# Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-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: [Dr. Althea](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/dr-althea)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/serums)

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

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin is provided by 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Niacinamide, which work to control oil production and offer antioxidant benefits, addressing your concerns with acne and breakouts.
- The combination of multiple hyaluronic acid derivatives and Allantoin ensures your skin remains hydrated and soothed, complementing the brightening effects of Ascorbic Acid.
- This formula is safe for your skin, with no risk of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of calming agents like Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Ascorbic Acid, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Niacinamide, Panthenol Vitamin B5, Sodium Hyaluronate

## What the research says

- Concurrent treatment with 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid and cannabigerol in UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes prevents membrane structure alterations, promotes cell survival, enhances antioxidant enzyme activity and GSH- and Trx-dependent systems, reduces lipid and protein oxidative modifications, and exerts anti-inflammatory effects. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39778604/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of a sea buckthorn fruit extract formulation significantly reduced skin sebum secretion in 10 healthy human volunteers compared to the control base over an 8-week period. ([Journal of Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21814424/))
- Topical emulsions containing Hippophae rhamnoides and Cassia fistula plant extracts significantly reduced skin sebum contents compared to placebo in patients with grade I and grade II acne vulgaris. ([Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25254008/))
- Topical application of a 5% Hippophae rhamnoides oil-in-water emulsion significantly improved skin hydration (p=0.0003) and transepidermal water loss (p=0.0087) compared to a placebo base formulation in 13 healthy male subjects over 84 days. ([Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25362595/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users with sensitive and acne-prone skin frequently praise this serum for its lightweight, non-irritating formula that effectively brightens dull complexions and fades post-acne hyperpigmentation without causing stinging. While many appreciate the "glass skin" glow and hydration it provides, a minority of users report breakouts or find the brightening effects too subtle compared to stronger pure Vitamin C serums.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens & evens tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Subtle results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Scent dislike (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Dr.Althea Vitamin C Serum a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Niacinamide help control oil production while offering antioxidant benefits that address breakouts. Multiple hyaluronic acid derivatives and Allantoin keep your skin hydrated and calm, and the formula is safe and unlikely to cause irritation thanks to soothing ingredients like Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate.
Sources: [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39778604/), [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

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

Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Niacinamide help control oil production while offering antioxidant benefits. The formula also includes multiple hyaluronic acid derivatives and Allantoin to keep your skin hydrated and calm.
Sources: [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39778604/), [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

### What does 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid helps brighten an even skin tone and reduces signs of aging on oily acne-prone skin. It delivers vitamin C effectively to the skin to support a clearer, more balanced complexion.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38794349/)

### What does Sea Buckthorn Fruit Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Sea buckthorn fruit extract helps balance oily skin by reducing extra oil and shine when used regularly. Studies on people show it is a good fit for this skin type because it actively lowers sebum levels over time.
Sources: [Journal of Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21814424/), [Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25254008/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, keeping things simple and safe around sun exposure. Some serums like this one may also be used in the morning or twice a day.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first to help brighten and calm your skin, and following with your retinol. Because this formula is gentle and free of harsh ingredients, it is unlikely to cause irritation when paired with active treatments.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. It helps control oil and brighten your skin while keeping it calm and hydrated.

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

This serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because ingredients like 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Niacinamide help control oil and target breakouts. It is very unlikely to clog pores or cause irritation, as the formula is free of harsh ingredients and includes calming agents like Allantoin and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate to keep your skin balanced.
Sources: [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/), [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39778604/)

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

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

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £25.95 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £25.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 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/oily-acne-prone-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/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £14.79 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CW99ZRWB?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £13.00 (https://www.notino.co.uk/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-with-moisturising-effect/p-16315838/)
- Lookfantastic: £13.80 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/dr.-althea-vitamin-c-boosting-serum-30ml/17680179/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Panthenol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ascorbic Acid, Tocopherol, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Thiamine Hcl, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine, Folic Acid, Biotin, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Dipropylene Glycol, Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyl Trimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Xanthan Gum, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Disodium Edta, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena Fruit Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Allantoin, Taurine, Limonene
## 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

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- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
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