High 10% niacinamide concentration targets oiliness and hyperpigmentation directly
68 recommendations
41 Reddit Dupes for The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
What Reddit recommends instead — 41 products with similar benefits · Updated July 6, 2026
For Anti-Aging
- Best for Anti-Aging
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum is a mild, barrier-friendly retinol that effectively smooths texture and reduces fine lines, suited for sensitive skin.
5 shared traits·9 recommendations
- 7recs
The Ordinary
Granactive Retinoid 2% EmulsionGranactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion gently smooths fine lines and wrinkles, ideal for sensitive or beginner anti-aging skin.
5 shared traits·7 recommendations
- 3recs
The Ordinary
Retinol 1% in SqualaneRetinol 1% in Squalane effectively reduces wrinkles with less dryness, making it ideal for sensitive, anti-aging skin routines.
6 shared traits·3 recommendations
- 4recs
Medik8
Crystal Retinal 6Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 effectively reduces eye wrinkles with minimal irritation, ideal for sensitive or older skin.
5 shared traits·4 recommendations
- 4recs
The Ordinary
Retinol 0.2% in SqualaneThe 0.2% retinol in squalane gently introduces retinol, improving skin softness and reducing acne for dry, aging skin.
5 shared traits·4 recommendations
- 5recs
Medik8
Liquid PeptidesMedik8 Liquid Peptides plumps skin and offers visible anti-aging benefits, especially appreciated by sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
4 shared traits·5 recommendations
For Acne
- Best for Acne
Azelaic Acid 10% serum calms acne-prone, sensitive, and oily skin by reducing redness, breakouts, and post-acne marks.
3 shared traits·54 recommendations
- 3recs
The Ordinary
Retinol 1% in SqualaneThe Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane effectively targets acne-prone areas but may cause purging initially.
6 shared traits·3 recommendations
- 10recs
Gentle, lower-dose retinol in this serum gradually clears acne and reduces blemishes, especially for sensitive skin.
5 shared traits·10 recommendations
- 13recs
Centella's anti-inflammatory properties calm acne-prone, oily, and sensitive skin by reducing redness and soothing breakouts.
4 shared traits·13 recommendations
- 3recs
Melano CC
Intensive Anti-Spot EssenceIt's recommended for acne-prone, sensitive skin because it effectively targets acne spots without harsh irritation.
3 shared traits·3 recommendations
- 6recs
La Roche-Posay
Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment SerumEffaclar's 1.5% salicylic acid serum effectively exfoliates and reduces acne, especially for oily and combination skin.
2 shared traits·6 recommendations
For Texture / Pores
- Best for Texture / Pores
Gentle retinol in CeraVe Resurfacing Serum effectively refines texture and reduces pores, suited for sensitive skin.
5 shared traits·5 recommendations
- 9recs
numbuzin
No.3 Skin Softening SerumNo.3 Skin Softening Serum uses actives and ferments to visibly smooth texture and soften skin, favored by many for oily skin.
2 shared traits·9 recommendations
- 7recs
Azelaic acid effectively improves skin texture and reduces pore size, especially in acne-prone skin.
3 shared traits·7 recommendations
- 4recs
Beauty of Joseon
Glow Serum: Propolis + NiacinamideGlow Serum's niacinamide and propolis gently reduce pore visibility and improve texture, especially for sensitive skin.
3 shared traits·4 recommendations
More alternatives
49recs
The Ordinary
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B52% hyaluronic acid + B5 for hydration and barrier support
3 shared traits·49 recommendations
17recs
The Ordinary
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HAPreferred formulation of alpha arbutin on r/SkincareAddiction
3 shared traits·17 recommendations
16recs
Cocokind
Ceramide Barrier SerumContains ceramides, fatty acids, cholesterol, and beta glucan for barrier repair
3 shared traits·16 recommendations
10recs
BYOMA
Hydrating SerumGel texture absorbs quickly and layers well under makeup or moisturizers
3 shared traits·10 recommendations
6recs
BYOMA
Brightening SerumNiacinamide plus hyaluronic acid blend for hydration and brightness
3 shared traits·6 recommendations
5recs
The Ordinary
Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%Clinically potent 23% L-ascorbic acid suspension for noticeable brightening over time
3 shared traits·5 recommendations
4recs
The Ordinary
Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%Gentle vitamin C derivative that’s less irritating than L-AA
3 shared traits·4 recommendations
4recs
The Ordinary
Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%Fades acne scars noticeably over time
3 shared traits·4 recommendations
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