Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

Supercharge your anti-ageing ritual with this 0.5% pure retinol goodie packed in a squalane base to minimise wrinkles and fine lines, brighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation, and refine the texture of skin.

WHY IT’S SPECIAL

Centred upon the well-studied ingredient, The Ordinary has formulated this powerhouse form of Vitamin A that works to smoothen out textural irregularities, wrinkles and fine lines, brighten dark spots and any hyperpigmentation – while also delivering hydrating benefits thanks to the presence of squalane.

Retinol encourages cell turnover and sloughs away dead skin cells by triggering the skin cells on the outermost layer of skin to turnover at a faster rate so that new cells can generate. It further penetrates into the middle layer of the skin, then neutralises free radicals to boost the production of elastin and collagen. This is what creates the plumping effect, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. At the same time, retinol has an exfoliating effect on the skin’s surface that can further improve texture and tone.

As if that isn’t impressive enough, this golden standard of skincare ingredient does it all with its ability to effectively fight blemishes by balancing sebum production, consequently shrinking pores to prevent them from getting congested and inflamed.

Since all Retinol products can be irritating at first, we encourage new users to start with lower concentrations to allow the skin to build tolerance before using higher concentrations. If you have sensitive skin or would like a much gentler formula, please check out The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane or Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane.

Suitable for: Advanced retinol users, for most skin types.

Feels like: A lightweight oil serum.

pH Level: N/A

HOW TO USE

• Apply 1-3 drops to palm, then pat or massage across face and neck until absorbed.

• For beginners, start by using 1-2 times a week, then increase frequency to every night if desired.

• Avoid use with other retinoid treatments.

• After opening, store in dark and cool place away from sunlight. Optionally, store in refrigerator to better preserve the formula.

Use in the PM before bed time for best results.

 Note:  Most retinoids/retinols are light-sensitive and exposure to UV contributes to degradation of the product and interferes with its efficacy. Store products in a cool dry place away from sunlight, and avoid using retinoids/retinols in the day to get the most benefit from your treatment. 

GOOD TO KNOW

• Supplied in UV-protective brown tinted glass bottle to reduce light degradation of the product.

• When pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid any skincare products containing retinoids such as formulations with Granactive Retinoid or Retinol.

• Retinol can cause significant irritation, redness and peeling, especially around the eyes and mouth, in the early stages of treatment while skin builds tolerance. It is normal to expect an adjustment period (also know as “retinization” during the first several weeks of use. If you have not used high-strength retinol formulas in the past, The Ordinary strongly recommends starting your retinol regimen with lower concentrations of retinol and gradually implementing higher concentrations of retinol as your skin builds tolerance, to avoid any undesired redness and peeling along the way.

• This product is not a treatment for acne. Acne-prone skin may experience a temporary increase in acne during the first few weeks of using any form of retinoid including those used in this formulation.

• Water can affect the stability of retinol. Additionally, plant oils in retinol formulations can trigger lipid peroxidation and can impair retinol integrity. This formula does not contain water, silicones, plant oils or alcohol.

• Always conduct a patch test before use on unbroken skin.

• Should any irritation occur, stop use immediately and consult your local physician.

• Keep out of reach from children.

Avoid using these products in the same routine:

Check our FAQ page for more information on product use and patch testing.

INGREDIENTS

Key Ingredients:

✴︎ Retinol: Also known as Vitamin A, an extensively-studied anti-ageing ingredient that can smooth wrinkles and make skin firmer.

✴︎ Squalane: A plant-derived emollient ingredient that offers lightweight hydration.

Full Ingredients: 

Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Retinol, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, BHT.

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.