# Murad Vita-C Glycolic Brightening Serum for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-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: [Murad](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/murad)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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 for your oily skin due to glycolic acid and ascorbic acid, which exfoliate and protect against environmental stressors, while urea and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate provide hydration and antioxidant benefits.
- The inclusion of hexylresorcinol and Chlorella Vulgaris Extract further supports your goal of reducing oily shine by regulating melanogenesis and offering soothing properties.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing agents like Gold.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Glutathione, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Hexylresorcinol

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topically delivered gold-coated silica microparticles combined with laser pulses reduced inflammatory lesions compared with sham treatments in patients with moderate-to-severe facial acne. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25748556/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users report this serum quickly provides a noticeable glow and smoother skin texture. It is effective at fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time. However, many reviewers mention the high price point and occasional issues with the dual-chamber pump mechanism.

- Liked: Brightens and adds radiance (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight absorption (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes skin texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Good for makeup prep (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging pump issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Low Vitamin C % (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Oxidation concerns (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (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 Murad Vita-C Glycolic Brightening Serum work for oily skin?

This treatment works moderately well for your oily skin, brightening and protecting it with vitamin C and glycolic acid. It is safe for this skin type, but a product for oily skin needs ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control oil and refine pores.

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

Ascorbic acid and glycolic acid make this serum a good fit for your oily skin by brightening your complexion and exfoliating away dead skin cells, while hexylresorcinol and chlorella vulgaris extract help reduce oily shine. To work best for oily skin, a treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide to control sebum production, along with lightweight hydrators and soothing extracts to keep skin comfortable without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Vitamin C do for oily skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin tone and smooth texture while providing antioxidant protection that prevents sebum oxidation. For oily skin, this type of product typically needs to be paired with oil-controlling or pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid or plant extracts.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492184/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37128827/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for oily skin?

Glycolic acid helps clear away dead skin and excess oil for a smooth, clean feel. It gently removes buildup from the surface, which keeps pores clear and skin looking fresh.
Sources: [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37894698/), [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21029205/)

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

This treatment serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Oily skin works best with products of this type that provide gentle chemical exfoliation, oil regulation, and soothing hydration without heavy or greasy ingredients.

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

You can use this serum with retinol, but it is best to apply them on alternate nights to lower the chance of irritation. Alternatively, you can use this brightening serum in the morning and save your retinol for your evening routine. To better fit oily skin, this type of product needs gentle exfoliating acids paired with oil-controlling ingredients that keep shine down without drying you out.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum can be used in your evening routine once a week to start, and if your oily skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often. Treatments with actives are placed in the evening for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure, though some may also be used in the morning or twice a day.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily skin, as it has a safe profile with soothing ingredients and low irritation risks. However, because it contains exfoliating acids, it may occasionally cause mild purging as dead skin cells clear away. Oily skin works best with lightweight, oil-free hydrators and gentle exfoliants that keep pores clear without feeling heavy.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Oleyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €99.41 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €35.80 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €66.90 (https://www.notino.nl/murad/environmental-shield-vita-c-glycolic-verhelderend-serum-met-vitamine-c/p-16078919/)
Prices checked 16 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycolic Acid, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, Sodium Hydroxide, Hdi Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Diisopropyl Sebacate, C13-16 Isoparaffin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Ascorbic Acid, Urea, Yeast Amino Acids, Trehalose, Inositol, Taurine, Betaine, Glutathione, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Oleyl Alcohol, Silica, Hexylresorcinol, Polysilicone-11, Triheptanoin, Polyisobutene, Marrubium Vulgare Meristem Cell Culture, Zanthoxylum Bungeanum Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Verbascum Thapsus Flower, Butylene Glycol, Mica, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Surfactin, Xymenynic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Peg-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Sorbitol, Tin Oxide, Xanthan Gum, T-Butyl Alcohol, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Gold, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Titanium Dioxide Ci 77891
## 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/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/murad/vita-c-glycolic-brightening-serum/for/oily-skin