# Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-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 Italy.

Brand: [Drunk Elephant](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/drunk-elephant)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/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 poor match for dry sensitive skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate skin treatment for your dry and sensitive skin due to the presence of retinol and niacinamide, which promote skin renewal and improve skin tone, but the retinol poses a risk of direct worsening for your dry and sensitive skin.
- The inclusion of humectants like glycerin and emollients such as coconut alkanes provides hydration, but the formula lacks sufficient occlusive ingredients for optimal moisture retention on dry skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Xanthophylls, Niacinamide, Ceramide Np, Triple Peptide Blend

## 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/))
- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- 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 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/))
- Combined oral and topical administration of lutein and zeaxanthin provides the highest degree of antioxidant protection in human skin compared to individual routes. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17446716/))
- Solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and nanoemulsions successfully delivered lutein dermally with minimal systemic absorption while protecting the active against UV degradation compared to lutein powder. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21596122/))
- Lutein reduced skin inflammatory responses including IL-6 from LPS-treated macrophages, COX-2 from IFN-gamma/TNF-alpha-treated HaCaT cells, and MMP-9 in UV-irradiated keratinocytes by inhibiting the AP-1 pathway through suppression of p38 and JNK activation. ([Mediators of Inflammation, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23533312/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Chronomodulated daytime application of baicalin and nighttime application of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 synergistically improved skin luminance by 16.29%, nasolabial fold depth by -36.35%, and firmness by 24.35% in 30 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/))
- Grafting cell-surface binding motifs RGD and sOtx2 onto tripeptide-1 (GHK) to form RGD-GHK and sOtx2-GHK enhanced anti-oxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-aging efficacy compared to the non-targeting peptide GHK in cells and skin models. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38027006/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this 1% retinol cream is highly effective for improving skin texture and clarity, significantly reducing fine lines, acne marks, and dullness. Many users experience dramatic results, reporting smoother and clearer skin. However, a very high number of users note that this potent formula can cause significant irritation, peeling, and dryness, especially when first introduced, requiring careful application and ample moisturization. The packaging is also frequently criticized for its tendency to crack and leak.

- Liked: Smoother skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Severe irritation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: High potency (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor packaging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Little goes long way (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not for sensitive skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (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 does Lovi advise caution with Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream for dry sensitive skin?

Lovi advises caution because retinol may cause scaling and stinging on dry and sensitive skin. To suit this skin type, a product of this type needs rich moisturizing ingredients that lock in moisture and support the skin barrier without causing irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Retinol makes this cream a poor fit because it poses a risk of direct worsening, scaling, and stinging on dry and sensitive skin. For this skin type, a treatment needs soothing, highly hydrating, and nourishing ingredients like ceramides and rich moisturizers that protect the skin barrier without causing irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Retinol do for dry sensitive skin?

Retinol is often too strong for dry sensitive skin because it may cause scaling and stinging, so a product of this type needs gentle soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep the skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Toxicology Letters, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14615068/)

### What do Xanthophylls do for dry sensitive skin?

Xanthophylls help hydrate dry, sensitive skin and calm irritation while offering protection against sun damage. They support the skin barrier to keep it soft and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27312122/), [Antioxidants, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31370257/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. Because this skin type is prone to irritation from retinol, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides along with rich sealing ingredients to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier.

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

You should exercise caution when combining this cream with AHA because using multiple strong treatments may increase the likelihood of stinging and irritation on dry, sensitive skin. If you do use both, apply the AHA first, wait for it to absorb, and then apply this cream, or alternate nights to keep your skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a poor match for your dry sensitive skin, as the retinol may directly worsen dryness and irritation. If you still choose to use it, a treatment of this type needs richer occlusive ingredients and soothing hydrators to protect dry skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This cream is unlikely to clog pores, but the retinol inside may cause skin purging and irritation on dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs soothing hydrators, calming ingredients, and heavier barrier-protecting sealants to keep this skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### 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 sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €129.99 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €57.00 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €380.10 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €9.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Pixi Milky Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pixi/milky-tonic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €30.10 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €20.40 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.90 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €9.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Pixi Milky Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pixi/milky-tonic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €30.10 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €92.92 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.90 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €9.19 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.30 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €31.93 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €92.92 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate, Stearic Acid, Coconut Alkanes, Glyceryl Stearate, Niacinamide, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Pentylene Glycol, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Retinol, Jojoba Seed Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract, Brassica Oleracea Italica Extract, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Chrysin, Persea Gratissima Oil Avocado Oil, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Ceramide Np, Xanthophylls, Phytosphingosine, Phytosterols, Jojoba Esters, Physalis Pubescens Fruit Juice, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Rice Extract Rice Bran Extract, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Cetyl Palmitate, Trehalose, Lauric Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Olea Europaea Oil Fruit Olive Oil Fruit, Glucosamine Hcl, Tocopheryl Acetate, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Pisum Sativum Extract, Tocopherol, Bambusa Vulgaris Stem Extract Leaf, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Trideceth-6 Phosphate, N-Hydroxysuccinimide, Ceteareth-20, Sodium Hydroxide, Laureth-23, Steareth-20, Propanediol, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Chlorphenesin, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin