# Skinbetter Science Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [Skinbetter Science](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/skinbetter-science)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/serums)

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

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your oily skin, as niacinamide and chlorogenic acids provide seboregulation and antioxidant activity, while hyaluronic acid and licorice root extract offer hydration and soothing effects. The presence of antioxidants like ergothioneine and chlorogenic acids in moderate concentrations provides excellent protection against environmental stressors.
- The formula is highly suitable for oily skin and has a good safety profile with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like bisabolol.
- This serum is generally safe for your skin, with no reported risks of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Ergothioneine, Superoxide Dismutase

## What the research says

- 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/))
- A triple combination of ergothioneine, collagen peptides, and sodium hyaluronate attenuated UV-induced skin damage ex vivo and improved facial skin hydration, elasticity, barrier function, and wrinkles in Chinese women. ([Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/))
- Chlorogenic acid-functionalized silver nanoparticles of Citrus sinensis in a gel matrix achieved a particle size of 71.78 nm and an entrapment efficiency of 79.42%, providing an effective drug carrier system for the topical treatment of acne. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36606381/))
- Topical treatment of nicotinamide, alone or in combination with other active ingredients, reduces the progression of skin aging and hyperpigmentation in clinical trials while being well tolerated. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/))
- 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 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/))
- A targeted skincare regimen containing active ingredients such as rhodophyceae extract, ergothioneine, and L-carnosine significantly reduced transepidermal water loss by 24.09%, improved skin elasticity, and decreased redness, dryness, and desquamation in thirty-five female Chinese participants over 4 weeks following advanced optimal pulse technology treatment. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40497421/))
- Ergothioneine at nanomolar concentrations ameliorated UVA-induced skin damage, reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis in human keratinocyte-derived HaCaT cells by upregulating Nrf2/ARE-mediated antioxidant genes. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26021820/))
- Ergothioneine at submicromolar concentrations ameliorated UVA-induced skin aging in human dermal fibroblasts by inhibiting the AP-1 pathway and activating Nrf2-mediated antioxidant genes. ([Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32104530/))
- Topical application of TAT-SOD significantly suppresses UVB-induced erythema formation, blood flow rise, and apoptotic sunburn cell formation in human volunteers compared to a vehicle control. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27460952/))
- Topical treatment with the synthetic SOD/catalase mimetic EUK-134 reduced lipid peroxide levels both at baseline on non-irradiated human skin and at the surface of UVA-exposed skin when applied before or after irradiation, compared to controls. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492138/))
- Topical superoxide dismutase formulations maintained physical stability and enzymatic activity for 6 months at 4 and 30 degrees C, and effectively inhibited UVB-induced skin erythema for 48 hours, whereas formulations combined with alpha-tocopherol were unstable. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17196809/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is highly praised for its sophisticated formula that significantly enhances skin radiance, tone, and texture. Its elegant, non-tacky texture is frequently mentioned as a positive attribute, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines. The primary drawback noted by users is the high price point, with some experiencing low-frequency issues like dryness or a slight yellow residue.

- Liked: Elegant texture (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves radiance (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces redness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-irritating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Rare reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Yellow residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does skinbetter science Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum work for oily skin?

This serum works moderately well for oily skin, offering helpful antioxidant protection and soothing hydration without any irritation. Oily skin works best with a treatment that includes ingredients like niacinamide to control excess oil and zinc PCA, along with ceramides and panthenol to support the skin barrier without clogging pores.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/), [Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/)

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

Niacinamide and chlorogenic acids help control oil and provide antioxidants, while hyaluronic acid and licorice root extract offer light hydration and keep skin calm. Oily skin often benefits from lightweight hydrators and oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide paired with soothing extracts.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/), [Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily skin by significantly reducing excess oil production and shine. It is well tolerated and may improve skin texture without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### What does Vitamin C do for oily skin?

Vitamin C helps oily skin by fighting oil oxidation and calming redness, making it a useful addition to your daily routine. Formulas with vitamin C keep skin balanced without clogging pores.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492184/), [European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28385617/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Oily skin works best with products that balance oil and provide light hydration without heaviness.

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

You can use this treatment serum with retinol by applying the treatment after cleansing and before your moisturizer in your evening routine. This formula is unlikely to cause irritation for your oily skin due to soothing ingredients like bisabolol, but when combining active products, you should introduce them gradually to monitor how your skin reacts.

### How often should I use it?

This serum is used in the evening as part of your routine. Oily skin works best with products that balance oil and provide lightweight hydration without heaviness.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/), [Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily skin, as it has a good safety profile with no harsh ingredients and includes soothing agents. However, because it offers only moderate benefits, an oily skin type often needs a product with stronger oil-balancing and clarifying ingredients to keep pores clear.

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €35.29 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €169.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [CeraVe CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €38.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Chlorogenic Acids, Niacinamide, Lauryl Lactate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Allyl Ester, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ergothioneine, Benzylidene Dimethoxydimethylindanone, Arabidopsis Thaliana Extract, Carnosine, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract Grape Seed Extract, Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Olea Europaea Fruit Extract Olive Fruit Extract, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2, Buddleja Officinalis Flower Extract, Coffea Arabica Extract Cell Leaf Coffee Extract Cell Leaf, Crocus Sativus Extract Cell Leaf Culture, Superoxide Dismutase, Ubiquinone, Plankton Extract, Micrococcus Lysate, Arginine, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Sea Whip Extract, Bisabolol, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Jojoba Esters, Sodium Pca, Pentylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus Wax Seed Sunflower Wax Seed, Acacia Decurrens Wax Flower, Lecithin, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Dicetyl Phosphate, Propanediol Dicaprylate Caprate, Polyglycerin-3, Ceteth-20 Phosphate, Diisostearyl Malate, Xanthan Gum, Steareth-2, Acacia Senegal Gum, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Carbomer, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dextran, Ricinoleth-40, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Sodium Phytate, Ethylhexylglycerin, 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/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinbetter-science/alto-advanced-defense-and-repair-serum/for/oily-skin