Quick List - Top Serums for Combination Skin
Dermorepubliq
Combines Acne Control and Hydration With Skin Healing Ingredients
Dr. Sensitive
Lightweight and Non-Irritating Serum Perfect for Sensitive Skin
Dr. Angelie Chua is a dedicated Thomasian physician specializing in dermatology, with board certification from the Philippine Dermatological Society. She completed her residency at UST Hospital and is currently pursuing a fellowship in Trichology (hair disorders). Passionate about beauty, health, history, music, and travel, she fosters continuous learning and expertise in diverse fields. Dr. Chua is committed to providing exceptional care and staying at the forefront of dermatological advancements for the benefit of her patients.
With seven years of content writing, web marketing, and SEO expertise, Joey specializes in crafting engaging, lead-generating content across various industries. Her global B2B experience spans clients in Southeast Asia, South America, and the US, giving her a diverse perspective on small business needs. She have a knack for blending data-driven strategies with creativity to create stories that resonate and perform.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
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Choosing the right serum for combination skin can be tricky, but with the right info, it’s possible to find a product that balances hydration and oil control. In this buying guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider along with expert insights from Dr. Angelie Chua.
Niacinamide creates a well-balanced complexion by regulating sebum in greasy zones and locking in moisture where it's needed most.
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a multitasking ingredient that soothes redness, strengthens the skin barrier, and reduces inflammation. At a 5% concentration, it helps regulate sebum in the T-zone while boosting moisture levels in drier areas, making it ideal for combination skin. Consistent use also improves skin texture and gradually fades dark spots for a more even complexion.
Some people experience mild redness, tingling, or flushing when first using niacinamide, especially at higher concentrations. This reaction is usually temporary and fades with regular use, but lowering the concentration or frequency can help if irritation persists.
Salicylic acid controls excess oil and prevents breakouts while gently exfoliating, making it perfect for those struggling with both shine and dryness.
Clogged pores and acne often result from factors like pollution, diet, and stress, but salicylic acid effectively addresses these concerns. It penetrates deep into the skin to remove excess oil, clear impurities, and prevent future breakouts. By gently exfoliating, it smooths rough patches without irritating dry areas. Most over-the-counter formulas contain 0.5% to 2%, providing effective acne treatment without excessive dryness.
To prevent excessive dryness, it's best to pair salicylic acid with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which help maintain skin balance. While it works well for combination skin, those with very dry or sensitive skin should use it cautiously, as overuse can lead to irritation.
Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture to keep dry patches soft and supple while maintaining lightweight hydration in the T-zone, preventing it from becoming too greasy.
Hyaluronic acid is a moisture-binding ingredient that delivers intense hydration without making the skin feel oily or heavy. It enhances water retention, keeping the skin plump and refreshed, which is especially beneficial in the humid Philippine climate. With concentrations between 0.5% and 2%, it provides long-lasting hydration while maintaining a lightweight, breathable finish.
Vitamin C helps fade dark spots and boosts collagen while remaining lightweight enough for oily zones and nourishing enough for drier areas.
Sun exposure can lead to dullness and uneven skin tone, but vitamin C is a powerful brightening agent that helps counteract these effects. It reduces the appearance of dark spots, promotes a more uniform complexion, and delivers antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. Products with 10% to 20% vitamin C offer noticeable results, though sensitive skin types may benefit from lower concentrations. Since combination skin can react differently in certain areas, patch-testing helps prevent irritation.
In your skincare routine, apply vitamin C serums in the morning before sunscreen to enhance their antioxidant benefits and strengthen your skin’s defense against UV damage. This layering helps prevent premature aging and brightens the complexion.
Ceramides reinforce the skin barrier, preventing dehydration while keeping the T-zone balanced and grease-free for a balanced, healthy complexion.
Centella Asiatica, or tiger grass, is known for its calming and skin-repairing properties. It strengthens the skin barrier, promotes collagen production, and reduces irritation caused by pollution and UV exposure—common concerns in urban environments like Metro Manila. Its ability to soothe inflammation while regulating oil makes it an excellent choice for combination skin, helping to maintain balance without causing breakouts or dryness.
Water-based serums offer the best of both worlds—fast-absorbing moisture that nourishes dry spots while staying light enough to prevent excess oil buildup.
Water-based serums are perfect for Filipinos who need a lightweight, non-greasy option, especially in hot and humid weather. They absorb quickly without leaving residue, making them ideal for morning routines and layering under sunscreen or makeup. These serums keep skin fresh and hydrated throughout the day, creating a smooth, comfortable base.
Unlike heavy creams, oil-based serums deeply hydrate without suffocating the skin. Lightweight oils nourish without triggering excess shine in the T-zone.
Best for nighttime use, oil-based serums help prevent moisture loss, especially in air-conditioned environments or cooler months. They nourish the skin while balancing sebum production to keep both dry and oily areas in check. Ingredients like argan oil or squalane provide deep hydration, soothing benefits, and targeted care for combination skin.
Proper packaging preserves the serum’s effectiveness, keeping it fresh, potent, and ready to deliver full benefits to your skin.
Dark glass bottles, such as amber or blue, effectively shield serums from light and air, preventing the oxidation of active ingredients like vitamin C. This is especially important in humid climates where exposure to light and air can cause ingredients to lose potency more quickly. To further protect your serum, consider choosing those with droppers for precise application or air-tight pump packaging to minimize exposure to air, ensuring longer shelf life and preserved efficacy.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Key Ingredients | Concentrations | Base Type | Dark Glass Bottle | Dropper | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Dermorepubliq 5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid for Sensitive Skin Formula | ![]() | Combines Acne Control and Hydration With Skin Healing Ingredients | Niacinamide、Hyaluronic Acid、Cucumber Extract、Aloe Vera、Snail Secretion Filtrate | 5% Niacinamide | Water-Based | 30mL | |||
2 | Klued Multi-Brightening Complex Serum | ![]() | Brightening Serum to Revitalize Your Skin Day and Night | Niacinamide、Alpha Arbutin、Tranexamic Acid、Vitamin C | unknown | Water-Based | 30mL | |||
3 | Dr. Sensitive Niacinamide 5% + Salicylic Acid Serum | ![]() | Lightweight and Non-Irritating Serum Perfect for Sensitive Skin | Niacinamide、Salicylic Acid (BHA)、Hyaluronic Acid | 5% Niacinamide | Water-Based | 30mL | |||
4 | COSRX Blemish Spot Clearing Serum | ![]() | Enriched With Propolis Extract to Help You Achieve Glass Skin | Propolis Extract、Centella Asiatica、Niacinamide | 85.6% Propolis Extract, 4% Niacinamide | Water-Based | 40mL | |||
5 | LUXE ORGANIX Clinical Pro Retinol Radiance Serum | ![]() | Wake Up to Radiant Skin With This Overnight Renewal Serum | Retinol、Panthenol、Niacinamide | 0.2% Pure Retinol | Water-Based | 20mL | |||
6 | Kiehl's Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate | ![]() | A Potent Serum That Combats Wrinkles and Age Lines | Vitamin C、Hyaluronic Acid | 10.5% L-Ascorbic Acid and 2% Ascorbyl Glucoside | Oil-Based | 50mL | |||
7 | Happy Skin Hyaluronic Acid + B3 Boost Capsule Serum | ![]() | Delivers a Refreshing Hydration Boost With Hyaluronic Acid Capsules | Niacinamide、Hyaluronic Acid、Centella Asiatica、Ceramide | unknown | Water-Based | 100mL | |||
8 | Cos De BAHA 2.5% Retinol Serum With Niacinamide & Vitamin E | ![]() | Reduces Wrinkles and Inflammation Without Irritation | Niacinamide、Hyaluronic Acid、Retinol、Vitamin E、Aloe Vera | 2.5% Retinol | Water-Based | 60mL | |||
9 | Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum Light | ![]() | Exfoliate With AHA, BHA, and PHA to Clear Your Skin | Salicylic Acid (BHA)、Centella Asiatica、Tea Tree Leaf Water、Lactobionic Acid (PHA and AHA)、Hyaluronic Acid | 73% Tea Tree Leaf Water, 4.5% Centella Asiatica | Water-Based | 50mL | |||
10 | SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Blue Serum | ![]() | A Light Gel Serum to Hydrate and Brighten Your Skin | Hyaluronic Acid、Centella Asiatica、Ceramide、Ivy Leaf Extract | 39% Centella Asiatica, 1.6% Hyaluronic Acid | Water-Based | 50mL |
Looking for a serum that balances acne treatment with hydration? This Dermorepubliq serum combines ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and cucumber extract to target blemishes and deliver deep moisture. Niacinamide reduces inflammation and hyperpigmentation, while hyaluronic acid boosts hydration and smooths fine lines.
Aloe vera and snail secretion filtrate also soothe and heal, improving the skin's texture and appearance. Plus, it's free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, polymers, formaldehyde, artificial colorants, and artificial scents. Reviews highlight the serum's gentle yet effective formula that hydrates without irritation, improves skin tone, and reduces acne scars.
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Hyaluronic Acid、Cucumber Extract、Aloe Vera、Snail Secretion Filtrate |
---|---|
Concentrations | 5% Niacinamide |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 30mL |
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Alpha Arbutin、Tranexamic Acid、Vitamin C |
---|---|
Concentrations | unknown |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 30mL |
This Dr. Sensitive serum is the perfect solution for brighter, more even skin! With 5% niacinamide, it brightens and refines skin texture, while salicylic acid (BHA) gently exfoliates to unclog pores and smooth rough patches. It also helps lighten pigmentation and reduce blemishes, leaving you with a clearer, radiant complexion.
The serum’s lightweight, non-irritating formula also absorbs quickly without feeling sticky or heavy, making it perfect for layering with other skincare products. Plus, it’s completely fragrance-free, which makes it suitable even for sensitive skin. Reviews highlight that it’s proven, tested, and offers great value for money.
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Salicylic Acid (BHA)、Hyaluronic Acid |
---|---|
Concentrations | 5% Niacinamide |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 30mL |
Key Ingredients | Propolis Extract、Centella Asiatica、Niacinamide |
---|---|
Concentrations | 85.6% Propolis Extract, 4% Niacinamide |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 40mL |
Key Ingredients | Retinol、Panthenol、Niacinamide |
---|---|
Concentrations | 0.2% Pure Retinol |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 20mL |
If your skin is dull and starting to develop age lines, consider Kiehl's serum. This potent formula is designed to transform your skin’s texture and combat the signs of aging. Infused with a powerful blend of 10.5% l-ascorbic acid and 2% ascorbyl glucoside, it works to reduce the appearance of fine lines, revealing a smoother, more youthful complexion.
Enhanced with hyaluronic acid, it not only improves the skin’s appearance but also provides essential hydration for radiant, glowing skin. Overall, it visibly firms the skin while diminishing fine lines, leaving your complexion looking revitalized and rejuvenated. Compared to other serums, it also has a lotion-like texture that many users appreciate.
Key Ingredients | Vitamin C、Hyaluronic Acid |
---|---|
Concentrations | 10.5% L-Ascorbic Acid and 2% Ascorbyl Glucoside |
Base Type | Oil-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 50mL |
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Hyaluronic Acid、Centella Asiatica、Ceramide |
---|---|
Concentrations | unknown |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 100mL |
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Hyaluronic Acid、Retinol、Vitamin E、Aloe Vera |
---|---|
Concentrations | 2.5% Retinol |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 60mL |
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid (BHA)、Centella Asiatica、Tea Tree Leaf Water、Lactobionic Acid (PHA and AHA)、Hyaluronic Acid |
---|---|
Concentrations | 73% Tea Tree Leaf Water, 4.5% Centella Asiatica |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 50mL |
This SKIN1004 serum is your one-stop solution for achieving a healthy, radiant complexion! It delivers hydration with hyaluronic acid and Centella asiatica, leaving your skin soothed and refreshed. The 5-layer hyaluronic acid complex also provides long-lasting moisture, keeping your skin plump and supple throughout the day.
Moreover, the formula includes ivy leaf extract to energize dull skin and ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier. Plus, niacinamide and adenosine work together to brighten and target signs of aging. Buyers praise the quick-absorbing, non-sticky finish for comfortable, all-day wear.
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid、Centella Asiatica、Ceramide、Ivy Leaf Extract |
---|---|
Concentrations | 39% Centella Asiatica, 1.6% Hyaluronic Acid |
Base Type | Water-Based |
Dark Glass Bottle | |
Dropper | |
Net Weight | 50mL |
If you’re looking to elevate your skincare routine for combination skin, choosing the right products can truly transform your complexion. From balancing oil to keeping your skin hydrated, the right essentials are key. To help you achieve that perfect glow, we've curated a list of skincare must-haves that work harmoniously to address both dry and oily areas, ensuring your skin stays balanced, nourished, and radiant.
9 Best Cleansers For Combination Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Night Creams for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Face Moisturizers for Dry Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
No. 1: Dermorepubliq|5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid for Sensitive Skin Formula
No. 2: Klued|Multi-Brightening Complex Serum
No. 3: Dr. Sensitive|Niacinamide 5% + Salicylic Acid Serum
No. 4: COSRX|Blemish Spot Clearing Serum
No. 5: LUXE ORGANIX|Clinical Pro Retinol Radiance Serum
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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