# CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-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 Australia.

Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/cerave)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/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 suitability for normal skin with sensitivity, as sodium hyaluronate provides humectant action, while retinol and niacinamide target fine lines and wrinkles effectively.
- The presence of Niacinamide and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate offers mild anti-inflammatory effects supportive for redness and irritation.
- The product is safe for your normal skin with sensitivity, as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Encapsulated Retinol, Niacinamide, 3 Essential Ceramides, Licorice Root Extract

## 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/))
- Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate-loaded hydroxypropyl chitosan and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogels applied to wounds in a mouse full-thickness skin defect model resulted in rapid wound closure, efficient tissue remolding, collagen deposition, and decreased inflammation compared to commercial Tegaderm film and 3M dressing controls. ([Acta Biomaterialia, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35245682/))
- A facial cream containing Centella asiatica leaf extract, ceramide NP, and panthenol reduced mean SS-10 scores by 66% and 76% after 2 and 4 weeks in Chinese females with sensitive skin, providing effective soothing and barrier-repairing properties with mild adverse events. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682399/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is highly regarded as a gentle introduction to retinol, effectively smoothing skin texture and reducing the appearance of post-acne marks with minimal irritation. Many users observe a radiant complexion and diminished pores, though significant improvements in hyperpigmentation typically require consistent application over several weeks to months.

- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades acne marks (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Affordable value (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Initial dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too mild (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 CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum work for sensitive skin?

This serum works moderately well for sensitive skin, as it helps smooth fine lines while soothing irritation with niacinamide and ceramides. However, because retinol can sometimes cause stinging, this skin type needs a treatment packed with calming plant extracts and barrier-repairing ceramides to keep skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Niacinamide, ceramides, and licorice root extract make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin by helping calm redness and irritation. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients, antioxidants, and skin-repairing components to care for sensitive skin properly.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682399/)

### What does Encapsulated Retinol do for sensitive skin?

Encapsulated retinol helps smooth skin and reduce dark spots with a lower chance of redness and irritation than standard retinol. Delivery systems release the ingredient slowly, which improves comfort and tolerance for sensitive skin.
Sources: [Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38952060/)

### What does Niacinamide do for sensitive skin?

Niacinamide helps calm sensitive skin by strengthening the skin barrier and reducing redness and irritation. It is very well tolerated and may improve overall comfort and resilience with regular use.
Sources: [Cutis, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16209160/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/)

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

This serum goes in your evening routine, applied after your soothing toner and before your moisturizer. A sensitive skin routine needs gentle calming ingredients like ceramides and licorice root extract to keep skin calm and comfortable.

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

You can use this treatment with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in the morning and this product at night to keep sensitive skin calm. Using both together in the same routine may be too strong and cause redness, so separating them helps prevent irritation.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this serum in your evening routine once a week at first, and you may slowly use it more often if your skin tolerates it well. Retinol helps smooth fine lines, but sensitive skin needs a product of this type to include soothing ingredients like ceramides and licorice root extract to keep skin calm.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum may cause mild initial breakouts or purging for sensitive skin when you first start using it, though it is generally considered safe with a low likelihood of severe irritation. To work well for sensitive skin without clogging pores, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides to keep the skin calm and balanced.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682399/)

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

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

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$50.60 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$27.50 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$34.41 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$54.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$41.49 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07VWSN95S?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Niacinamide, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Dimethiconol, Lecithin, Sodium Citrate, Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Alcohol, Isopropyl Myristate, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Pentylene Glycol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, 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/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/resurfacing-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin