# Olay Retinol 24 Night Serum for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-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: [Olay](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/olay)
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

- Suitable for normal skin, this serum contains retinol and niacinamide to provide anti-aging benefits and improve skin texture, though the concentrations of Retinyl Propionate and Retinol may offer moderate exfoliation that is not ideal for your redness and irritation.
- The presence of Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 and Dimethicone offers moderate anti-aging effects by smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.
- The formulation is safe for your sensitive skin as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients, minimizing the risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Niacinamide, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Glycerin, Dimethicone

## What the research says

- 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/))
- A cosmetic niacinamide/peptide/retinyl propionate regimen significantly improved periorbital wrinkle appearance relative to a 0.02% tretinoin regimen at 8 weeks with comparable benefits at 24 weeks, while demonstrating significantly better tolerability in 196 women. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/))
- A novel triple-active cosmetic formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide improved the visual appearance of photoageing similarly to 0.02% tretinoin and reversed a consensus gene signature associated with ageing in female adults while causing less skin irritation. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/))
- Topical palmitoyl pentapeptide (pal-KTTKS) provided significant improvement versus placebo control in the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines in Caucasian female subjects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492182/))
- Combined therapy using a topical hyaluronic acid-niacinamide-Matrixyl serum and a multimodal facial device decreased TruSkin age by five years and reduced wrinkles more effectively than the serum alone in a 41-year-old woman with moderate facial aging over 12 weeks. ([Cureus, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42500768/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))

## Why other serums fit 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users consistently praise this serum for its gentle, non-drying formula that leaves skin feeling silky and hydrated, making it an excellent choice for retinol beginners. While many report noticeably smoother texture and a brighter complexion, some users note that deep wrinkle reduction takes significant time and the product can pill if layered incorrectly.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight absorption (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightening effect (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Product pilling (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (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 Olay Retinol 24 work for sensitive skin?

Olay Retinol 24 Night Serum works for sensitive skin, though it may cause moderate redness and irritation due to its exfoliating ingredients. A treatment for this skin needs soothing ingredients that calm redness, powerful hydrators, and gentle anti-aging components that smooth fine lines without triggering irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/)

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

Niacinamide and glycerin make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin by keeping it calm and hydrated while smoothing fine lines. A product for this skin needs soothing, hydrating ingredients and calming agents to reduce redness and irritation without harshness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/)

### What does Retinol do for sensitive skin?

Retinol is generally too harsh for sensitive skin and may cause stinging, scaling, and irritation. A product for this skin needs gentle ingredients that smooth and calm without causing redness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Toxicology Letters, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14615068/)

### 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 the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. Putting it at night helps keep things simple and keeps your skin safe from extra sun exposure. Because this serum has ingredients that may cause some redness, sensitive skin needs a gentle formula with soothing and calming ingredients to keep it comfortable.

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

You can use this serum and vitamin C in the same routine, but applying them at different times of day helps prevent extra redness and irritation. Try vitamin C in the morning with your sunscreen and use this retinol serum at night. Sensitive skin needs gentle hydrating ingredients and soothing agents to keep the barrier calm and comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works for your sensitive skin, though other products fit it better, so you should use it only once a week in the evening to keep redness and irritation down. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients like niacinamide and glycerin alongside gentle hydrators to keep delicate skin comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, but it may cause mild flaking or irritation on sensitive skin due to the retinol it contains. A product of this type for sensitive skin needs soothing ingredients and gentle hydrators like glycerin and niacinamide to keep the skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl 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$29.99 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0D5LJGN71?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Retinyl Propionate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Bht, Butylene Glycol, Dimethiconol, Niacinamide, Polysorbate 20, Laureth-4, Laureth-7, Disodium Edta, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Polyacrylamide, Peg-100 Stearate, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Tin Oxide, C13-14 Alkane, Dmdm Hydantoin, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Benzyl Alcohol
## 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/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/olay/retinol-24-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin