skin needs balancing ingredients like niacinamide or clay to help control oily shine while keeping the skin hydrated.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying your retinol first, letting it absorb, and then following with this treatment to keep your skin calm and hydrated. Because this product is an average fit for your combination skin, a treatment for this skin also needs ingredients that balance oily shine.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works well in the evening for your combination skin, helping smooth lines with peptides while keeping things calm. To better balance combination skin, a product of this type also needs oil-controlling ingredients that target shiny areas.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/), [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23607739/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your combination skin, as it has a very safe formula with soothing ingredients and no harsh components. To better care for combination skin, a product of this type needs ingredients that help balance oily shine while keeping your skin hydrated.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/combination-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/combination-skin) — Average fit — CA$33.98 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Sucrose Palmitate, Polysorbate 20, Tocopheryl Acetate, Pyrus Malus Extract Cell Fruit Culture, Plankton Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Protein, Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Algae Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Echinacea Purpurea Extract, Phaseolus Radiatus L Callus Extract, Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Leontopodium Alpinum Meristem Cell Culture, Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract, Argania Spinosa Extract Cell Sprout Culture, Superoxide Dismutase, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Arabidopsis Thaliana Extract, Lecithin, Butylene Glycol, Peg-8 Smdi Copolymer, Pullulan, Glycine Soja Protein Soybean Protein, Isomalt, Propylene Glycol, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Sodium Dextran Sulfate, Citric Acid, Pvp, Disodium Edta, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/image-skincare/the-maxtm-stem-cell-serum/for/combination-skin