# Medicube Red Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medicube/red-serum/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: [Medicube](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/medicube)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/serums)

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.

One of the best serums for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination skin is provided by salicylic acid and willow bark extract, which offer mild exfoliation and help regulate oil production, complemented by Centella Asiatica Extract for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
- The formula also contains Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil, which offers antimicrobial effects beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like Centella Asiatica Extract and Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, minimizing irritation risks.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract, Oil Tree Leaf, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Lavender Water

## What the research says

- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- 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/))
- 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 herbal treatments including lemon balm, olive leaf extract, propolis, and sage-rhubarb cream reduce pain, swelling, lesion size, and healing time in patients with herpes labialis compared with placebo or acyclovir. ([Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40526027/))
- Topical oleuropein formulations reduced erythema, transepidermal water loss, and blood flow by approximately 22%, 35%, and 30% in healthy volunteers with UVB-induced erythema. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18377620/))
- An oil-in-serum formulation containing olive extract standardized in hydroxytyrosol improved skin barrier function and significantly reduced hyperpigmentation in participants with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after 45 days of application. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41507660/))
- Combining azelaic acid and matrine in dissolving microneedles at a 1:1 molar ratio achieved higher skin permeability, synergistic antibacterial rates above 95%, and no skin irritation compared to commercially available azelaic acid gel. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34284096/))
- Co-amorphous salt of ursodeoxycholic acid and matrine incorporated into dissolving microneedles enhanced aqueous solubility, skin permeation, growth-inhibitory effects against Cutibacterium acnes, and anti-inflammatory activity compared to single-component groups and topical gel in a murine acne model. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42025655/))
- Lavandula angustifolia leaf callus extract enhanced skin cell viability, reduced oxidative stress and melanin content, improved wound healing, and enhanced skin barrier function in human skin cells and clinical tests. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40345503/))
- Tea tree oil effectively treated acne while lavender and rosemary oils demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties in derma cosmetic applications based on an evaluation of various essential oils. ([Frontiers in Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40917836/))
- A blend of Lavandula angustifolia flower extract and dipeptide-4 reduced oxidative and glycation markers, enhanced ATP, SOD, autophagy, and melatonin production, and improved tissue morphology in human skin models and fibroblasts. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41235571/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, users with acne-prone and sensitive skin find this serum effective at calming redness and providing deep hydration without greasiness. Many users appreciate its ability to soothe inflammation and control sebum. However, opinions on its effectiveness in reducing active acne are divided, with some experiencing significant clearing and others seeing minimal improvement.

- Liked: Hydrating, lightweight (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothes redness (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Small quantity (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Strong medicinal scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-sticky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Faulty dispenser (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Mixed acne results (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Medicube Red Serum one of the best fits for combination skin?

Medicube Red Serum is a great fit for combination skin because salicylic acid and willow bark extract gently clear dead skin and help balance oil, while centella asiatica extract calms redness. It also features tea tree oil for antimicrobial support and avoids harsh ingredients to keep irritation risks low.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

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

Salicylic acid and willow bark extract make this serum a great fit for combination skin by providing gentle exfoliation and helping to balance oil, while Centella Asiatica extract and tea tree oil soothe the skin and calm irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

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

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Centella Asiatica Extract do for combination skin?

Centella Asiatica Extract helps balance combination skin by boosting moisture levels while keeping redness and irritation calm. It also supports skin barrier repair to help maintain smooth and healthy skin overall.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine, as treatments with active ingredients are placed at night for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. You can start 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 serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this serum with retinol by applying them on alternate nights or separating them into different routines to avoid dryness and irritation. Using them together may overwhelm combination skin, so it is safer to let your skin adjust gradually.

### How often should I use it?

This treatment is used in the evening once a week to start, since active serums fit best in nighttime routines and exfoliation steps need gradual introduction. People who tolerate it well and see good results may carefully use it more often.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on combination skin because it features salicylic acid and willow bark extract to help clear pores and regulate oil production, alongside soothing ingredients that minimize irritation risks. Initial purging may occasionally happen when starting an exfoliating treatment, but the formula's gentle profile helps keep adverse reactions low.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Is it 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: £27.35 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0GYCLDGS3?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £14.80 (https://www.notino.co.uk/medicube/red-serum-intensely-hydrating-serum-with-antioxidant-effect/p-16329867/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

C12-14 Pareth-12, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract, Dimethicone Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disodium Edta, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Dipropylene Glycol, Lavandula Angustifolia Lavender Water, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Betaine, Centella Asiatica Extract, Borago Officinalis Extract, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Sorbitol, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Rhus Semialata Gall Extract, Polygala Tenuifolia Root Extract, Melia Azadirachta Extract, Xylitol, Water, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Leaf Extract Flower Matricaria Leaf Extract Flower, Carbomer, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Salvia Sclarea Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Salicylic Acid, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Willow Bark Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Magnolia Obovata Bark Extract, Hyacinthus Orientalis Extract, Tocopherol Vitamin E, Rice Extract, Ci 42090, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Laureth-7, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Peg Ppg-17 6 Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylamide, Triethanolamine, Ethanolamine, Platycodon Grandiflorum Root Extract, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Dandelion Root Extract Rhizome, Usnea Barbata Extract, Ovalicin, Grapefruit Leaf Extract, Colloidal Sulfur
## 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/medicube/red-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medicube/red-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/red-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medicube/red-serum/for/combination-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-serum/for/combination-skin