Putting retinol on in the AM is like washing your car before a rainstorm — pointless and actively counterproductive.
UV light degrades retinol on contact, rendering it useless before it can even work. You’re wasting the product and, worse, leaving your fresh skin cells exposed.
This is The Ordinary‘s 0.3% Retinol in Squalane. $9.80. I tried it because the claim was “beginner-friendly stability” — and I was bored of complex serums.
Water-Free Base
The squalane oil prevents the retinol from oxidizing in the bottle.
Mid-Strength
0.3% is the sweet spot—noticeable results without the nuclear peel.
Dropper Bottle
You can mix one drop into your night cream to ease in.
Photo: Poko Skincare / Unsplash
It’s a short list. Retinol is the star, and squalane is the calming, hydrating vehicle. No fragrance, no fluff.
- Retinol: Increases cell turnover, tackles texture and fine lines
- Squalane: A hydrating oil that mimics your skin’s own lipids
- Tocopherol: Stabilizes the formula (and is a mild antioxidant)
- That’s it. Seriously.
Texture is a light, slippery oil. Absorbs in about 90 seconds — you’ll look dewy, not drenched. Smells like… nothing. A faint plastic from the bottle.
Week 2, my chin purged. Three tiny whiteheads that vanished in days. The surprise? My skin felt plumper, not drier, from the squalane.
After 4 weeks, my forehead texture is smoother — like I got a light polish. Zero new fine lines. My hormonal breakouts? Unchanged. This isn’t a zit zapper.
A brilliantly simple, effective entry point. Use it at night, be patient, and your morning skin will thank you.