# Youth to the People 15% Vitamin C + Clean Caffeine Energy 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/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-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: [Youth to the People](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/youth-to-the-people)
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

- This serum offers moderate benefits for your oily skin, with ingredients like Propanediol and Glycerin providing humectant action and Caffeine and Ilex Guayusa Leaf Extract helping with seboregulation. While it contains multiple forms of Vitamin C for brightening, these are supportive rather than targeted for your primary concern of oily shine.
- The formulation includes soothing ingredients like Glycerin and Squalane, which contribute to general hydration and antioxidant support without exacerbating oiliness.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of beneficial components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Clean Caffeine, Squalane, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Topical application of 1,3-propanediol at various concentrations, alone or combined with butylene glycol and/or glycerol, increased skin hydration and reduced trans epidermal water loss in 30 healthy female subjects over an 8-hour period, with the 15% concentration and the addition of glycerol providing greater benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/))
- A mixture of propanediol, xylitol, and caprylic acid demonstrated in vitro antimicrobial activity against C. acnes and S. aureus, reduced 5-alpha reductase expression, and decreased skin oiliness, porphyrin, and inflammatory lesions in participants over 28 days. ([Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34771112/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of a vitamin C-squalene bioconjugate significantly increased epidermal thickness, type III collagen production, and glycosaminoglycans production in human skin explants compared to free vitamin C and vitamin C-palmitate. ([Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33037252/))
- 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/))
- A topical cosmetic slimming product containing tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine, caffeine, carnitine, forskolin and retinol significantly reduced body circumferences and improved skin aspect compared with placebo in 78 women over 12 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21564138/))
- Topical sunscreen formulations containing caffeine combined with UV filters increased in vivo anti-UVB protection by approximately 25% and showed higher SPF values compared to caffeine-free sunscreen, while being well tolerated by the skin of healthy subjects. ([Frontiers in Physiology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31130869/))
- Caffeine gel combined with choline geranate showed high skin permeation capacity and superior clinical results in cellulite treatment compared to caffeine gel without ionic liquid. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33796955/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit oily skin better

- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dull, tired, or sensitive skin frequently praise this serum for its ability to visibly brighten the complexion and reduce morning puffiness without causing irritation. While many report a "healthy glow" and improved skin tone, results regarding hyperpigmentation vary, and the product is often noted for its unique, lightweight texture that layers well under makeup.

- Liked: Visibly brightens skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces puffiness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong ginger scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Lack of results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (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 Youth to the People 15% Vitamin C + Clean Caffeine Energy Serum work for oily skin?

This serum works moderately well for your oily skin, offering helpful hydration and brightening while supporting comfort. It is unlikely to cause irritation and helps keep the skin smooth. A treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide and zinc to properly control excess oil and shine.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This serum fits your oily skin with Propanediol and Glycerin for hydration and Caffeine and Ilex Guayusa Leaf Extract to help manage shine. A treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, and zinc PCA to better control oil and pores.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34771112/)

### 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 Caffeine do for oily skin?

Topical caffeine helps oily skin by acting on the skin to prevent excessive fat accumulation, and it may also protect cells against UV radiation while increasing skin microcirculation.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23075568/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though some serums can also be used in the morning or twice a day. Oily skin typically needs a product with targeted oil control and blemish-clearing ingredients rather than relying only on general hydration and brightening.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying retinol first and this serum after. When using both, the routine is unlikely to cause irritation because the formula lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components. Oily skin works best with products that balance oil and target shine directly.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this serum in the evening as part of your routine. Oily skin works best with products that offer targeted oil control, lightweight hydration, and gentle ingredients that keep shine in check without clogging pores.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34771112/)

### 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 very safe formula without harsh ingredients. An oily skin type needs lightweight hydrating ingredients like glycerin and soothing plant extracts to keep skin balanced without adding extra shine.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is this serum 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, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Ascorbic Acid, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Ascorbic Acid, Propanediol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Citrate, Squalane, Triethyl Citrate, Gluconolactone, Citric Acid, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caffeine, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Sodium Benzoate, Lauroyl Lysine, Passiflora Edulis Extract, Sclerotium Gum, Lecithin, Ilex Guayusa Leaf Extract, Ilex Paraguariensis Leaf Extract, Pullulan, Mannitol, Hylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract, Zingiber Officinale Oil Root, Calcium Gluconate, Silica, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Ergothioneine
## 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/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/youth-to-the-people/15-vitamin-c-clean-caffeine-energy-serum/for/oily-skin
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