# innisfree Retinol Cica Moisture Recovery Serum for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [innisfree](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/innisfree)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for dry skin; a few moisturizers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and hydration for your dry skin, as retinol and salicylic acid work to regulate desquamation and improve barrier resilience, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide essential humectant action.
- Niacinamide and allantoin offer soothing benefits, complementing the moisturizing effects for comfortable wear.
- The product is safe for your dry skin, containing no harsh ingredients and including beneficial components like niacinamide and allantoin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Centella Asiatica, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np

## What the research says

- 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/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical treatment with 5% vitamin C and 0.1% madecassoside significantly improved clinical scores for wrinkles, suppleness, firmness, roughness, and skin hydration, along with functional and structural remodeling of the elastic fiber network in 20 female volunteers with photoaged skin after 6 months compared to baseline. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503551/))
- 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 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

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is a gentle, beginner-friendly option that effectively refines skin texture, reduces acne, and hydrates without causing irritation, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Some experienced retinol users find it too mild for significant anti-aging effects.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating, soothing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too mild (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Confusing rebranding (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and work your way up to daily use.
- Apply your moisturizer after your toner and before your sunscreen in the morning. At night, use it as the final step after your serum.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing to keep your dry skin happy.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra hydration. This is great for soothing dry and flaky areas .
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes innisfree Retinol Cica Moisture Recovery Serum a great fit for dry skin?

Innisfree Retinol Cica Moisture Recovery Serum is a great fit for dry skin because it provides both moisture and gentle smoothing. Ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate help keep skin hydrated, while retinol and salicylic acid gently smooth the surface and niacinamide calms the skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This serum is a great fit for dry skin because glycerin and sodium hyaluronate draw in moisture, while retinol and salicylic acid help smooth the surface. It also includes soothing niacinamide and allantoin, which help keep dry skin comfortable and calm.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Retinol do for dry skin?

Retinol is a poor fit for dry skin because it frequently causes scaling, stinging, and dryness. To care for dry skin properly, a product needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and keep the skin barrier calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### What does Centella Asiatica do for dry skin?

Centella asiatica helps dry skin by boosting moisture levels and keeping water locked in to make the skin feel softer and smoother. It also calms redness and supports the natural barrier to prevent everyday irritation.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This treatment serum goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting active serums in the evening keeps things simple and gives you extra safety around sun exposure.

### 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, or by alternating the nights you use each. Because combining strong active ingredients may sometimes irritate dry skin, using them at different times of day helps keep your skin calm and comfortable.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this serum in the evening as part of your nighttime routine. Start by applying it once a week to see how your skin reacts, and if it feels comfortable and stays smooth, you may carefully use it more often.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

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

This product is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry skin, though the retinol may cause mild initial purging. It helps smooth and hydrate your skin while keeping it calm with soothing ingredients.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can I use this serum around the eyes or on my body?

This serum is safe to use around the eyes and on the body because it features a gentle formula with soothing ingredients like niacinamide and allantoin. It helps keep these areas comfortable and hydrated while delivering effective care without harshness.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/hydrium-triple-hyaluronic-moisture-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — High fit — A$42.40 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/dry-skin) — High fit — A$26.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.59 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$23.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Australia has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Dibutyl Adipate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Cholesterol, Allantoin, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate, Propanediol, Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract Carrot Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Seed Extract, Asiatic Acid, Retinol, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Mannitol, Ceramide Np, Beta-Glucan, Beta-Carotene, Phytosphingosine, Bht, Salicylic Acid, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11
## 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/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/innisfree/retinol-cica-moisture-recovery-serum/for/dry-skin