# Vichy Liftactiv Pure Retinol Serum for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-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 Germany.

Brand: [Vichy](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/vichy)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/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.

A poor match for dry skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate treatment for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles due to the presence of retinol and palmitoyl tripeptide-1, but may pose risks for your dry skin due to alcohol denat and the inherent drying nature of retinol.
- While sodium hyaluronate and glycerin provide hydration, the formula lacks sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients to fully counteract potential dryness for your dry skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Glycerin

## 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/))
- Chronomodulated daytime application of baicalin and nighttime application of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 synergistically improved skin luminance by 16.29%, nasolabial fold depth by -36.35%, and firmness by 24.35% in 30 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))
- Rice protein hydrolysate and its characteristic peptides Leu-Leu-Lys, Leu-Pro-Lys, and pyroGlu-Lys reduced melanin content, tyrosinase activity, and ROS production in UVB-induced human epidermal melanocyte PIG1 cells by regulating the JNK/Β-Trcp/NFΗB-p65/MITF signaling pathway and lowering TRP-1 and TRP-2 expression. ([Food & Function, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32955075/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## 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

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Vichy Liftactiv Pure Retinol Serum for dry skin?

Lovi advises caution because retinol and alcohol denat may cause dryness and irritation on dry skin, and the formula lacks enough heavy moisturizers and skin softeners to fully protect it. A product for this skin needs rich hydrating ingredients, ceramides, niacinamide, or soothing plant extracts to nourish and support the skin barrier without causing irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This serum may not suit dry skin because it contains alcohol denat and retinol, which can dry out the skin further. While it includes hydrating ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and glycerin, it lacks enough heavy moisturizing and sealing ingredients to fully prevent that dryness. Dry skin needs formulations rich in soothing, highly hydrating ingredients, protective barriers like ceramides, and nourishing elements such as propolis, niacinamide, or fermented extracts to maintain health without 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/)

### What does Retinol do for dry skin?

Retinol is a poor fit for dry skin because it frequently causes scaling, stinging, and dryness. To care for dry skin properly, a product needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and keep the skin barrier calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry skin?

Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into dry skin, giving an immediate and lasting boost in hydration that helps smooth out fine lines and soften rough patches. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving overall skin smoothness and plumpness.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. A product of this type for dry skin needs rich moisturizing oils and protective ingredients to lock in hydration and prevent irritation from active ingredients.

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

It is best to use this serum and vitamin C at different times of the day, such as vitamin C in the morning and this serum at night, to help prevent extra irritation on dry skin. Using them separately helps reduce the likelihood of redness and peeling while still letting your skin get the benefits of both ingredients.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### How often should I use this serum?

You should use this serum only once a week in the evening for your dry skin, as the retinol and alcohol denat may dry it out too much. To work safely on dry skin, a product of this type needs extra rich moisturizing ingredients, soothing hydrators, and protective barrier-supporting ingredients.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry skin, but retinol may cause initial purging and flaking as your skin adjusts. A product of this type for dry skin needs rich, protective ingredients and heavy moisturizers to lock in hydration and prevent irritation.
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 fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €57.00 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €18.50 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €19.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €12.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen SPF 30](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/australian-gold/botanical-lotion-spf-30/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.04 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.97 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €19.75 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.97 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €19.75 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €19.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Isononyl Isononanoate, Alcohol Denat, Dicaprylyl Ether, Glycine Soja Oil, Soybean Oil, Propylene Glycol, Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydroxyacetophenone, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Vitreoscilla Ferment, Retinol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Glyceryl Isostearate, Polysorbate 20, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Sodium Lactate, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum
## 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/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vichy/liftactiv-pure-retinol-serum/for/dry-skin