# SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 Maximum Strength Refining Night Cream for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/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: [SkinCeuticals](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/skinceuticals)
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 benefits for dry or flaky skin as retinol promotes smoothing texture and minimizing fine lines, though it may cause dryness and irritation for your sensitive skin. Bisabolol offers some soothing properties to counteract potential irritation.
- The formulation provides moderate skin refinement due to retinol's smoothing effects, but the high concentration may lead to dryness and irritation, making it moderately unsuitable for your dry and sensitive skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Silybum Marianum Milk Extract, Passiflora Incarnata Extract

## 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))
- Silybum marianum flower extract increased human hair follicle dermal papilla cell proliferation and VEGF production while suppressing cellular senescence, and in a clinical study using hair shampoo, it significantly increased hair density and total hair count at 16 and 24 weeks compared with a placebo group. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37675655/))
- Topical 0.5% silymarin-loaded antioxidant serum applied twice daily significantly reduced clinical acne severity, lesion counts, and melanin pigmentation in 22 Korean acne patients over 4 weeks without associated adverse events. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36204969/))
- Topical silymarin cream 1.4% showed comparable results to salicylic acid 30% peels in reducing acne severity in 30 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37942562/))
- Topical chrysin nanoemulgel improved percutaneous absorption and in vitro cytotoxicity on A375 and SK-MEL-2 cell lines compared to unformulated chrysin, demonstrating effective localized transcutaneous delivery. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34207014/))
- Chrysin attenuated apoptosis, ROS production, COX-2 expression, and AQP-3 down-regulation induced by UVB and UVA in HaCaT keratinocytes, while showing efficient percutaneous absorption and no skin irritation in animal studies. ([Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21699266/))
- Chrysin treatment reduced injury area and inflammation while increasing bFGF secretion, promoting the healing of amiodarone extravasation-induced skin injury in rats compared to control and 10% DMSO groups. ([Microvascular Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34534572/))

## Why other serums fit dry sensitive skin better

- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently describe this cream as a powerhouse professional-grade treatment that delivers dramatic improvements in skin texture, clarity, and firmness, often outperforming prescription alternatives. While the results are highly praised, the majority of reviews emphasize that the retinization period—characterized by peeling, redness, and dryness—is intense and requires a slow, careful introduction to the routine.

- Liked: Effective anti-aging (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Refines skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne & pores (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Intense irritation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast-acting results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging design flaws (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 SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 work for dry sensitive skin?

This treatment offers moderate smoothing for your dry skin, but the high retinol concentration may cause dryness and irritation for your sensitive skin. Treatments that fit this skin best need rich hydrating and nourishing ingredients that provide deep moisture and protect the skin barrier without any risk of irritation.

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

Glycerin, shea butter, and bisabolol help soothe and soften dry skin to offset the strong effects of retinol. A treatment for this skin needs gentle hydrating and nourishing ingredients that provide excellent moisture and texture improvement without any risk of irritation.

### 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 Glycerin do for dry sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps dry sensitive skin by drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it there, making the skin soft and smooth. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving how well the skin holds onto water. This type of skin needs ingredients that boost hydration and repair the barrier without causing stinging.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. Because this product of this type can cause dryness and irritation for your dry and sensitive skin, it needs extra soothing ingredients and rich hydrators to keep your skin calm and comfortable.

### Can I use this cream with glycolic acid, and in what order?

Using this cream with glycolic acid is not recommended, as combining these strong active ingredients makes dryness and irritation much more likely on your sensitive skin. If you do use both, apply them on alternate nights rather than together, and always follow with a rich moisturizer.

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream works for your skin as an evening treatment, but because of its strength it may cause dryness and irritation, so you should start using it once a week. This type of product needs soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep dry and sensitive skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, but it may cause purging, dryness, and irritation for your dry sensitive skin. A product for this skin needs gentle smoothing ingredients and soothing agents to keep skin calm and comfortable.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## 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

Water, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Propylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Allyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Dimethiconol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Peg-7 Isostearate, Retinol, Laureth-23, Laureth-4, Sodium Polyacrylate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Bht, Bisabolol, Tetrasodium Edta, Passiflora Incarnata Flower Extract, Rosa Canina Leaf Extract, Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract, Hypericum Perforatum Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Leaf Extract Matricaria Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Methylisothiazolinone
## 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/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/retinol-1-0-maximum-strength-refining-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin