Putting retinol on in the AM is like paying for a gym membership and then skipping every workout. A total waste.
The real reason? Sunlight deactivates it. UV rays break down retinol molecules before they can do their job—so you get all the potential irritation with none of the benefit.
It’s The Ordinary’s Retinol 0.5% in Squalane. Under $10. The claim is simple: effective anti-aging without the fluff. I tried it because I was bored of overpriced serums that smell like a perfume counter.
Mid-Strength
0.5% is a solid starting point—strong enough to work, not so strong it’s terrifying.
Squalane Base
An oil, but a dry one. It doesn’t leave you feeling like a glazed donut.
Dropper Bottle
You control the dose. One drop is often enough for your whole face.
Photo: Lora Seis / Unsplash
It’s a short, focused list. Retinol to speed up cell turnover. Squalane to cushion the blow and hydrate. That’s the whole play.
- Retinol: The active—converts to retinoic acid in skin to tackle fine lines and texture
- Squalane: A moisturizing hydrocarbon—mimics your skin’s own oils to prevent dryness
- Coconut Alkanes: A lightweight solvent—helps everything spread without greasiness
- Hydrogenated Polyisobutene: A texturizer—gives the oil a silky, non-sticky finish
Photo: Kaeme / Unsplash
Golden oil that feels slick for 10 seconds—then it’s just gone. Sinks in like it’s late for a meeting. No residue.
Week 2, my chin purged a little. Three tiny, stubborn bumps said their dramatic goodbyes. A good sign it’s actually working.
Photo: Fleur Kaan / Unsplash
After a month, my skin texture is smoother—like I’ve been gently buffed. Pores look less clogged. Zero change to deep-set wrinkles (that’s the long game).
Photo: Alexandre Sousa / Unsplash
This is the textbook definition of a workhorse. Not sexy, just effective. Keep it in your PM routine and let it do its thing in the dark.