# Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Clearing Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-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: [Sofie Pavitt Face](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/sofie-pavitt-face)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/moisturizers)

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 moisturizers for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as mandelic acid gently resurfaces and clears pores to reduce blemishes and oily shine.
- Panthenol and glycerin provide essential hydration, supporting the skin's barrier function and enhancing overall comfort.
- The formula is safe for your skin, with no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Mandelic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide

## What the research says

- Treatment with 45% mandelic acid peel showed nearly equal overall efficacy as 30% salicylic acid peel in patients with mild-to-moderate facial acne vulgaris, but with fewer adverse effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/))
- Commonly used chemical peels showed no significant differences in effectiveness for acne vulgaris in most comparisons, though combined salicylic and mandelic acid peeling was superior to glycolic acid and glycolic acid was superior to placebo, based on twelve randomized controlled trials. ([BMJ Open, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29705755/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- Chemical peels using 35% glycolic acid, 20% salicylic-10% mandelic acid, and phytic acid reduce acne scores by 70.55%, 74.14%, and 69.7% respectively, and significantly decline the postacne hyperpigmentation index in Asian patients with mild to moderate acne. ([Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31619887/))
- Treatment with 30% lactic acid peel showed a significantly greater reduction in pigmentation and higher patient satisfaction compared to 30% mandelic acid peel in patients with periorbital melanosis. ([Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41051381/))
- 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/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

It is very effective at clearing breakouts and improving skin texture, with many users noting its quick absorption and gentle feel. Some users occasionally experience dryness or find the price point high.

- Liked: Clears acne breakouts (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on sensitive skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs very quickly (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Can cause dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Expensive price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Requires additional moisturizer (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Clearing Serum a great fit for combination skin?

This serum is a great fit because mandelic acid gently clears pores and reduces oily shine while panthenol and glycerin keep your combination skin comfortable and hydrated. The formula is safe and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Mandelic acid is a great fit for your combination skin because it gently resurfaces and clears pores to reduce blemishes and oily shine. At the same time, panthenol and glycerin provide essential hydration, supporting your skin barrier and keeping it comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### What does Mandelic Acid do for combination skin?

Mandelic acid helps clear breakouts and fade dark spots in combination skin while being gentle enough to cause fewer side effects than other acids. It may also improve overall skin texture and tone without causing excessive irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19076192/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after your cleansing toner and before your moisturizer. It is safe for your skin and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying this treatment first and following with your retinol, but start slowly to avoid irritation since both ingredients actively renew the skin. Panthenol helps keep the skin comfortable and supports the barrier during active routines.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### How often should I use this serum?

Start by using this treatment once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you can carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps clear pores and reduce oily shine while keeping your skin comfortable.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

This serum is a great fit for combination skin because mandelic acid gently resurfaces and clears pores to reduce blemishes and oily shine while panthenol and glycerin provide essential hydration without clogging pores. The formula is safe for your skin with no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation, though it may cause minor dryness in rare cases.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

This serum is generally too active for the very thin skin around the eyes, but you may use it on body areas that need help with blemishes and rough texture. Panthenol and glycerin help keep the treated areas comfortable and hydrated while mandelic acid clears pores.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Elizavecca Witch Piggy Hell Pore Control Hyaluronic Acid 97%](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/elizavecca/witch-piggy-hell-pore-control-hyaluronic-acid-97/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $8.40 at Amazon
- [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $30.00 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $22.25 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
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $14.97 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $84.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0HKXKCTC6?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Mandelic Acid, Propanediol, Sodium Hydroxide, Panthenol, Glycerin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Xanthan Gum, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Acrylate Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Silanetriol, Sorbic Acid, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Hexylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Caramel
## 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/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sofie-pavitt-face/mandelic-clearing-serum/for/combination-skin