# La Mer The Serum Essence for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/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 Saudi Arabia.

Brand: [La Mer](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/la-mer)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/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 hydration and barrier support for your dry and sensitive skin, with glycerin and sodium hyaluronate providing humectant action while dimethicone and polysilicone-11 offer emollient benefits.
- Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 and algae extract contribute to smoothing texture and enhancing barrier resilience, though the concentrations may not fully address significant dryness or flakiness.
- The product is safe for your skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like algae extract and glycerin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/acne-prone-skin): Low
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Algae Extract, Niacin, Squalane, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

## 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/))
- Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 permeates the stratum corneum and epidermis, initiating gel formation via endogenous ions and strengthening and repairing the skin barrier after delipidation in human skin. ([ACS Applied Bio Materials, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39964201/))
- Treatment with lipid algae extract reduced the level of oxidized proteins in human keratinocytes and stratum corneum skin cells. ([Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15247018/))
- Topical astaxanthin-loaded algae extract hydrogel and lipogel formulations exhibited the highest antioxidant activity and successful in vitro release, suggesting their potential as anti-aging formulations. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29745467/))
- Antarctic marine algae extracts increased cell viability, protected against inflammation, and enhanced the barrier integrity of human intestinal and keratinocyte cell lines damaged by lipopolysaccharide or ultraviolet radiation. ([Marine Drugs, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36135751/))
- 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- 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/))
- Argireline treatment twice daily for 4 weeks produced a significant anti-wrinkle effect with 48.9% total efficacy and decreased skin roughness in Chinese subjects compared with 0% efficacy and no decrease in roughness in the placebo group. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/))
- Acetyl hexapeptide-3 and tripeptide-10 citrulline demonstrated antiwrinkle efficacy and decreased transepidermal water loss in twenty-four healthy volunteers compared to control groups, though synergistic effects between the two peptides remained unclear. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28150423/))

## Why other serums fit dry sensitive skin better

- Tocopherol succinate-loaded ethosomal gel increased skin deposition, stability, moisture, and mechanical properties in 13 human subjects compared to a control gel over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35274433/))
- In 50 participants with sensitive skin, a Ceramide NP C15-containing emollient improved skin barrier function with a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss and induced modest changes in skin microbiota compared to the vehicle. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758783/))
- Hydrogels containing vitamin E-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers exhibited better occlusive properties and long-lasting effects, while vitamin E-loaded nanoemulsions performed a faster skin hydration effect and were selected as more attractive for skin application. ([Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30974262/))

## What reviewers say

La Mer The Serum Essence is widely praised by long-term users for its ability to hydrate, firm, and improve the overall texture of aging skin. While many report a more youthful, plump, and resilient complexion, some users with sensitive skin or specific climate needs have experienced irritation or dryness, and the high price point remains a significant point of contention.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Extremely expensive (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin firmness (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor bottle design (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refines skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (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 La Mer The Serum Essence work for dry sensitive skin?

La Mer The Serum Essence works moderately well for dry sensitive skin, as it offers helpful hydration and barrier support while remaining safe and soothing. However, because it may not fully address significant dryness or flakiness, a product of this type needs rich moisturizing and nourishing components, ceramides, and multiple forms of vitamin C to provide maximum hydration, improve texture, and enhance skin resilience without any irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [ACS Applied Bio Materials, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39964201/)

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

Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, dimethicone, and squalane make this serum a good fit by providing moisture and helping protect sensitive skin. To truly suit dry skin well, a product of this type needs richer nourishing oils, ceramides, and maximum hydrating ingredients that deeply relieve dryness and protect the moisture barrier.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Algae Extract do for dry sensitive skin?

Algae extract helps calm dry and sensitive skin while reducing water loss and defending against irritation. It is unlikely to cause issues and may help keep the skin barrier strong and comfortable.
Sources: [Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22289731/), [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33220376/)

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

Niacinamide helps dry sensitive skin by calming irritation, strengthening the outer barrier, and boosting moisture to keep skin soft and comfortable. It supports the skin by increasing natural lipids like ceramides and reducing water loss.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23220080/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, followed by a moisturizer. For dry and sensitive skin, this product of its type needs richer hydrating and barrier-protecting ingredients and heavier textures to fully address significant dryness.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this treatment alongside retinol, but apply your retinol first and let it absorb before adding this serum to help soothe potential dryness. This product is generally safe for sensitive skin types, though a product of this type needs richer hydrators and deeper barrier-repair ingredients to fully comfort very dry or flaky skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/), [ACS Applied Bio Materials, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39964201/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment works best for your dry sensitive skin when used in the evening as part of your routine. While it offers moderate hydration and barrier support with ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, a product of this type needs richer emollients and heavier barrier-repairing ingredients to fully address significant dryness and flakiness for this skin type.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [ACS Applied Bio Materials, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39964201/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like algae extract and glycerin.

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

It contains fragrance (parfum, citronellol, geraniol, linalool, and limonene) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 865.37 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 461.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 226.83 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Illiyoon Ceramide Derma Amino Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/illiyoon/ceramide-derma-amino-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 149.44 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 141.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 89.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Algae Extract, Dimethicone, Isododecane, Polysilicone-11, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil, Medicago Sativa Seed Powder, Helianthus Annuus Seedcake Sunflower Seedcake, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Meal Seed, Eucalyptus Globulus Oil Leaf Eucalyptus Oil Leaf, Sodium Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Calcium Gluconate, Magnesium Gluconate, Zinc Gluconate, Tocopheryl Succinate, Niacin, Sesamum Indicum Seed Powder, Whey Lactis Du Petit-Lait Protein, Caffeine, Acetyl Glucosamine, Pisum Sativum Extract, Helichrysum Italicum Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Bambusa Vulgaris Extract, Coffea Arabica Seed Extract Coffee Seed Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract, Wheat Extract Germ Extract, Rubus Idaeus Leaf Extract Raspberry Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Sucrose, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil, Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Glycine Soja Seed Extract Soybean Seed Extract, Jania Rubens Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Polysorbate 20, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Sodium Pca, Urea, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Acrylamide Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycosaminoglycans, Parfum, Isohexadecane, Pentylene Glycol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Tetracetylphytosphingosine, Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline, Vinyl Dimethicone Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Squalane, Hydrogenated Oil, Ruby Powder, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Hydrolyzed Rice Extract, Tourmaline, Hydrolyzed Algin, Potassium Sorbate, Gold, Glucosamine Hcl, Caprylyl Glycol, Yeast Polysaccharides, Polysorbate 80, Trehalose, Polyquaternium-51, Hexylene Glycol, Yeast Faex Extrait De Levure Extract, Cholesterol, Zea Mays Kernel Extract, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Lecithin, Maltodextrin, Alcohol Denat, Xanthan Gum, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Disodium Edta, Bht, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Hydroxycitronellal, Citronellol, Geraniol, Linalool, Limonene, Caramel, Red 4 Ci 14700
## 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/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-mer/the-serum-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin