# Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-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 France.

Brand: [Dr. Barbara Sturm](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/dr-barbara-sturm)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/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.

A great choice for combination skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers high brightening and evening of skin tone for your combination skin, as Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ascorbic Acid provide potent antioxidant and brightening effects that also support collagen synthesis.
- The formulation is well-suited for oily shine with Zinc PCA helping to regulate sebum production, and the absence of harsh ingredients ensures no irritation for your combination skin.
- This serum is safe for your skin, containing no prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ascorbyl Glucoside

## What the research says

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Topical nicotinamide plus an antibacterial adhesive agent and zinc-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid combined with adapalene significantly reduced noninflammatory acne lesions by the second week of therapy compared to placebo with adapalene in patients with moderate acne vulgaris. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users consistently praise this serum for its gentle formulation that brightens and hydrates without irritating sensitive skin. A significant number of reviewers feel the high price tag is not justified by the subtle results, with some noting they achieved similar effects with more affordable alternatives.

- Liked: Gentle on Skin (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Very Expensive (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens Complexion (often mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant Texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating & Plumping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Subtle/Slow Results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused Breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Runny Consistency (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

### What makes Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum a great fit for combination skin?

This serum is a great fit because it brightens and evens out skin tone while helping to control oily shine. It uses vitamin C to support collagen and antioxidants, and Zinc PCA to manage oil without causing irritation.

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

This serum is a great fit for your combination skin because Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ascorbic Acid brighten your skin tone and support collagen, while Zinc PCA helps control oily shine without causing irritation.

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

Vitamin C helps brighten dull areas and smooth out uneven texture on combination skin while protecting against daily environmental stress. It may also help keep pores clear and skin firm by supporting collagen production, though drier spots may need an added moisturizer to stay comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37128827/)

### What does Aloe Vera Leaf Juice do for combination skin?

Aloe vera leaf juice helps keep combination skin hydrated by increasing water content without making it oily. It also helps calm redness and supports skin recovery.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening provides simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying this treatment in your morning routine and your retinol product at night. This helps you get the brightening benefits of vitamin C while avoiding potential irritation from mixing potent actives at the same time.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this serum in your evening routine, and some people also use it in the morning or twice a day. Antioxidants like these serve as a low-risk mainstay intervention for improving skin tone and texture.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores for combination skin, as it has a safe formulation without harsh ingredients and includes Zinc PCA to help keep oily shine under control. Reviewers rarely mention breakouts, and the gentle ingredients help keep your skin calm and clear.

### Is this serum 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 combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €18.25 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €35.99 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €389.34 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/perfectly-balanced-foaming-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €32.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €17.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Lookfantastic: €143.75 (https://www.lookfantastic.fr/p/dr.-barbara-sturm-the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum-30ml/13310139/)
- Notino: €147.00 (https://www.notino.fr/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-serum-visage-a-la-vitamine-c/p-16127418/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 15 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Lactobacillus Portulaca Oleracea Extract Ferment, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Olea Europaea Leaf Extract Olive Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Citric Acid, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Zinc Pca, Phenoxyethanol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Glycerides, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Sodium Sulfite, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sclerotium Gum, Tocopherol
## 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/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
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