# Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-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 France.

Brand: [Sunday Riley](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/sunday-riley)
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.

Works for dry skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent skin treatment for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles due to hydroxypinacolone retinoate and retinol, but these ingredients pose a significant risk of dryness and irritation for your dry or flaky skin.
- While glycerin and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer provide some hydration, the formula lacks sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients to fully support your dry skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin): Average (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinoid Blend, Ubiquinone, Honey Extract, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

## 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 topical serum containing hydroxypinacolone retinoate and peptides used twice daily for 16 weeks achieved parity or statistically significantly better improvement in facial aging parameters compared to a single fractional CO2 laser treatment in women with moderate global photodamage. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39394831/))
- Topical retinoids improve global assessment scores and reduce lesion counts compared to vehicle in patients with acne vulgaris, with adapalene demonstrating a superior tolerability profile and benzoyl peroxide combination optimizing results. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/))
- 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/))
- Trifarotene cream 0.005% resulted in a significantly greater reduction in total atrophic acne scar count compared with vehicle at Week 24 (55.2% vs 29.9%) in patients with atrophic acne scarring. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39984798/))
- Topical application of CoQ10 improves mitochondrial function in aging skin in vivo, combating cellular signs of aging caused by an age-dependent shift to a functionally anaerobic energy metabolism. ([BioFactors, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19096122/))
- Encapsulating coenzyme Q10 in lipid nanoparticles for topical use improves skin compatibility, protects against degradation, increases skin penetration, and provides controlled release to counteract aging effects. ([Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37574615/))
- Review of topical administration of carotenoids and coenzyme Q10 loaded in lipid nanoparticles highlights their improved bioavailability, chemical stability, skin absorption, and photoprotective effects. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34206935/))
- Honey-based dressings reduced mean healing duration, length of hospital stay, and VAS pain scores compared with povidone iodine-based dressings in 1236 participants. ([Journal of Wound Care, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33856925/))
- Topical honey application improved the mean duration of attacks and pain, occurrence of crusting, and healing time compared to acyclovir cream in 16 adult patients with recurrent labial and genital herpes lesions. ([Medical Science Monitor, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15278008/))
- Combined probiotic supplementation and topical azelaic acid with hydroxypinacolone retinoate reduced non-inflammatory lesions from 11.5 to 7.3 and decreased microscopic acne features measured by reflectance confocal microscopy and dynamic optical coherence tomography in 20 patients over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37510902/))
- Hydroxypinacolone retinoate and retinyl propionate at a 5:9 weight ratio synergistically enhanced antiaging gene expressions in vitro and improved skin wrinkles, smoothness, transepidermal water loss, and elasticity in 42 Chinese urban women over an 8-week period without adverse reactions compared to retinol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36762391/))
- A new topical gel formulation reduced total acne lesions by 80% and GAGS scores by 78% after 8 weeks in 22 female patients with mild facial acne without impairing skin barrier function or causing side effects. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32869963/))
- 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/))

## 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/))
- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently praise this serum for its ability to deliver retinoid benefits like smoothed texture and reduced fine lines with minimal irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin or retinoid beginners. The formula includes soothing botanicals that help mitigate dryness and redness, improving overall skin clarity and radiance.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive product (often mentioned)
- Liked: Anti-aging results (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Moisturizing formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strength claims (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

### How well does Sunday Riley A+ Retinoid Serum work for dry skin?

Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum works moderately well for dry skin, offering effective fine line treatment while posing a significant risk of dryness and irritation. Because it lacks sufficient rich moisturizing and barrier-protecting ingredients, a product for this skin type needs soothing, deeply hydrating ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and peptides without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer provide this serum with some hydration for your dry skin. However, to truly fit dry skin, a treatment of this type needs rich moisturizing and skin-protecting ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, or peptides to prevent dryness and irritation.

### What does Retinoid do for dry skin?

Retinoid helps improve dry skin when it is carefully formulated with hydrating ingredients and used consistently over time. Studies show that certain hydrating retinoid eye creams can significantly reduce dryness and smooth skin texture with regular use.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36074511/), [Dermatology Research and Practice, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39184919/)

### What does Coenzyme Q10 do for dry skin?

Coenzyme Q10 helps dry skin by boosting cellular energy and providing antioxidant protection that defends against daily stress. It also improves moisture levels to leave skin feeling soft and smooth.
Sources: [BioFactors, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26648450/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20541000/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Because dry skin needs extra support against dryness and irritation from retinoids, this product type needs rich moisturizing butters, soothing plant oils, and barrier-protecting ingredients.

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

This serum works for your dry skin, though other products fit it better because it lacks rich moisturizing ingredients to protect against dryness and irritation. To use it with vitamin C safely, apply vitamin C in the morning and this serum at night to help minimize potential skin discomfort. Dry skin types need a product of this type to include rich moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and soothing plant extracts to fully support your skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works best in your evening routine, starting just once or twice a week to help your dry skin adjust. Because strong retinoids carry a significant risk of dryness and irritation, you can gradually increase frequency only if your skin tolerates it well. To properly support dry skin, products of this type need rich butters, plant oils, and other heavy sealing ingredients alongside deep hydrators.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores, but it may cause initial breakouts or skin peeling on dry skin. Because it contains strong retinoids, it helps smooth fine lines while posing a risk of dryness and 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).

## 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

## Pairs well with

- 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

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water Eau Agua, Propanediol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Triheptanoin, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Hexyldecanol, Disiloxane, Cetyl Peg Ppg-10 1 Dimethicone, Diheptyl Succinate, Propylene Carbonate, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Ppg-24-Glycereth-24, Phenyl Trimethicone, Retinol, Ubiquinone, Honey Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Algae Extract, Zingiber Officinale Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Bisabolol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Yeast Extract, Lecithin, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, 1,2-Hexanediol, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Sorbitol, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Polysilicone-11, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Phytate, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Polysorbate, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Stearic Acid, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Pvp, Capryloyl Glycerin Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Alcohol, Potassium Phosphate, Decyl Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopherol
## 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/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sunday-riley/a-high-dose-retinoid-serum/for/dry-skin