# PCA SKIN Retinol Treatment for Sensitive Skin 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/sg/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/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 Singapore.

Brand: [PCA SKIN](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/pca-skin)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/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 skin treatment for your dry skin, as retinol and hyaluronic acid promote renewal and hydration, while glycerin, squalane, and caprylic capric triglyceride provide emollient action. This blend offers general skincare benefits supportive for dry or flaky skin, though it lacks specialized ingredients to directly address flakiness effectively.
- The formulation is highly suitable for dry skin due to its humectant and emollient ingredients, which help maintain moisture.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your sensitive dry skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like Bisabolol and Allantoin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Bisabolol, Hyaluronic Acid, Allantoin, Squalane

## 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 application of an emollient emulsion containing 15.0% caprylic/capric triglyceride doubled the amount of urocanic acid isomers and increased skin hydration with reduced transepidermal water loss in healthy subjects, though it did not prevent ultraviolet-induced urocanic acid isomerization. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/))
- 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/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))
- 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/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- 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/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit dry sensitive skin better

- 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/))
- 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 limited data, this retinol treatment is highly effective for sensitive skin, improving texture and reducing fine lines without causing irritation. Some users find the price point to be high and the results to be gradual.

- Liked: Gentle on skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces lines (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Mild results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Product separation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unsealed packaging (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 PCA Skin Retinol Treatment work for dry sensitive skin?

PCA Skin Retinol Treatment works moderately well for dry sensitive skin, as retinol and hyaluronic acid encourage renewal and hydration while soothing ingredients prevent irritation. However, a product for this skin needs richer moisturizing ingredients and specialized components to deeply target dryness and flakiness.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin, squalane, hyaluronic acid, bisabolol, and allantoin make this cream a good fit by adding moisture and keeping the skin calm without causing irritation. To truly thrive, dry sensitive skin needs a treatment of this type to also include specialized ingredients that directly tackle flakiness.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### 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 Bisabolol do for dry sensitive skin?

Bisabolol helps calm dry sensitive skin by easing irritation and reducing inflammation. It has a very safe profile and is unlikely to cause any unwanted reactions while keeping your skin feeling comfortable and smooth.
Sources: [Life Sciences, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35753438/), [Frontiers in Immunology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38720895/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and toning and before your moisturizer. A product of this type needs moisturizing and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, bisabolol, and allantoin to keep dry and sensitive skin calm and hydrated.

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

This cream works for your dry sensitive skin, though other products fit it better, and it needs specialized ingredients to directly address flakiness effectively.

### How often should I use this cream?

This treatment works in the evening routine once a week to start, as dry sensitive skin does better with a gradual introduction of active ingredients. Dry skin of this type needs rich moisturizing ingredients like ceramides and plant oils along with soothing plant extracts to prevent flakiness and keep the skin calm.
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 cause irritation or breakouts on dry sensitive skin due to soothing ingredients like bisabolol and allantoin, though it may cause mild purging as retinol encourages skin renewal. Dry skin types working with this product benefit from added barrier-protecting ingredients and rich moisturizers to keep skin smooth and comfortable.

### Is this cream 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 sensitive skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — S$40.09 at Amazon
- [PCA Skin C&E Advanced with Hexylresorcinol and Silymarin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — S$192.38 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — S$25.06 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Chamomile and Lavender](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/mario-badescu/facial-spray-with-aloe-chamomile-and-lavender/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — S$34.52 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun+](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dr-g/green-mild-up-sun/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — S$59.06 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Retinol, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopherol Vitamin E, Panthenol Vitamin B5, Squalane, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Disodium Edta
## 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/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/pca-skin/retinol-treatment-for-sensitive-skin/for/dry-sensitive-skin