# MERIT Great Skin Instant Glow Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-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: [MERIT](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/merit)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/moisturizers)

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 moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers high suitability for your combination skin due to the presence of niacinamide for seboregulation and multiple forms of sodium hyaluronate for humectant action, providing excellent moisturizing and plumping benefits.
- While it offers general skincare benefits, the lack of targeted ingredients for oil control means it does not directly address your oily shine concern.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Niacinamide, Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract, Tocopherol

## What the research says

- 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 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/))
- A 1.0% w/w cocoa pod husk extract lotion improved skin hydration by 52.48%, reduced transepidermal water loss by 7.73%, and decreased the melanin index by 9.10% in 30 volunteers after 4 weeks of application compared to baseline. ([Life, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40724627/))
- Application of cocoa pod extract gel reduced skin wrinkles by 6.38% at 3 weeks and 12.39% at 5 weeks, and increased skin hydration by 3.18% at 3 weeks in 12 panelists. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27041391/))
- Cocoa polyphenols improved indicators of skin elasticity and tonus including glycosaminoglycans and collagens I, III, and IV in ex vivo human skin explants with an efficacy equivalent to a commercially available product. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18822039/))
- 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/))

## Why other moisturizers fit combination skin better

- A peel-off facial mask containing myoinositol and trehalose-loaded liposomes improved adult female acne by decreasing lesion counts, sebum production, GAGS scores, and local androgen levels while increasing beclin-1 levels. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28342238/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users with dry, dull, or combination skin highly praise this serum for its ability to deliver immediate, glass-like radiance and deep hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. It effectively plumps the skin and serves as an excellent makeup primer. A very large amount of data was used to generate this summary, and it should be definitely taken into account. Some users note that the extremely watery consistency and forceful pump dispenser can make application slightly messy.

- Liked: Instant healthy glow (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Deeply hydrating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great makeup primer (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight and fast-absorbing (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Messy pump dispenser (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Watery consistency (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not standalone moisturizer (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does MERIT Great Skin work for combination skin?

MERIT Great Skin works reasonably well for your combination skin because it provides good moisture and helps balance your skin without causing irritation. However, since it lacks specific oil-control ingredients, it does not directly target your oily shine concern. A moisturizing treatment for combination skin needs targeted oil-control ingredients and balanced hydrators that manage oily shine while keeping dry areas soft.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/)

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

Niacinamide and multiple forms of sodium hyaluronate make this serum a good fit because they balance moisture and help keep your skin looking plump and smooth. To work even better for combination skin, a product of this type needs targeted ingredients for oil control to help manage oily shine.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### What does Niacinamide do for combination skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily areas by reducing excess shine and pore size while keeping dry patches hydrated and smooth. It also works to calm redness and even out skin tone, making it very suitable for combination skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening helps keep things simple and adds extra safety around sun exposure. Combination skin like yours also needs targeted ingredients for oil control to keep oily shine managed.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first to give your skin moisture, followed by retinol once it absorbs. This approach helps keep your skin soft and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22648223/)

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. If tolerated well, treatments like this can sometimes be used in the morning or twice a day.

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on combination skin, as it has an excellent safety profile without harsh ingredients. However, because it lacks targeted ingredients for oil control, a product of this type needs balancing ingredients like salicylic acid or clay to better manage oily shine.

### Can I use this serum around the eyes or on my body?

You can use this moisturizing treatment around the eyes and on the body because it has a very safe formula that is unlikely to cause irritation. However, because your combination skin needs oil control for oily shine, a product of this type used in those areas also needs targeted ingredients to manage oil.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €37.20 at Amazon
- [COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/hydrium-triple-hyaluronic-moisture-ampoule/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €35.40 at Amazon
- [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €23.90 at Notino

## 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
- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €22.67 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Ireland has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Isononyl Isononanoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract, Tocopherol, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Dextrin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
## 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/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/merit/great-skin-instant-glow-serum/for/combination-skin