# Topicals Faded Brightening & Clearing Serum for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/topicals/faded-brightening-and-clearing-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-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: [Topicals](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/topicals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for oily skin, this serum effectively targets hyperpigmentation and breakouts with niacinamide and azelaic acid for seboregulation and anti-inflammatory action, while tranexamic acid and glycolic acid work to fade dark spots and refine skin texture.
- The formula also includes ingredients like alpha arbutin and kojic acid to further enhance brightening effects, supporting your goal of clearer, more even-toned skin.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Kojic Acid, Alpha Arbutin

## What the research says

- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- Azelaic acid nanocrystal hydrogel 10% achieved a higher success rate and greater lesion reduction than azelaic acid cream 20% in patients with mild to moderate facial acne. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/))
- Application of 15% azelaic acid gel significantly reduced post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation, decreased hemoglobin and melanin content, improved quality of life, and contributed to acne improvement in patients with mild to moderate acne compared to placebo. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/))
- Encapsulation of alpha arbutin in an optimized ethosomal gel significantly improved skin melanin reduction, moisture content, and elasticity in human volunteers compared to conventional formulations. ([Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/))
- 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 a dermocosmetic containing Myrtus communis extract and azelaic acid reduced acne relapses and helped maintain remission compared to a light moisturizing cream in adult females in the acne maintenance phase over 16 weeks. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36729399/))
- Topical administration of 20% azelaic acid cream and 5% tranexamic acid solution comparably improved acne-related postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients with acne vulgaris, while tranexamic acid demonstrated a significantly better safety profile at week 4. ([Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37213446/))
- Azelaic acid 15% gel showed comparable efficacy to adapalene 0.1% gel in reducing lesions, severity, and Dermatology Life Quality Index in women with adult acne, with significantly lower dryness and scaling, and demonstrated superiority during maintenance compared to no further treatment. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25399481/))
- A topical formulation containing kojic acid, emblica extract, and glycolic acid demonstrated efficacy parity compared with hydroquinone 4% in multiethnic participants with mild to moderate facial dyschromia. ([Cutis, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21049734/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Topical application of iron chelators kojic acid and deferiprone significantly accelerated wound healing in rats compared to control groups, with deferiprone showing superior efficacy due to higher antioxidant and iron chelation abilities. ([International Wound Journal, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22621771/))
- A non-hydroquinone topical formulation (SKNB19) improved hyperpigmentation by 28.5% in patient self-assessment and 27% in independent reviewer assessment compared with 4% hydroquinone in 18 adult subjects, while showing significantly less irritation and better tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33022197/))
- Combining a home-based radiofrequency device and arbutin cream reduced mMASI scores by 25.6% and melanin index by 22.8% at 8 weeks compared to baseline in 38 participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39918262/))
- Polyvinyl pyrrolidone-K90/Eudragit RL100 dissolving microneedle patches loaded with alpha-arbutin and resveratrol enhanced intradermal delivery by approximately 2.6 times compared to cream and slightly decreased the melanin index in human participants without causing skin irritation. ([Biomaterials Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37183632/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users highly praise this serum for effectively fading hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and dark spots, especially on melanated skin. While results are impressive, a significant number of reviews mention a strong, sulfur-like smell that users must tolerate. Some users also report an initial purging phase before experiencing clearer, brighter skin.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs well (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Safe for melanated skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes purging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Topicals Faded a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Topicals Faded is a great fit because it targets breakouts and dark spots using niacinamide and azelaic acid to calm the skin and balance oil, while glycolic and tranexamic acids help clear texture and fade marks. These ingredients work together safely to give you a clearer, more even-toned complexion without harsh irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because niacinamide and azelaic acid help balance oil and calm breakouts, while tranexamic acid and glycolic acid fade dark spots and smooth your skin texture. Ingredients like alpha arbutin and kojic acid provide extra brightening power to help you achieve a clearer, more even-toned look safely without irritation.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oil production, calms redness, and is unlikely to irritate oily, acne-prone skin while improving blemishes. Clinical tests show it reduces excess oil and helps clear up both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/)

### What does Tranexamic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Tranexamic acid helps reduce redness and inflamed spots like pimples and pustules on oily, acne-prone skin. It may also fade lingering dark marks left behind by breakouts with a very low chance of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37213446/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35388589/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, fitting well into the routine for oily acne-prone skin. Using it at night helps avoid extra sun sensitivity while targeting dark spots and breakouts.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first and following it with your retinol, but because both products are quite active, you may want to alternate nights to keep your skin calm and avoid irritation.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment serum fits into your evening routine once a week to start, as exfoliating acids and actives are best introduced gradually. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin, though it may cause some temporary purging as it works to clear out your pores. It helps target breakouts and fade dark spots without heavy oils, making it unlikely to clog pores.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £25.95 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £25.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 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/oily-acne-prone-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/oily-acne-prone-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

Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Kojic Acid, Alpha Arbutin, Licorice Root Extract, Melatonin, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Squalane, Glycerin, Water, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/topicals/faded-brightening-and-clearing-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/topicals/faded-brightening-and-clearing-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/topicals/faded-brightening-and-clearing-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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