# Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/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 Canada.

Brand: [Glow Recipe](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/glow-recipe)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/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 poor match for dry sensitive skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry or flaky skin due to the presence of retinyl linoleate and retinol, which promote cell turnover but may lead to dryness.
- The inclusion of glycerin and squalane provides some hydration, but the potent retinoids can still cause irritation for your sensitive skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Blackberry Extract, Retinol, Squalane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Bisabolol

## 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/))
- 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 blackberry and dill extract combination synergistically increased skin elasticity and induced elastogenesis compared to each ingredient alone and placebo. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32583541/))
- Tropical highland blackberry juice reduced UVB-mediated DNA damage and increased apoptosis in human epidermal keratinocytes and a reconstituted skin equivalent model. ([Photochemistry and Photobiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23711186/))
- Strawberry and blackberry crude extracts, anthocyanin-enriched fractions, and proanthocyanidin-enriched fractions demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects through ROS reduction, gene expression inhibition, and NO suppression, while anthocyanin fractions promoted fibroblast migration in vitro. ([Food Research International, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31108769/))
- 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is widely praised as a gentle yet effective entry-level retinol that clears acne and smooths texture without the irritation typical of stronger retinoids. While many users with sensitive skin report excellent results in fading dark spots and reducing breakouts, a notable minority experienced adverse reactions to the fragrance or found the formula too weak for advanced needs.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too weak (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 does Lovi advise caution with Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum for dry sensitive skin?

Lovi advises caution because the potent retinoids inside may cause dryness and irritation on your sensitive skin. Treatments that fit dry sensitive skin better need gentle hydrating ingredients that lock in moisture and soothe the skin barrier without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

The retinol and retinyl linoleate make this serum a poor fit because they promote cell turnover but may lead to dryness and irritation on sensitive skin. A product of this type needs gentle hydrating and nourishing ingredients, along with ceramides, to protect dry skin and provide moisture without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Blackberry Extract do for dry sensitive skin?

Blackberry extract helps calm dry sensitive skin by reducing irritation and protecting against daily damage from the sun and environment. It may also help support skin healing and keep your skin feeling smooth and comfortable.
Sources: [Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25680589/), [Food Research International, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31108769/)

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

Retinol is often too strong for dry sensitive skin because it may cause scaling and stinging, so a product of this type needs gentle soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep the skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Toxicology Letters, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14615068/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after your soothing toner and before your moisturizer. Because this type of product uses potent ingredients that may cause dryness and irritation on dry sensitive skin, it needs gentle hydrators and soothing ingredients to keep skin calm and comfortable.

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

It is best to use vitamin C in your morning routine and this serum at night to help prevent dryness and irritation on your sensitive skin. If you do use them together, apply your vitamin C first, let it absorb completely, and follow with a rich moisturizer containing soothing ingredients like squalane and glycerin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum is a poor match for your dry sensitive skin because potent retinoids can cause irritation and dryness. A product of this type for your skin needs soothing, calming ingredients and plenty of hydration to keep your skin soft and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

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

This serum may cause breakouts and dryness for your dry sensitive skin because potent retinoids can lead to irritation and flaky skin. A product of this type needs gentle hydrating ingredients like glycerin and squalane along with soothing agents to keep skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kravebeauty/great-barrier-relief/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$40.00 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/matrixyl-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$14.40 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$38.00 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/galactomyces-95-tone-balancing-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.49 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$95.99 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/galactomyces-95-tone-balancing-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.49 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$95.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Ectoin, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil, Blackberry Fruit Extract, Bisabolol, Retinyl Linoleate, Epilobium Angustifolium Stem Extract Flower Leaf, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Retinal, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Fruit Extract, Retinol, Tocopherol, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Erythritol, Citric Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Glycine Soja Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum
## 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/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin