# NATURIUM Alpha Arbutin Serum 2% for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/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 Singapore.

Brand: [NATURIUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/naturium)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/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.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers high suitability for your oily skin and acne concerns, as alpha-arbutin and niacinamide work effectively to brighten your skin tone and control oil production.
- Sodium hyaluronate and panthenol provide essential hydration and soothing benefits, complementing the primary actives for overall skin health.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no reported irritation risks due to its well-balanced formulation and absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Alpha Arbutin, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract

## What the research says

- 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/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- Hyaluronic acid extracts are safe and efficacious products for skin repair when used in tissue regeneration alone or in combination with herbal or Western medicine. ([Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877441/))
- A non-hydroquinone topical formulation (SKNB19) improved hyperpigmentation by 28.5% in patient self-assessment and 27% in independent reviewer assessment compared with 4% hydroquinone in 18 adult subjects, while showing significantly less irritation and better tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33022197/))
- Encapsulation of alpha arbutin in an optimized ethosomal gel significantly improved skin melanin reduction, moisture content, and elasticity in human volunteers compared to conventional formulations. ([Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/))
- Combining a home-based radiofrequency device and arbutin cream reduced mMASI scores by 25.6% and melanin index by 22.8% at 8 weeks compared to baseline in 38 participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39918262/))
- Polyvinyl pyrrolidone-K90/Eudragit RL100 dissolving microneedle patches loaded with alpha-arbutin and resveratrol enhanced intradermal delivery by approximately 2.6 times compared to cream and slightly decreased the melanin index in human participants without causing skin irritation. ([Biomaterials Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37183632/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Snow mushroom alcohol-based hand rub gel significantly improved skin moisture better than the placebo through 180 minutes while maintaining comparable antiseptic efficacy in 20 human volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32531816/))
- Tremella fuciformis extract demonstrates potential cutaneous benefits including skin antiaging, photoprotection, wound healing, and barrier protection based on in vitro and animal models. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36757441/))
- Tremella fuciformis inhibits melanogenesis by decreasing melanin content and tyrosinase expression in B16F10 cells while promoting wound healing in human HaCaT keratinocytes and Detroit 551 fibroblasts. ([In Vivo, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35241526/))

## What reviewers say

Users with hyperpigmentation and acne-prone skin frequently praise this serum for its ability to fade dark spots and even out skin tone without causing irritation. Many describe it as a lightweight and hydrating addition to their routine that delivers visible brightening results, while a minority of users experienced breakouts or found it ineffective for stubborn discoloration.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating and plumping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: No visible results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)

## 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

### What makes Naturium Alpha Arbutin Serum 2% a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Naturium Alpha Arbutin Serum 2% is a great fit because alpha arbutin and niacinamide help brighten your skin tone and control oil production. Sodium hyaluronate and panthenol provide essential hydration and soothing benefits to keep your skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877441/)

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

Alpha arbutin and niacinamide make this serum a great fit because they brighten your skin tone and control oil production. Sodium hyaluronate and panthenol help by providing essential hydration and soothing benefits without 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/)

### What does Alpha Arbutin do for oily acne-prone skin?

Alpha Arbutin helps fade dark spots and uneven tone without clogging pores or feeling heavy on oily acne-prone skin. It is unlikely to cause irritation, making it a gentle choice for skin prone to breakouts.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

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

Niacinamide helps balance oil production, calms redness, and is unlikely to irritate oily, acne-prone skin while improving blemishes. Clinical tests show it reduces excess oil and helps clear up both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/)

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

This serum goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Using it at this time helps control oil and brighten your skin safely while avoiding extra sun exposure during the day.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying this treatment first in your evening routine and following with retinol, or using them on alternate nights to keep your skin calm. This helps brighten your skin tone and control oil production while minimizing any chance of irritation.

### How often should I use this serum?

Apply this serum in your evening routine. It is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin, helping brighten your skin tone and control oil production without irritation.

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts on oily skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and controls oil production well while keeping skin calm. Reviewers rarely report breakouts, and the balanced formula helps maintain clear skin.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$28.55 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-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/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$41.48 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Alpha-Arbutin, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Lemon Fruit Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Glycerin, Panthenol, Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Betaine, Potassium Sorbate, 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/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/alpha-arbutin-serum-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin