# Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-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: [Sunday Riley](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/sunday-riley)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your normal skin, as hydroxypinacolone retinoate and retinol help minimize fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen and regulating desquamation. Bisabolol and honey extract provide mild soothing effects that can support your redness and irritation.
- The formulation is generally safe for your sensitive skin, with no harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like bisabolol and honey extract.
- This product is suitable for normal skin and offers excellent treatment for fine lines and wrinkles.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinoid Blend, Ubiquinone, Honey Extract, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

## What the research says

- 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 retinoids improve global assessment scores and reduce lesion counts compared to vehicle in patients with acne vulgaris, with adapalene demonstrating a superior tolerability profile and benzoyl peroxide combination optimizing results. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/))
- 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/))
- Trifarotene cream 0.005% resulted in a significantly greater reduction in total atrophic acne scar count compared with vehicle at Week 24 (55.2% vs 29.9%) in patients with atrophic acne scarring. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39984798/))
- Topical application of CoQ10 improves mitochondrial function in aging skin in vivo, combating cellular signs of aging caused by an age-dependent shift to a functionally anaerobic energy metabolism. ([BioFactors, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19096122/))
- Encapsulating coenzyme Q10 in lipid nanoparticles for topical use improves skin compatibility, protects against degradation, increases skin penetration, and provides controlled release to counteract aging effects. ([Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37574615/))
- Review of topical administration of carotenoids and coenzyme Q10 loaded in lipid nanoparticles highlights their improved bioavailability, chemical stability, skin absorption, and photoprotective effects. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34206935/))
- Honey-based dressings reduced mean healing duration, length of hospital stay, and VAS pain scores compared with povidone iodine-based dressings in 1236 participants. ([Journal of Wound Care, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33856925/))
- Topical honey application improved the mean duration of attacks and pain, occurrence of crusting, and healing time compared to acyclovir cream in 16 adult patients with recurrent labial and genital herpes lesions. ([Medical Science Monitor, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15278008/))
- 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/))
- A new topical gel formulation reduced total acne lesions by 80% and GAGS scores by 78% after 8 weeks in 22 female patients with mild facial acne without impairing skin barrier function or causing side effects. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32869963/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently praise this serum for its ability to deliver retinoid benefits like smoothed texture and reduced fine lines with minimal irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin or retinoid beginners. The formula includes soothing botanicals that help mitigate dryness and redness, improving overall skin clarity and radiance.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive product (often mentioned)
- Liked: Anti-aging results (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Moisturizing formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strength claims (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum work for sensitive skin?

Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum works moderately well for sensitive skin, helping to smooth fine lines while providing mild soothing effects to calm redness and irritation. This product type needs gentle, highly compatible ingredients that target redness and irritation with no risk of irritation, along with potent antioxidants, hydrating components, and skin-repairing ingredients to deliver optimal results safely.

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

Bisabolol and honey extract make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin by providing mild soothing effects that help calm redness and irritation. To fit sensitive skin even better, a product of this type needs calming ingredients like niacinamide and snail secretion filtrate to support skin health without irritation.

### What does Retinoid do for sensitive skin?

Retinoid helps improve fine lines, texture, and uneven tone in sensitive skin when introduced gradually. Because sensitive skin can react strongly to active ingredients, a product of this type needs soothing and hydrating additions like ceramides or peptides to keep the skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39496127/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36074511/)

### What does Coenzyme Q10 do for sensitive skin?

Coenzyme Q10 helps calm sensitive skin by defending against everyday environmental stress and boosting antioxidant protection. It is unlikely to irritate when formulated properly, though sensitive skin types generally need gentle, fragrance-free products rich in antioxidants and soothing agents to stay calm and smooth.
Sources: [BioFactors, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26648450/), [The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39148958/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. A product of this type needs soothing agents like bisabolol and honey extract to keep sensitive skin calm while managing fine lines and wrinkles.

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

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in your morning routine and this retinoid treatment at night, as using them at separate times helps avoid irritation. This type of sensitive skin needs gentle, fragrance-free vitamin C formulas along with soothing ingredients like bisabolol and honey extract to keep skin calm while brightening.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this serum in your evening routine, starting slowly to see how your sensitive skin reacts. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients like bisabolol and honey extract to help calm potential irritation while smoothing fine lines.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/), [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum may cause initial breakouts or minor purging for sensitive skin when you first start using it, though it includes soothing ingredients like bisabolol and honey extract to help calm irritation. A product of this type needs gentle retinoids combined with extra hydrating and soothing ingredients to keep sensitive skin comfortable while smoothing fine lines.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36762391/)

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

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol).

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 347.75 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — AED 89.30 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 81.41 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — AED 65.10 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 198.61 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B0B7JT39KP?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 31 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water Eau Agua, Propanediol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Triheptanoin, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Hexyldecanol, Disiloxane, Cetyl Peg Ppg-10 1 Dimethicone, Diheptyl Succinate, Propylene Carbonate, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Ppg-24-Glycereth-24, Phenyl Trimethicone, Retinol, Ubiquinone, Honey Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Algae Extract, Zingiber Officinale Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Bisabolol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Yeast Extract, Lecithin, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, 1,2-Hexanediol, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Sorbitol, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Polysilicone-11, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Phytate, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Polysorbate, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Stearic Acid, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Pvp, Capryloyl Glycerin Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Alcohol, Potassium Phosphate, Decyl Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopherol
## 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/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)