High-Strength Evening Retinol Serum in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane 30ml is a water-free evening serum designed for experienced retinol users. Formulated with 1% retinol in a squalane base, it helps improve the look of fine lines, uneven tone and skin texture over time.

This is a high-strength retinol formula and is not the best starting point for complete beginners. If you are new to retinol, introduce it slowly and avoid combining it with other strong active treatments in the same routine.

Why You’ll Love It

• High-strength 1% retinol formula
• Helps improve the look of fine lines and visible skin ageing
• Supports smoother, more refined-looking skin texture
• Squalane base helps support skin comfort
• Water-free formula for evening skincare routines
• Best suited to experienced retinol users
• Fragrance-free formula
• Vegan

Who It’s For

This serum is best suited to customers already comfortable using retinol or active-led skincare. It may suit routines focused on visible fine lines, uneven-looking tone and texture. If your skin is sensitive-feeling or new to retinol, start with a lower-strength retinoid before moving to this product.

Important Retinol Guidance

Retinoids can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Use this product in the evening only and apply SPF during the day. Do not use this product with other retinoid treatments, including retinol or retinoic acid.

This product is not an acne treatment. Some acne-prone skin types may experience temporary congestion or breakouts when introducing retinoids. If irritation continues, stop use.

Key Ingredients

• Retinol 1%: a vitamin A derivative that helps improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven tone and skin texture over time.
• Squalane: a lightweight emollient that helps support skin softness and comfort.

How To Use

1. Use in the evening only.
2. Apply a small amount to clean, dry skin after water-based serums.
3. Use before heavier treatments, oils or moisturisers.
4. Avoid the eye area and broken or irritated skin.
5. Use SPF during the day while using retinol products.

Belantti tip: Start with 1–2 evenings per week. Increase gradually only if your skin feels comfortable.

Complete The Routine

Use this serum as your evening treatment step. Keep the rest of your routine simple: gentle cleanser, hydrating serum if needed, retinol, then moisturiser. Avoid layering with acids or other retinoids.

• Shop cleansers
• Shop hyaluronic acid skincare
• Shop moisturisers
• Shop SPF
• Build Your Routine

Product Details

• Brand: The Ordinary
• Product type: Retinol serum
• Size: 30ml
• Texture: Lightweight oil-like serum
• Key ingredients: Retinol 1%, Squalane
• Best for: Experienced retinol users, uneven tone, fine lines and texture
• Use: Evening only
• Fragrance-free: Yes
• Vegan: Yes

Full Ingredients List

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

Ingredient lists may change. Always check the product packaging before use.

Delivery & Trust

Free UK delivery is available on orders over £25. Orders are dispatched from the UK, with secure checkout available using major payment methods. Clearpay may also be available at checkout, subject to eligibility.

FAQs

What does The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane do?

It helps improve the look of fine lines, uneven tone and skin texture over time as part of an evening skincare routine.

Is this retinol serum suitable for beginners?

This is a high-strength retinol product, so it is better suited to experienced users. Beginners should consider starting with a lower-strength option.

How often should I use it?

Start with 1–2 evenings per week. Increase gradually only if your skin feels comfortable.

Can I use this with acids or other retinoids?

No. Avoid using this product with other retinoids, direct acids or strong active treatments in the same routine.

Do I need SPF when using retinol?

Yes. Retinoids can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, so SPF should be used during the day.

Can I use it around my eyes?

Avoid the eye area. Apply only to the face where your skin tolerates retinol well.