The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane 30ml

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane is a water-free retinol serum that delivers 0.5% pure retinol in a squalane base for intermediate-level anti-aging. The anhydrous (water-free) formula contains only 8 ingredients — one of the most minimalist retinol formulas available — ensuring maximum stability and potency.

Pure retinol at 0.5% accelerates skin cell turnover, boosts collagen production, and targets fine lines, uneven texture, and photodamage. Squalane — a lipid naturally found in skin — provides moisture and helps skin tolerate retinol without excessive dryness. Jojoba seed oil adds nourishing omega fatty acids. Tomato fruit extract and rosemary leaf extract provide antioxidant support. BHT stabilises the formula.

Why customers love it

• 0.5% pure retinol — intermediate-strength for visible anti-aging results
• Squalane base — moisturises while delivering retinol, reduces irritation
• Only 8 ingredients — ultra-minimalist, water-free formula
• Jojoba seed oil — nourishing omega fatty acids
• Tomato fruit extract — lycopene antioxidant protection
• Rosemary leaf extract — antioxidant and stabilising
• Water-free formula — maximum retinol stability and shelf life
• Targets fine lines, texture & tone — comprehensive anti-aging

Perfect for: fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, uneven tone, photodamage, skin aging, intermediate retinol users, dry skin.

Squalane — skin-identical lipid that moisturises and helps tolerate retinol

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride — lightweight emollient from coconut oil

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil — nourishing omega fatty acids

Retinol (0.5%) — pure vitamin A for cell turnover and collagen production

Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract — lycopene antioxidant

Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract — antioxidant and stabiliser

Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone — soothing anti-irritant

BHT — antioxidant that stabilises retinol from degradation

1. Apply a small amount to the face in the PM only.
2. Apply after water-based serums but before heavier creams.
3. Avoid the eye area.
4. Start with every other night, then increase as tolerated.
5. Always apply sunscreen in the morning — retinol increases UV sensitivity.

Pro tip: This is an intermediate retinol — if you haven't used retinol before, start with The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane first and work your way up after 2-3 months. The oil-based formula makes this best suited for dry or normal skin; if you have oily skin, consider The Ordinary's Granactive Retinoid (water-based) instead. Never combine retinol with direct acids (AHAs, BHAs) or vitamin C in the same routine — use them on alternate evenings. Some peeling, redness, and dryness in the first 2-4 weeks is normal as your skin adjusts — this is called retinisation. In the UAE, retinol + sun exposure without SPF50+ is a recipe for hyperpigmentation — be absolutely strict about sunscreen. Store in a cool, dark place; the yellow colour is natural and indicates active retinol.