# NATURIUM Vitamin C Complex Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-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: [NATURIUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/naturium)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/serums)

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening and anti-acne benefits for your oily skin, as Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Ascorbic Acid work to reduce breakouts and even skin tone.
- The inclusion of Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate provides essential hydration, which is beneficial for maintaining skin balance without exacerbating oiliness.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no harsh or prohibited ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Vitamin C Complex, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vitamin E, Glutathione, Pineapple Fruit Extract

## What the research says

- Topical combination of 5% sodium ascorbyl phosphate and 0.2% retinol reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 29.28% at 4 weeks and 63.10% at 8 weeks, outperforming either agent alone. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19134126/))
- Combined ascorbyl palmitate and sodium ascorbyl phosphate treatment significantly reduced facial sebum secretions in healthy female volunteers compared to a placebo control over 90 days. ([Drug Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27756097/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Glutathione amino acid precursors effectively increase cellular glutathione levels, reducing oxidative stress, ATP depletion, and DNA damage in human keratinocytes, clinical subjects, and ex vivo skin compared to controls. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38189670/))
- Topical oxidized glutathione significantly decreases the skin melanin index and improves moisture content, smoothness, wrinkle formation, and elasticity compared to placebo in healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25378941/))
- Topical glutathione improves hyperpigmentation, reduces ultraviolet-induced erythema and wrinkles, decreases transepidermal water loss, and enhances antioxidant capacity. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41416233/))
- Oral bromelain slightly reduced pain compared to controls (mean difference -0.27) and topical bromelain reduced time to complete debridement by 6.89 days, with no major health risks reported. ([Nutrition and Health, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37157782/))
- An upcycled pineapple leaf fibre crosspolymer forms a physical barrier that protects against environmental aggressors while providing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antipollution, UV protection, hydration, and hair benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41524117/))
- A coaxial electrospun core-shell nanofiber scaffold delivering bromelain and salvianolic acid B demonstrated sustained drug release, in vitro endothelial cell migration, increased capillary formation in an in ovo assay, and in vivo efficacy for skin regeneration and wound healing. ([Biomedical Materials, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28580904/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dull, uneven, or hyperpigmented skin frequently praise this serum for its ability to brighten the complexion and fade dark spots without the irritation often associated with Vitamin C. The lightweight, gel-like texture absorbs well for the majority, though a small subset of users with highly sensitive or acne-prone skin reported breakouts or allergic reactions.

- Liked: Brightens and evens tone (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective packaging (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Great value (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lack of results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Naturium Vitamin C Serum a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum is a great fit because it helps reduce breakouts and evens out skin tone while providing essential hydration that keeps oily skin balanced. Its gentle formula is safe and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19134126/), [Drug Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27756097/)

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

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Ascorbic Acid help reduce breakouts and even out your skin tone, while Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate provide balanced hydration without adding extra oil. It is very safe for your skin and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19134126/), [Drug Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27756097/)

### What does Vitamin C do for oily acne-prone skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten dark spots left by breakouts and may protect skin from irritation while supporting overall clarity. Oily and acne-prone skin also benefits from ingredients that regulate oil production and calm redness.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492184/), [AAPS PharmSciTech, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31915948/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine for oily acne-prone skin, placed after cleansing and toning 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?

Yes, you can use this serum with retinol by applying this vitamin C serum in your morning routine and your retinol product at night. This approach helps you get the brightening benefits of vitamin C while avoiding potential irritation from layering two strong treatments at the same time.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin and is designed to be used in the evening routine. Applying it then helps you get brightening and anti-acne benefits safely while avoiding extra sun sensitivity.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin and is unlikely to clog pores, as it helps reduce breakouts and balances oil. Reviewers rarely report breakouts, and the formula avoids harsh ingredients that could irritate your skin.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19134126/), [Drug Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27756097/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €29.07 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €31.40 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €95.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 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/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid, Glutathione, Pineapple Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica Fruit Extract, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract, Podocarpus Elatus Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Carbomer, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Hydroxide, Beta-Glucan, Potassium Sorbate, Hexylene Glycol, Sorbitol, Xanthan Gum, Algin, Benzoic Acid, Sorbic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium Phosphate, Sodium Phosphate, Gold
## 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/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/vitamin-c-complex-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin