# Vivant 8% Mandelic Acid Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-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 Singapore.

Brand: [Vivant](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/vivant)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/exfoliators)

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 products for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent exfoliation for your combination skin, as mandelic acid and lactic acid work to smooth texture and reduce blemishes while niacinamide helps regulate oil production.
- Saccharomyces zinc ferment and sodium lactate further support skin health and hydration, complementing the primary exfoliating agents.
- The formula is safe for your skin, containing no harsh or prohibited ingredients that would cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Mandelic Acid, Niacinamide, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate

## 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 treatment of nicotinamide, alone or in combination with other active ingredients, reduces the progression of skin aging and hyperpigmentation in clinical trials while being well tolerated. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/))
- 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 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/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- Specially neutralized 12% lactate lotion provided significantly greater reductions in xerosis severity scores compared with a nonlactated emollient lotion and a 5% lactic acid lotion during the post-treatment regression period in sixty patients with moderate to severe xerosis. ([Archives of Dermatology, 1983](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6336928/))
- Long-pulsed alexandrite laser achieved a significantly greater mean percent reduction in pigmentation area compared to topical tretinoin-ammonium lactate (25.7% versus 18.3%) in 15 patients with bilateral axillary acanthosis nigricans over 14 weeks. ([Caspian Journal of Internal Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27999648/))
- Topical application of 5% aqueous lactate lotion twice a day for 1 year achieved a 90-100% reduction in inflammatory lesions in 40.9% of patients and in non-inflammatory lesions in 22.7% of patients, with most patients showing significant reduction in lesion counts. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17656910/))

## What reviewers say

Users consistently describe this serum as a game-changer for stubborn cystic acne and hormonal breakouts, particularly for those with melanin-rich or sensitive skin who cannot tolerate benzoyl peroxide. Reviewers frequently note significant improvements in skin texture and hyperpigmentation (dark spots) without the irritation or burning often associated with other acids.

- Liked: Clears cystic acne (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Safe for darker skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial dryness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant product in your PM routine starting once a week, then increase frequency carefully if your skin feels fine.
- Apply this exfoliant step after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and wait a minute before layering.
- Apply the exfoliant to clean, dry skin to help control your oily shine comfortably.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Vivant Mandelic Acid Serum a great fit for combination skin?

Vivant 8% Mandelic Acid Serum is a great fit for your combination skin because mandelic acid and lactic acid smooth texture and reduce blemishes while niacinamide helps regulate oil production. Saccharomyces zinc ferment and sodium lactate further support skin health and hydration to complement these exfoliating benefits. The formula is also very safe for your skin, as it contains no harsh or prohibited ingredients that would cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

Mandelic acid and lactic acid smooth texture and reduce blemishes while niacinamide helps regulate oil production for combination skin. Saccharomyces zinc ferment and sodium lactate further support skin health and hydration, complementing the primary exfoliating agents.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### 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 Niacinamide do for combination skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily areas by reducing excess shine and pore size while keeping dry patches hydrated and smooth. It also works to calm redness and even out skin tone, making it very suitable for combination skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

This exfoliant goes in the evening routine, as treatments with active ingredients are applied at night for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. Lovi routines start exfoliating steps like this once a week, and people who tolerate them well and see good results may carefully use them more often.

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

You can use this exfoliant with retinol by alternating nights rather than applying them together, as combining strong treatments may cause irritation on combination skin. Use the exfoliant on some nights and retinol on others, always following with a gentle moisturizer.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week in the evening, and if your skin handles it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps your skin adjust safely while smoothing texture and managing oil.

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

This exfoliant is a great fit for combination skin and helps smooth texture and reduce blemishes while regulating oil production. It is unlikely to cause irritation because the formula contains no harsh ingredients, though initial dryness is a moderate complaint from reviewers.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

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

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Whamisa Organic Flowers Toner Deep Rich](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/whamisa/organic-flowers-toner-deep-rich/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$64.81 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — S$28.72 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Propylene Glycol, Mandelic Acid, Niacinamide, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, Saccharomyces Zinc Ferment, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Pca, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Inositol, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic 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/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vivant/8-mandelic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin