# Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin

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

Brand: [Drunk Elephant](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/drunk-elephant)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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.

A weak match for dry skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your dry skin due to the presence of glycerin and jojoba seed oil, which provide general skincare benefits, but lacks sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients for optimal hydration.
- The retinol and palmitoyl tripeptide-1 offer moderate treatment for aging skin, helping to minimize fine lines and wrinkles.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit dry skin better

- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))

## 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

- 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

### Why is Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol a weak match for dry skin?

This cream is a weak match because it offers moderate hydration from glycerin and jojoba oil, but it lacks enough rich sealing ingredients to properly lock in moisture for dry skin. To properly care for dry skin, this type of product needs deeply soothing and hydrating ingredients alongside barrier-supporting components like ceramides, niacinamide, and rich plant oils.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This cream is a weak match for dry skin because it lacks sufficient rich sealing ingredients to lock in moisture. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients, ceramides, and heavy nourishing hydrators to support dry skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Retinol do for dry skin?

Retinol is a poor fit for dry skin because it frequently causes scaling, stinging, and dryness. To care for dry skin properly, a product needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and keep the skin barrier calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### What do Xanthophylls do for dry skin?

Xanthophylls help boost facial skin moisture when taken as a daily supplement. Regular intake may also help protect against sun-induced skin damage and support overall skin health.
Sources: [Journal of Oleo Science, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35387919/), [Journal of Oleo Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29877227/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Because this is a weak match for dry skin, a product of this type needs rich moisturizing ingredients and heavy skin-softening oils to keep dry skin comfortable while using active ingredients.

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

Using this product with an AHA is likely to cause extra dryness and irritation, so it is best to alternate them on different nights or use the AHA in the morning and this treatment at night. Dry skin needs rich, nourishing hydrators, soothing ceramides, and heavy barrier-protecting oils to stay comfortable when using strong treatments.

### How often should I use this cream?

This treatment is applied in the evening as part of your routine. Because this product is a weak match for dry skin, a product of this type needs richer sealing ingredients and heavy skin-softening oils to lock in moisture.

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

This product may cause purging and irritation when first used on dry skin, because it contains retinol. A product of this type needs rich, nourishing hydrators and barrier-protecting ingredients to keep dry skin comfortable and calm.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### 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 skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €25.00 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €474.90 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.89 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon
- SPF: [Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/purito/daily-soft-touch-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €20.01 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/round-lab/1025-dokdo-cleansing-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/round-lab/1025-dokdo-cleansing-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Laneige Water Sleeping Mask_EX](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/laneige/water-sleeping-mask-ex/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €33.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Netherlands 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-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/drunk-elephant/a-passioni-retinol-cream/for/dry-skin