# StriVectin Super-C Retinol Brighten & Correct Vitamin C Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-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: [StriVectin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/strivectin)
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

- This serum offers moderate benefits for your combination skin, with Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Retinol providing antioxidant activity and desquamation regulation to address fine lines and hyperpigmentation. However, it lacks targeted ingredients for oil control, which is your main concern for oily shine.
- While the multiple forms of vitamin C and retinol provide excellent brightening and smoothing effects, the formula's general hydration and antioxidant protection are not specifically tailored to manage excess oil on your combination skin.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, as it contains soothing ingredients like Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and avoids harsh or prohibited substances.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Retinol, Nia-114 Technology, Sodium Hyaluronate, Acerola Cherry Extract

## What the research says

- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- 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/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Topical application of all-trans-retinol induced epidermal thickening and increased retinoid binding protein expression similar to all-trans-retinoic acid in normal human skin, but without causing significant erythema or measurable retinoic acid levels. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7561157/))
- 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 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/))
- Topical treatment with 5% vitamin C and 0.1% madecassoside significantly improved clinical scores for wrinkles, suppleness, firmness, roughness, and skin hydration, along with functional and structural remodeling of the elastic fiber network in 20 female volunteers with photoaged skin after 6 months compared to baseline. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503551/))
- Topical ascorbic acid application resulted in a statistically significant improvement in Ra and shadows north-south facial axis values as well as clinical, photographic, and patient self-appraisal scores compared with vehicle control in nineteen patients with mild to moderately photodamaged facial skin. ([Archives of Otolaryngology--head & Neck Surgery, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10522500/))
- Application of a 3% ascorbic acid oil-in-water emulsion significantly reduced oxidative stress, increased dermal papillae, and reduced fine lines and wrinkles in human skin compared to placebo and a vitamin C derivative. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15258452/))

## 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

Based on a very large amount of data, users frequently praise this serum for its lightweight, non-sticky texture and its ability to visibly brighten dull skin and smooth fine lines without causing irritation. A significant number of reviewers criticize the strong floral-citrus fragrance and report that the product tends to oxidize relatively quickly.

- Liked: Brightens & evens tone (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight & fast-absorbing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smooths texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Plumping effect (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price tag (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Oxidation issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective on dark spots (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging complaints (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 Super-C Retinol Serum work for combination skin?

This serum works moderately well for combination skin, offering good brightening and smoothing effects, but it lacks targeted ingredients to control oily shine. A product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to provide balanced hydration and regulate oiliness.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid, and retinol make this serum a fit by providing antioxidant protection and smoothing fine lines. To best fit combination skin, a product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, or propolis that regulate oiliness and control oily shine.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### 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 Retinol do for combination skin?

Retinol helps smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and improve firmness in combination skin. It works by encouraging faster skin renewal and boosting collagen, though it may occasionally cause mild dryness or scaling while your skin adjusts.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine for combination skin. Combination skin needs targeted ingredients for oil control to manage excess oily shine.

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

You can use this serum with AHAs, but to lower the chance of irritation, use them on alternating nights rather than at the same time. This product of this type needs added oil-control ingredients and balancing hydration to properly manage excess shine on combination skin.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment serum in the evening as part of your routine. Because this product type offers an average fit for combination skin, it needs targeted oil-control ingredients to properly balance oily shine while brightening and smoothing.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts on combination skin, though the retinol may cause mild purging as it speeds up skin renewal. A product of this type needs added oil-absorbing ingredients to properly manage shine on combination skin.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum, limonene, linalool, geraniol, citral, and citronellol).

## 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

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Glycereth-7 Triacetate, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Ascorbic Acid, Acerola Fruit Juice, Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Myristyl Nicotinate, Tamarindus Indica Polysaccharide Seed, Orobanche Rapum Extract, Pyrus Malus Extract Cell Fruit Culture, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Xylitylglucoside, Bacillus Sea Salt Ferment Filtrate, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Anhydroxylitol, Adenosine, Xylitol, Glucose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Propanediol, Maltodextrin, Rhizobian Gum, Mica, Parfum, Limonene, Linalool, Geraniol, Citral, Citronellol, Benzyl Benzoate, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Bht, Bha, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Ci 77491 Iron Oxides, Ci 77891 Titanium Dioxide
## 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/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/strivectin/super-c-retinol-brighten-and-correct-vitamin-c-serum/for/combination-skin