# Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-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 Germany.

Brand: [Biossance](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/biossance)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/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 benefits for your normal skin, as squalane and glycerin support hydration and barrier function, while bakuchiol and niacinamide improve texture and minimize fine lines.
- The serum provides general soothing and hydration due to ingredients like niacinamide and Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, which can be supportive for redness and irritation.
- The product is safe for your sensitive skin, containing no harsh ingredients and including soothing components like niacinamide and Rosa Canina Oil Fruit.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Biosaccharide Gum-1

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

## What reviewers say

Users frequently report improvements in skin texture and significant hydration without the irritation commonly associated with retinoids. Some users find the name misleading and the scent polarizing, while others note the high price and recent availability issues.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and moisturizing (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Availability issues (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Misleading name (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Polarizing scent (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 Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum work for sensitive skin?

Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum works decently for sensitive skin, though other products fit it better. To fit this skin well, a treatment needs ingredients that target redness and irritation without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Squalane, glycerin, and niacinamide make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin by keeping it hydrated and calm. To work even better for sensitive skin, a product of this type needs soothing components and antioxidants that target redness while avoiding any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Squalane do for sensitive skin?

Squalane helps calm sensitive skin by defending against everyday irritation and keeping it smooth and soft. It is unlikely to cause irritation and supports your skin barrier so it stays comfortable and hydrated.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29280987/)

### What does Bakuchiol do for sensitive skin?

Bakuchiol helps improve barrier function, reduces redness and sensitivity, and softens fine lines in sensitive skin with a very low likelihood of scaling and stinging.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/)

### 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. Treatments with active ingredients are placed at night for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. To work best for sensitive skin, a product of this type needs calming ingredients like niacinamide and plant oils to soothe redness and irritation while supporting your skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40327583/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

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

This serum contains bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative that helps smooth skin like traditional retinoids, so using them together may easily cause dryness or irritation. To safely include both in your routine, use your regular retinol on alternating nights or use this serum in the morning and your retinol at night.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment in the evening as part of your routine. Products of this type for sensitive skin work best when they include gentle hydrators and soothing ingredients to keep skin calm and smooth.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin because it relies on lightweight, hydrating ingredients like squalane and glycerin instead of heavy oils. It also does not contain traditional retinol, so it will not cause the typical skin purging associated with harsher anti-aging treatments.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (linalool, geraniol, and limonene).

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €57.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €169.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €29.76 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €39.99 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.89 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €18.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Squalane, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Bakuchiol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Citrus Aurantium Amara Peel Oil, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Lecithin, Hexylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Gluconate, Citric Acid, Linalool, Geraniol, Limonene, Yeast Extract, Amino Acids, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
## 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/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biossance/squalane-phyto-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin