Retinol 1% In Squalane

No. The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Retinol is a retinoid — a form of vitamin A — and all retinoids (including OTC forms like retinol and retinaldehyde, not just prescription retinoic acid) are contraindicated during pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of teratogenicity (fetal harm). The Ordinary explicitly states: "When pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid any skincare products containing retinoids." If you are pregnant or nursing, discontinue use immediately and consult your healthcare provider. Safe alternatives include bakuchiol, azelaic acid, and vitamin C — all considered compatible with pregnancy when used topically.

It is likely safe for most fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) sufferers, but with one caveat. The formula contains no ferments, polysorbates, problematic esters, or long-chain fatty acids known to feed Malassezia. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (C8/C10 fatty acids) is considered FA-safe by current consensus. Squalane is generally FA-safe — particularly sugarcane-derived squalane. However, if the squalane is derived from olive oil, it may contain trace impurities that some sources flag as potentially problematic. Since The Ordinary does not publicly disclose the source of their squalane, those with active or severe fungal acne should contact DECIEM directly before using this product. Patch testing on a small, unaffected area first is also advisable.

No — not in the same routine. The Ordinary explicitly advises against using Retinol 1% in Squalane alongside direct acids (AHAs like glycolic acid or lactic acid, BHAs like salicylic acid), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and other retinoids. Combining these actives in the same application significantly increases the risk of skin irritation, redness, barrier disruption, and sensitization. If you want to use both retinol and vitamin C in your routine, apply vitamin C in the morning (AM routine) and retinol only at night (PM routine) on separate applications. Similarly, if you use AHAs or BHAs, alternate nights — exfoliation acids one night, retinol the next. Niacinamide can be used alongside retinol and may even help reduce retinol-related irritation.

This product is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types — particularly experienced retinol users who have already built tolerance to lower concentrations. It is excellent for those with mature skin targeting fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, photo-damage, and enlarged pores. Acne-prone skin also responds well given retinol's sebum-regulating and comedone-preventing properties. Dry skin types can use this product but should be particularly diligent about sealing with a rich, nourishing moisturizer. Sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin types should approach with significant caution at 1% — The Ordinary recommends starting with the Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion as a gentler retinoid alternative for sensitive skin.

Initial texture improvements and increased skin clarity can be noticed as early as 3–4 weeks of consistent use. However, retinol's most significant benefits — reduced fine lines, improved firmness, more even skin tone, and faded hyperpigmentation — require 8–12 weeks minimum to become clearly visible. Full collagen-remodeling effects accumulate over 6+ months of regular use. Be patient with the process: the first 2–4 weeks may include a "retinization period" with temporary dryness and flaking as skin adapts. This is normal and a sign the retinol is working. Results are cumulative and long-term consistency is key — many dermatologists consider retinol a lifetime skin investment.

Apply in the PM (evening) routine only — never in the morning. Use it after cleansing, toning, and any water-based serums (e.g., hyaluronic acid), but before heavier products like face oils, rich moisturizers, and overnight treatments. The rule for layering skincare is thinnest-to-thickest texture. Since this is an oil-based serum, it goes after water serums but before cream moisturizers. Do not apply directly after a water-based serum while skin is still damp, as this can increase irritation. Allow skin to dry fully between steps. In the morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ as the final step after your AM moisturizer.

No — this formula is considered non-comedogenic with an overall rating of approximately 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. Squalane has a comedogenic rating of 0 (will not clog pores for any skin type). Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride rates 1 (very low risk). Jojoba Seed Oil is a wax ester — not a true triglyceride oil — and is widely considered 0–2 and non-comedogenic. Furthermore, retinol itself actually helps reduce comedone formation by normalizing keratinization and regulating sebum production. This makes the formula particularly suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types despite containing an oil-based vehicle.

The Ordinary recommends using this product within 3 months of opening and refrigerating it after opening. This is significantly shorter than the typical 12-month PAO for many serums, because retinol is highly unstable and degrades rapidly when exposed to air, light, and heat. Storing it in the refrigerator dramatically slows oxidation and preserves potency. Signs that the product has expired or degraded include a yellow, orange, or amber color (the fresh product should be clear to very pale yellow), a rancid or unusual smell, or a change in texture. Discard immediately if any of these signs appear. To extend its life, always close the cap tightly after each use and minimize air exposure.