# Pharma Développement A313 Vitamin A Retinol Cream for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [Pharma Développement](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/pharma-developpement)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, 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 sensitive skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate treatment for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles due to the presence of retinyl acetate and retinyl propionate, which promote cell turnover but can also exacerbate dryness for your dry and sensitive skin.
- While the retinoids offer some emollient action, the formula lacks sufficient humectant and occlusive ingredients for optimal hydration of your dry skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinyl Palmitate, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Propionate, Peg-4000, Polysorbate 80

## What the research says

- A cosmetic niacinamide/peptide/retinyl propionate regimen significantly improved periorbital wrinkle appearance relative to a 0.02% tretinoin regimen at 8 weeks with comparable benefits at 24 weeks, while demonstrating significantly better tolerability in 196 women. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/))
- A novel triple-active cosmetic formulation containing 4-hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate, and niacinamide improved the visual appearance of photoageing similarly to 0.02% tretinoin and reversed a consensus gene signature associated with ageing in female adults while causing less skin irritation. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/))
- A combination of retinyl propionate and climbazole (RPC) resulted in significant improvement in aging attributes, including deep wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, with significantly less irritation compared to 0.1% retinol in 45 healthy Caucasian females with moderately photodamaged facial skin. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28733999/))
- Over-the-counter retinol products provided only weak evidence for a mild ameliorating effect on fine facial skin wrinkle lines in randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trials, and major methodological flaws call the validity of positive results into question. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34980969/))
- Topical retinyl propionate cream produced no statistically significant differences compared to placebo for any clinical, histological, or profilometric parameters of skin photoageing in 80 subjects. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9894360/))
- A vitamin A palmitate and antioxidant-containing oil-based moisturizer improved fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, tone, texture, dryness, firmness, and clarity across various body sites compared to a no-treatment group over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23438139/))
- Topical application of 20% 2-hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin in a polyethylene glycol formulation resulted in significantly more herpes labialis relapses compared to the vehicle control among 40 patients over 6 months. ([Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23816977/))
- Binary systems of trans-resveratrol with polyethylene glycol or beta-cyclodextrin enhanced its antioxidant activity and in vivo skin anti-aging effects compared to trans-resveratrol alone in human keratinocytes and volunteers. ([Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23862976/))
- Topical application of 30% salicylic acid in polyethylene glycol effectively cleared comedones and papules in 436 patients with acne while causing no stinging, burning, edema, bleeding, or crusting. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18363720/))
- Hempseed or flaxseed oil-based lyotropic liquid crystals with the highest oil content and lecithin/Tween 80 mixture provided a 2-fold reduction in TEWL values and decreased skin erythema levels in healthy adult subjects compared to baseline. ([Acta Pharmaceutica, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38815204/))
- Liquid crystalline emulsions formulated with camellia seed oil and four different surfactant combinations reduced transepidermal water loss and increased skin hydration without causing skin irritation, with the formulation containing Lecinol S-10 and Tween 80 demonstrating the best clinical results. ([Scientific Reports, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36918671/))
- The cytotoxic effect of sodium lauryl sulphate on normal human keratinocytes was significantly decreased when combined with cocamidopropyl betaine, Tween 20, and Tween 80 at concentrations well below the critical micelle concentration. ([Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677096/))

## Why other serums fit dry sensitive skin better

- A formulation containing glycerol (5%) and xylitol (5%) applied twice daily for 14 days increased skin hydration, filaggrin protein quantity, interdigitation index, and biomechanical properties, and decreased transepidermal water loss compared to untreated and vehicle-treated skin in twelve volunteers with dry skin. ([Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/))
- Glycerol accelerates barrier repair and improves stratum corneum hydration compared to untreated and base-treated sites. ([Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10598752/))
- In 50 participants with sensitive skin, a Ceramide NP C15-containing emollient improved skin barrier function with a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss and induced modest changes in skin microbiota compared to the vehicle. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758783/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this French pharmacy favorite is celebrated for delivering radiant, smooth skin and reducing acne, with users frequently waking up to a glowing complexion. However, its thick, Vaseline-like consistency and initial itching are polarizing aspects. While many praise its hydrating and plumping effects, some find it too mild for significant anti-aging results.

- Liked: Incredible glow (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Intense itching (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Acne reduction (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Affordable price (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Occlusive hydration (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Application difficulty (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Pore clogging (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this PM routine for your evening skincare. Start using the serum 3 times a week and increase to daily use if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer. This step locks in deep hydration for dry skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin using your palms. Let it absorb completely for a minute ⏱ before applying your next product.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the serum on completely dry skin for better tolerance and less irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Always do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is A313 Vitamin A Retinol Cream a weak match for dry sensitive skin?

This cream is a weak match for your dry and sensitive skin because its ingredients promote cell turnover which may dry you out further without providing enough soothing moisture and protection. A treatment of this type needs rich hydrating and nourishing ingredients, skin-strengthening ceramides, and vitamins that keep moisture locked in while preventing irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/)

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

This cream is a weak match for your dry sensitive skin because its retinyl acetate and retinyl propionate promote cell turnover but may also make your dryness worse. A product for this skin needs ingredients that provide deep hydration and skin barrier support without irritation, such as ceramides and gentle moisturizing agents.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/)

### What does Retinyl Palmitate do for dry sensitive skin?

Retinyl palmitate helps smooth fine lines and improve dryness on dry sensitive skin while being gentle and causing minimal irritation. It works best when paired with soothing and hydrating ingredients to keep the skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23438139/), [International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34211271/)

### What does Retinyl Acetate do for dry sensitive skin?

Retinyl acetate helps smooth skin texture and tackle signs of aging, but it is unlikely to suit dry sensitive skin without extra care. Because it can cause flaking and irritation, dry sensitive skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and rich moisturizers to calm the area and build up a strong barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15624747/), [Cutis, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11499328/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after toning and before moisturizing, though it is a weak match for your dry and sensitive skin because it can worsen dryness. A product of this type needs extra hydrating and soothing ingredients like gentle moisturizers to keep your skin comfortable and smooth.

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

You can use this treatment alongside niacinamide by applying niacinamide first in your routine to help calm the skin and build up tolerance against potential dryness from the retinoids. This type of skin needs a product that includes extra hydrating ingredients like humectants and sealants to prevent moisture loss while managing fine lines.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this cream in the evening, starting once a week to see how your skin reacts. Because this product is a weak match that may make dry and sensitive skin even drier, a product of this type needs extra hydrating ingredients and barrier-protecting ingredients to keep skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/)

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

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, but it may cause purging or extra dryness because it contains retinol ingredients that speed up cell turnover. A product for this skin needs plenty of hydrating ingredients and gentle moisture-locking ingredients to keep skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374604/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685700/)

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €185.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €385.99 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Pixi Milky Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pixi/milky-tonic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €27.17 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun+](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-g/green-mild-up-sun/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €23.00 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.25 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Pixi Milky Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pixi/milky-tonic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €27.17 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €50.82 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.25 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Mask Pack](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-mask-pack/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.89 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €50.82 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €24.72 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B077Q1HV2N?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Propionate, Retinyl Palmitate, Peg-4000, Peg 400, Polysorbate 80
## 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/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/pharma-developpement/a313-vitamin-a-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin