The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane, High-Strength Retinol Serum for Anti-Aging and Skin Smoothing, 30ml

Wow wow wow - this stuff is amazing, my skin is looking fresh as a freaking daisy in the middle of winter, it’s also fading my freckles and evening out my skin tone, I get no spots when using this and my skin looks radiant - this company is really becoming my favourite. I love how straight to the point no marketing they are, the products speak for themselves and they don’t add any fragrances or things that basically make products a kids toy, just real products that really work

This serum is a game-changer! The 1% retinol is potent enough to smooth fine lines and improve skin texture, yet the squalane base keeps it gentle and hydrating. I’ve seen a noticeable difference in my skin’s clarity, tone, and firmness after just a few weeks of consistent use. It absorbs beautifully, layers well with other products, and doesn’t cause irritation when used properly. I love that it’s fragrance-free, vegan, and budget-friendly high-performance skincare without the luxury price tag.

My skin improvement is amazing , good product,

Purchased to try as was cheaper than my usual brand. It quite potent, did however make my skin dry but after using good thick moisturiser it has cleared. Skin seems much more supple but need to use it for longer to see if there are any improvements. It does take a while to absorb so may not be the right choice for you if it's your first time using retinol.

' The ordinary' moisturising producs are non greasy and the price is excellent for what you get - I plan to use their products now in preference to some of the top selling brands which are very pricey- they cover the main bases - Retinol and Hyaluronic acid

Great retinol serum that combats the usual drying effect by including squalene. I use this once a week on Wednesdays until I build up tolerance and it has improved early signs of fine lines and texture, and reduced the depth of my hereditary nasolabial lines. The Ordinary do higher strength retinol serums that I may upgrade to as I tweak my skincare regimen, but this is great as a starter retinoid for anyone looking to combat the first signs of ageing and prevent new ones. For context, I am in my early 30s with combination skin, an oily t-zone and dry skin patches as the seasons start to change.

This retinol leaves my skin sooo smooth, i sweat the best. I keep my routine very simple, i apply glycolic acid one day and next day i use retinol 1% and the next day i use hydrating face masks. And i repeat the same whole week in this order. My skin looks amazing now ♥️😍 thanks ordinary.

I'm trying this as it was on offer. It is good, but stronger than my regular one from 'the inky list' which I have used for a while. This new one made my skin a bit pink and dry, so I am increasing my usage gradually. If it doesn't agree with my skin, I will return to Inky

Lo estoy usando oara el cabello junto con minoxidil y wow ✨ excelente producto, lo uso también en granitos y me los cura en pocos días, si lo recomiendo, pero tengan cuidado, tengo 33 años, poco a poco fui subiendo de % de retinol y nosé si sea la edad, pero ya no sentía que me estaba haciendo mucho la tretinoina de 0.05. Me gusta usar éste sérum 1 vez a la semana en el cuero cabelludo, quiero usarlo todos los días, pero poco a poco iré subiendo la cantidad de aplicaciones 👍🏻

Thanks to the presence of squalane, one can start using 1% retinol directly on the face at night without experiencing dryness, as the moisturizing properties of squalane help prevent it. However, in my opinion, retinaldehyde—being closer to prescription-strength retinoids—can be more effective. It may cause dryness initially, but over time, the skin builds tolerance, and the results are often better. That said, retinol is still a great option when used consistently over a longer period.

The oil does the job. My skin looks more radiant when I apply the oil every evening.

Real, stable retinol (especially at 1%) is hard to find. But this appears to be real. I’m on my fourth bottle, results are subtle but perceptible. You’ll notice redness at first, and skin will thicken a bit. Amazing to find authentic retinol at this price (not “serum“ nonsense)…so far I believe it…

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!**