# Sephora Gentle Peeling 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/sephora/gentle-peeling-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: [Sephora](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/sephora)
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 oily shine and combination skin due to the presence of lactic acid, which provides chemical exfoliation and works with niacinamide for seboregulation. The formula is safe for your combination skin, as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.
- The lactic acid and sodium hydroxide in the formula promote skin renewal through excellent exfoliation, which is highly suitable for combination skin.
- 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/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Lactic Acid, Squalane, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae Extract

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Topical sunscreen formulations containing UV filters, red algae extract, Ginkgo biloba, and vitamins protected hairless mice from UV-induced erythema, reduced transepidermal water loss, and significantly decreased the expression of p53 and caspase-3 compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology. B, Biology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26402714/))
- Chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol nanofibrous dressings containing 3% Corallina officinalis extract exhibited bead-free morphology, enhanced mechanical strength, strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and excellent biocompatibility for skin cell survival and proliferation. ([Journal of Biomaterials Science. Polymer Edition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40742752/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this serum is frequently praised for its lightweight, non-sticky texture that absorbs quickly and is non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Users often report improved skin texture and reduced breakouts. Some users experience occasional dryness or note that results are not immediate.

- Liked: Lightweight, absorbs fast (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Causes dryness (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 Sephora Gentle Peeling Serum work for combination skin?

Sephora Gentle Peeling Serum works moderately well for combination skin by providing gentle exfoliation and helping manage oily shine with lactic acid and niacinamide. While it is safe and causes no irritation, a product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide and propolis or zinc PCA to provide better balance, optimal hydration, and enhanced radiance without excess oiliness.

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

Lactic acid and niacinamide make this serum a good fit by offering moderate exfoliation and helping to control oily shine. An exfoliant for combination skin of this type also needs effective ingredients like propolis or zinc PCA that provide balance and hydration without causing excess oiliness or dryness.

### 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/)

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

Lactic acid helps balance combination skin by gently removing dead surface cells and managing oil while keeping moisture locked in. It is unlikely to cause irritation when used properly, and instead supports a smooth, clear, and well-hydrated complexion across both oily and dry areas. This type of skin needs ingredients that gently clear pores without stripping natural moisture, such as balanced hydrators and mild exfoliants.
Sources: [Frontiers in Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42326996/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39050562/)

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

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Lovi routines start exfoliating steps once a week, and you can carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well.

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

Using this exfoliant with retinol may easily cause irritation on combination skin, so it is best to use them on different nights or alternate days rather than together. When you do use both in your routine, apply the exfoliant first on clean skin, let it absorb, and then follow with your retinol product.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and carefully use it more often only if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results. A product for this skin needs gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid paired with hydrating and soothing ingredients to smooth texture while keeping the skin calm.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for combination skin, as it has a very low risk of dryness and a negligible risk of breakouts. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients like niacinamide and gentle exfoliants like lactic acid to keep your skin smooth and calm.

### Is this exfoliant 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: €36.67 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B0DPBBWW4C?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Lactic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Squalane, C14-22 Alcohols, Silica, Sodium Hydroxide, Trehalose, Stearalkonium Hectorite, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Caprylate, Tocopherol, Sea Water, Xanthan Gum, Propylene Carbonate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Phytate, Phenethyl Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae 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/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/combination-skin