# PCA Skin C&E Advanced for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [PCA Skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/pca-skin)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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 evening of skin tone for your oily skin, as Ascorbic Acid and Hexylresorcinol work to regulate melanogenesis and provide antioxidant benefits.
- While it provides general hydration and antioxidant protection, the formula lacks specific ingredients to target your oily shine concerns.
- 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/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Hexylresorcinol, Silymarin, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin E

## What the research says

- Topical 1% hexylresorcinol is equivalent to 2% hydroquinone in significantly reducing the appearance of facial and hand pigmentation in healthy female participants over 12 weeks, with both treatments showing no adverse effects. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36502500/))
- 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 formulation combining 4-hexylresorcinol and niacinamide significantly improved hyperpigmentation, skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles, and firmness compared to niacinamide alone in Chinese subjects without adverse events. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34958693/))
- A novel triple-active cosmetic formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide improved the visual appearance of photoageing similarly to 0.02% tretinoin and reversed a consensus gene signature associated with ageing in female adults while causing less skin irritation. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/))
- A topical cream containing retinol 0.5% in combination with niacinamide, resveratrol, and hexylresorcinol improved all efficacy endpoints including fine lines, radiance, smoothness, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles in 25 subjects with photodamaged and aging skin over 10 weeks. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27391637/))
- Topical 0.5% silymarin-loaded antioxidant serum applied twice daily significantly reduced clinical acne severity, lesion counts, and melanin pigmentation in 22 Korean acne patients over 4 weeks without associated adverse events. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36204969/))
- Topical silymarin cream 1.4% showed comparable results to salicylic acid 30% peels in reducing acne severity in 30 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37942562/))
- Silymarin antioxidant serum reduced inflammatory lesions by 45% and noninflammatory lesions by 43% in 56 subjects over 12 weeks, and improved tolerability by reducing erythema, dryness, and scaling when added to prescription acne therapy in 40 subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38564394/))
- 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 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 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

Users generally praise this anhydrous antioxidant formula for its ability to brighten dull complexions and smooth uneven texture, often noting a unique cream-to-powder finish that works well under makeup. A significant minority of users struggle with the product's texture, describing it as "gritty" or prone to pilling, and note that the formula can separate in the tube if not shaken vigorously.

- Liked: Brightens skin tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Matte finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Gritty texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pilling under makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Product separation (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle formula (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Drying sensation (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 PCA Skin C&E Advanced work for oily skin?

PCA Skin C&E Advanced works moderately well for oily skin by helping brighten your tone and offering antioxidant protection, but it lacks specific ingredients to control your oily shine. A treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, or zinc PCA to manage excess oil and enlarged pores while keeping the skin comfortable and balanced.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36502500/)

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

Ascorbic Acid and Hexylresorcinol make this serum a fit by brightening your skin tone and providing antioxidant benefits, though an oily skin type needs ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, and zinc PCA to control excess oil and manage shine.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36502500/)

### What does Hexylresorcinol do for oily skin?

Hexylresorcinol helps brighten dark spots and even out skin tone, which can be particularly beneficial for oily skin dealing with leftover marks from blemishes. It works gently to improve overall skin clarity and is generally well tolerated without causing extra oiliness or irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34958693/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36502500/)

### What does Silymarin do for oily skin?

Silymarin helps keep oily skin clear by reducing blemishes and breakouts while calming redness. This ingredient is well-tolerated and may improve overall skin texture without causing dryness.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38564394/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning. This type of product for oily skin also needs specific ingredients to help target oily shine.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying the serum in the morning and saving your retinol for your nighttime routine. This helps you avoid putting too many strong actives on your face at once, which may lower your likelihood of skin irritation.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36502500/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this treatment in the evening as part of your routine. An oily skin type also needs ingredients that balance oil production and reduce shine.

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on oily skin because it contains no harsh ingredients that typically trigger irritation. Oily skin works best with lightweight formulas that also help balance shine and control oil.

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €52.57 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €185.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.45 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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 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-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

Cyclopentasiloxane, Ascorbic Acid, Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Polysilicone-11, Tocopherol, Isosorbide Dicaprylate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Hexylresorcinol, Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract, Hordeum Distichon Extract Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Silica, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Sandalwood Extract Wood
## 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/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/oily-skin