# Vivant DERM-A-GEL for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots

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: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for skin with dark spots; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and hydration for your normal skin, with lactic acid and niacinamide providing mild renewal and brightening effects that are supportive for pigmentation.
- Retinyl propionate and niacinamide offer good antioxidant activity and barrier repair, contributing to general skincare benefits.
- The product is safe for your normal skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like niacinamide.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinyl Propionate, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid, Glycereth-26, Lactic Acid

## What the research says

- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- 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/))
- Treatment with a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid improved skin aging signs and demonstrated a senomorphic effect by decreasing SASP and autocrine signaling genes in women. ([Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/))
- Over-the-counter retinol products provided only weak evidence for a mild ameliorating effect on fine facial skin wrinkle lines in randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trials, and major methodological flaws call the validity of positive results into question. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34980969/))
- A cosmetic niacinamide/peptide/retinyl propionate regimen significantly improved periorbital wrinkle appearance relative to a 0.02% tretinoin regimen at 8 weeks with comparable benefits at 24 weeks, while demonstrating significantly better tolerability in 196 women. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/))
- A novel triple-active cosmetic formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide improved the visual appearance of photoageing similarly to 0.02% tretinoin and reversed a consensus gene signature associated with ageing in female adults while causing less skin irritation. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/))
- 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 2% niacinamide significantly decreased sebum excretion rate in Japanese individuals and casual sebum levels in Caucasian individuals compared to placebo or baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/))
- A topical formulation containing kojic acid, emblica extract, and glycolic acid demonstrated efficacy parity compared with hydroquinone 4% in multiethnic participants with mild to moderate facial dyschromia. ([Cutis, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21049734/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Topical application of iron chelators kojic acid and deferiprone significantly accelerated wound healing in rats compared to control groups, with deferiprone showing superior efficacy due to higher antioxidant and iron chelation abilities. ([International Wound Journal, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22621771/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

This retinoid serum is highly praised for its ability to significantly improve skin texture, reduce acne, and diminish fine lines, with most users experiencing a clearer complexion quickly. Some users report a mild adjustment period with dryness or purging. The data is based on approximately 175 reviews.

- Liked: Clears acne breakouts (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Promotes glowing skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial skin purging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Mild dryness/peeling (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum as part of your PM routine starting 3x/week and build up to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute for it to absorb.
- Apply the serum on dry skin to help fade pigmentation effectively.
- Avoid the eye area and always use SPF 30+ during the day.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Vivant Derm-A-Gel work for skin with dark spots?

Vivant DERM-A-GEL works moderately well for skin with dark spots, offering gentle renewal and brightening that help with pigmentation. To work best for this skin, a treatment needs a blend of effective antioxidants and soothing ingredients that provide significant benefits for dark spots without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for skin with dark spots?

Retinyl propionate, niacinamide, kojic acid, and lactic acid make this serum a good fit by helping to fade dark spots, brighten the skin, and gently sweep away dead cells. A product of this type needs a blend of strong antioxidants and calming ingredients that tackle dark spots safely without causing irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### What does Retinyl Propionate do for skin with dark spots?

Retinyl propionate helps fade dark spots and uneven skin tone while smoothing out wrinkles. It improves the look of sun-damaged skin with very little irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28733999/)

### What does Niacinamide do for skin with dark spots?

Niacinamide helps fade dark spots and uneven pigmentation by slowing down the transfer of pigment in the skin. It is generally well tolerated and may improve overall skin brightness with consistent use.
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 it go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This treatment goes in the evening routine, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Products for this skin need exfoliating acids and brightening ingredients like kojic acid and niacinamide to help fade dark spots.

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

It is best not to use this treatment in the same routine as glycolic acid, because combining strong exfoliating ingredients may easily cause dryness and irritation on normal skin. Instead, products for dark spots work best when they include gentle brightening ingredients and soothing agents to help clear uneven tone safely.

### How often should I use it?

Start using this treatment once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. Products for skin with dark spots need strong brightening ingredients like kojic acid and retinoids, alongside gentle exfoliants and hydrators, to effectively fade dark spots.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

Yes, this treatment may cause moderate initial skin purging and mild dryness or peeling on skin with dark spots. It helps fade dark spots with brightening ingredients like niacinamide and lactic acid, but this type needs stronger targeted dark spot fighters and deeper exfoliants to work best on this skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Guerlain Abeille Royale Double R Renew & Repair Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/guerlain/abeille-royale-double-r-renew-and-repair-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — S$156.09 at Amazon
- [Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dark-spots) — High fit — S$110.11 at Amazon
- [Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/rapid-tone-repair-20-vitamin-c-face-serum-capsules/for/dark-spots) — High fit — S$45.89 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-ampoule-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — S$36.16 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/dark-spots) — 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, Glycereth-26, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Retinyl Propionate, Ethylhexyl Dimethyl Paba, Carbomer, Kojic Acid, Bht, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Pca, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Niacinamide, Inositol, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid, Disodium Edta, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vivant/derm-a-gel/for/dark-spots