# Derma E Retinol Concentrated Serum for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-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 the United States.

Brand: [Derma E](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/derma-e)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/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.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate anti-aging benefits for your normal skin due to retinol and bakuchiol, which promote cell turnover but do not directly address your redness and irritation. Astaxanthin and allantoin provide some soothing effects, helping to mitigate potential irritation from the active ingredients.
- While the formula includes sodium hyaluronate and glycerin for hydration, it lacks sufficient humectants to fully support your normal skin type's needs.
- The product is safe for your sensitive skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like allantoin and astaxanthin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Encapsulated Retinol, Bakuchiol, Punica Granatum Extract, Astaxanthin, Sodium Hyaluronate

## What the research says

- 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/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- Astaxanthin-loaded polyhydroxybutyrate microbeads achieved 98.1% encapsulation efficiency with sustained release, reduced degradation by 2-fold compared to unencapsulated astaxanthin, and showed no cytotoxicity or skin irritation in human cells and tests. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38072340/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Phenolic-rich pomegranate peel extract formulated into a serum and mask showed significantly better facial skin lightening efficacy than placebo in 30 volunteers over 28 days. ([Planta Medica, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32428937/))
- Topical application of a 2% cream containing combined fruit extracts for 56 days significantly reduced wrinkle depth by 11.5%, length by 10.07%, and area by 29.55% in 21 female subjects compared to a placebo. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26203268/))
- A topical microemulsion containing Punica granatum extract significantly reduced skin erythema and melanin compared to a placebo in healthy Asian subjects over 12 weeks. ([Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25610348/))
- Oral astaxanthin supplementation significantly restored moisture content and improved elasticity but did not significantly decrease wrinkle depth compared to placebo in humans. ([Nutrients, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34578794/))
- 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/))
- Twice-daily application of a novel topical antioxidant formulation safe, well-tolerated, and effective in improving overall skin quality, fine lines, wrinkles, radiance, and hyperpigmentation in 32 healthy female subjects over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37608511/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is frequently praised for being gentle and suitable for sensitive skin, effectively improving texture and firmness. Many users report positive results without irritation, making it a good option for those new to retinol. Some users express frustration with the dropper design, and a few mention slow results or a sticky texture.

- Liked: Gentle on skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Good for beginners (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Dropper design issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky texture (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 DERMA E Retinol Concentrated Serum a great fit for sensitive skin?

DERMA E Retinol Concentrated Serum is a great fit because it contains no harsh ingredients and features soothing components like allantoin and astaxanthin to help calm your skin.
Sources: [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

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

This serum is a good fit for sensitive skin because it includes soothing ingredients like allantoin and astaxanthin, which help calm the skin and keep the product safe and gentle to use. It also contains encapsulated retinol and bakuchiol for smoothing and anti-aging benefits without harsh effects.
Sources: [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

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

Encapsulated retinol helps smooth skin and reduce dark spots with a lower chance of redness and irritation than standard retinol. Delivery systems release the ingredient slowly, which improves comfort and tolerance for sensitive skin.
Sources: [Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38952060/)

### What does Bakuchiol do for sensitive skin?

Bakuchiol helps improve barrier function, reduces redness and sensitivity, and softens fine lines in sensitive skin with a very low likelihood of scaling and stinging.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. Putting it at night helps keep your skin safe from sun exposure while the active ingredients work.

### 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 to avoid overwhelming your skin. Using them at different times of day helps your skin stay calm while getting the benefits of both ingredients.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting slowly and building up frequency as your skin adjusts. It is unlikely to cause irritation thanks to its gentle formula with soothing ingredients.
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 unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin because it contains no harsh ingredients. However, the retinol in the formula promotes faster cell turnover, which may occasionally cause some initial purging as your skin adjusts.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $53.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — $25.08 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [innisfree Daily Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/daily-mild-sunscreen/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Retinol, Bakuchiol, Astaxanthin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Aspalathus Linearius Extract, Allantoin, Sodium Pca, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Carbomer, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Potassium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/derma-e/retinol-concentrated-serum/for/sensitive-skin