# Palmer's Scar Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-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: [Palmer's](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/palmer-s)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

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 serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate scar treatment for your oily skin due to Tocopheryl Acetate and Onion Bulb Extract aiding in scar reduction and regeneration, though the Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter provides moisturizing effects that are not directly beneficial for your acne and oiliness.
- Dimethicone offers emollient action suitable for oily skin, but the formula lacks sufficient ingredients for effective seboregulation to address your primary concerns.
- The product is safe for your oily 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/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Theobroma Cacao Butter, Vitamin E, Onion Bulb Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Dimethicone

## What the research says

- Topical onion extract improved scar colour compared to silicon gel, while silicon gel was superior in decreasing scar height in 60 patients with hypertrophic and keloid scars, with the most effective results obtained from combining onion extract and silicon gel. ([Journal of Wound Care, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17722521/))
- Silicone derivative plus onion extract gel reduced pain, itching, and pigmentation compared to placebo in patients after median sternotomy. ([International Wound Journal, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22168750/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- A topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced air pollution-induced skin pigmentation and proinflammatory gene expression ex vivo, and improved skin aging signs in 40 healthy adult females after 90 days of daily use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/))
- Topical 12% onion extract gel applied early on Pfannenstiel's cesarean section scars in Asians improved scar height and scar symptoms compared to placebo, with no significant difference in scar redness, pliability, or overall appearance. ([Dermatology Research and Practice, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22924037/))
- Onion extract gel significantly improved scar softness, redness, texture, and global appearance compared to no treatment in 60 subjects with postsurgical scars on the upper chest over 10 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18482012/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))
- Safflower oil body-human epidermal growth factor microgel emulsions mixed with xanthan gum enhance transdermal absorption, regulate inflammation, accelerate angiogenesis, and promote re-epithelialization and remodeling in full-layer skin wounds in rats. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36126813/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))
- Externally applied substances such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, licorice extracts, dimethicone, petrolatum, and paraffin wax treat skin disease resulting from damage to the skin barrier. ([Clinics in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22507050/))

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

- 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/))

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Palmer's Scar Serum work for oily acne-prone skin?

Palmer's Scar Serum works moderately well for oily acne-prone skin, as it helps fade scars safely without causing irritation, though the cocoa butter is not directly beneficial for your oiliness and acne. A treatment for this skin type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or vitamin C to control excess oil and clear breakouts while keeping the skin balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Wound Care, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17722521/), [International Wound Journal, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22168750/)

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

Tocopheryl acetate and onion bulb extract help make this serum a fit by aiding in scar reduction, while dimethicone provides a smooth feel without feeling heavy on oily skin. Because this product has heavy moisturizing ingredients like cocoa butter that do not help with oiliness or acne, a treatment for this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin C to control excess oil and clear blemishes.
Sources: [Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/)

### What does Cocoa Butter do for oily acne-prone skin?

Cocoa butter is heavy and may clog pores on oily, acne-prone skin, leading to breakouts. Studies show it is unlikely to help with skin concerns like stretch marks, so this skin type needs lightweight, non-pore-clogging hydrators and ingredients that help clear blemishes.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26486318/), [BJOG, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18715434/)

### What does Vitamin E do for oily acne-prone skin?

Vitamin E helps reduce oiliness, redness, and dark spots on oily acne-prone skin while improving moisture. It also helps calm irritation and smooth the skin when used consistently.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38268219/), [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25068233/)

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

Apply this treatment in the evening routine. It is safe for oily skin with no risk of irritation, though an oily skin type needs oil-controlling and pore-clearing ingredients to properly manage acne and shine.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying your retinol first at night, letting it absorb, and then following with this treatment. This product is safe for your skin with no risks of irritation, though oily skin works best with a treatment that also controls oil and clears pores.

### How often should I use it?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine, as treatments fit best at night for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. This product works for your oily skin, though this skin type needs ingredients that help balance oil and clear pores.

### Can Palmer's Scar Serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

Palmer's Scar Serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on oily skin because it contains safe ingredients with a low risk of irritation, though its heavy moisturizing butter does not help with oiliness or acne. To better fit oily, acne-prone skin, a scar treatment needs ingredients that control oil and target acne along with scar-reducing helpers.
Sources: [Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/)

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.08 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $25.08 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
- 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-acne-prone-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

Tocopheryl Acetate, Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Dimethicone, Onion Bulb 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/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/palmer-s/scar-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin