# Medicube Zero Pore One Day Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-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 Ireland.

Brand: [Medicube](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/medicube)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/exfoliators)

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.

Works for combination skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, with gluconolactone, lactic acid, and glycolic acid effectively refining texture and addressing oily shine. Glycerin and Centella Asiatica Extract provide supportive hydration and soothing benefits, though specialized pore-targeting ingredients are limited.
- The formulation is excellent for combination skin, utilizing gluconolactone and salicylic acid to refine pores and manage oiliness.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients for your combination skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Aha, Bha, Pha, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- Combining 10% gluconolactone chemical peeling with oxybrasion or microneedle mesotherapy increased skin hydration and decreased sebum, pH, and TEWL in twenty-one Caucasian women, with no significant differences between the two methods. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/))
- 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 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily and combination skin frequently praise this serum for refining rough texture and minimizing enlarged pores, often describing a blurring effect that serves as a good makeup base. While the 'one day' claim is often viewed as marketing hyperbole, consistent use reportedly yields smoother skin and reduced sebum production, though the product's sticky finish is a polarizing feature.

- Liked: Smoothes texture (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Tightens pores (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Price vs quantity (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant product in your PM routine starting once a week, then increase frequency carefully if your skin feels fine.
- Apply this exfoliant step after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and wait a minute before layering.
- Apply the exfoliant to clean, dry skin to help control your oily shine comfortably.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Medicube Zero Pore One Day Serum work for combination skin?

Medicube Zero Pore One Day Serum works moderately well for combination skin, offering gentle texture refinement and oil control with acids and soothing plant extracts. A product of this type needs effective ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, and propolis to enhance radiance, regulate oiliness, and provide balanced hydration without any risk of irritation or unsuitability.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This serum works for combination skin using gluconolactone, lactic acid, and glycolic acid to smooth texture and manage oily shine. Glycerin and Centella Asiatica extract also help by providing soothing moisture without feeling heavy. Combination skin of this type works best with products that include ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to boost radiance and balance oiliness without irritation.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Alpha Hydroxy Acid do for combination skin?

Alpha hydroxy acid helps balance combination skin by clearing out pores and removing dead skin cells while keeping the skin hydrated. It smooths out rough spots and keeps the skin feeling fresh and soft.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26032934/)

### What does Bha do for combination skin?

BHA helps clear breakouts and calms oily areas while keeping combination skin smooth, as it reduces blemishes and excess oil with a low risk of irritation. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients and gentle hydrators to balance combination skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, starting once a week and using it more often only if tolerated well. Combination skin also needs targeted pore-clearing ingredients and soothing hydration to fully address oiliness and texture.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying this exfoliant first in your routine and following with retinol on alternate nights to avoid irritation. This product needs specialized pore-targeting ingredients and targeted blemish-clearing actives to best fit combination skin.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this serum once a week in the evening routine, and if your combination skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often. Combination skin of this type needs targeted pore-clearing ingredients and balancing hydrators to work best.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14725662/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356917/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause clogged pores or breakouts on combination skin because it contains ingredients like salicylic acid and gluconolactone that help clear out pores and manage oiliness. However, since it offers only an average fit, combination skin may benefit more from products with specialized pore-targeting ingredients.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €52.57 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €385.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €115.30 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €20.00 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B09G267W27?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €22.40 (https://www.notino.ie/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum-soothing-and-moisturizing-serum-to-minimise-pores/p-16299735/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Gluconolactone, Methylpropanediol, Glycerin, Propanediol, Tromethamine, Polyglycerin-3, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Citric Acid, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, C12-14 Pareth-12, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Salicylic Acid, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Lecithin, Allantoin, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Dextrin, Indigofera Tinctoria Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Citrate, Hemerocallis Fulva Flower Extract, Gardenia Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Trisodium Phosphate, Of Myosotis Sylvatica Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside, Lactobacillus Lysate Ferment, Dandelion Leaf Extract
## 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/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/zero-pore-one-day-serum/for/combination-skin