# IOPE Retinol Super Bounce Serum for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-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 Arab Emirates.

Brand: [IOPE](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/iope)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/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 anti-aging benefits for your combination skin, as retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate work to reduce fine lines and stimulate collagen. Glycerin and squalane provide general hydration, which is supportive but does not directly target your oily shine.
- The formula is generally safe for your combination skin, though the presence of retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate carries a slight risk of irritation.
- The product is highly suitable for combination skin due to the desquamation regulation and collagen stimulation provided by retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Squalane, Madecassoside, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Beta-Carotene

## 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/))
- 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- 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/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- A topical serum containing hydroxypinacolone retinoate and peptides used twice daily for 16 weeks achieved parity or statistically significantly better improvement in facial aging parameters compared to a single fractional CO2 laser treatment in women with moderate global photodamage. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39394831/))
- Combined probiotic supplementation and topical azelaic acid with hydroxypinacolone retinoate reduced non-inflammatory lesions from 11.5 to 7.3 and decreased microscopic acne features measured by reflectance confocal microscopy and dynamic optical coherence tomography in 20 patients over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/))
- Hydroxypinacolone retinoate and retinyl propionate at a 5:9 weight ratio synergistically enhanced antiaging gene expressions in vitro and improved skin wrinkles, smoothness, transepidermal water loss, and elasticity in 42 Chinese urban women over an 8-week period without adverse reactions compared to retinol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36762391/))
- Topical beta-carotene provided protection for the human skin of healthy volunteers against IR radiation by acting as a superficial antioxidant, though dermal carotenoid degradation was significantly higher for standard infrared radiator than for water filter infrared irradiation. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21255091/))
- Pre-treatment with beta-carotene at 1.5 microM modulated UVA-induced gene regulation in HaCaT human keratinocytes through multiple mechanisms not restricted to singlet oxygen quenching, reducing the effect for 143 genes and enhancing it for 180 out of 568 UVA-regulated genes. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15675964/))
- Alginate hydrogel dressings co-loaded with cinnamon-mediated silver nanoparticles, beta-carotene nanocarriers, and Centella asiatica extract demonstrated antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli over a 24-h period while mitigating silver-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress in human keratinocyte cells. ([Gels, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41002512/))

## Why other serums fit combination skin better

- 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/))
- 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 regarded for its anti-aging benefits, particularly its gentleness on sensitive skin and suitability for retinol beginners. Users frequently observe improvements in skin firmness, elasticity, and pore appearance, effectively addressing fine lines and dullness without causing irritation.

- Liked: Zero irritation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves firmness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Refines texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Opaque packaging (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 IOPE Retinol Super Bounce Serum work for combination skin?

This serum works moderately well for combination skin by smoothing fine lines and providing light hydration, though it is less effective at controlling oily shine. Because it contains retinol, it carries a slight risk of irritation. A product for this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, or propolis to regulate oiliness and add radiance without irritation.
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?

Retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate help smooth fine lines and boost collagen for your combination skin. While glycerin and squalane provide soft, light hydration, this skin type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to help control oily shine.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### 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/)

### What does Squalane do for combination skin?

Squalane helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by locking in moisture without feeling heavy or greasy. It supports the skin barrier and provides lightweight hydration that works well for both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [Skin Health and Disease, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39355739/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine for combination skin. Putting treatments in the evening keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with niacinamide by applying niacinamide first to calm and hydrate your skin, followed by this treatment. This combination helps smooth fine lines while minimizing the risk of irritation from the retinol ingredients.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is used in the evening for your combination skin. Combination skin needs products with lightweight hydration and oil-balancing ingredients that manage shine while delivering active anti-aging benefits.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores, but the retinol inside may cause some initial dryness and a slight risk of irritation or purging for your combination skin. Combination skin needs lightweight hydrators and pore-clearing ingredients that balance oily shine while smoothing fine lines without heaviness.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 1,348.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 145.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 267.00 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B0CK4PZ38Z?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Squalane, Methyl Trimethicone, Glycerin, Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone, 2-Hexanediol, Lactobacillus Lysate Ferment, C14-22 Alcohols, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Palmitic Acid, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Dimethyl Isosorbide, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Carbomer, Mannitol, Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract Carrot Root Extract, Glyceryl Caprylate, Tromethamine, Disodium Edta, Kojyl Methylenedioxycinnamate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Madecassoside, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Retinol, Trehalose, Beta-Carotene, Tocopherol, Bht, Acacia Senegal Gum, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11, Hydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Decapeptide-4, Sodium Oleate, Propylene Glycol Alginate, Rice Sh-Oligopeptide-1
## 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/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/iope/retinol-super-bounce-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)