# True Botanicals Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [True Botanicals](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/true-botanicals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for combination skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- This formulation is highly suitable for your combination skin, with glycerin and aloe barbadensis leaf juice providing essential hydration without clogging pores, while camellia sinensis leaf extract and astaxanthin powder offer antioxidant and anti-aging benefits.
- The serum addresses general skincare needs like hydration, which can help with oily shine, though it lacks specific ingredients for direct oil control.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components like camellia sinensis leaf extract and aloe barbadensis leaf juice.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Phyto-Retinol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil Rosehip Seed Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice

## What the research says

- Combining oral and topical astaxanthin in 30 healthy females improved skin wrinkles, age spots, elasticity, texture, and moisture, while 6 mg daily oral supplementation in 36 healthy males improved crow's feet wrinkles, elasticity, and transepidermal water loss. ([Acta Biochimica Polonica, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22428137/))
- 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 application of a 5% Hippophae rhamnoides oil-in-water emulsion significantly improved skin hydration (p=0.0003) and transepidermal water loss (p=0.0087) compared to a placebo base formulation in 13 healthy male subjects over 84 days. ([Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25362595/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- 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 dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract, and mannitol improves inflammatory lesions, Investigator Global Assessment, and seborrhea intensity when added to adapalene 0.1% gel in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/))
- Topical application of a serum containing supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia chebula extract significantly improved barrier function, reduced redness and sensitivity, and improved wrinkles and elasticity in 34 Chinese subjects with sensitive skin after 28 days. ([Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Topical application of green tea extract encapsulated chitosan microparticles improved skin elasticity, melanin index, and facial wrinkles compared to a placebo in female volunteers without causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34965006/))
- Topical treatments containing rosehip extract may reduce the size and erythema of postsurgical scars through macrophage polarization and inflammatory cytokine inhibition, though current clinical evidence remains insufficient to recommend its routine use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37605366/))
- Sunflower and rosehip oil nanoemulsions prepared with a mix of phospholipids and synthetic emulsifiers permeated intact skin to the dermis and showed a more prominent healing effect in a human organotypic skin explant culture wound model compared to nanoemulsions prepared only with phospholipids. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36986857/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Treatment with 10 μg/mL Hippophae rhamnoides seed oil increased AQP3 mRNA and AQP3 and HAS2 protein levels in normal human epidermis keratinocytes and a reconstructed epidermis skin model compared to a negative control. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32638495/))
- Topical nanoemulsion-loaded cream and gel formulations of Hippophae rhamnoides fruit oil showed superior wound contraction of 78.96% and 72.59% respectively on the 8th day compared to 62.29% for soframycin in female Sprague-Dawley rats, with no acute dermal toxicity. ([Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38687316/))
- Sea buckthorn oil and p-methoxycinnamic acid bioconjugates formulated in oleogels achieved 45% of the sun protection factor of an equivalent octinoxate reference oleogel. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38005272/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))

## What reviewers say

Users find this serum to be a gentle and effective plant-based retinol alternative, frequently reporting smoothed fine lines and improved skin texture without irritation. Many reviewers mention waking up to glowing, hydrated skin, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin types. However, the high price point is a common concern, and a small number of users find the scent too strong or experience breakouts.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydration & glow (often mentioned)
- Liked: Visible anti-aging (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Luxurious scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes True Botanicals Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum a great fit for combination skin?

This serum is a great fit because glycerin and aloe leaf juice give your combination skin essential hydration without clogging pores, while green tea extract and astaxanthin help fight signs of aging. It also has a very safe formula with soothing ingredients that are unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Acta Biochimica Polonica, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22428137/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin and aloe barbadensis leaf juice make this serum a great fit by providing essential hydration without clogging pores, while camellia sinensis leaf extract and astaxanthin powder add helpful antioxidant benefits.
Sources: [Acta Biochimica Polonica, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22428137/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Bakuchiol do for combination skin?

Bakuchiol is a good fit for combination skin because it helps smooth texture and calm areas prone to breakouts without causing dryness or irritation. It works well as a gentle alternative to retinoids to keep skin balanced, soft, and clear.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36176207/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Green Tea Extract do for combination skin?

Green tea extract helps calm combination skin by reducing redness and soothing irritated areas. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may help balance oily spots while keeping dry areas comfortable.
Sources: [Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine, placed after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Using it at night keeps things simple and avoids extra safety concerns around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in your morning routine and this treatment serum at night. This approach helps you get the antioxidant benefits of both ingredients while keeping your evening routine focused on nourishing your skin.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this serum in the evening as part of your routine. This helps keep things simple and safe around sun exposure, though some serums can also be used in the morning or twice a day.

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

This serum is a great fit for your combination skin because glycerin and aloe leaf juice provide essential hydration without clogging pores. It has an excellent safety profile with soothing ingredients that are unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl salicylate, farnesol, linalool, and limonene).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €52.57 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €385.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €115.30 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Oil, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Primula Veris Flower Extract Primrose Flower Extract, Mauritia Flexuosa Oil Fruit, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil Rosehip Seed Oil, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, Astaxanthin Powder, Persea Gratissima Oil Avocado Oil, Sandalwood Oil, Avena Sativa Bran Extract Oat Bran Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract, Cananga Odorata Oil Flower Ylang Ylang Oil Flower, Boswellia Carterii Oil Gum, Citric Acid, Sodium Phytate, Sclerotium Gum, Tocopherol, Algin, Water, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenethyl Alcohol, Farnesol, Linalool, Limonene
## 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/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/combination-skin