The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane Serum is a high-strength, water-free retinol serum designed for experienced retinol users who want to target visible signs of skin ageing, uneven skin tone, and textural irregularities.
The formula contains 1% retinol, one of the higher-strength retinol options in The Ordinary range. Retinol can help improve the appearance of fine lines and support a smoother, more even-looking complexion with consistent use. The formula is also supported by squalane, an emollient that helps soften the skin and provide surface-level hydration, which can make the oil-based formula more comfortable than a retinol formula without a moisturizing base.
Why choose The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane?
1% retinol for advanced users: This is a high-strength retinol formula and is better suited to people whose skin has already developed tolerance to lower-strength retinol.
Targets multiple visible concerns: Regular retinol use can help improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture, uneven skin tone and other visible signs of ageing.
Squalane-based formula: Squalane gives the serum its lightweight oil texture and helps support the skin against the drying sensation that some people experience when introducing retinol.
Water-free formulation: The formula is anhydrous, with no water, alcohol or silicones. It is also vegan and cruelty-free according to The Ordinary's current product information.
How to use
Use a few drops in the evening on clean, dry skin. If you use water-based serums, The Ordinary recommends applying the retinoid after those products and before your moisturizer or other heavier skincare.
Because 1% retinol is a high-strength option, introduce it gradually according to your skin's tolerance rather than assuming you need to use it every night from the beginning.
During the day, use sunscreen because retinoids can increase skin sensitivity to UV exposure. Avoid using this product in the same routine as other retinoids. The Ordinary also recommends avoiding combinations with direct acids, copper peptides and direct vitamin C when skin sensitivity is a concern; alternating routines can be a better approach.
Important: Retinol can cause temporary dryness, redness, irritation and peeling, particularly when your skin is adjusting. Patch testing is recommended. If significant irritation occurs, stop use and seek professional medical advice.
Once opened, The Ordinary recommends refrigerating the product and using it within three months.
Pros
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Contains a clearly stated 1% retinol concentration.
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High-strength option for experienced retinol users.
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Targets the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture.
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Can help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone.
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Squalane provides a moisturizing, lightweight oil base.
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Water-free, alcohol-free and silicone-free.
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Simple, ingredient-focused formulation.
Cons
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Not the best starting point for retinol beginners.
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The 1% concentration can cause more irritation than lower-strength retinol formulas.
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Dryness, redness and peeling can occur while the skin builds tolerance.
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The oil-based texture may not appeal to people who prefer a completely dry, non-oily serum finish.
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Requires refrigeration after opening and should be used within three months.
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Requires careful pairing with other strong skincare actives.
Who is it best for?
The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane is best suited to experienced retinol users who have already tolerated lower-strength retinol and want to move to a higher concentration.
If you are completely new to retinol or have easily irritated skin, starting with a lower-strength retinol or a gentler retinoid option may be more appropriate. The Ordinary itself recommends progressing from Retinol 0.2% to 0.5% and then 1% as tolerance develops.
Is The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane suitable for beginners?
Generally, no. The 1% concentration is a high-strength retinol option. The Ordinary recommends starting with lower-strength retinol and gradually working up to 1% as your skin develops tolerance.
What does The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane do?
It is designed to improve the appearance of fine lines and visible signs of ageing while helping improve the look of uneven skin texture and tone.
Does The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane contain 1% retinol?
Yes. The product contains 1% retinol, and this concentration is clearly stated by The Ordinary.
Is squalane in this product moisturizing?
Squalane is an emollient that helps soften the skin and provide surface-level hydration. In this formula, it also provides the lightweight oil base around the retinol.
Can I use The Ordinary Retinol 1% every night?
Not necessarily. Frequency should depend on your skin's tolerance. Because 1% is a high-strength retinol, it is sensible to introduce it gradually rather than immediately using it every night.
Can The Ordinary Retinol 1% cause peeling?
Yes. Redness, dryness, irritation and peeling can occur, particularly when starting or increasing retinol strength. If your skin becomes significantly irritated, reduce use or stop until it recovers.
Can I use Retinol 1% with another retinol?
No. The Ordinary advises against using this product with other retinoid products in the same routine because combining retinoids can increase the potential for skin sensitivity.
Can I use The Ordinary Retinol 1% with vitamin C?
The Ordinary recommends using retinoids and direct vitamin C at different times rather than combining them in the same routine, particularly to reduce the potential for sensitivity.
Can I use Retinol 1% with exfoliating acids?
It is better to avoid combining high-strength retinol with direct acids in the same routine if you are concerned about irritation. The Ordinary recommends alternating these types of products rather than layering them together.
When should I use The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane?
Use it in your evening skincare routine. During the daytime, apply sunscreen because retinoids can increase sensitivity to UV exposure.
Does The Ordinary Retinol 1% need to be refrigerated?
Yes. The Ordinary recommends refrigerating the product after opening and using it within three months.
Is The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane good for oily skin?
It can be used by different skin types, but the formula has an oil-based squalane texture. If you strongly prefer lightweight water-based or non-oily skincare, its finish may not be your preferred texture.
Can I use Retinol 1% if I have sensitive skin?
Extra caution is appropriate because 1% retinol is a high-strength formula. The Ordinary notes that people prone to sensitivity may prefer gentler retinoid technologies.
Can I use retinol during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The Ordinary recommends consulting a healthcare professional regarding retinoid-containing skincare during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
How long does The Ordinary Retinol 1% take to show results?
Retinol is not an instant-results product. Improvements in the appearance of texture, tone and fine lines generally require consistent use over time, and the adjustment period can vary considerably between individuals.
