Retinol 1% in Squalane

Packaging and what the product is

The photo on theordinary.com shows the brand's amber glass dropper bottle with a white label reading “Retinol 1% in Squalane”, 30 ml. It is an anhydrous oil serum applied in the evening to the face.

Ingredient analysis

Squalane leads, followed by caprylic/capric triglyceride and jojoba seed oil – a light, skin-compatible oil base. Retinol is fourth and labelled at 1%, which is the highest strength in the brand's retinol range. Tomato fruit extract and rosemary leaf extract follow, plus hydroxymethoxyphenyl decanone (a soothing/antioxidant ingredient) and BHT as an antioxidant to protect the retinol.

There is no water, so no preservative is needed, and no fragrance.

What to watch out for

Retinol at 1% can cause dryness, flaking and stinging, especially at the start; sunscreen during the day is usually recommended with retinoids. In the EU, Regulation (EU) 2024/996 caps retinol in leave-on face products at 0.3% retinol equivalent: non-compliant products may no longer be placed on the market from 1 November 2025 and must leave shelves by 1 May 2027, so a 1% version may not be available everywhere. Some users also object to BHT, which is permitted.

What users say

On Cult Beauty the serum averages 4.4/5 from 148 reviews (checked 31 Oct 2026). Many praise the price, a short, “no unnecessary ingredients” list, quick absorption and softer, smoother skin; several mention using it every other day to let skin adjust.

The recurring criticism is that it is too oily or not suitable for oily skin – a few low ratings say exactly that. Life Pharmacy shows 5/5 from 8 ratings (checked 31 Oct 2026), but the entries contain no written comments.

Who it may suit

People already used to retinoids, with normal to dry skin, who want a simple fragrance-free formula. Retinoid beginners and those with very oily or reactive skin may prefer a lower strength or a lighter texture.