# Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-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 United States.

Brand: [Dr. Barbara Sturm](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/dr-barbara-sturm)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/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.

A great choice for oily skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent brightening and evening of skin tone for your oily skin due to the presence of Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ascorbic Acid, which provide antioxidant and brightening effects to combat oily shine.
- Zinc PCA further aids in seboregulation, making it highly suitable for oily skin types.
- The formulation is safe for your 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/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ascorbyl Glucoside

## 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/))
- Topical nicotinamide plus an antibacterial adhesive agent and zinc-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid combined with adapalene significantly reduced noninflammatory acne lesions by the second week of therapy compared to placebo with adapalene in patients with moderate acne vulgaris. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/))
- Topical formulations containing ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, coenzyme Q10, green tea polyphenols, and resveratrol reduced the release of inflammatory cytokines and attenuated inflammatory signs compared to untreated skin and vehicle in 25 Japanese volunteers exposed to sodium dodecyl sulfate. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28385617/))
- 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 cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users consistently praise this serum for its gentle formulation that brightens and hydrates without irritating sensitive skin. A significant number of reviewers feel the high price tag is not justified by the subtle results, with some noting they achieved similar effects with more affordable alternatives.

- Liked: Gentle on Skin (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Very Expensive (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens Complexion (often mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant Texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating & Plumping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Subtle/Slow Results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused Breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Runny Consistency (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

### What makes Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum a great fit for oily skin?

Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum is a great fit for oily skin because it brightens skin tone and fights oily shine using Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ascorbic Acid. Zinc PCA helps control oil production, and the formula is unlikely to cause irritation because it lacks harsh ingredients.
Sources: [The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/)

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

This serum is a great fit for oily skin because it contains Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ascorbic Acid, which help brighten your skin tone and combat oily shine. Additionally, Zinc PCA helps balance oil, and the gentle formula is unlikely to cause irritation.
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 Aloe Vera Leaf Juice do for oily skin?

Aloe vera leaf juice helps hydrate oily skin by increasing water content in the outer skin layer without adding heavy oils or modifying water loss. It is also often combined with treatments to help calm redness and reduce acne breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/)

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

This serum goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing, for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. Using vitamin C serums in a regular routine helps improve overall skin clarity and brightness.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36607762/)

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying this vitamin C treatment in the morning and your retinol at night to avoid irritation. Alternatively, if you use both in the evening, apply this serum first and wait a few minutes before putting on your retinol.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment serum in the evening as part of your routine. It is safe for your oily skin and helps brighten your tone while managing shine without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

This serum is a great fit for oily skin and is unlikely to cause breakouts, as reviewers rarely report this issue and the formula includes Zinc PCA to help manage oil. It has a safe profile with no harsh ingredients, though a few people find the results subtle.
Sources: [The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/)

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — $39.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $160.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WZWCKV3?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Lactobacillus Portulaca Oleracea Extract Ferment, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Olea Europaea Leaf Extract Olive Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Citric Acid, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Zinc Pca, Phenoxyethanol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Glycerides, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Sodium Sulfite, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sclerotium Gum, Tocopherol
## 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/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
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