# True Botanicals Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/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: [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 sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for sensitive skin.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your normal skin due to the humectant action of glycerin and hydrogenated jojoba oil, complemented by the emollient properties of rosehip seed oil, which also aids in minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.
- The presence of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice offers moderate effectiveness for your redness and irritation goals by providing soothing and antioxidant benefits.
- The product is safe for your sensitive skin, containing no harsh ingredients and including 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
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High (this page)
- [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

- 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 jojoba wax reduced LPS-induced secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα by approximately 30% and increased the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid compared to untreated skin in an ex-vivo human skin organ culture model. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))

## 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 in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

This serum is a great fit for sensitive skin because it is very safe and contains no harsh ingredients. It includes calming components like Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice that help keep skin comfortable and reduce irritation.

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

This serum is a great fit for sensitive skin because it contains soothing ingredients like Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, and has no harsh components.

### What does Bakuchiol do for sensitive skin?

Bakuchiol helps smooth fine lines, improve firmness, and boost moisture while being gentle on sensitive skin. It is unlikely to cause the scaling and stinging often seen with traditional retinoids, making it a well-tolerated choice for improving overall skin texture and appearance.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33346506/), [Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/)

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

Green tea extract helps calm sensitive skin and may reduce redness and irritation when applied regularly. It has a very safe profile and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Toxicological Research, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24278598/), [Photochemistry and Photobiology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10048310/)

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

True Botanicals Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Using it at night helps keep your skin safe 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 the morning and this treatment at night, as that helps prevent irritation on sensitive skin. Using them together at the same time is unlikely to work well since combining active treatments may overwhelm your skin.

### How often should I use this serum?

Apply this serum in your evening routine, starting gently to see how your skin responds. It is a great fit for sensitive skin because it contains no harsh ingredients and features calming components like Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum is a great fit for your sensitive skin and is unlikely to cause breakouts, as only a small number of reviewers have reported this issue. It features soothing and gentle ingredients that help keep skin calm without heavy oils.

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

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

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €185.00 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €29.07 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €22.51 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €21.81 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clinique/broad-spectrum-spf-50-mineral-sunscreen-fluid-for-face/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €39.35 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/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/true-botanicals/phyto-retinol-sleep-serum/for/sensitive-skin