# Obagi Professional-C Serum 10% for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/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: [Obagi](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/obagi)
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.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening for your combination skin due to 10% Ascorbic Acid, which effectively evens skin tone and provides antioxidant benefits that support collagen synthesis.
- While it offers general skincare benefits like hydration, the primary ingredient's antioxidant properties are not directly targeted at managing oily shine, which is your main concern.
- The formula is generally safe for your combination skin, though Ascorbic Acid may pose a slight risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Propylene Carbonate

## 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/))
- Treatment with a combination of propylene glycol, ethanol, water, and shampoo was found effective, easy to use, and cosmetically attractive with no observed side effects in patients with dandruff. ([Cutis, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2970946/))
- A moisturizer containing glycerol and propylene glycol reduced transepidermal water loss, decreased epidermal thickness, increased stratum corneum thickness, and reduced dermal inflammatory infiltrate compared to untreated disrupted skin in six healthy beagle dogs. ([Veterinary Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628309/))

## Why other serums fit combination skin better

- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is highly favored by users with sensitive or dry skin for its ability to brighten the complexion and smooth texture without causing irritation. While many report a noticeable "glow" and faded dark spots, some users are disappointed by the high price point and occasional issues with the product oxidizing (turning orange) or having faulty packaging.

- Liked: Brightens skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: No results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging problems (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Product oxidation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (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

### How well does Obagi Professional-C Serum 10% work for combination skin?

Obagi Professional-C Serum 10% works moderately well for combination skin because it helps even skin tone, though it is not directly targeted at managing oily shine. A treatment for combination skin needs effective ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA that provide significant benefits for managing oily shine without any associated risks of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Ascorbic Acid makes this serum a fit for combination skin because it helps brighten your skin tone and provides antioxidant benefits. Because it does not target oily shine, combination skin needs a treatment with ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, and zinc PCA to regulate oiliness and keep skin balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Vitamin C helps brighten dull areas and smooth out uneven texture on combination skin while protecting against daily environmental stress. It may also help keep pores clear and skin firm by supporting collagen production, though drier spots may need an added moisturizer to stay comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Propylene Glycol do for combination skin?

Propylene glycol helps combination skin by drawing moisture into dry areas and helping other ingredients sink in better. It is unlikely to cause irritation on normal skin, though it can make other active ingredients absorb deeper.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31786711/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing toner and before moisturizer, or it can be used weekly after a cleansing mask and hydrating toner. Combination skin also needs ingredients that manage oily shine.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying your retinol at night and this serum in the morning, since using them separately helps lower your risk of irritation. A product of this type for combination skin also needs ingredients that help manage oily shine.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in the evening as part of your routine, or once a week to see how your skin reacts before using it more often. Ascorbic Acid may pose a slight risk of irritation, though the formula is generally safe for combination skin. Combination skin needs products that help brighten skin tone while also managing oily shine.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### 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 its ingredients are lightweight and do not typically block pores. However, Ascorbic Acid may cause a slight risk of irritation for some users.

## 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

No store in United Kingdom has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Propylene Glycol, Water, Propylene Carbonate, Ascorbic Acid
## 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/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/professional-c-serum-10/for/combination-skin