# SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Low · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [SkinCeuticals](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/skinceuticals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry and sensitive skin, as glycolic acid and salicylic acid help reduce blemishes, but these ingredients can also cause dryness and irritation.
- While the formula is free of harsh ingredients and safe for your skin, alcohol denat. is present and may exacerbate dryness.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/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/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## 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 this PM routine for your evening skincare. Start using the serum 3 times a week and increase to daily use if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer. This step locks in deep hydration for dry skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin using your palms. Let it absorb completely for a minute ⏱ before applying your next product.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the serum on completely dry skin for better tolerance and less irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Always do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense works moderately well for your dry sensitive skin, as its acids help clear blemishes, but they can also cause dryness and irritation. A product of this type for your skin needs effective hydrating and nourishing ingredients, along with ceramides and vitamin C, to provide excellent moisture retention and protect your skin barrier without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid help reduce blemishes, but these strong exfoliants and alcohol denat. can also cause dryness and irritation on your skin. A product for dry sensitive skin needs nourishing ingredients that provide excellent hydration and texture improvement without irritation, such as ceramides, vitamin C, and moisturizing components that support the skin barrier.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

Salicylic acid is generally a poor fit for dry, sensitive skin because it is designed to clear out pores by removing excess oil, which can easily leave dry skin irritated. A product of this type needs gentle exfoliating helpers paired with rich, soothing moisturizers and barrier-repairing ingredients to keep dry skin calm and comfortable.

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

Glycolic acid can be too harsh for dry sensitive skin and may cause irritation, so this skin type needs gentle calming ingredients and deeply nourishing moisturizers to keep the skin barrier safe and smooth.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8651024/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9470910/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your soothing toner and before your moisturizer. Since it contains strong acids and alcohol denat. that may cause dryness and irritation for dry sensitive skin, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients, gentle hydration, and barrier-repairing components to keep skin comfortable.

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

Using this serum with retinol can easily cause too much dryness and irritation for your dry sensitive skin, so it is best to avoid using them together. A product for this skin needs gentle hydrating ingredients and soothing plant extracts to keep the skin calm and smooth while handling breakouts.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment once a week in the evening, as starting slowly helps your dry and sensitive skin adjust to the exfoliating acids while keeping irritation low. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often.

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

This treatment helps clear blemishes with exfoliating acids, but it may cause initial breakouts and dryness on your dry sensitive skin. A product for this skin needs gentle soothing ingredients and extra moisture to prevent irritation.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

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

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kravebeauty/great-barrier-relief/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$40.00 at Amazon
- [Missha The First Essence 5X](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$43.00 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/matrixyl-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$14.40 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$38.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada 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/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/dry-sensitive-skin