# Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/tatcha/violet-c-brightening-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: [Tatcha](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/tatcha)
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.

A great choice for combination skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- This serum offers high brightening and evening of skin tone for your combination skin, as Bis-Glyceryl Ascorbate and Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate provide potent antioxidant and brightening effects. Glycerin further supports your skin by offering humectant action, which is beneficial for combination skin.
- The formula also includes Saccharomyces Camellia Sinensis and Licorice Root Extract, which contribute to soothing your skin and managing oily shine.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of beneficial soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Licorice Root Extract Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Lactic Acid, Viola Odorata Extract Hadasei-3 Extract, Rice Ferment Filtrate

## What the research says

- 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/))
- A 3-in-1 anti-aging topical night serum-in-oil applied once daily decreased wrinkles by 11%, increased skin firmness by 8%, reduced redness by 70%, and improved overall skin quality and complexion in 103 female subjects over 28 to 84 days compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30924254/))
- Topical formulations containing ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, coenzyme Q10, green tea polyphenols, and resveratrol reduced the release of inflammatory cytokines and attenuated inflammatory signs compared to untreated skin and vehicle in 25 Japanese volunteers exposed to sodium dodecyl sulfate. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28385617/))
- 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/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- Daily application of a cream containing niosomes loaded with purple glutinous rice extract in 20 human volunteers for 28 days resulted in a significant decrease in melanin index and skin roughness by -14.05% and -9.95%, and increases in skin hydration and elastic recovery by +48.73% and +35.98% compared to initial values. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32812663/))
- The iontophoretic delivery of hyaluronic acid nanogel-loaded Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate significantly reduced advanced glycation end products and mitigated skin stiffening in an ex vivo skin tissue glycation model. ([International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40989892/))
- Red rice extract suppressed UVB-induced inflammation and skin aging in human skin fibroblasts by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway, leading to decreased NF-kappa B and AP-1 activation, reduced ECM degradation, and increased ECM synthesis compared to UVB-irradiated controls. ([Natural Product Communications, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30508356/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is frequently praised for its gentle yet effective formula that brightens the complexion and smooths skin texture, often resulting in a noticeable glow and softer skin. Some users, however, find the exfoliation to be too mild and feel the high price point is not justified by the results.

- Liked: Brightens and adds glow (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother skin texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight and fast absorbing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: No visible results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Weak exfoliation (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 Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum a great fit for combination skin?

This serum is a great fit because its vitamin C forms and licorice root extract brighten your skin tone, soothe areas, and help manage oily shine while glycerin keeps combination skin hydrated. The formula has an excellent safety profile, meaning it is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Bis-glyceryl ascorbate and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate help brighten your combination skin, while glycerin keeps it soft and hydrated. Additionally, licorice root extract and green tea ferment soothe areas and help manage oily shine with an excellent safety profile.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Ascorbic acid helps brighten skin tone and smooth out rough areas on combination skin. It is unlikely to cause irritation when used regularly, and it helps protect against everyday environmental stress.
Sources: [Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35064615/)

### What does Licorice Root Extract do for combination skin?

Licorice Root Extract helps calm redness, soothe irritation, and ease inflammation in combination skin. It also may help balance uneven skin tone by lowering oxidative stress and reducing excess pigment.
Sources: [Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14522625/)

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

This serum goes in your evening routine, placed after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening helps keep things simple and offers extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying them on separate nights or putting this serum on in the morning and retinol at night to prevent irritation. The formula is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation, but combining strong treatments all at once can overwhelm your skin.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum fits your combination skin best when used in your evening routine once a week to start. You may carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores, cause breakouts, or lead to purging on combination skin. Its safety profile is excellent, with no harsh ingredients that typically trigger irritation and soothing components that help keep skin calm.
Sources: [European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28385617/)

### Is this serum 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

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

## Ingredients

Water, Bis-Glyceryl Ascorbate, Saccharomyces Camellia Sinensis Cladosiphon Okamuranus Rice Leaf Ferment Filtrate, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract, Callicarpa Japonica Fruit Extract, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Crataegus Cuneata Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Grapefruit Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Juice, Lemon Juice, Citrus Aurantifolia Juice, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Artemisia Capillaris Flower Extract, Morus Alba Root Extract, Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Disodium Edta, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Ethylhexylglycerin, 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/tatcha/violet-c-brightening-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/tatcha/violet-c-brightening-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/tatcha/violet-c-brightening-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/tatcha/violet-c-brightening-serum/for/combination-skin
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- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/tatcha/violet-c-brightening-serum/for/combination-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/tatcha/violet-c-brightening-serum/for/combination-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/tatcha/violet-c-brightening-serum/for/combination-skin