# Obagi Vitamin C Serum for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Caution fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Low · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [Obagi](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/obagi)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A poor match for oily skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening and evening of skin tone due to Ascorbic Acid, but the essential oils may clog pores and exacerbate oiliness for your oily skin.
- While Ascorbic Acid provides antioxidant and collagen-boosting effects, it offers limited seboregulation for oily shine.
- The formula is safe for your oily skin as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients, posing no risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Caution
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Caution

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Essential Oils

## What the research says

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently report that this serum effectively brightens dull complexions and fades hyperpigmentation, particularly age spots and acne scars, often delivering a noticeable "glow" within a few weeks. While highly praised for its potent antioxidant benefits and ability to smooth skin texture, some users with sensitive skin experience stinging or find the texture slightly sticky before it fully absorbs.

- Liked: Brightens skin tone (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Oxidizes quickly (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky consistency (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Obagi Professional-C Serum for oily skin?

Lovi advises caution because the essential oils in this serum may clog pores and worsen oiliness, while providing limited help for oily shine. Oily skin needs a treatment with ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control excess oil, along with soothing extracts and lightweight hydrators.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a poor fit for oily skin?

Essential oils make this serum a poor fit because they may clog pores and make oily skin even shinier, while this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, and zinc PCA to control excess oil and keep pores clear.

### What does Vitamin C do for oily skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin tone and smooth texture while providing antioxidant protection that prevents sebum oxidation. For oily skin, this type of product typically needs to be paired with oil-controlling or pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid or plant extracts.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492184/)

### What do Essential Oils do for oily skin?

Essential oils help oily skin by fighting acne-causing bacteria and calming redness, though results vary by plant type. Oils with strong antimicrobial properties may help clear breakouts, while others can cause irritation if not used carefully.
Sources: [Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41482092/), [Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34954264/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though the essential oils in this product may clog pores and worsen oily shine on your skin. Oily skin needs lightweight, balancing treatments that control excess oil without heavy oils that can block pores.

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

You can use this serum and retinol in the same routine, but because it contains essential oils that may clog pores on oily skin, it requires caution. Apply this treatment in your evening routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer, keeping retinol on alternate nights to prevent irritation.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum is used in the evening once a week for your oily skin, though people who tolerate it well and see good results can carefully use it more often. While Ascorbic Acid brightens skin tone, this product contains essential oils that may clog pores and make oiliness worse, so an oily skin type needs lightweight, pore-clearing ingredients and oil-balancing benefits.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Yes, this serum may clog pores and worsen oiliness for your oily skin because the essential oils in the formula can trap oil in your pores. A product for oily skin needs ingredients that help balance oil and a lightweight, oil-free formula to keep skin clear.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-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-skin) — High fit — S$28.55 at Amazon

## Routine for oily skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-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-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$33.87 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$28.72 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$70.21 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$36.48 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$63.44 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$33.87 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$70.21 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$36.48 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Herbivore Botanicals Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/herbivore-botanicals/blue-tansy-bha-and-enzyme-pore-refining-mask/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$89.14 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [TROIAREUKE H+Cocktail Purifying Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/troiareuke/h-cocktail-purifying-ampoule-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$63.44 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- YesStyle: S$61.72 (https://www.yesstyle.com/en/rohto-mentholatum-obagi-vitamin-c-serum-c10-renewal-12ml/info.html/pid.1137191936?curr=SGD&rco=SG)
Prices checked 13 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Essential Oils
## 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/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin