# No7 Pure Retinol 1% Night Concentrate for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/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 the United Kingdom.

Brand: [No7](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/no7)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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.

A weak match for dry sensitive skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Suboptimal compatibility with your dry and sensitive skin as the 1% retinol can cause irritation and dryness, even though glycerin and panthenol offer some hydration. Bisabolol and Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract are included to soothe, but may not fully counteract the retinol's potential for dryness.
- The niacinamide and retinol work to improve skin texture and minimize fine lines, offering moderate treatment benefits.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Collagen Peptide Technology, Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Panthenol

## What the research says

- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 liquid formulation containing hydrolyzed collagen demonstrated structural stability, peptide mass distribution between 0.5 and 19.5 kDa, and faded forehead wrinkles in five volunteers while proving to be non-irritating and hypoallergenic. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32390321/))
- Exposure to collagen peptides increased the expression of COL1A1, ELN, and VCAN genes and collagen protein levels in cultured human dermal fibroblasts compared to untreated controls. ([Frontiers in Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38751975/))
- Salmo salar and Tilapia nilotica skin collagen peptides accelerate wound healing in a rat murine wound model by reducing proinflammatory cytokines, upregulating BD14, NOD2, IL-10, VEGF, and beta-FGF, and favorably altering wound microflora colonization compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31967468/))
- 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 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- 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/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- A combination serum containing galactomyces ferment filtrate, dexpanthenol, and Centella asiatica effectively treated post-acne hyperpigmentation in subjects with colored skin by significantly increasing lightness scores in Fitzpatrick skin type V and reducing the melanin index in Fitzpatrick skin type IV compared to placebo. ([Skinmed, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33938432/))

## 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

This potent 1% retinol concentrate is highly regarded by experienced users for effectively smoothing skin texture, reducing the appearance of deep wrinkles, and fading dark spots. While it delivers transformative results, it is a strong formula that requires careful introduction to avoid dryness and irritation.

- Liked: Effective anti-aging (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Causes dryness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good value (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces dark spots (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Requires care (sometimes 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

### Why is No7 Pure Retinol 1% Night Concentrate a weak match for dry sensitive skin?

This product is a weak match for dry sensitive skin because its strong 1 percent retinol can easily cause irritation, flaking, and dryness that soothing ingredients may not fully prevent. A product of this type needs rich, gentle moisturizers, skin barrier supporters, and soothing components that hydrate and protect dry skin without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

The 1% retinol makes this treatment a weak match for your dry and sensitive skin because it can easily cause irritation, flaking, and dryness. Even though soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract and panthenol are included, they may not fully counteract the strength of high-concentration retinol. A treatment for dry sensitive skin needs gentle, deeply hydrating ingredients and skin barrier supporters like ceramides and nourishing vitamins without high risks of irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### 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 do Collagen Peptides do for dry sensitive skin?

Collagen peptides help keep dry sensitive skin hydrated and smooth while calming irritation. Studies show they may improve skin moisture and reduce roughness and redness.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19496838/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26362110/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica leaf extract, bisabolol, panthenol, and glycerin to help keep dry and sensitive skin calm and hydrated while using retinol.

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

It is best to avoid using this strong retinol treatment and vitamin C at the same time, as this combination may easily cause dryness and irritation on sensitive skin. Instead, you can apply your vitamin C in the morning and reserve this treatment for your evening routine.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

This product is a weak match for your dry sensitive skin, so you should use it very cautiously or look for a gentler treatment packed with extra hydrating ingredients and soothing plant extracts.

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores, but the 1% retinol may cause flaking, dryness, or stinging on dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients like centella asiatica and panthenol, along with richer hydrators, to keep dry skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl alcohol).

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £143.35 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £248.00 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Real Barrier Mild Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/real-barrier/mild-sun-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £19.01 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £38.50 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £22.24 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £38.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Polysorbate 20, Niacinamide, Retinol, Phenoxyethanol, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Bisabolol, Caprylyl Glycol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Sucrose Laurate, Sorbitan Laurate, Potassium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Tetrasodium Edta, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Benzoic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Benzyl Alcohol
## 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/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/no7/pure-retinol-1-night-concentrate/for/dry-sensitive-skin