# Sephora Gentle Peeling Serum for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-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: [Sephora](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/sephora)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/exfoliators)

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 products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and seboregulation for your oily skin due to lactic acid and niacinamide, which help refine pores and balance oil production.
- The gentle peeling serum provides general skincare benefits like hydration and cleansing, which are supportive but not primary for addressing oily shine.
- The formula is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- A targeted skincare regimen containing active ingredients such as rhodophyceae extract, ergothioneine, and L-carnosine significantly reduced transepidermal water loss by 24.09%, improved skin elasticity, and decreased redness, dryness, and desquamation in thirty-five female Chinese participants over 4 weeks following advanced optimal pulse technology treatment. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40497421/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- 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 as part of your PM routine once a week. Start slowly and build up frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb fully. Avoid any harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the exfoliant directly onto completely dry skin to get the best balance and results. Clean, dry skin helps the product work evenly.
- Always avoid the delicate eye area when applying. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily while using exfoliating acids.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Sephora Gentle Peeling Serum work for oily skin?

Sephora Gentle Peeling Serum works moderately well for oily skin by offering some oil control and gentle exfoliation, though other products fit this skin type better. To better manage oily shine and pores, an exfoliant treatment for this skin needs targeted ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control sebum production, combined with soothing extracts and lightweight hydrators like glycerin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Lactic acid and niacinamide make this exfoliant a good fit for oily skin by offering moderate exfoliation and balancing oil production to help refine pores. To fit oily skin even better, an exfoliant of this type needs targeted ingredients like zinc PCA and ferulic acid to control sebum along with soothing extracts for comfortable daily use.

### What does Niacinamide do for oily skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily skin by significantly reducing excess oil production and shine. It is well tolerated and may improve skin texture without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

Lactic acid helps manage oily skin by significantly reducing oil production and pore size while improving moisture levels. It supports a clearer and smoother look through gentle surface renewal.
Sources: [Frontiers in Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42326996/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, starting at once a week. Oily skin works best with products that use ingredients like lactic acid and niacinamide to refine pores and balance oil production.

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

Using this exfoliant with retinol can easily overwhelm your skin, so it is best to use them on different nights or keep them well separated to prevent irritation. Oily skin works best with products that combine targeted oil-balancing ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide with lightweight hydration.

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this treatment once a week in the evening, and if your skin handles it well, you may carefully use it more often. To truly fit oily skin, products of this type need stronger oil-controlling and pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on oily skin. The formula has a safe profile with a negligible risk of breakouts, though an oily skin type still needs ingredients that actively control oil and refine pores, like niacinamide and salicylic acid.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## 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

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

## 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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sephora/gentle-peeling-serum/for/oily-skin