# Vichy Liftactiv Pure Retinol Serum for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-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: [Vichy](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/vichy)
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.

Works for acne-prone skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your combination skin as retinol helps regulate desquamation and sodium hyaluronate provides hydration, which can be supportive for acne-prone skin.
- While Glycerin and Vitreoscilla ferment offer general skincare advantages, the formula lacks specific ingredients to directly target acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your combination 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/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- 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 multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))
- Rice protein hydrolysate and its characteristic peptides Leu-Leu-Lys, Leu-Pro-Lys, and pyroGlu-Lys reduced melanin content, tyrosinase activity, and ROS production in UVB-induced human epidermal melanocyte PIG1 cells by regulating the JNK/Β-Trcp/NFΗB-p65/MITF signaling pathway and lowering TRP-1 and TRP-2 expression. ([Food & Function, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32955075/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit acne-prone skin better

- Topical nicotinamide plus an antibacterial adhesive agent and zinc-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid combined with adapalene significantly reduced noninflammatory acne lesions by the second week of therapy compared to placebo with adapalene in patients with moderate acne vulgaris. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- 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

- 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

### How well does Vichy Liftactiv Retinol Serum work for acne-prone skin?

This serum works moderately well for acne-prone skin because retinol helps keep pores clear and sodium hyaluronate adds hydration, but it lacks specific ingredients to directly target breakouts. Acne-prone skin needs a product containing ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to effectively clear blemishes and control oiliness while keeping the skin balanced.

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

Retinol and sodium hyaluronate make this serum a good fit by helping regulate skin shedding and providing hydration. Acne-prone skin needs products with ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to specifically target breakouts and balance oiliness.

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

Retinol helps acne-prone skin by speeding up cell turnover and clearing pores to reduce breakouts. It regulates skin growth and fights inflammation, though it may cause some mild peeling or stinging when you first start using it.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816067/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28318351/)

### 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 treatment goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Because acne-prone skin needs a product of this type that also includes ingredients to directly target blemishes and breakouts, other options may fit your skin better.

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

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in the morning and this retinol serum at night, as separating them helps prevent extra skin irritation. When using both, your skin needs soothing hydration and ingredients that actively target blemishes and breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is used in the evening, starting once a week and slowly increasing as your skin feels comfortable. This helps your skin adjust safely while keeping it smooth and calm.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause harsh irritation, but it may lead to initial breakouts or purging because it contains retinol which speeds up skin renewal. While it offers moderate benefits through retinol and sodium hyaluronate, it lacks specific ingredients to directly target acne and breakouts. A product for acne-prone skin needs ingredients that directly tackle blemishes alongside soothing agents.

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

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## 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, Pentylene Glycol, Isononyl Isononanoate, Alcohol Denat, Dicaprylyl Ether, Glycine Soja Oil, Soybean Oil, Propylene Glycol, Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydroxyacetophenone, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Vitreoscilla Ferment, Retinol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Glyceryl Isostearate, Polysorbate 20, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Sodium Lactate, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum
## 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/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin