# Neutrogena Stubborn Marks PM Treatment for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-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: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/serums)

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

A weak match for dry sensitive skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your dry and flaky skin due to glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, but the inclusion of retinol poses risks of worsening sensitivity.
- While the formula is free of harsh ingredients and safe for your dry and sensitive skin, it lacks sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients for optimal hydration.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinol Sa, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf Extract

## 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Topical application of a dermocosmetic containing Myrtus communis extract and azelaic acid reduced acne relapses and helped maintain remission compared to a light moisturizing cream in adult females in the acne maintenance phase over 16 weeks. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36729399/))
- Topical treatments including podophyllotoxin, sodium nitrite, myrtle leaf extract, phenol, salicylic acid with lactic acid, SB206, and VP-102 were more efficacious than control in patients with molluscum contagiosum, whereas cantharidin, potassium hydroxide, and imiquimod showed varying degrees of efficacy. ([Clinics in Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34920817/))
- Topical Myrtle solution significantly reduced inflammatory lesions and acne severity index compared to 1% clindamycin solution in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Pharmacopuncture, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33408898/))

## Why other serums fit dry sensitive 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/))
- Tocopherol succinate-loaded ethosomal gel increased skin deposition, stability, moisture, and mechanical properties in 13 human subjects compared to a control gel over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35274433/))
- In 50 participants with sensitive skin, a Ceramide NP C15-containing emollient improved skin barrier function with a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss and induced modest changes in skin microbiota compared to the vehicle. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758783/))

## What reviewers say

Users with acne-prone skin report that this treatment effectively fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and dark spots, often showing visible results within a few weeks. While many praise its ability to smooth skin texture and even out tone, a significant number of users experience initial dryness, flaking, or stinging as their skin adjusts to the retinol formula.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Small quantity (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Prevents breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective on wrinkles (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this PM routine for your evening skincare. Start using the serum 3 times a week and increase to daily use if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer. This step locks in deep hydration for dry skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin using your palms. Let it absorb completely for a minute ⏱ before applying your next product.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the serum on completely dry skin for better tolerance and less irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Always do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Neutrogena Stubborn Marks PM Treatment a weak match for dry sensitive skin?

This treatment is a weak match because, while it provides some hydration, the retinol in it may worsen your sensitivity. A treatment for dry and sensitive skin needs rich nourishing ingredients and protective barriers that lock in moisture and soothe irritation without any risk of stinging.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a poor fit for dry sensitive skin?

Retinol is a weak match for your dry and sensitive skin because it may worsen irritation and dryness. A treatment of this type needs rich moisturizing ingredients and protective skin barrier builders to soothe and hydrate dry skin safely.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Retinol SA do for dry sensitive skin?

Retinol SA helps smooth wrinkles and improve texture, but it may cause irritation for dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients and gentle delivery systems to keep skin calm and hydrated.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25607905/), [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42355603/)

### What does Vitamin C do for dry sensitive skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten and smooth dry sensitive skin while reducing wrinkles and improving elasticity. It is generally well tolerated and unlikely to cause irritation when properly formulated, leaving the skin looking more radiant.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/), [Antioxidants, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38397772/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and a soothing toner, and before your moisturizer. Because this product is a weak match for your dry and sensitive skin, a treatment of this type needs rich softening oils and protective barrier-building ingredients to prevent dryness and irritation.

### Can I use this treatment with benzoyl peroxide, and in what order?

Using this treatment with benzoyl peroxide may easily overwhelm dry and sensitive skin because both ingredients tend to cause significant peeling and irritation. If you choose to use both, apply them on alternate nights or separate them into different routines rather than layering them at the same time, and always follow up with a rich moisturizer.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

This product is a weak match because the retinol inside may worsen your sensitivity, so it is safer to start using it just once a week in the evening. A product of this type needs rich moisturizing ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and plant oils to properly soothe and protect dry and sensitive skin.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores, but the retinol inside may cause some peeling or purging as your skin adjusts. Because your skin is dry and sensitive, a product of this type needs rich, soothing oils and barrier-protecting ingredients to keep it soft and calm.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Stearyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$639.95 at Amazon
- [KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kravebeauty/great-barrier-relief/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$75.11 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$19.39 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-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/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.35 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$19.39 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$54.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/galactomyces-95-tone-balancing-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$33.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$116.08 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.35 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$19.39 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$35.50 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$28.48 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/galactomyces-95-tone-balancing-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$33.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$116.08 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Ppg-15 Stearyl Ether, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Ceteareth-20, Isohexadecane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Trisiloxane, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Chlorphenesin, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf Extract, Polysorbate 20, Bht, Retinol, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ascorbic Acid, Laureth-7, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/stubborn-marks-pm-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin