# Medicube Red Serum for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/red-serum/for/acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [Medicube](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/medicube)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination skin is provided by salicylic acid and willow bark extract, which offer mild keratolytic action and seboregulation, complemented by Centella Asiatica Extract for anti-inflammatory benefits.
- The formula also addresses your acne, blemishes, and breakouts with Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil, providing mild exfoliation and antimicrobial effects.
- The product is safe for your acne-prone skin, featuring soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica Extract and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate without harsh or prohibited components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract, Oil Tree Leaf, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Lavender Water

## What the research says

- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- 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/))
- A topical formulation containing panthenol, niacinamide, and dipotassium glycyrrhizate increased skin hydration by 74.1% and reduced transepidermal water loss by 13.5% at 28 days compared to baseline and untreated control in 35 individuals with xerosis. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42108609/))
- Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate-loaded hydroxypropyl chitosan and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogels applied to wounds in a mouse full-thickness skin defect model resulted in rapid wound closure, efficient tissue remolding, collagen deposition, and decreased inflammation compared to commercial Tegaderm film and 3M dressing controls. ([Acta Biomaterialia, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35245682/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical herbal treatments including lemon balm, olive leaf extract, propolis, and sage-rhubarb cream reduce pain, swelling, lesion size, and healing time in patients with herpes labialis compared with placebo or acyclovir. ([Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40526027/))
- Topical oleuropein formulations reduced erythema, transepidermal water loss, and blood flow by approximately 22%, 35%, and 30% in healthy volunteers with UVB-induced erythema. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18377620/))
- An oil-in-serum formulation containing olive extract standardized in hydroxytyrosol improved skin barrier function and significantly reduced hyperpigmentation in participants with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after 45 days of application. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41507660/))
- Combining azelaic acid and matrine in dissolving microneedles at a 1:1 molar ratio achieved higher skin permeability, synergistic antibacterial rates above 95%, and no skin irritation compared to commercially available azelaic acid gel. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34284096/))
- Co-amorphous salt of ursodeoxycholic acid and matrine incorporated into dissolving microneedles enhanced aqueous solubility, skin permeation, growth-inhibitory effects against Cutibacterium acnes, and anti-inflammatory activity compared to single-component groups and topical gel in a murine acne model. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42025655/))
- Lavandula angustifolia leaf callus extract enhanced skin cell viability, reduced oxidative stress and melanin content, improved wound healing, and enhanced skin barrier function in human skin cells and clinical tests. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40345503/))
- Tea tree oil effectively treated acne while lavender and rosemary oils demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties in derma cosmetic applications based on an evaluation of various essential oils. ([Frontiers in Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40917836/))
- A blend of Lavandula angustifolia flower extract and dipeptide-4 reduced oxidative and glycation markers, enhanced ATP, SOD, autophagy, and melatonin production, and improved tissue morphology in human skin models and fibroblasts. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41235571/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, users with acne-prone and sensitive skin find this serum effective at calming redness and providing deep hydration without greasiness. Many users appreciate its ability to soothe inflammation and control sebum. However, opinions on its effectiveness in reducing active acne are divided, with some experiencing significant clearing and others seeing minimal improvement.

- Liked: Hydrating, lightweight (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothes redness (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Small quantity (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Strong medicinal scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-sticky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Faulty dispenser (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Mixed acne results (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Medicube Red Serum a great fit for acne-prone skin?

Medicube Red Serum is a great fit for acne-prone skin because salicylic acid and willow bark extract help clear pores by gently removing dead skin cells and managing oil, while tea tree oil fights breakout-causing microbes. It is also safe for your skin, featuring soothing ingredients like Centella asiatica extract and dipotassium glycyrrhizate that help calm redness and irritation without harsh components.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/)

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

Medicube Red Serum is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it features salicylic acid and willow bark extract for mild exfoliation and oil control. It also includes Centella Asiatica extract and dipotassium glycyrrhizate to calm redness, along with tea tree oil to help clear blemishes safely.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and calming redness without causing many side effects. It works by dipping deep into pores to clear out blockages and control oil, making it a reliable choice for keeping skin smooth and clear.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Centella Asiatica Extract do for acne-prone skin?

Centella asiatica extract helps calm angry skin, reduces redness, and supports healing for breakouts. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may improve overall skin clarity when used consistently.
Sources: [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/), [Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine, applied after your cleansing toner and before your moisturizer. It is placed in the evening for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure, though some treatments may 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, but to avoid irritation it is best to use them on alternate nights or apply the retinol after this treatment has fully absorbed. This product contains salicylic acid and tea tree oil, which help clear pores and calm breakouts, but combining them directly with strong retinol may dry out your skin.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### How often should I use it?

This treatment is great for your acne-prone skin and fits into your evening routine once a week to start. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

Medicube Red Serum is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it contains salicylic acid and willow bark extract to help clear pores, alongside soothing centella asiatica extract. It is unlikely to cause breakouts as it features calming ingredients without harsh components.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €52.57 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €185.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €15.79 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B0DBF65JYY?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €14.00 (https://www.notino.ie/medicube/red-serum-intensely-hydrating-serum-with-antioxidant-effect/p-16329867/)
Prices checked 16 Oct – 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

C12-14 Pareth-12, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract, Dimethicone Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disodium Edta, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Dipropylene Glycol, Lavandula Angustifolia Lavender Water, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Betaine, Centella Asiatica Extract, Borago Officinalis Extract, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Sorbitol, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Rhus Semialata Gall Extract, Polygala Tenuifolia Root Extract, Melia Azadirachta Extract, Xylitol, Water, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Leaf Extract Flower Matricaria Leaf Extract Flower, Carbomer, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Salvia Sclarea Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Salicylic Acid, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Willow Bark Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Magnolia Obovata Bark Extract, Hyacinthus Orientalis Extract, Tocopherol Vitamin E, Rice Extract, Ci 42090, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Laureth-7, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Peg Ppg-17 6 Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylamide, Triethanolamine, Ethanolamine, Platycodon Grandiflorum Root Extract, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Dandelion Root Extract Rhizome, Usnea Barbata Extract, Ovalicin, Grapefruit Leaf Extract, Colloidal Sulfur
## 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/medicube/red-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medicube/red-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/red-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medicube/red-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
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