# Some By Mi Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/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 the Netherlands.

Brand: [Some By Mi](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/some-by-mi)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate treatment for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles due to the presence of retinol and retinal, which are beneficial for your dry and sensitive skin by promoting cell turnover and collagen production.
- Niacinamide and centella asiatica extract provide general skincare benefits like hydration and soothing, which are supportive for your dry or flaky skin, though the formula lacks sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients for optimal hydration.
- The product has no risks of irritation for your dry and sensitive skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Retinal, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Extract

## 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/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- 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 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/))
- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))
- 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/))
- Bakuchiol functions as an anti-aging compound through retinol-like regulation of gene expression, producing significant improvements in lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, firmness, and photo-damage after 12 weeks of twice-a-day facial application without usual retinol therapy-associated undesirable effects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24471735/))
- A nature-based bakuchiol-containing cleanser and moisturizer improved visual and tactile smoothness, clarity, radiance, overall appearance, global anti-aging, and skin moisture content by 16% in 60 female subjects with sensitive mild to moderate photodamaged skin over 4 weeks. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33346506/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- 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/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))

## Why other serums fit dry sensitive skin better

- Treatment with 14% ferulic acid and 12% l-ascorbic acid significantly reduced pigmentation and erythema while improving hydration and elasticity in 20 women with photoaged skin, with neither acid proving definitively more effective overall though ascorbic acid showed slightly greater skin lightening. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34877760/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is widely celebrated as an ideal "starter retinol" for beginners and those with sensitive skin, frequently praised for delivering anti-aging benefits without the harsh irritation typical of retinoids. Users consistently report smoother skin texture, reduced acne, and a "glass skin" glow, though advanced users may find the formula too gentle for dramatic, rapid results.

- Liked: Extremely gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective for acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating and non-drying (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Noticeable fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Mild purging phase (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Results take time (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Tacky finish (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

### How well does Some By Mi Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum work for dry sensitive skin?

This serum works moderately well for dry sensitive skin by using retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol to smooth fine lines, alongside soothing centella asiatica and niacinamide. However, because it lacks enough softening and sealing ingredients to lock in moisture, a product of this type needs richer hydrating and barrier-protecting components to fully meet the needs of dry skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol help smooth fine lines, while niacinamide and centella asiatica extract provide hydration and soothing benefits for your dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs rich softening and sealing ingredients to lock in moisture and fully support dry skin.
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 does Retinal do for dry sensitive skin?

Retinal may help smooth fine lines and improve skin texture, but for dry and sensitive skin it is unlikely to be a good fit on its own. This skin type needs products that include gentle hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39496127/), [Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473963/)

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

Apply this treatment serum in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and follow it with a rich moisturizer. This type of product works best for dry skin when paired with extra nourishing, heavy hydrators and skin-softening oils to lock in moisture.

### 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 serum at night. Using them separately helps prevent skin irritation while still giving you the anti-aging benefits of both ingredients.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is used in the evening routine, starting once a week and slowly increasing frequency if your skin tolerates it well. A product of this type works best for dry sensitive skin when it includes rich, moisture-locking ingredients to keep the skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts, but it may cause a mild purging phase since it contains retinol and retinal to speed up cell turnover. To work well for dry sensitive skin, a product of this type needs extra rich, softening ingredients that lock in moisture.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €160.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €474.90 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.00 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.96 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €21.00 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B0HGM2HL5B?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €25.50 (https://www.notino.nl/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-antirimpel-retinolserum-voor-gevoelige-huid/p-16293218/)
Prices checked 16 Oct – 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Cyclohexasiloxane, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Hydrogenated Poly C6-14 Olefin, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Piper Methysticum Stem Extract Root Leaf, Centella Asiatica Extract, Panax Ginseng Extract Berry, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Root Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Leaf Extract, Artemisia Capillaris Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Palm Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glyceryl Stearate, Bakuchiol, Palmitic Acid, Sodium Polyacrylate, Stearic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Retinol, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Adenosine, Tromethamine, Polyquaternium-51, Beta-Glucan, Cetyl Alcohol, Bht, Collagen, Myristic Acid, Bha, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Bifida Lysate Ferment, Ceramide Np, Saccharomyces Ferment, Retinal, Asiaticoside, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Madecassoside, Propylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Glycolipids, Glycine Soja Soybean Peptide, Resveratrol, Sucrose Distearate, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Peg-100 Stearate, Polysorbate 20, 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/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/some-by-mi/retinol-intense-reactivating-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
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