# COSRX The Retinol 0.3 Cream for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin

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

Brand: [COSRX](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/cosrx)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/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 suitability for your dry skin, as humectants like Glycerin and Panthenol provide some hydration, but the inclusion of retinol may exacerbate dryness and flakiness without sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients.
- While Tocopherol and Shea Butter offer soothing and moisturizing benefits, the overall formulation lacks the rich emollience needed to fully address your dry or flaky skin concerns.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin): Low (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Panthenol, Vitamin E, Sodium Hyaluronate, Shea Butter

## 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- 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/))
- 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 combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))

## Why other serums fit dry skin better

- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users with aging, acne-prone, and textured skin report visible improvements in skin smoothness and firmness, often noting a "glass skin" effect after consistent use. While highly effective for diminishing fine lines and clearing pores, the product requires a careful adjustment period to avoid common side effects like purging, peeling, and dryness.

- Liked: Effective anti-aging (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Defective packaging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle potency (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight consistency (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Small quantity (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 0.3 a weak match for dry skin?

This cream is a weak match because retinol may make dry and flaky skin worse, and the formula lacks enough rich, sealing ingredients to fully care for dry skin. A product of this type needs richer hydrating agents, ceramides, or calming ingredients like propolis, niacinamide, or peptides to deeply nourish dry skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

Retinol makes this cream a weak match for your dry skin, as it may cause dryness and flakiness. A product of this type needs rich moisturizing and barrier-protecting ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and extra emollients to keep dry skin comfortable and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### 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 Panthenol do for dry skin?

Panthenol helps dry skin by keeping it soft and holding onto moisture while repairing your skin barrier. It also helps soothe redness and rough patches, making it very gentle and comfortable for everyday use.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though it is a weak match for dry skin because it may make dryness and flakiness worse. A product of this type for dry skin needs rich moisturizing and barrier-protecting ingredients like heavy butter and nourishing oils along with hydrating humectants to keep skin soft and smooth.

### Can I use this cream with niacinamide, and in what order?

You can use this cream with niacinamide by applying your niacinamide serum first on clean skin, letting it absorb, and then following with this treatment. Because this product contains retinol which may worsen dry or flaky skin, a dry skin type needs a formula packed with rich moisturizers and skin-softening oils to lock in hydration and prevent irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This treatment is applied in the evening. Because this product is a weak match for dry skin, it may make dryness and flakiness worse. A product of this type for dry skin needs rich moisturizing and barrier-locking ingredients to keep skin soft and smooth.
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 cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores, but retinol may cause initial irritation and flakiness on dry skin. To work well for dry skin, this type of product needs extra rich moisturizers and barrier-protecting ingredients to prevent dryness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €18.25 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/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/fr/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €29.58 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €7.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €18.55 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €76.29 at Amazon
- SPF: [Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/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/fr/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.10 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €7.50 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.15 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €76.29 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.10 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €7.50 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Sheet Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/anua/heartleaf-77-soothing-sheet-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.15 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €76.29 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.fr: €22.74 (https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B0CM8M8HP8?tag=lovi-care-web-product06-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Trehalose, Panthenol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Carbomer, Retinol, Tromethamine, Glyceryl Stearate, Polysilicone-11, Sodium Sulfite, Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract Carrot Root Extract, Allantoin, Glyceryl Caprylate, Propanediol, Rice Bran Wax, Tocotrienols, Stearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Palmitic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edta, Adenosine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sorbitan Isostearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Palm Oil, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Beta-Carotene, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Ascorbic Acid, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Glutathione
## 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-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/the-retinol-0-3-cream/for/dry-skin