# COSRX The Retinol 0.5 for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Spain.

Brand: [COSRX](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/brands/cosrx)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/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 weak match for dry skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate wrinkle reduction for your dry skin due to retinol promoting texture smoothing and minimizing fine lines, while squalane and tocopherol provide emollient and antioxidant support.
- The formula includes retinol and tocopherol to aid skin renewal and antioxidant defense, but it lacks sufficient humectants for optimal hydration of dry or flaky skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin): Low (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Squalane, Vitamin E, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Di-C12-13 Alkyl Malate

## 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## Why other serums fit dry skin better

- 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/))
- Treatment with 14% ferulic acid and 12% l-ascorbic acid significantly reduced pigmentation and erythema while improving hydration and elasticity in 20 women with photoaged skin, with neither acid proving definitively more effective overall though ascorbic acid showed slightly greater skin lightening. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34877760/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dry, mature, or sensitive skin highly praise this oil for its gentle yet effective formula, noting significant improvements in skin texture, radiance, and fine lines without irritation. The rich oil base can be too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin types, leading to congestion, and many users find the short three-month shelf life after opening to be a major inconvenience.

- Liked: Deeply moisturizing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Short shelf life (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective on fine lines (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves texture & glow (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Heavy for oily skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (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

### Why is COSRX The Retinol 0.5 a weak match for dry skin?

This product is a weak match because it lacks sufficient moisture-binding ingredients for optimal hydration of dry or flaky skin. To properly care for dry skin, a product of this type needs rich hydrating ingredients, ceramides, and skin barrier-supporting components.

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

This treatment is a weak match for dry skin mainly because it lacks sufficient moisture-attracting ingredients to keep dry or flaky skin properly hydrated. A product of this type needs soothing, deeply hydrating ingredients like propolis, niacinamide, ceramides, vitamin C, or peptides to nourish the skin barrier without any risk of irritation.

### 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 Squalane do for dry skin?

Squalane helps keep dry skin soft and smooth by acting as a hydrating agent that locks in moisture and prevents water loss. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may protect the skin from damage while improving overall hydration.
Sources: [Advances in Food and Nutrition Research, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22361190/), [Molecules, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19169201/)

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

This product goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though dry skin needs a formula with extra hydrating ingredients to prevent flakiness.

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

It is best to use vitamin C in your morning routine and this treatment at night to help your skin stay calm and lower the chance of irritation. This product is a weak match for your dry skin and lacks enough moisture-binding ingredients, so it needs extra hydrating lotions and rich, soothing creams to keep dry areas comfortable.

### How often should I use it?

This treatment is applied in the evening as part of your routine. Because this product is a weak match for dry skin, a product of this type needs extra hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to bring the moisture dry skin needs.

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry skin, but you may experience some skin scaling and stinging as your skin gets used to the retinol. A product of this type needs extra hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to keep dry or flaky skin comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/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/es/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €18.50 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €333.00 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €8.85 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €34.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/purito/daily-soft-touch-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €12.98 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.97 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €8.85 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Fresh Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-poremizing-fresh-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.98 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/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/es/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.97 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €8.85 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Abib Rice Probiotics Overnight Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/abib/rice-probiotics-overnight-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €15.30 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Fresh Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-poremizing-fresh-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.98 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Squalane, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Di-C12-13 Alkyl Malate, Retinol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Bht, Tocotrienols, Tocopherol, Palm Oil, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone
## 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/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-5/for/dry-skin