# Nécessaire The Body Retinol for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/necessaire/the-body-retinol/for/dry-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: [Nécessaire](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/necessaire)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/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 poor match for dry skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent skin smoothing and anti-aging effects due to retinol and glycolic acid, which can be drying for your dry skin, though glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide humectant action.
- The moderate exfoliation from glycolic and mandelic acids may pose risks of direct worsening for your dry or flaky skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate

## 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/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Treatment with 45% mandelic acid peel showed nearly equal overall efficacy as 30% salicylic acid peel in patients with mild-to-moderate facial acne vulgaris, but with fewer adverse effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/))
- Chemical peels using 35% glycolic acid, 20% salicylic-10% mandelic acid, and phytic acid reduce acne scores by 70.55%, 74.14%, and 69.7% respectively, and significantly decline the postacne hyperpigmentation index in Asian patients with mild to moderate acne. ([Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31619887/))
- Commonly used chemical peels showed no significant differences in effectiveness for acne vulgaris in most comparisons, though combined salicylic and mandelic acid peeling was superior to glycolic acid and glycolic acid was superior to placebo, based on twelve randomized controlled trials. ([BMJ Open, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29705755/))
- 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 0.1% 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 body retinol is highly praised for improving skin texture and reducing crepey skin and hyperpigmentation. Users with various skin types find the formula gentle and non-irritating, though it is noted to function best as a treatment serum requiring a follow-up moisturizer for hydration.

- Liked: Improves skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive price point (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective for KP (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not deeply moisturizing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong 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 does Lovi advise against Nécessaire The Body Retinol for dry skin?

Lovi advises against this product because its exfoliating acids and retinol may dry out or irritate dry skin. Dry skin of this type needs deeply hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and peptides, along with soothing agents that nourish without causing flaking.

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

Glycolic acid and mandelic acid make this treatment a poor fit because they may dry out and irritate dry skin. To properly care for dry skin, this type of product needs deeply soothing and hydrating ingredients like ceramides, propolis, or bifida ferment along with nourishing barrier support.

### 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 does Glycolic Acid do for dry skin?

Glycolic acid helps smooth and soften dry skin by speeding up the shedding of older surface cells. Because it can also cause the skin to lose more moisture, dry skin needs extra hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid alongside it to keep the skin comfortable.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8651024/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine for dry skin, after cleansing and before moisturizing, though it is a poor match for your skin type. Because strong acids and retinol can worsen dryness and flakiness, dry skin needs products featuring gentle hydrators like hyaluronic acid and glycerin alongside rich, soothing emollients.

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

It is best to avoid using this product with vitamin C on dry skin, because combining them may easily cause too much dryness and irritation. Products for this skin need gentle, deeply moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid alongside soothing care to protect the skin barrier.

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is a poor match for your dry skin because the acids and retinol may cause drying and direct worsening. A product for this skin needs rich hydrating and soothing ingredients like ceramides and natural oils to keep the skin comfortable and smooth.

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

This product is a poor match for your dry skin because its strong acids and retinol may cause dryness and peeling. To care for dry skin, a product of this type needs rich moisturizing ingredients and soothing agents like glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is it 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/sa/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 226.83 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-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 461.00 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 145.51 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 297.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 48.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 75.00 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 65.11 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 297.00 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/round-lab/1025-dokdo-cleansing-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 72.64 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 222.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 48.00 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 65.11 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 297.00 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-skin) — High fit — SAR 130.30 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Mediheal Watermide Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/mediheal/watermide-essential-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 234.73 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 222.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 48.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Sodium Hydroxide, Coconut Alkanes, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Propanediol, Silica, Silica Silylate, Magnesium Stearate, Niacinamide, Retinol, Sh-Oligopeptide-1, Sh-Oligopeptide-2, Sh-Polypeptide-1, Sh-Polypeptide-9, Sh-Polypeptide-11, Tocopherol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Bacillus Folic Acid Extract Ferment Filtrate, Cellulose Acetate Butyrate, C13-14 Alkane, C15-23 Alkane, Tricaprylin, Acetyl Glutamine, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Lecithin, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil Fruit, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxyacetophenone
## 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/necessaire/the-body-retinol/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/necessaire/the-body-retinol/for/dry-skin
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- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/necessaire/the-body-retinol/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/necessaire/the-body-retinol/for/dry-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/necessaire/the-body-retinol/for/dry-skin