# Olay Retinol24 for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/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: [Olay](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/olay)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/moisturizers)

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.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing and anti-aging benefits for your normal skin due to glycerin and retinol, which hydrate and minimize fine lines.
- While niacinamide and retinol offer antioxidant activity and desquamation regulation, the formula's hydration focus with dimethicone and glycerin is largely irrelevant to your redness and irritation concerns.
- The product is safe for your sensitive skin, as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/dry-skin): Warning
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin): Low (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Warning
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Dimethicone, Glycerin

## 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## Why other moisturizers fit sensitive skin better

- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A dexpanthenol-containing cream accelerated skin barrier repair, increased stratum corneum hydration, reduced skin roughness, and decreased skin redness compared to vehicle and untreated controls in sodium lauryl sulphate-irritated skin. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19753737/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently report waking up to noticeably smoother and softer skin, with many praising the product's ability to hydrate without feeling heavy or greasy. While effective for brightening dullness and reducing fine lines over time, some users with sensitive skin experienced initial irritation or breakouts typical of retinol products.

- Liked: Smoother skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Deep hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight feel (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightening effect (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fragrance-free (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Jar packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this soothing AM and PM routine every day to keep your normal skin calm. Always remember to apply SPF in the morning after your moisturizer.
- Apply your moisturizer after your toner in the morning, and after your serum in the evening. This step locks in hydration and protects your skin.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer evenly across your face. Avoid rubbing to keep your sensitive skin happy and calm.
- You can apply this gentle formula on dry or slightly damp skin for the best comfort. It works wonderfully on clean skin to soothe redness and irritation.
- Do a patch test before your very first use to check your skin's reaction. Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Olay Retinol24 a weak match for sensitive skin?

Olay Retinol24 is a weak match because its focus on hydration and anti-aging ingredients does little for redness and irritation, even though it is generally safe and unlikely to irritate. A product of this type needs effective hydrating and soothing ingredients that calm redness while keeping the skin barrier strong, along with skin-friendly extracts or vitamins like pro vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

This cream is a weak match for sensitive skin because its focus on moisture and retinol does not address redness and irritation. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients to calm irritation and hydrating ingredients to strengthen the skin barrier.

### What does Water do for sensitive skin?

Using cool water for facial cleansing preserves skin barrier integrity and lowers skin surface pH in healthy adults. This helps keep skin calm and hydrated without causing the irritation associated with warmer water.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42722630/)

### What does Dimethicone do for sensitive skin?

Dimethicone helps protect sensitive skin against irritants and can keep it feeling calm and comfortable. It is generally well tolerated and unlikely to cause adverse reactions on delicate or reactive skin.
Sources: [Ostomy/wound Management, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16439809/), [Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after toner and before moisturizer, but since it is a weak match for sensitive skin, it needs gentle hydrators and calming ingredients to soothe redness and irritation.

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

This product is unlikely to cause irritation on sensitive skin, but because it focuses mainly on hydration and anti-aging rather than calming redness, you may want to introduce it carefully alongside vitamin C. Applying vitamin C in the morning and this treatment at night helps prevent overwhelming your skin.

### How often should I use it?

This treatment is unlikely to cause irritation on sensitive skin, but it is a weak match because its focus on hydration does not address redness. To care for sensitive skin, this type of product needs ingredients that soothe irritation and calm redness.

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

This cream is unlikely to cause irritation for your sensitive skin, but reviewers do mention moderate initial breakouts. To prevent breakouts and irritation, a product for this skin needs calming ingredients and lightweight hydrators that do not trap oil in your pores.

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

This product is safe to use around the eyes or on the body because it lacks harsh ingredients, though it is a weak match for sensitive skin. Skin on the body and around the eyes needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and soothing plant extracts to stay soft and smooth without getting red or irritated.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$21.81 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Super Aqua Ultra Hyalron Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/super-aqua-ultra-hyalron-ampoule/for/sensitive-skin) — Average fit — CA$37.99 at Amazon

## Routine for sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$27.34 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.25 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$30.98 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$157.17 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Sheet Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/anua/heartleaf-77-soothing-sheet-mask/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$10.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.25 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$30.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$39.00 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08XKH1GG5?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$42.74 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/olay-regenerist-retinol-24-max-night-face-moisturizer/p/BB_075609199202?variantCode=075609199202)
Prices checked 23 Oct – 2 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Retinol, Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Laureth-7, Dimethiconol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/olay/retinol24/for/sensitive-skin