# Topicals Faded Serum for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/topicals/faded-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 Germany.

Brand: [Topicals](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/topicals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/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.

One of the best serums for oily acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin is provided by niacinamide and azelaic acid, which work to regulate sebum and reduce inflammation, addressing your concerns with acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The high concentrations of tranexamic acid, alpha-arbutin, kojic acid dipalmitate, glutathione, and azelaic acid offer exceptional brightening and evening of skin tone, further enhancing your complexion.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like Niacinamide and Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid, Alpha-Arbutin, Kojic Acid Dipalmitate

## What the research says

- Azelaic acid nanocrystal hydrogel 10% achieved a higher success rate and greater lesion reduction than azelaic acid cream 20% in patients with mild to moderate facial acne. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/))
- Application of 15% azelaic acid gel significantly reduced post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation, decreased hemoglobin and melanin content, improved quality of life, and contributed to acne improvement in patients with mild to moderate acne compared to placebo. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/))
- Topical oxidized glutathione significantly decreases the skin melanin index and improves moisture content, smoothness, wrinkle formation, and elasticity compared to placebo in healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25378941/))
- 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/))
- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- 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 a dermocosmetic containing Myrtus communis extract and azelaic acid reduced acne relapses and helped maintain remission compared to a light moisturizing cream in adult females in the acne maintenance phase over 16 weeks. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36729399/))
- Topical administration of 20% azelaic acid cream and 5% tranexamic acid solution comparably improved acne-related postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients with acne vulgaris, while tranexamic acid demonstrated a significantly better safety profile at week 4. ([Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37213446/))
- Azelaic acid 15% gel showed comparable efficacy to adapalene 0.1% gel in reducing lesions, severity, and Dermatology Life Quality Index in women with adult acne, with significantly lower dryness and scaling, and demonstrated superiority during maintenance compared to no further treatment. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25399481/))
- 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/))
- A topical formulation containing kojic acid, emblica extract, and glycolic acid demonstrated efficacy parity compared with hydroquinone 4% in multiethnic participants with mild to moderate facial dyschromia. ([Cutis, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21049734/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Topical application of iron chelators kojic acid and deferiprone significantly accelerated wound healing in rats compared to control groups, with deferiprone showing superior efficacy due to higher antioxidant and iron chelation abilities. ([International Wound Journal, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22621771/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is widely praised as a "holy grail" for fading stubborn hyperpigmentation, post-acne marks, and melasma, with users reporting brighter and more even skin tone after consistent use. While highly effective for discoloration, the original formula is infamous for its strong sulfur-like scent, though a newer unscented version has mitigated this concern for many.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens skin tone (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor packaging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Creamy texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Effective ingredient blend (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (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

### What makes Topicals Faded one of the best fits for oily acne-prone skin?

Topicals Faded is a great fit because niacinamide and azelaic acid help control oil and calm inflammation to keep breakouts at bay. It also features powerful brightening ingredients like tranexamic acid, alpha-arbutin, and kojic acid dipalmitate to even out your skin tone. Plus, it has a very safe profile with soothing components like centella asiatica leaf extract that are unlikely to irritate oily skin.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/)

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

Niacinamide and azelaic acid make this serum a great fit for your oily skin by helping to control oil and calm redness from breakouts. The formula also includes soothing components that keep your skin comfortable and safe from irritation.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/)

### What does Tranexamic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Tranexamic acid helps reduce redness and inflamed spots like pimples and pustules on oily, acne-prone skin. It may also fade lingering dark marks left behind by breakouts with a very low chance of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37213446/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35388589/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oil production, calms redness, and is unlikely to irritate oily, acne-prone skin while improving blemishes. Clinical tests show it reduces excess oil and helps clear up both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/)

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

This serum goes in your evening routine as a treatment step. Using it at night helps avoid any extra sun sensitivity, while ingredients like niacinamide and azelaic acid work to calm breakouts and control oil.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

### 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 dry, and then smoothing on this serum. This combination is unlikely to cause irritation for oily skin thanks to soothing ingredients like niacinamide and centella asiatica leaf extract.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting once a week and slowly using it more often if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results. It has an excellent safety profile with soothing ingredients like niacinamide and centella asiatica leaf extract, which helps keep irritation unlikely on oily skin.

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

Topicals Faded Serum is unlikely to cause breakouts for oily acne-prone skin because it avoids harsh ingredients and includes niacinamide and azelaic acid to help calm inflammation and control oil. Soothing components like centella asiatica leaf extract further support a safe and gentle experience.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Behenyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €29.76 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €36.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €37.64 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €8.99 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0FT32CL2W?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Glyceryl Stearate, Tranexamic Acid, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Jojoba Seed Oil, Alpha-Arbutin, Behenyl Alcohol, Kojic Acid Dipalmitate, Glutathione, Curcuma Longa Butter, Ethylene Brassylate, Dimethylmethoxy Chromanyl Palmitate, Azelaic Acid, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Melatonin, Phytic Acid, Squalane, Allantoin, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Tocopherol, Arginine, Lecithin, Glycine Soja Soybean Sterols, Cetyl Palmitate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sclerotium Gum, Zinc Ricinoleate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Tetrahydroxypropyl Ethylenediamine, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ceteareth-12, Ceteareth-20, 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/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/topicals/faded-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin