# La Roche-Posay PURE VITAMIN C12 SÉRUM for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-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: [La Roche-Posay](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/la-roche-posay)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening and smoothing texture for your normal skin due to Ascorbic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid, which provide antioxidant activity and hydration. Tocopherol and Hyaluronic Acid offer general skincare benefits that support your redness and irritation by providing hydration and antioxidant protection.
- The formula is highly suitable for normal skin, with Ascorbic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid concentrations that offer antioxidant activity and humectant action, respectively.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your sensitive skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid

## 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 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/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- 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 the serum for its ability to smooth skin texture and boost radiance, often noting it absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue. While many with sensitive skin find the formula gentle and effective for brightening, some users express frustration with the product oxidizing too quickly and the dropper design leading to wastage.

- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight feel (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Oxidizes quickly (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Poor dropper (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C12 work for sensitive skin?

La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C12 Sérum works moderately well for sensitive skin, offering brightening and smoothing benefits with very little risk of irritation. A treatment for this skin needs soothing ingredients and hydrating components that calm redness while keeping the skin soft and balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin?

Ascorbic acid and hyaluronic acid help brighten and smooth your skin while offering antioxidant protection and hydration. For this skin type, treatments also need soothing and nourishing ingredients like niacinamide or snail secretion filtrate to help calm redness and irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Vitamin C do for sensitive skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out fine lines, and fade dark spots. Clinical studies show it is generally safe and well-tolerated when improving overall skin quality.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Glycerin do for sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps keep sensitive skin soft and deeply hydrated while supporting the skin barrier. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may protect against dryness and roughness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10598752/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

This serum goes in your evening routine, applied after your toner and before your moisturizer. Treatments with actives are placed in the evening for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying the treatment after your cleanser and soothing toner, followed by your moisturizer, but because your skin is sensitive, this product of this type needs gentle soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to keep skin calm and hydrated.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine once a week to start. Sensitive skin needs gentle antioxidant protection, calming hydration, and soothing ingredients to feel soft and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin because it lacks heavy oils and harsh ingredients that typically trigger blemishes. However, since it is an average fit, sensitive skin often needs lighter soothing hydrators and gentle barrier-strengthening ingredients to stay calm and clear.

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

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

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Clarins Double Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/double-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £52.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £143.35 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £25.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/broad-spectrum-spf-50-mineral-sunscreen-fluid-for-face/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £21.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £33.75 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07PM79MSC?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: £33.75 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/la-roche-posay-vitamin-c12-serum-anti-wrinkle-and-radiance-restoring-serum-30ml/15456549/)
- Notino: £44.20 (https://www.notino.co.uk/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-with-anti-wrinkle-effect/p-16269149/)
Prices checked 17 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat, Propylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide, Hyaluronic Acid, Adenosine, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, 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/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/pure-vitamin-c12-serum/for/sensitive-skin