# Seoul Ceuticals Ultra Brightening Kojic Acid Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-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 Italy.

Brand: [Seoul Ceuticals](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/seoul-ceuticals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/best/serums)

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 serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and brightening for your combination skin, as glycolic acid and salicylic acid work to refine texture while alpha arbutin and kojic acid target hyperpigmentation.
- While the formula provides general hydration and soothing benefits, it lacks specific ingredients to address your primary concern of oily shine.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, containing no harsh or prohibited ingredients that would cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Kojic Acid, Alpha Arbutin, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Licorice Root Extract

## What the research says

- Encapsulation of alpha arbutin in an optimized ethosomal gel significantly improved skin melanin reduction, moisture content, and elasticity in human volunteers compared to conventional formulations. ([Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/))
- A topical formulation containing kojic acid, emblica extract, and glycolic acid demonstrated efficacy parity compared with hydroquinone 4% in multiethnic participants with mild to moderate facial dyschromia. ([Cutis, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21049734/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Topical application of iron chelators kojic acid and deferiprone significantly accelerated wound healing in rats compared to control groups, with deferiprone showing superior efficacy due to higher antioxidant and iron chelation abilities. ([International Wound Journal, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22621771/))
- A non-hydroquinone topical formulation (SKNB19) improved hyperpigmentation by 28.5% in patient self-assessment and 27% in independent reviewer assessment compared with 4% hydroquinone in 18 adult subjects, while showing significantly less irritation and better tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33022197/))
- Combining a home-based radiofrequency device and arbutin cream reduced mMASI scores by 25.6% and melanin index by 22.8% at 8 weeks compared to baseline in 38 participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39918262/))
- Polyvinyl pyrrolidone-K90/Eudragit RL100 dissolving microneedle patches loaded with alpha-arbutin and resveratrol enhanced intradermal delivery by approximately 2.6 times compared to cream and slightly decreased the melanin index in human participants without causing skin irritation. ([Biomaterials Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37183632/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- 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/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))

## Why other serums fit combination skin better

- 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/))
- 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 report this serum effectively fades dark spots, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation, providing a noticeable glow. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly and is generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin, though a small minority experienced breakouts or irritation.

- Liked: Brightens Complexion (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades Dark Spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on Skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight Texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation & Breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price & Value (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow or No Results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant Scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Seoul Ceuticals Kojic Acid Serum work for combination skin?

This serum works moderately well for combination skin by refining texture and brightening dark spots, though it lacks specific ingredients to control oily shine. A treatment for combination skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, or propolis to regulate oiliness and balance hydration.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

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

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid help refine your skin texture, while alpha arbutin and kojic acid target dark spots.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

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

Kojic Acid helps fade dark spots and uneven patches on combination skin by slowing down the pigment production in your skin cells. It is generally safe to use, though it may occasionally cause mild redness or irritation in sensitive areas.
Sources: [Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & Pharmacotherapie, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30537675/), [The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 1994](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7714722/)

### What does Alpha Arbutin do for combination skin?

Alpha arbutin helps fade dark spots and even out skin tone while keeping your skin looking bright and balanced. It is unlikely to cause heavy irritation, making it gentle enough for both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34356362/)

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

This treatment serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Combination skin needs products with mattifying ingredients to control oily shine.

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

You should use this serum and retinol on alternating nights rather than together to help prevent irritation and dryness on your combination skin. Since both products exfoliate and renew, separating them is a safer way to keep your skin calm and smooth.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment works best when you start using it once a week in the evening, and you can slowly use it more often if your skin tolerates it well. To properly care for combination skin, this product also needs specific ingredients that help control oily shine.

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clogged pores for combination skin, as reviewers rarely report irritation or breakouts. However, combination skin needs oil-balancing and shine-controlling ingredients that this formula lacks.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €37.99 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €380.10 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €129.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €13.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water Deionized Water, Witch Hazel Water, Cassia Angustifolia Polysaccharide Seed Sodium Hyaluronate Seed, Alpha Arbutin, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Ganoderma Lucidum Extract Reishi Kojic Acid Extract, Dimethyl Sulfone, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Glycolic Acid, Willow Bark Extract Willow Salicylic Acid Bark Extract, Anise Extract, Cochlearia Armoria Root Extract Horseradish Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Schisandra Chinensis Extract, Melissa Officinalis Extract, Fennel Extract, Panax Quinquefolius Root Extract Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Melissa Officinalis Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E, Centella Asiatica Extract, Equisetum Arvense Extract Horsetail Plant Extract, Geranium Extract, Dandelion Extract, Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose, Chondrus Crispus, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
## 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/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/seoul-ceuticals/ultra-brightening-kojic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
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