# Kiehl's Ultra Pure High-Potency Serum for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/serums)

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

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent hydration for your combination skin, as glycerin and hyaluronic acid provide humectant action to moisturize effectively.
- This serum offers moderate benefits for your acne-prone skin by providing general hydration, though it does not directly target blemishes.
- The formula is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this collection of minimalist serums is widely praised for its fast-absorbing, non-sticky textures and efficacy in targeting specific skin concerns like dryness, excess oil, and uneven texture. The Hyaluronic Acid version is lauded for immediate plumping, the Niacinamide serum is a favorite for controlling shine without irritation, and the Glycolic Acid variant is effective for smoothing skin, though it requires caution for sensitive types.

- Liked: Fast-absorbing texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective oil control (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle minimalist formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Immediate hydration (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Visible skin smoothing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Lack of dramatic results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging concerns (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture preference (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Kiehl's High-Potency Serum a great fit for acne-prone skin?

Kiehl's High-Potency Serum is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it offers effective hydration without harsh ingredients that could cause irritation. The glycerin and hyaluronic acid in the formula moisturize your skin well, making it feel soft and smooth.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin and hyaluronic acid make this serum a good fit for your acne-prone skin by offering effective hydration without heavy or harsh ingredients. This helps keep your skin smooth and comfortable while remaining gentle enough to avoid irritation. Acne-prone skin of this type also benefits from ingredients that directly target blemishes and help clear pores.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Niacinamide do for acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps acne-prone skin by reducing both inflamed and uninflamed breakouts and calming redness. It is also very helpful for keeping oily skin balanced by cutting down on excess oil production, and it is well tolerated by most people.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/), [Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38725769/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps acne-prone skin by soothing irritation, calming redness, and keeping the skin balanced without clogging pores. When combined with targeted ingredients like zinc oxide, it may also help reduce breakouts.
Sources: [Biomedicines, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41007718/), [Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, to keep things simple and safe around sun exposure. It provides gentle hydration without harsh ingredients, making it a great fit for your skin.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying it after cleansing and before your moisturizer in your evening routine. The formula is safe for your skin and unlikely to cause irritation.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. It is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts since it has a very safe formula with no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation. It helps keep your skin hydrated without directly targeting blemishes.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$28.55 at Amazon
- [PCA Skin C&E Advanced with Hexylresorcinol and Silymarin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$192.38 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [TROIAREUKE H+Cocktail Purifying Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/troiareuke/h-cocktail-purifying-ampoule-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$33.87 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Citric Acid
## 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/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/ultra-pure-high-potency-serum/for/acne-prone-skin