# celimax Pore+Dark Spot Brightening Pad for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [celimax](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/celimax)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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

- This product offers moderate brightening and evening of skin tone for your combination skin, as niacinamide and arbutin help regulate melanogenesis and address dark spots. Tranexamic acid further supports seboregulation, making it suitable for managing oily shine.
- While it provides general hydration and supports your combination skin, it lacks specialized ingredients for intensive oil control, offering only supportive benefits for your main concern.
- The formulation is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ascorbic Acid

## What the research says

- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))

## 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 find these pads effective for gentle exfoliation and hydration, leading to smoother, more radiant skin. While many appreciate the improvement in overall tone and texture, fading deep dark spots is noted to require consistent long-term use. The pads themselves are frequently praised for their quality and generous essence.

- Liked: Pad quality (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightening and radiance (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Texture improvement (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow dark spot results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (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 celimax Pore+Dark Spot Brightening Pad work for combination skin?

This product works moderately well for combination skin, offering some brightening and help with oily shine, though other products fit it better. A treatment for this skin needs effective ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA that manage oily shine and provide balanced hydration without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

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

Niacinamide, alpha arbutin, and tranexamic acid make this pad a good fit by helping even out skin tone and manage oily shine. This treatment works for combination skin, but a product of this type needs more specialized oil-control ingredients like zinc PCA and balancing extracts to be an ideal fit.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### 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 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 pad go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment pad goes in your evening routine, starting at once a week and slowly increasing if your skin tolerates it well. A combination skin routine works best with products that provide intensive oil control ingredients alongside hydration.

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

You can use this pad with retinol by applying the pad first and following with your retinol once it absorbs, but separate them to different nights if you notice any dryness. This helps you manage dark spots while keeping your combination skin calm and comfortable.

### How often should I use this pad?

Start using this pad once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often. Combination skin needs products with specialized ingredients for intensive oil control and targeted blemish-clearing benefits to manage oily shine and pores effectively.

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for combination skin, as the formulation is safe and reviewers report very low risks of breakouts. To better manage oily shine and keep pores clear, this skin type needs targeted ingredients that provide intensive oil control.

### Is this pad 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/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €35.80 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €474.90 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €20.50 (https://www.notino.nl/celimax/poredark-spot-brightening-pad-toner-pads-voor-hydratatie-en-stralende-huid/p-16280763/)
Prices checked 14 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Isopentyldiol, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Glycerin, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylyl Glycol, Tranexamic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Citric Acid, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera Fruit Extract Grape Fruit Extract, 12-Hexanediol, Sodium Phytate, Eriobotrya Japonica Leaf Extract Loquat Leaf Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Spearmint Extract, Arbutin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate
## 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/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/celimax/pore-dark-spot-brightening-pad/for/combination-skin