# iS Clinical Brightening Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-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 Canada.

Brand: [iS Clinical](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/is-clinical)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/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 brightening for your oily skin due to alpha-arbutin and saccharum officinarum extract, which help to even skin tone and provide hydration.
- The presence of willow bark extract offers some keratolytic action, but the formula lacks sufficient seboregulating ingredients for optimal results on your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is generally safe for your oily skin, though alcohol denat and menthol may pose a slight risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Alpha-Arbutin, Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus Leaf Extract Fruit, Willow Bark Extract, Saccharum Officinarum Extract

## What the research says

- Encapsulation of alpha arbutin in an optimized ethosomal gel significantly improved skin melanin reduction, moisture content, and elasticity in human volunteers compared to conventional formulations. ([Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/))
- Topical 30% l-menthol decreased cold pain thresholds and enhanced pain responses to suprathreshold noxious cold stimuli without affecting other stimuli in 39 healthy subjects compared to ethanol control. ([Pain, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16527405/))
- A non-hydroquinone topical formulation (SKNB19) improved hyperpigmentation by 28.5% in patient self-assessment and 27% in independent reviewer assessment compared with 4% hydroquinone in 18 adult subjects, while showing significantly less irritation and better tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33022197/))
- Combining a home-based radiofrequency device and arbutin cream reduced mMASI scores by 25.6% and melanin index by 22.8% at 8 weeks compared to baseline in 38 participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39918262/))
- Polyvinyl pyrrolidone-K90/Eudragit RL100 dissolving microneedle patches loaded with alpha-arbutin and resveratrol enhanced intradermal delivery by approximately 2.6 times compared to cream and slightly decreased the melanin index in human participants without causing skin irritation. ([Biomaterials Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37183632/))
- Fermented bilberry extract improved wrinkle depth, skin smoothness, roughness, firmness, elasticity, antioxidant capacity, and complexion evenness compared to a placebo in 66 subjects over 84 days. ([Nutrients, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39064646/))
- Topical application of oil-in-water creams containing wild bilberry leaves extract and seeds oil produced significant beneficial effects on the skin of healthy human volunteers. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33809607/))
- Bilberry fruit extract incorporated into chitosan-based hydrogels demonstrated antioxidant, anti-hyaluronidase, and anti-tyrosinase activities, supporting their potential use in topical anti-aging preparations. ([Antioxidants, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38247529/))
- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Bioactive lipid nanocarriers co-loaded with willow bark or ivy leaf extracts and UV-filters provided pronounced UVA photoprotection up to an SPF-equivalent value of 13 and a maximum in vivo skin hydration effect of 97% when prepared with pomegranate oil. ([Nanomaterials, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889587/))
- A topical serum containing 0.5% salicin applied twice daily reduced visible signs of skin aging, including wrinkles and tactile roughness, in 30 female subjects over 12 weeks compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20883292/))
- 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/))

## 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

This review data is based on limited data. Users frequently report visible improvements in dark spots, skin radiance, and overall texture, noting that the formula is generally gentle enough for various skin types, including sensitive skin. Some users may find it less effective for stubborn conditions or notice potential irritation if used too frequently.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Evens skin tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow/no results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Tingling sensation (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 iS Clinical Brightening work for oily acne-prone skin?

iS Clinical Brightening Serum is an average fit for oily acne-prone skin, offering moderate brightening while carrying a slight risk of irritation from alcohol denat and menthol. To work best for this skin type, a treatment needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or Vitamin C to control excess oil and target blemishes without irritation.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

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

Alpha-arbutin and sugar cane extract make this serum a fit by offering moderate brightening and hydration for your oily skin. Treatments of this type need effective ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, and vitamin C that control excess oil, clear breakouts, and soothe the skin without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

### What does Alpha-Arbutin do for oily acne-prone skin?

Alpha-arbutin does not target acne or oiliness directly, but it helps fade dark spots left behind by breakouts on oily skin. Because it works gently, it is unlikely to clog pores or trigger new pimples while evening out your skin tone. Oily, acne-prone skin still needs ingredients that clear pores and calm redness to fully address breakouts alongside dark spots.

### What does Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract helps calm oily, acne-prone skin by soothing irritation and balancing excess oil. Because skin of this type needs lightweight hydration and ingredients that clear pores without clogging them, this extract works well to keep your face feeling fresh and smooth.

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Oily acne-prone skin needs a treatment of this type to also include strong oil-controlling and breakout-clearing ingredients.

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

You can use this treatment alongside retinol, applying the treatment first in your evening routine and following with your retinol and moisturizer. Because this product contains alcohol and menthol, it may pose a slight risk of irritation when combined with strong ingredients.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine. For oily acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs stronger oil-balancing ingredients to manage breakouts.

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

It is unlikely to cause major breakouts on your oily skin, though alcohol denat and menthol may pose a slight risk of irritation. Oily acne-prone skin needs products with stronger oil-controlling and pore-clearing ingredients to keep breakouts completely under control.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-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/oily-acne-prone-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/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$33.98 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 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/oily-acne-prone-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/oily-acne-prone-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

Butylene Glycol, Water, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat, Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus Leaf Extract Fruit, Alpha-Arbutin, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Polyporus Umbellatus Extract Mushroom Extract, Willow Bark Extract, Menthol, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/is-clinical/brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin