# Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-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: [Glow Recipe](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/glow-recipe)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination skin, as Retinyl Linoleate and Retinol regulate desquamation and provide antioxidant activity, while Ectoin and Glycerin offer humectant action to manage oily shine.
- The serum effectively targets acne-prone skin with retinol and retinal to reduce lesions and blemishes, complemented by blackberry fruit extract for added renewal benefits.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components like bisabolol and aloe.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Blackberry Extract, Retinol, Squalane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Bisabolol

## What the research says

- A blackberry and dill extract combination synergistically increased skin elasticity and induced elastogenesis compared to each ingredient alone and placebo. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32583541/))
- Tropical highland blackberry juice reduced UVB-mediated DNA damage and increased apoptosis in human epidermal keratinocytes and a reconstituted skin equivalent model. ([Photochemistry and Photobiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23711186/))
- Strawberry and blackberry crude extracts, anthocyanin-enriched fractions, and proanthocyanidin-enriched fractions demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects through ROS reduction, gene expression inhibition, and NO suppression, while anthocyanin fractions promoted fibroblast migration in vitro. ([Food Research International, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31108769/))
- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is widely praised as a gentle yet effective entry-level retinol that clears acne and smooths texture without the irritation typical of stronger retinoids. While many users with sensitive skin report excellent results in fading dark spots and reducing breakouts, a notable minority experienced adverse reactions to the fragrance or found the formula too weak for advanced needs.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too weak (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum one of the best fits for combination skin?

Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum is an exceptional fit for combination skin because Retinol and Retinyl Linoleate help manage oily shine while soothing components like bisabolol and aloe keep skin calm. It also targets breakouts with retinol and retinal to reduce blemishes, and uses ingredients like glycerin to help maintain balanced hydration without feeling heavy.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Retinyl Linoleate, Retinol, Ectoin, and Glycerin make this serum a great fit for combination skin because they regulate skin renewal and manage oily shine. Soothing additions like bisabolol and aloe help keep the skin calm.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Blackberry Extract do for combination skin?

Blackberry extract helps protect combination skin from oxidative damage and inflammation, keeping it calm and balanced. It contains antioxidants that may reduce redness and soothe irritated areas.
Sources: [Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25680589/), [Food Research International, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31108769/)

### What does Retinol do for combination skin?

Retinol helps smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and improve firmness in combination skin. It works by encouraging faster skin renewal and boosting collagen, though it may occasionally cause mild dryness or scaling while your skin adjusts.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17515510/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This serum goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening helps keep things simple and offers extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in your morning routine and this treatment at night, as the page facts outline. Using them at different times of day helps you avoid potential irritation while keeping both active ingredients effective in your skincare routine.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment in the evening, starting once a week and gradually using it more often if your skin tolerates it well. Retinols and soothing ingredients help renew acne-prone skin safely while managing oily shine and keeping irritation unlikely.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts on combination skin because it features soothing ingredients like bisabolol and aloe along with a gentle formula, though a low number of reviewers do report breakouts.

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $200.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Ectoin, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil, Blackberry Fruit Extract, Bisabolol, Retinyl Linoleate, Epilobium Angustifolium Stem Extract Flower Leaf, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Retinal, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Fruit Extract, Retinol, Tocopherol, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Erythritol, Citric Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Glycine Soja Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum
## 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.

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## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin