What is The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane is a water-free solution featuring 0.5% pure Retinol that aims to reduce the appearance of fine lines, photo damage, and signs of general skin ageing.

What are the benefits of using this Retinol product?

This formulation helps decrease the look of fine lines and wrinkles, brightens photodamage, and enhances the visible signs of skin ageing while being free from water, silicones, plant oils, and alcohol.

How should I use The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?

Apply a small amount to the face in the evening as part of your skincare routine, after any water-based serums and before heavier treatments. Avoid using it with other retinoid products.

Can I use this product if I have never used Retinol before?

If you are new to Retinol, it is advisable to start with a lower concentration, such as The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane, before progressing to the 0.5% version to help build tolerance.

What skin types can use The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?

This product is suitable for a variety of skin types, including dry, normal to dry, normal to oily, and oily skin.

What should I avoid while using this Retinol?

While using this Retinol, avoid unprotected solar exposure, and do not combine it with other retinoids or retinoid treatments to minimise the risk of irritation.

How should I store this product?

It is recommended to refrigerate this product after opening to maintain its integrity and effectiveness.

What ingredients are in The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?

Key ingredients include Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Tomato Fruit Extract, Jojoba Seed Oil, and BHT.

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

This solution combines 0.5% pure retinol with hydrating squalane to visibly reduce wrinkles, smooth texture, and promote radiance. It supports cell turnover while providing lightweight nourishment to help minimise irritation.

Key Benefits

Reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Improves texture and tone
Promotes radiance and smoothness
Nourishes and supports the barrier
Ideal for regular retinol users

Key Ingredients

Retinol (0.5%) - targets multiple signs of ageing
Squalane - hydrates and reduces potential dryness

How To Use

Apply a small amount in the evening. Begin with lower frequency and increase gradually. Use SPF daily.

Age:

Key Ingredients:

Vitamin A/Retinol

Skin Concern:

First signs of ageing
Pigmentation, uneven skin tone
Wrinkles and loss of firmness

Skin Type:

Dry
Normal to dry
Normal to oily
Oily

How to Use Step 1. Cleanse your face and gently pat your skin dry before applying The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane. Use this serum in your evening skincare routine after cleansing and before moisturiser. Step 2. If you are using The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane for the first time, perform a patch test before applying it to your face. Apply a small amount to a discreet area and check for any signs of irritation before regular use. Step 3. Apply a few drops of the retinol serum to your face using clean fingertips. Avoid the eye area and do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Step 4. Gently spread the product evenly over your skin and allow it to absorb before applying your next skincare product. Do not rinse off. Step 5. Follow with a moisturiser to complete your evening skincare routine. Apply moisturiser after The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane. Step 6. Use the product in the evening only. If you are new to retinol, start with less frequent application and gradually increase use as your skin builds tolerance. Step 7. The following morning, cleanse your skin and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the final step of your morning skincare routine before makeup or sun exposure. Retinol products can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Step 8. Avoid using The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane in the same routine as other retinoid products, direct acids or strong active ingredients unless advised by a skincare professional. Step 9. Close the bottle securely after each use and store it in a cool, dry place. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional if needed.

If this product is sealed, please ensure the seal is intact prior to using the product.

Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, BHT.

Our formulations are updated from time to time as part of our commitment to innovation. As such, the ingredient list shown here may vary from the box of the product depending on time and region of purchase.

The Ordinary recently made changes to the existing formulas under the “Retinoids” category of The Ordinary in standing with their commitment to innovation and further improving our formulations. These changes are intended to ensure and maintain the consistent stability of our products in all the regions we sell in, especially regions of the tropical climate. In addition to those changes, the aforementioned formulas, may appear darker in colour and impart a detectable Rosemary-like scent. This is expected and should not be taken as an indication of product instability.

Note:

At Adore Beauty, we believe in the right product for the right person. We want our product information to be useful to you, so we have done our best to provide you with the most up to date ingredients list.
Please note that from time to time, products are innovated without notice. For the most accurate information please consult the product box.
If you spot an error, please let us know! We will update this ingredients list as soon as possible.

SHIPPING

FREE SHIPPING on ALL orders over $75*

FREE EXPRESS SHIPPING on orders over $125*

*Valid on orders with an Australian Delivery Address.

Please see our full shipping and delivery timeframes page for most up to date information.*

Adore Rewards Level 3 customer will received free express shipping on all orders over $75

RETURNS

Instant refunds via Refundid.

130 day returns.

View our returns policy page here to see if your items apply.

What is The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane is a water-free solution featuring 0.5% pure Retinol that aims to reduce the appearance of fine lines, photo damage, and signs of general skin ageing.
What are the benefits of using this Retinol product?

This formulation helps decrease the look of fine lines and wrinkles, brightens photodamage, and enhances the visible signs of skin ageing while being free from water, silicones, plant oils, and alcohol.
How should I use The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?

Apply a small amount to the face in the evening as part of your skincare routine, after any water-based serums and before heavier treatments. Avoid using it with other retinoid products.
Can I use this product if I have never used Retinol before?

If you are new to Retinol, it is advisable to start with a lower concentration, such as The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane, before progressing to the 0.5% version to help build tolerance.
What skin types can use The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?

This product is suitable for a variety of skin types, including dry, normal to dry, normal to oily, and oily skin.
What should I avoid while using this Retinol?

While using this Retinol, avoid unprotected solar exposure, and do not combine it with other retinoids or retinoid treatments to minimise the risk of irritation.
How should I store this product?

It is recommended to refrigerate this product after opening to maintain its integrity and effectiveness.
What ingredients are in The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?

Key ingredients include Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Tomato Fruit Extract, Jojoba Seed Oil, and BHT.

a regular step in my daily skin care routine
Verified Purchaser
petal10 days ago
I love this product. Retinol is a precursor to collagen. And a serum is the best way to benefit most.
Boost for the tired skin
Verified Purchaser
Hydratinga month ago
It's an oily product and makes the skin look immediately lhydrated and plump, it gives a nice feel to the skin but need to be careful as it drips easily . My feel it suits my skin and makes it very calm . It's an anti aging support serum and I am happy with the result
Fantastic Price for a great product
Kristy4 months ago
This works very well on my skin. I am in my late 40s and live in the northern part of Aus, and this doesn't clog my pores or feel too heavy. With the cost of everything rising I use this because I am on a strict budget like everybody else is and the price for this and the results I am getting are fantastic. I also love that its cruely free.
Watery but great
Verified Purchaser
Jules6 months ago
It still slightly watery and oily but I don't mind it. Just be sure to really rub it in deeply into the skin. I put it on after washing my face then lock it in by putting on a thick night cream to lock it in. Have seen a visible difference in my wrinkles and skin bounciness
Oil
Ari8 months ago
This was just like putting oil on your face. I gave it away
Recommend
R10 months ago
Gentle retinol that hasn't irritated my skin. I use it at night and it helps with texture and clarity.
Good
Tianaa year ago
Powerful formula that softens fine lines, but I use it slowly to avoid irritation.
Honestly thr best!
Verified Purchaser
Ba year ago
Have been using this for 4 weeks now.. 3 nights a week and it's helped my blemish prone skin so much. Haven't had a crazy breakout since using it.
Moisturising retinol
Verified Purchaser
Oria year ago
To see the results of retinal, it's best to start with a less potent dose and only few times a week. You also need to give it a long time and be consistent. I like that this product is moisturising as well without drying my face. I've been using this product for over 3 months and I believe it slightly plumped my skin which helps with wrinkles. I would definitely recommend not switching and contin...
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Good
Ra year ago
Gentle enough for my sensitive skin, but I can see smoother texture already.
Moisturizing, non irritating gentel retinol
Verified Purchaser
Mariannaa year ago
I have been using this retinol as recommended by dermatologists- starting with a really low doze only 3 times a week. This helps with adjusting this product to the routine, avoid breaking and irritation. You can then move to 1% more often, but there is no har using this product only 3-4 times a week a night at first. Crucial- the results may come but you need to give it time (think really long ter...
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Even toned face
Allya year ago
I approached this with hesitation, but its potency surprised me. My complexion is smoother and more even toned, with markedly less congestion.
Gentle
Verified Purchaser
Reaa year ago
It's gentle on the skin and brightens.
**The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% Serum - A Must-Have for Youthful, Radiant Skin!**
Verified Purchaser
Moon2 years ago
I'm absolutely loving *The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% Serum*! This product has truly transformed my skincare routine. I was initially a little hesitant to try retinol, but this serum is gentle enough for my skin, even though it's an active ingredient. After just a few weeks of use, I've already noticed my skin looking smoother, brighter, and with a more even tone. The serum has a lightweight texture a...
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First time and working well
Verified Purchaser
Cancara2 years ago
First time to use this product, no redness or stinging, a little goes a long way.
Gentle
Blair2 years ago
This retinol oil has been a gentle but effective addition to my routine. It's perfect for beginners, and my skin has been looking smoother and more even toned
Oily
Verified Purchaser
Tamara2 years ago
Good packaging, the dropper makes it easy to use. I feel like this product was effective but it had such a heavy oily feeling that I wasn't expecting. Great value for money.
Love this serum
Shab2 years ago
This serum keeps ur face hydrated and smooth, definitely recommend
Works alright I guess
Verified Purchaser
Harry2 years ago
I feel like it does help improve skin condition due to aging, but maybe not the best for oily skin. . It's quite oil and still cause acne to pop up even after a month of use, I don't have sensitive skin so it's probably not due to irritation. Now I use it twice a week and use benzoyl product on the days I'm using retinol, I find this way to be the best for my skin, can control acne as well as imp...
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The Ordinary = Best value
Verified Purchaser
Troy2 years ago
I used to buy really expensive retinol products and went to the ordinary and was very pleased with the results. I'm a repeat buyer of their retinol and don't go without it. Have been using it for many many months now (for a few years on and off though) and it significantly improves my light wrinkles on my forehead in addition to preventing breakouts and reducing my pore sizes (which is why I first...
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No noticable differences
Gemma2 years ago
I waited a couple of months to review so I could see any results from the product. I have been applying it nightly for two months now. When I first began using it, my skin because irritated and peeled - purging, to be expected. This lasted about a week or two, and then my skin was able to tolerate it. *When my skin was hurting a little from it, I mixed a pawpaw ointment with my moisturiser and fo...
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Could absorb better
Verified Purchaser
May2 years ago
This was my first try at a retinol. Personally I found the formula more oily than I'd like and it didn't absorb into my skin. Tried for a few weeks but ended up spending more and getting something I liked.
Very basic product
Verified Purchaser
Kiki2 years ago
Basic product that would be suitable for a beginner. However doesn't compare to higher end products
Good entry level retinol
Verified Purchaser
Helen3 years ago
I found this to be a good entry level retinol so perfect if you haven't used retinol products before and are wanting to try one out and see if it's for you.
So far so good
Birdie3 years ago
I have just bought this, but it has not irritated my skin or caused redness. Not keen on the oily feel but it is pretty nourishing which is good.