You’ve probably seen the little frosted bottle sitting on a bathroom shelf or tucked away in a TikTok "shelfie." It’s ubiquitous. The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane is basically the heavy hitter of the budget skincare world, but honestly, it’s also one of the most misunderstood products out there. People buy it because it’s cheap—usually under ten bucks—and because "1%" sounds like a small, manageable number.
It isn't.
In the world of over-the-counter retinoids, 1% is actually quite high. Most dermatologists will tell you that jumping straight into a 1% concentration is like trying to run a marathon when you haven't even walked to the mailbox in six months. Your skin will likely revolt. We’re talking peeling, redness, and that lovely "retinol burn" that makes putting on even a basic moisturizer feel like touching a hot stove. But if you handle it right, this stuff is a goldmine for texture and aging concerns.
Why the Squalane Base Actually Matters
Most traditional retinols are delivered in creams or alcohols. Alcohol can be drying. Creams can be heavy. The Ordinary opted for a squalane base, which is a brilliant move for a few reasons. Squalane is a saturated and stable hydrocarbon that is found naturally in the skin. It’s a superb hydrator.
Because retinol is notoriously unstable—light and air are its mortal enemies—the squalane acts as a sort of protective blanket. It also helps mitigate the irritation. Think of it as a "buffer." While the retinol is busy trying to speed up your cell turnover, the squalane is sitting there trying to keep your skin barrier from completely collapsing. It feels oily. It’s definitely an oil-like texture. If you hate the feeling of oil on your face, you’re gonna have a hard time with this one, but that slickness is exactly what prevents your face from falling off in sheets of dry skin.
The Science of the "1%"
Let’s get technical for a second. Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A. When you apply it, your skin has to convert it into retinaldehyde and then into retinoic acid. Only then does it actually start telling your cells to behave younger.
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A 1% concentration is the maximum strength you can typically find without a prescription. For comparison, many "drugstore" anti-aging creams don't even list their percentage because it’s often as low as 0.01% or 0.05%. When you use The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane, you are bypassing the "fluff" and going straight to the active work. This is why the brand also offers 0.2% and 0.5% versions. They aren't just there for fun; they are the "on-ramps" to this 1% powerhouse.
Managing the "Retinoid Ugly Phase"
If you start using this every night right away, you will regret it. Seriously.
The first week usually feels fine. You think, "Oh, I have iron skin, I’m the exception!" Then, around day ten, the purging starts. Purging is real. It’s not a breakout in the traditional sense; it’s the retinol pulling all the junk to the surface faster than usual. You’ll see tiny whiteheads or localized congestion. It’s tempting to quit. Don't.
The real trick is the "sandwich method." You put on a thin layer of moisturizer, wait ten minutes, apply a few drops of the 1% in squalane, and then put another layer of moisturizer on top. This slows down the penetration just enough to keep your skin happy. Also, keep it away from the corners of your nose and your eyes. Those areas have thinner skin and will sting like crazy if the oil migrates there.
Real World Results and Expectations
What does it actually do? It won’t fix deep-set wrinkles overnight. Nothing does. But after about twelve weeks—which is the time it takes for a full cycle of skin cell regeneration—you’ll notice things. The texture of your forehead might look smoother. Those little sunspots from that one summer you forgot SPF? They start to fade.
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The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane is particularly good for people dealing with "maskne" scars or general dullness. It gives that "lit from within" look because it’s constantly bringing fresh cells to the surface. But you have to be patient. Skincare is a long game.
The Sunscreen Mandate
If you use this product and don't use SPF 30 or higher the next morning, you are literally doing more damage than good. Retinol makes your skin photosensitive. The new cells coming to the surface are "baby cells." They are vulnerable. If you expose them to UV rays without protection, you're looking at increased hyperpigmentation and potential sun damage. It’s non-negotiable. If you're a "sunscreen is optional" person, put the retinol down.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is mixing this with other actives. Don't use this on the same night as Glycolic Acid or Salicylic Acid. You will fry your skin barrier. Your skin barrier is a delicate balance of lipids and ceramics; 1% retinol is already a heavy lift for it. Adding a chemical exfoliant on top is just asking for a dermatologist visit.
Also, check the expiration. Retinol degrades. If your bottle has been sitting open for a year, it’s probably just a bottle of squalane now. The Ordinary uses dark packaging for a reason, but you still need to keep it in a cool, dark place. Some people even keep it in the fridge to eke out a few more weeks of potency.
Who Should Skip This?
Honestly? If you have rosacea or extremely sensitive skin, a 1% retinol is probably too much. You might want to look into Bakuchiol, which is a plant-based alternative that mimics retinol without the "burn." Or, start with the Granactive Retinoid line from the same brand. It’s a different technology that’s designed to be less irritating.
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Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are usually advised to stay away from retinoids entirely. Always check with a doctor, but the general consensus in the medical community is to hit pause on Vitamin A derivatives during that time.
How to Actually Integrate It Into Your Routine
Don't overcomplicate it. Skincare "cocktailing" is a recipe for disaster.
- Cleanse with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser.
- Pat your skin totally dry. Retinol on damp skin penetrates deeper and faster, which sounds good but actually just increases irritation.
- Apply 2-3 drops of The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane.
- Massage it in. It will feel greasy. Give it five minutes.
- Follow up with a basic, ceramide-rich moisturizer.
- Sleep.
Do this maybe twice a week to start. Once you’ve gone two weeks without peeling, move to three times a week. Eventually, you might get to every other night. Most people never actually need to use a 1% strength every single night.
The Verdict on Value
Is it the best retinol on the market? No. There are sophisticated formulas from brands like SkinCeuticals or Medik8 that use time-release technology and complex soothing complexes that make the experience much "luxe." But those cost $90.
For the price of two lattes, The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane delivers the exact same active ingredient at a verified concentration. It’s the "blue collar" hero of skincare. It’s not fancy, it’s not particularly elegant in its skin feel, but it works. It’s a tool. And like any powerful tool, it requires some respect and a bit of a learning curve.
If you’re looking to get serious about aging or skin texture without breaking the bank, this is the logical step. Just remember: slow and steady wins the race. If your face starts to peel like a sunburned tourist, back off. Your skin will thank you in three months when you're glowing.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check your current shelf: Ensure you don't have any open AHA/BHA products that you plan on using at the same time as the retinol.
- The Patch Test: Apply a tiny drop behind your ear or on your inner forearm for 24 hours before putting it on your face.
- Acquire a "Buffer": If you don't have a plain, fragrance-free moisturizer (like CeraVe or Vanicream), get one to use with this.
- Start the "Low and Slow" Method: Begin application only twice a week, ideally on a Monday and Thursday, to monitor skin reaction before increasing frequency.