# COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [COSRX](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/cosrx)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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.

A great choice for combination skin; a few products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers high suitability for your combination skin, as glycolic acid provides effective keratolytic action for oily shine and niacinamide helps regulate sebum production.
- The presence of panthenol and sodium hyaluronate further supports skin hydration and renewal, enhancing the overall texture and comfort for your skin.
- This formula is safe for your skin, with no identified risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Niacinamide, Pyrus Malus Fruit Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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 cosmetic cream with 6% wild apple fruit water extract showed good stability, antioxidant activity, no skin irritation, increased skin hydration, and a bleaching effect on artificially induced skin hyperpigmentation in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29723433/))
- 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/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- 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 formulations containing 1.25% Malus sp. extract or 0.75% rutin protected against UVB-induced sunburn cells, caspase-3 activation, cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, lipid peroxidation, and metalloproteinase formation in ex vivo skin explants and 3D tissue-engineered skin. ([Rejuvenation Research, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32242497/))
- 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/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dry, acne-prone, and textured skin frequently praise this exfoliant for effectively clearing closed comedones and "tiny bumps" while leaving the face noticeably smoother and brighter. Some users note that results require patience due to an initial purging phase, and the product has a strong, distinct scent.

- Liked: Clears comedones (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smooths texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle, hydrating (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial purging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Stinging/irritation (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 COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid a great fit for combination skin?

This exfoliant is a great fit because glycolic acid helps clear oily shine while niacinamide helps balance your skin. Panthenol and sodium hyaluronate also support hydration and texture to keep combination skin comfortable. It has a safe profile with no harsh ingredients.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/)

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

Glycolic acid and niacinamide make this a great fit because they help clear oily shine and balance oil production on combination skin. Panthenol and sodium hyaluronate further support hydration and renewal, improving overall comfort.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for combination skin?

Glycolic acid helps smooth and brighten combination skin by gently loosening dead surface cells to speed up skin renewal. This ingredient is unlikely to cause irritation when used properly, but it needs a reliable sunscreen during the day since it makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8651024/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9248619/)

### 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 your evening routine, specifically as a treatment step after cleansing and toning. Start by using it once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results, you can carefully use it more often.

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

You can use this exfoliant with retinol, but it is best to apply them on different nights to keep your skin calm and comfortable. Using them together may cause irritation, so alternate nights or use one in the morning and the other at night.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and carefully increase the frequency only if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results. Glycolic acid helps manage oily shine while panthenol and sodium hyaluronate support hydration, making it a great fit for combination skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356917/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/)

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

Yes, initial purging is moderately common when starting this exfoliant, but it helps clear away buildup and control oily shine. It is unlikely to cause typical clogged pores, though you may experience some temporary breakouts as your skin adjusts.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £24.20 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £248.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £13.37 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00OZ9WOD8?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £17.40 (https://www.notino.co.uk/cosrx/aha7-whitehead-power-liquid-exfoliating-essence-for-skin-with-hyperpigmentation/p-15810039/)
- Lookfantastic: £20.79 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/cosrx-aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid-100ml/11401175/)
Prices checked 28 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Pyrus Malus Fruit Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Niacinamide, Sodium Hydroxide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xanthan Gum, Ethyl Hexanediol
## 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/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-7-whitehead-power-liquid/for/combination-skin