Listen, you wouldn’t drink a mimosa before bed. Same logic applies here.
Retinol degrades in sunlight — UV rays literally break down the molecule, making it useless and irritating. Using it at night lets it work without self-sabotage.
It’s The Ordinary’s Retinol 0.5% in Squalane. Under $10. I tried it because the internet swore it was gentle enough for newbies.
0.5% Retinol
Mid-strength — strong enough to see a difference, not so strong you’ll peel off your face.
In Squalane
An oil-based formula. This is key for stability and slip.
Dropper Bottle
You control the dose — one drop for each cheek, one for the forehead.
Photo: Karly Jones / Unsplash
It’s a short list. Retinol is the star, squalane is the supporting actor. No fragrance, no nonsense.
- Retinol: Increases cell turnover, tackles fine lines and texture
- Squalane: A hydrating oil that mimics your skin’s own lipids
- Coconut Alkanes: Just a solvent to keep it all together
- Hydrogenated Polyisobutene: A lightweight emollient
Photo: Jared Rice / Unsplash
Texture is a light, silky oil. Absorbs in 90 seconds — leaves a slight sheen, not greasy. Smells like… nothing. A faint lab smell.
Week 2, my skin felt like fine-grit sandpaper. That’s the purge — it’s normal. By week 3, the sandpaper was gone and my skin was smoother.
After 6 weeks, my pores looked tighter. A few fine lines on my forehead softened. Zero change to my dark spots — that’s not what this does.
It’s effective, brutally simple, and demands respect. Use it wrong and you’ll pay. Use it right and it’s magic.