The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane, High-Strength Retinol Serum for Anti-Aging and Skin Smoothing

It's less than $10, after 5½ weeks, I have 70% of the bottle left and it’s WORKING. Keep reading for my experience❣️ •photo is my "after" 5 full weeks• I couldn't find any "before" pics without makeup or sunglasses, and doesn't that just say it all ♡I have sensitive skin, combination skin. Like many, I've tried so many products being in my late 30s. I struggle with hormonal acne, which makes skin care hard. Plus, forehead & neck wrinkles, etc. This product has clearly listed ingredients, vegan, no animal testing. Note: This particular product is 1% retinol squalane & is not necessarily for beginners. If you burn or get dry skin easily, maybe start with a lower concentration, but me being me, I wanted results and went all in. I was not disappointed! And I didn’t notice any particular smell, which I appreciate.Pro Tip: Keep in the fridge! Feels amazing and recommended on the box to extend potency.My Trial and Error!•Week 1: I skipped the recommended test patch & I started at 4 nights a week. Maybe a little ambitious😅 My skin broke out with whitehead acne in not my typical zones, a bit oily, not looking like my typical zits. Ifykyk.Week 2: Did a little research, the retinol strength and quality literally pushed all dead skin, imperfections, embedded dirt/environmental junk to the surface as my skin regrowth sped up. This was causing those whiteheads as impurities purged. This is normal for retinol products (according to multiple sources.) So I slowed down a bit to twice weekly. I still lightly broke out with a few pimples, but it was gone in a day or 2. Meanwhile, I’m already noticing fine lines improving, a better glow and overall my skin doesn’t look so flat/dull. Hydration— I’d say A for combo skin. Maybe use a little less for oily skin or check out The Ordinary website for routine-building options.Week 3: I’m in the zone integrating into my skin care routine. Personally, I use this product at night after cleanser and alcohol-free toner (not The Ordinary brand, but products that work for me and I trust). I use less than one dropper for my whole face and neck. The serum needs to be totally dry and absorbed. then finish with moisturizer. Halfway through Week 3 I add an extra night.Week 4: I’m at 3 nights a week. Occasional whiteheads. *To be clear! my hormonal acne didn’t change at all, there’s a difference. Retinol doesn't target acne so i didn't expect any change there* Noticeably reduced fine wrinkles on my forehead, my skin tone seems more even, my face looks less flat and more healthy. Some of my self-loathed deep lines look better. Best of all, I FEEL better. Up to 4 nights a week.Week 5: Personal life was rough, routine not as consistent but skin still looks good. Not like one of those creams where you miss a day and you’re back to ground zero. I did 2 days that week.Week 6: I’m actively building a better skin care nightly routine using The Ordinary, but still keeping a few other brand products I love. My 17-year-old son actaully NOTICED, and my favorite barista told me I had a “glow.” 🫶🏽I can’t wait to try the Niacinamide serum next! **hit the thumbs up if this review helped you please!**

Any product from The Ordinary is high quality at affordable prices. And as expected, this product does what it's supposed to do. Squalane is an absolute must-have for aging skin, and not only does this product deliver, but at an affordable price. The formula also contains other ingredients to leave skin super soft and hydrated. The bottle is one fluid ounce and the product is a serum which means only a pea sized amount is needed to cover a large area. It's best to use at night after cleansing but if you use during the day, apply a sun protection as the product can cause a bit of UV sensitivity. Woops, there goes the Esthetician in me coming out again LOL Sometimes my reviews turn into "how to best use this product" instructions. Sorry! (not sorry...lol)

This has become a staple in my skincare routine! I use it every evening before bed because it does make my skin feel a bit more oily than usual, but that’s expected with the squalane base. It absorbs well overnight and has really helped improve my skin’s texture and overall clarity. A little goes a long way, and I love how effective it is without irritating my skin. Definitely a great, affordable option for adding retinol to your routine!

This high-strength retinol from The Ordinary really delivers on smoothing texture and refining fine lines. After a few weeks of consistent use, I noticed brighter skin and a more even tone. It’s effective, no-frills, and budget-friendly compared to high-end alternatives.However, the squalane base makes it feel quite oily on the skin — even for someone used to heavier nighttime products. It’s definitely best for evening use, and I’d recommend layering it carefully or avoiding it if you're prone to breakouts from oil-based formulas.Pros:-Visible improvement in skin texture and tone-High-strength retinol at an affordable price-Simple, effective ingredients-No added fragrance or fillersCons:-Leaves a greasy, oily finish-May not suit oily or acne-prone skin types-Can cause irritation without proper hydration or skin prep

It leaves a greasy feeling but it is very good, it moisturizes a lot and leaves the skin luminous, my skin is mixed and it works

This retinol is powerful yet gentle thanks to the squalane base. It absorbs nicely without leaving my skin greasy, and over time I’ve noticed smoother texture, fewer fine lines, and a brighter complexion. A high-strength, affordable option that delivers real results—definitely worth adding to a skincare routine!

Effective retinol. Low dose, non irritating, good for every day use. Quality feel and texture. Small bottle with dropper for easy and controlled use. I've purchased many of these and will continue to do so. Best for sensitive areas like around your eyes and on your neck.

I tried The Ordinary Retinol and it didn't work for me. From the first application, I noticed the texture was very oily, leaving my skin with a greasy and shiny finish. Personally, I didn't like the results and won't repurchase it. I don't recommend it for those looking for a light or shine-free finish.