Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, Intermediate Retinol Serum for the Face That Is Anti-Aging and Skin Smoothing, 1 Fl Oz

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane is an excellent intermediate-level retinol—it strikes the perfect balance between effectiveness and skin tolerability. I’ve been using it consistently 2–3 times per week at night, and I’ve seen noticeable improvements in skin texture, tone, and fine lines within just a few weeks. The squalane base makes this formula incredibly moisturizing, which helps minimize the dryness or irritation that can come with retinol use. I have sensitive, combination skin, and this has worked really well for me with no major flaking or redness. The product is easy to apply, spreads smoothly, and absorbs well without a greasy finish. I also appreciate the dark glass bottle with a dropper, which keeps the formula stable and makes dosing simple. This is not an overnight miracle, and I always recommend starting slow with retinol, but if you’re looking for a gentle, effective anti-aging serum that fits well into any nighttime skincare routine, this is a fantastic option.

This is a miracle product that does exactly what it says with premium ingredients at an amazing price! I use daily and has visibly faded spots on face and back of hands. Gentle. I put on, let dry, then put moisturizer!

I've never used any other retinol serums. this was recommended to me by my AI and I am obsessed. I combine it with a couple other ordinary serum brands and they're all high quality and cheap. This will last you a really long time. The oiliness of it really works to not try out your skin. apparently I've heard that other retinol will dry. what I would do is apply it after cleansing and wait about 15 to 20 minutes before applying any lotion to your face. I started at the 0.2% retinol and then I upgraded to this 0.5% I have not experienced any issues with skin dryness or skin peeling or anything like that and I use this twice a day. I also Hyaluronic Acid 2% B5, then Agrieline 10%, then Matrixyl 10% HA, followed by Niacinamide 10% Zinc 1%, let that sit for a minute then apply the retinol 0.5%. All are ordinary brands and under 10. I'm 34 and because of autism I never use my eyebrows to emotion or even have crows feet..I started this as a preventive measure because I vape. But I love how soft my skin is after applying .

Really love this product. Decided to add retinol into my routine to combat forehead creasing [early 30s, dry-combo skin, dry climate]. After three weeks using every other night under moisturizer, my complexion is already much more vibrant, especially around lips and eyes. Not sure if the lines themselves have changed so much as my facial skin as a whole has shed a layer of gray and plumped up, which makes the lines seem much less prominent. Maybe that’s the science-magic of it. Excited to see results with upped frequency but relieved to know that I don’t have a wasted product if my skin can’t handle higher percentage/usage.

UPDATE: Been using this product abour a month now. I'm surprised that this product has left my skin soft & not greasy despite my oily skin & tbe peoducts oily texture. I got tbe .5 dose & it seems to be working great. I accidentally bought 2 bottles but will definately be keeping it. Good bargain for the price. I'm not exactly sure how I feel about this as I've only used it one nite so far. It's a bit more greasy/oilier than I expected. I already have naturally oily skin. It's been a while since I used a retinol product and the last concentration I used was the .25. I decided to go with the 0.5 and surprisingly didn't get red or have any sensitivities. I will try this out for a few days more before I decide to keep it or return it.

I use it a few times a week and I havent noticed change wirh wrinkles or darker spots, but it works great preventing most of blemishes and it works fast to remove current ones! I use it for my face, arms, chest, back, bum.

I bought this as part of an effort to actually start taking care of my skin in my 20s—mainly because I’m active, sweat a lot, and figured I should be doing more than just washing my face. Why I Chose This One: I did some research and saw that The Ordinary is good for beginners and not overpriced. This 0.5% version is a solid middle ground—not too weak, not too strong. I’ve been using it nightly for a months then will upgrade to the next strength. Texture & Feel: It’s an oil-based serum (squalane), so it feels a little greasy going on, but absorbs in a few minutes. I usually follow it up with a moisturizer cream. It doesn’t sting or feel harsh, which I was worried about. What It’s Doing: Definitely noticed my skin looks smoother, especially on my forehead and around my mouth. A few small acne scars have started fading, and overall I just look more “awake.” I still get the occasional breakout from trigger foods like dairy, but they go away quickly. Cautions: Don’t use it every night right away. Start slow. Use sunscreen during the day (seriously).

Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane is the perfect balance between comfort and effectiveness. Some of y'all are just going right to "BURN MY SKIN BABY AND MAKE IT SMOOTH" - Then complain about how much it burned. Stop! Do yourself a favor, and buy this .05% instead. It strikes a nice balance of actually working without the pain! I am on my second order, as I am almost done with the first. I do highly recommend keeping it refrigerated as the label clearly suggests, but storing it in a cool, dark place, like the bottom shelf of my sink cabinet will have to do. I do not get a burn with this at all. Search the "interwebs" (lol) and some AI search engines on the effectiveness of .05% retinol. the results will tell you that it is a moderate to moderate high dose. Continued reading will tell you that it can take up to 6 months, to a year for it to be noticeable by others and that you have use it daily for that to take affect. So bring it with you on vacation. Always do it as your nightly routine of facial cleansing. Wear a nice light sunscreen/moisturizer during the day (always, even in winter).

Package was open and bottle only filled down to 3 quarters. It feels too light on the skin for it to be actual retinol Sadly I think its a dupe. Douglas sells this bottle for half the price!!!

Finished it already! Very good quality retinol for someone looking for an affordable one.

Bestes produkt für die haut. Noch nie bessere haut gehabt

nice product

An absolute brilliant product, fantastic price too Doesn’t leave the skin tight or flaky