# Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-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 France.

Brand: [Vichy](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/vichy)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/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 brightening and smoothing for your oily skin, as ascorbic acid and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid work to hydrate and even skin tone. Tocopherol also contributes to antioxidant activity and helps regulate sebum, making it suitable for oily skin.
- While the formula provides general hydration, its benefits are primarily supportive and do not directly address your main concern of oily shine.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone, Tocopherol Vitamin E, Pinus Pinaster Bud Extract Bark

## 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/))
- A topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced air pollution-induced skin pigmentation and proinflammatory gene expression ex vivo, and improved skin aging signs in 40 healthy adult females after 90 days of daily use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/))
- Profhilo gel combined with Dysport Botox significantly improved skin hydration, skin thickness, and GAIS scores compared to Dysport Botox injection alone in 19 participants seeking neck rejuvenation. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35775872/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- A xanthan gum and alginate-based bioadhesive film loaded with pycnogenol provides sustained drug release within 24 hours, achieves a safe maximum concentration of ~ 0.2 mg/mL for keratinocytes, and absorbs simulated wound fluid, demonstrating suitability for topical wound treatment. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33802607/))
- Topical treatment with Pinus brutia bark extract cream significantly accelerated incision wound healing in albino rats, demonstrating a 35% decrease in MDA and a 46.8% increase in SOD activity compared to the control group. ([Die Pharmazie, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23444785/))
- Pretreatment with pycnogenol significantly inhibited interferon-gamma-induced adherence of T cells and expression of ICAM-1 in human HaCaT keratinocytes in a dose- and time-dependent manner by suppressing Stat1 activation. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11281289/))

## Why other serums fit oily skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- 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

Based on a very large amount of data, users report this serum effectively brightens dull complexions and evens skin tone, with many seeing radiance within weeks. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing texture is often appreciated, even by those with sensitive skin. Some users note a sticky finish, and a smaller number experience issues with the product oxidizing or an unpleasant smell.

- Liked: Brightens complexion (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Evens skin tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle on skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Oxidation issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging flaws (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (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 Vichy Vitamin C Serum work for oily skin?

Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum works moderately well for oily skin, offering brightness and smoothness, though it does not directly control shiny oiliness. Oily skin works best with treatments containing niacinamide to control sebum production and manage excess oil while boosting radiance.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/)

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

Ascorbic acid and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid help hydrate and even your skin tone, while tocopherol helps regulate sebum. A product for this skin type needs ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control oil, along with soothing extracts and lightweight hydrators.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Vitamin C helps brighten skin tone and smooth texture while providing antioxidant protection that prevents sebum oxidation. For oily skin, this type of product typically needs to be paired with oil-controlling or pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid or plant extracts.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492184/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37128827/)

### What does Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid do for oily skin?

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid helps keep oily skin well-hydrated without feeling heavy, and it is unlikely to clog pores. This lightweight hydration may help balance skin and improve texture while keeping your skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36279763/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening helps with simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure, though some can also be used in the morning or twice a day.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum in your morning routine and your retinol in the evening. This helps you avoid mixing strong active ingredients at the same time while still giving your skin brightening benefits safely.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine, as suggested by Lovi routines for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. This serum is unlikely to irritate your oily skin and helps smooth it, though oily skin of this type also needs ingredients that directly target and control shine.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### 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 is safe with no harsh ingredients to cause irritation. However, because it does not directly target oily shine, an oily skin type needs lightweight products with oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid to help manage excess oil.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €35.99 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €139.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €17.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.fr: €30.29 (https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B09TPXJP8R?tag=lovi-care-web-product06-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €36.90 (https://www.notino.fr/vichy/liftactiv-supreme-serum-illuminateur-visage-a-la-vitamine-c/p-16122648/)
- Lookfantastic: €39.10 (https://www.lookfantastic.fr/p/vichy-liftactiv-supreme-16-pure-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-20ml/13494902/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Ascorbic Acid, Alcohol Denat, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Laureth-23, Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Pinus Pinaster Bud Extract Bark
## 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/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vichy/liftactiv-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin