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Quick Answer
At 1% concentration, this is one of the strongest over-the-counter retinol products available — genuinely effective for experienced retinol users, but too aggressive as a first-ever retinol for most people. The squalane base helps offset some dryness, but this is not a gentle, beginner-friendly formula.
What Is The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane?
The Ordinary offers retinol at several strengths, and this 1% version sits at the top of what’s available without a prescription. It’s suspended in squalane, a lightweight, skin-identical oil chosen specifically to help offset some of retinol’s characteristic dryness.
This is a straightforward, no-frills formula — just high-strength retinol and a simple moisturizing base, without the extra buffering ingredients you’d find in a gentler product.
Why We Recommend It
For people who’ve already built tolerance with a lower-strength retinol and want to progress further, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to access a genuinely high concentration without a prescription. Retinol’s anti-aging and resurfacing benefits scale with both strength and consistency, and 1% is a serious dose.
The squalane base is a smart, simple choice — it doesn’t fight the retinol’s effectiveness the way a heavier or more complex formula might, while still providing real moisturizing benefit.
Pros
- One of the highest OTC retinol concentrations available at any price
- Squalane base offsets some dryness without diluting effectiveness
- Excellent value for a high-strength retinol product
- Straightforward formula without unnecessary extra ingredients
- A genuine “graduate” step for experienced retinol users
Cons
- Too strong for most retinol beginners — high risk of irritation, peeling, and redness if started here
- No extra buffering ingredients (like niacinamide or ceramides) to offset irritation
Who Should Buy The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane?
Best for experienced retinol users who’ve already built tolerance with a lower-strength product (0.2%-0.5%) over several months and want to progress to a stronger formula.
If you’ve never used retinol before, start with a much lower concentration — jumping straight to 1% is one of the most common reasons people give up on retinol entirely after a bad first experience.
How to Use It
- Only use if you already have retinol experience — do not start here as a first retinol.
- Begin at 1-2 nights per week even with prior tolerance, then increase slowly.
- Always follow with a rich moisturizer and never skip morning SPF.
Our Verdict
A genuinely potent, well-priced option for the right person — but the right person is specifically someone with existing retinol tolerance, not a first-timer chasing fast results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1% retinol too strong for beginners?
Yes, for most people. It’s best reserved for those who’ve already built tolerance with lower concentrations over several months.
What retinol strength should I start with instead?
The Ordinary offers lower concentrations (0.2% and 0.5%) that are much more appropriate starting points, or a buffered formula like CeraVe’s encapsulated retinol serum.
Can I use this with vitamin C or AHAs?
Not in the same routine — combining retinol with other actives significantly increases irritation risk. Alternate nights or use vitamin C in the morning instead.
Related Guides
See the full Best Anti-Aging & Retinol Products guide for how this compares to the other top picks, or browse all our skincare recommendations.