# SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 Maximum Strength Refining Night Cream for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/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: [SkinCeuticals](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/skinceuticals)
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 skin refinement for your normal skin due to retinol's ability to smooth texture and minimize fine lines, while bisabolol provides some anti-inflammatory benefits for redness.
- The high concentration of retinol, however, poses a significant risk of worsening your skin's sensitivity and irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Silybum Marianum Milk Extract, Passiflora Incarnata 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))
- Silybum marianum flower extract increased human hair follicle dermal papilla cell proliferation and VEGF production while suppressing cellular senescence, and in a clinical study using hair shampoo, it significantly increased hair density and total hair count at 16 and 24 weeks compared with a placebo group. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37675655/))
- Topical 0.5% silymarin-loaded antioxidant serum applied twice daily significantly reduced clinical acne severity, lesion counts, and melanin pigmentation in 22 Korean acne patients over 4 weeks without associated adverse events. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36204969/))
- Topical silymarin cream 1.4% showed comparable results to salicylic acid 30% peels in reducing acne severity in 30 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37942562/))
- Topical chrysin nanoemulgel improved percutaneous absorption and in vitro cytotoxicity on A375 and SK-MEL-2 cell lines compared to unformulated chrysin, demonstrating effective localized transcutaneous delivery. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34207014/))
- Chrysin attenuated apoptosis, ROS production, COX-2 expression, and AQP-3 down-regulation induced by UVB and UVA in HaCaT keratinocytes, while showing efficient percutaneous absorption and no skin irritation in animal studies. ([Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21699266/))
- Chrysin treatment reduced injury area and inflammation while increasing bFGF secretion, promoting the healing of amiodarone extravasation-induced skin injury in rats compared to control and 10% DMSO groups. ([Microvascular Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34534572/))

## 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

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently describe this cream as a powerhouse professional-grade treatment that delivers dramatic improvements in skin texture, clarity, and firmness, often outperforming prescription alternatives. While the results are highly praised, the majority of reviews emphasize that the retinization period—characterized by peeling, redness, and dryness—is intense and requires a slow, careful introduction to the routine.

- Liked: Effective anti-aging (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Refines skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne & pores (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Intense irritation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast-acting results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging design flaws (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 SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 work for sensitive skin?

SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 Maximum Strength Refining Night Cream works moderately well for sensitive skin to smooth texture and minimize fine lines, but its high retinol concentration poses a significant risk of worsening irritation. A product for this skin needs soothing antioxidants, gentle hydrating components, and skin-repairing ingredients that calm redness without any risk of unsuitability.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Bisabolol helps provide calming benefits for redness, while glycerin helps keep dry skin hydrated. Sensitive skin of this type needs products with gentle antioxidants, hydrating ingredients, and soothing agents that calm redness and irritation without any risk of causing stinging or scaling.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### 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 Glycerin do for sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps keep sensitive skin soft and deeply hydrated while supporting the skin barrier. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may protect against dryness and roughness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10598752/)

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

This cream goes in the evening routine after your soothing toner and before your moisturizer, but because of its high retinol strength, sensitive skin needs a product with calming ingredients like bisabolol and soothing plant extracts to keep irritation low.

### Can I use this cream with glycolic acid, and in what order?

Using this cream with glycolic acid may easily irritate your sensitive skin, so it is best to avoid using them together. If you do want to use both, apply the glycolic acid first on different nights from this cream to help lower the chance of redness and discomfort.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This high-strength retinol cream carries a significant risk of worsening sensitive skin, so you should start using it just once a week to see how your skin reacts. If your skin tolerates it well and stays calm, you may carefully increase how often you apply it. Sensitive skin needs gentle, fragrance-free products packed with soothing hydrators like glycerin and shea butter to keep it soft and comfortable.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

This cream may cause redness, flaking and irritation on sensitive skin due to its high strength of retinol. To work well for this skin type, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients and a lower strength that calms the skin without causing breakouts.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying 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

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

## Ingredients

Water, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Propylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Allyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Dimethiconol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Peg-7 Isostearate, Retinol, Laureth-23, Laureth-4, Sodium Polyacrylate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Bht, Bisabolol, Tetrasodium Edta, Passiflora Incarnata Flower Extract, Rosa Canina Leaf Extract, Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract, Hypericum Perforatum Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Leaf Extract Matricaria Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Methylisothiazolinone
## 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/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin