# Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-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. Barbara Sturm](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/dr-barbara-sturm)
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

- Highly suitable for your oily skin, this serum utilizes Zinc PCA for seboregulation and a potent blend of Vitamin C derivatives like Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ascorbic Acid to provide antioxidant protection and brighten your complexion.
- The formula offers moderate benefits for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts by helping to regulate sebum production and deliver antioxidant protection.
- This product is safe for your 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/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ascorbyl Glucoside

## What the research says

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- 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/))
- 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 aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))
- 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 consistently praise this serum for its gentle formulation that brightens and hydrates without irritating sensitive skin. A significant number of reviewers feel the high price tag is not justified by the subtle results, with some noting they achieved similar effects with more affordable alternatives.

- Liked: Gentle on Skin (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Very Expensive (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens Complexion (often mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant Texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating & Plumping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Subtle/Slow Results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused Breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Runny Consistency (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. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Dr. Barbara Sturm The Good C Vitamin C Serum is a great fit because it uses zinc PCA to help balance oil and powerful vitamin C to brighten your complexion and protect against damage. The formula is safe for your skin, with no risk of irritation since it lacks harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

This serum is a great fit because it uses vitamin C and zinc PCA to brighten your skin, calm breakouts, and help control oily shine without causing irritation. Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate and ascorbic acid provide antioxidant protection, while the gentle formula keeps your skin feeling smooth and balanced.
Sources: [The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/)

### What does Vitamin C do for oily acne-prone skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out texture, and improve uneven spots for oily acne-prone skin. It may also help fade marks left behind by blemishes.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37128827/)

### What does Aloe Vera Leaf Juice do for oily acne-prone skin?

Aloe Vera Leaf Juice helps calm redness and reduces acne breakouts for oily skin. Studies show it effectively targets acne lesions and lowers redness when used regularly.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23336746/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, keeping it simple and safe around sun exposure. It is a great fit for your oily skin because it uses Zinc PCA to help balance oil and Vitamin C to brighten your complexion.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying this vitamin C serum in the morning and your retinol at night to keep your skin calm and clear. Using them at separate times of day helps you get the brightening and blemish-fighting benefits without overloading your skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### How often should I use it?

This treatment is used in the evening routine. It is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because it helps regulate oil production and brighten your complexion with vitamin C while remaining safe and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts for oily acne-prone skin because it is formulated without harsh ingredients and includes zinc PCA to help regulate oil production. Reviewers rarely report breakouts, and the product has a safe profile with no risk of irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## 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

- Lookfantastic: £100.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/dr.-barbara-sturm-the-good-c-vitamin-c-serum-30ml/13310139/)
- Notino: £145.00 (https://www.notino.co.uk/dr-barbara-sturm/the-good-c-facial-serum-with-vitamine-c/p-16127418/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 15 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Lactobacillus Portulaca Oleracea Extract Ferment, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Olea Europaea Leaf Extract Olive Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Citric Acid, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Zinc Pca, Phenoxyethanol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Glycerides, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Sodium Sulfite, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sclerotium Gum, Tocopherol
## 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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