# Derma E Retinol Concentrated Serum for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-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 Canada.

Brand: [Derma E](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/derma-e)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/serums)

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.

Works for dry skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate treatment for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles due to the presence of retinol and bakuchiol, which provide anti-aging visible effects suitable for your dry skin. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate offer hydration, but the formula lacks sufficient emollient ingredients for optimal moisture retention on dry or flaky skin.
- The product is safe for your dry skin as it contains no prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.
- It provides general skincare benefits like hydration and soothing, which are supportive for your skin concerns.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Encapsulated Retinol, Bakuchiol, Punica Granatum Extract, Astaxanthin, Sodium Hyaluronate

## 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/))
- Astaxanthin-loaded polyhydroxybutyrate microbeads achieved 98.1% encapsulation efficiency with sustained release, reduced degradation by 2-fold compared to unencapsulated astaxanthin, and showed no cytotoxicity or skin irritation in human cells and tests. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38072340/))
- 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 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/))
- A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract, and mannitol improves inflammatory lesions, Investigator Global Assessment, and seborrhea intensity when added to adapalene 0.1% gel in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/))
- Topical application of a serum containing supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia chebula extract significantly improved barrier function, reduced redness and sensitivity, and improved wrinkles and elasticity in 34 Chinese subjects with sensitive skin after 28 days. ([Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/))
- Bakuchiol functions as an anti-aging compound through retinol-like regulation of gene expression, producing significant improvements in lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, firmness, and photo-damage after 12 weeks of twice-a-day facial application without usual retinol therapy-associated undesirable effects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24471735/))
- Phenolic-rich pomegranate peel extract formulated into a serum and mask showed significantly better facial skin lightening efficacy than placebo in 30 volunteers over 28 days. ([Planta Medica, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32428937/))
- Topical application of a 2% cream containing combined fruit extracts for 56 days significantly reduced wrinkle depth by 11.5%, length by 10.07%, and area by 29.55% in 21 female subjects compared to a placebo. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26203268/))
- A topical microemulsion containing Punica granatum extract significantly reduced skin erythema and melanin compared to a placebo in healthy Asian subjects over 12 weeks. ([Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25610348/))
- Oral astaxanthin supplementation significantly restored moisture content and improved elasticity but did not significantly decrease wrinkle depth compared to placebo in humans. ([Nutrients, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34578794/))
- Combining oral and topical astaxanthin in 30 healthy females improved skin wrinkles, age spots, elasticity, texture, and moisture, while 6 mg daily oral supplementation in 36 healthy males improved crow's feet wrinkles, elasticity, and transepidermal water loss. ([Acta Biochimica Polonica, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22428137/))
- Twice-daily application of a novel topical antioxidant formulation safe, well-tolerated, and effective in improving overall skin quality, fine lines, wrinkles, radiance, and hyperpigmentation in 32 healthy female subjects over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37608511/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit dry skin better

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is frequently praised for being gentle and suitable for sensitive skin, effectively improving texture and firmness. Many users report positive results without irritation, making it a good option for those new to retinol. Some users express frustration with the dropper design, and a few mention slow results or a sticky texture.

- Liked: Gentle on skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Good for beginners (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Dropper design issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky texture (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum PM, starting 3×/week and working up to daily use as your skin adjusts.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does DERMA E Retinol Concentrated Serum work for dry skin?

This serum works moderately well for dry skin, offering anti-aging benefits while helping to smooth fine lines, though it lacks enough rich moisturizing ingredients to lock in hydration. A treatment of this type for dry skin needs extra nourishing and soothing ingredients like ceramides, peptides, or niacinamide along with heavy moisturizers to properly seal in water and keep the skin soft.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate make this serum a fit for dry skin by drawing in moisture, while encapsulated retinol and bakuchiol help smooth fine lines. However, a product for dry skin also needs rich softening ingredients to lock in that moisture and prevent flaking.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Encapsulated retinol helps improve skin dryness while keeping irritation low. This type of ingredient provides sustained hydration and comfort for dry skin over weeks of use.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42355603/)

### What does Bakuchiol do for dry skin?

Bakuchiol helps soothe sensitive dry skin while keeping it soft and smooth. It improves skin moisture content and barrier function while reducing redness and irritation.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33346506/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. It is safe for dry skin and helps smooth fine lines, but this skin type needs extra rich moisturizing ingredients that lock in hydration.

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

This treatment helps smooth fine lines on dry skin, but a product of this type needs rich moisturizing ingredients to lock in hydration and prevent flaking. It is unlikely to cause irritation when used safely, though dry skin requires extra nourishing ingredients to stay soft.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### How often should I use this serum?

Apply this treatment serum in the evening. This timing is best for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. A product of this type for dry skin needs extra rich moisturizing ingredients to help lock in hydration.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry skin, and it has a safe profile without harsh ingredients that typically trigger irritation. Because it contains retinol, you may experience some initial mild flaking or purging as your skin adjusts to the treatment.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kravebeauty/great-barrier-relief/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$40.00 at Amazon
- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-capsule-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$22.49 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/matrixyl-10-ha/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$14.40 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Tata Harper Repairative Moisturizer](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/tata-harper/repairative-moisturizer/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$162.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Retinol, Bakuchiol, Astaxanthin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Aspalathus Linearius Extract, Allantoin, Sodium Pca, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Carbomer, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Potassium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/dry-skin