# Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [Dr. Barbara Sturm](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/dr-barbara-sturm)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your oily skin, as sodium hyaluronate and butylene glycol provide humectant benefits without adding excess oil. Lactobacillus portulaca oleracea extract ferment further supports hydration, making it suitable for your skin type.
- The formula is safe for your oily skin, with no harsh ingredients or irritants present.
- While it addresses hydration effectively, the product does not directly target your primary concerns of acne, blemishes, and breakouts.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Lactobacillus Portulaca Oleracea Extract Ferment, Ethylhexylglycerin

## What the research says

- Dipropylene glycol, propylene glycol, and butylene glycol increased molecular mobility in stratum corneum lipids and affected keratin filaments, with butylene glycol and propylene glycol providing significant permeation enhancement. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150813/))
- Topical hyaluronic acid filler serum combined with Botulinum toxin type A lengthened the duration of the toxin's effect in reducing wrinkles compared to Botulinum toxin type A alone. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36200921/))
- 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 purslane at 5% and 10% concentrations achieved alleviation of symptoms and lesion remission comparable to topical 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide in 34 subjects with oral lichen planus over 90 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37726676/))
- Facial masks containing low-temperature extracted Portulaca oleracea protect sensitive skin from photothermal stimulation and improve skin barrier function during photorejuvenation. ([Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41182319/))
- Portulaca oleracea extract ameliorated skin barrier damage and inflammation induced by combined exposure to glycolic acid and UVB in HaCaT cells. ([Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35920724/))

## Why other moisturizers fit oily acne-prone skin better

- A Tris/Arg-formulated cleanser significantly decreased noninflammatory and inflammatory acne and pore size with keratotic plugs compared to an AEC/AC cleanser in male Thai subjects with mild to moderate acne over 4 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31347768/))
- A peel-off facial mask containing myoinositol and trehalose-loaded liposomes improved adult female acne by decreasing lesion counts, sebum production, GAGS scores, and local androgen levels while increasing beclin-1 levels. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28342238/))
- 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

Based on a very large amount of data, users frequently describe this serum as a "splurge" product that delivers deep, non-greasy hydration and a noticeable "plumping" effect that smooths fine lines and revitalizes dull complexions. While many praise its ability to calm sensitive or acne-prone skin without irritation, a significant portion of reviewers feel the exorbitant price tag is not justified by the results, often citing comparable effects from more affordable alternatives.

- Liked: Deep Instant Hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Extremely Expensive (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight Absorption (often mentioned)
- Liked: Plumps Fine Lines (often mentioned)
- Liked: Calms Sensitive Skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Glow and Radiance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Cheaper Alternatives (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Minimal Results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky Residue (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pilling Issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this AM and PM routine every day to help clear your skin. Always remember to finish with SPF in the morning.
- Apply the moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your SPF during the day.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and avoid rubbing to keep pores clear.
- Apply on clean, slightly damp skin to help the product absorb better and control oil.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a simple patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum work for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum works reasonably well for your oily acne-prone skin by giving you moderate moisture without adding extra oil, but it does not treat breakouts directly. A moisturizing treatment for this skin needs balancing ingredients like niacinamide, soothing agents like allantoin, and lightweight hydrators that help clear acne while keeping pores clear.
Sources: [Journal of Controlled Release, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150813/)

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

Sodium hyaluronate and butylene glycol make this serum a good fit by giving your oily skin enough hydration without adding excess oil, and lactobacillus portulaca oleracea extract ferment helps support that moisture safely. For a better fit on oily acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs ingredients like Niacinamide and Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid to tackle blemishes, regulate oil production, and keep pores clear.
Sources: [Journal of Controlled Release, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150813/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

### What does Butylene Glycol do for oily acne-prone skin?

Butylene glycol helps skincare sink into the skin more easily while keeping it feeling light. It aids in delivering other ingredients effectively without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Controlled Release, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150813/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Oily acne-prone skin needs a product of this type to also feature ingredients that directly target blemishes and breakouts.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying it before your retinol treatment to help hydrate your skin without adding extra oil. This type of product works well for oily acne-prone skin when it also includes ingredients that directly target breakouts and soothe inflammation.

### How often should I use it?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine, applying it after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Oily acne-prone skin needs a treatment that addresses breakouts directly, alongside ingredients that clear pores and calm inflammation.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your oily skin because it contains no harsh ingredients or heavy oils. However, it does not actively treat acne, so oily and acne-prone skin often needs a product with blemish-fighting ingredients to stay clear.

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

This moisturizing treatment is safe to use around the eyes, where the skin is particularly thin, as well as on body skin. It offers good skin tolerance and provides hydration with ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and butylene glycol.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37896378/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $30.00 at Amazon
- [Elizavecca Witch Piggy Hell Pore Control Hyaluronic Acid 97%](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/elizavecca/witch-piggy-hell-pore-control-hyaluronic-acid-97/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $8.40 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $22.25 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $800.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FRGHF5TY?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Lactobacillus Portulaca Oleracea Extract Ferment, Sodium Hyaluronate, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, 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/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dr-barbara-sturm/hyaluronic-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin