Retinol 0.2% in Squalane — Reddit Reviews
by The Ordinary
Updated September 8, 2026
Retinol 0.2% oil clears acne and fine lines but often causes irritation.
What the community says
Studies found this 0.2% retinol in squalane oil clears acne comparably to common treatments with fewer side effects early on. Reddit users report it improves pores and fine lines but causes irritation, dryness, and texture issues if overused or applied too often. It's a gentle beginner retinol that requires easing in and avoiding damaged or sensitive skin areas.
What this means for you
What people love
Watch out for
Product details
Concerns
Skin Type
Where to buy
What the science says vs. what Reddit says
What the science says
Retinol
Some evidence for acne- Some studies found retinol improved acne, especially red, sore spots
- It worked about as well as benzoyl peroxide in one clinical trial
- A retinol-based combination cleared acne about as well as adapalene 0.1%
- 5 studies back this, but one did not clearly show acne improvement
- Side effects were generally milder early on than adapalene in one study
Studied at 0.03–1%this product: 0.2%
See 5 studiesWhat Reddit says
The why
0.2% retinol in squalane targets stubborn breakouts around the nose and chin with noticeable softness.
“stocked up on my staples (TO Buffet and Retin-oil)”
3 mentions for acne
Research context, not treatment advice. Studies are about the ingredient, not necessarily this exact product.
Real Reddit threads — 48 mentions across 25 threads
The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane on Reddit, in one place — 25 threads from r/eczema, r/scacjdiscussion and 6 more, summarized.
“The Ordinary 0.2% retinol in squalene was again very good”
Mentioned
“but again had to be kept in the fridge.”
Mentioned
“it was great”
Mentioned
“Retinol 0.2% in Squalane - ... The formula was also non-irritating”
Positive
“my skin was glowing.”
Positive
“I like the squalane, retinol in squalane”
Positive
“For me the ordinary retinal 0.2 serum helps with pores a lot.”
Positive
“How and when do I use it? I have tried it once and tingled my skin. Used 10%”
Positive
“For me the ordinary retinal 0.2 serum helps”
Positive
“and The Ordinarys 0.2% retinol oil every other day.”
Positive
“this winter with that combo I didn’t have a problem.”
Positive
“I also added Meditherapy’s Retinol+Niacinamide whenever I’m not using the TO”
Positive
“I use The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane daily or every other day as I have sensitive skin and it can be drying.”
Positive
“I have also been extremely consistent with my routine”
Positive
“My skin is not yet perfect BUT the acne that is there is still clearing up”
Positive
“The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% at night 3x a week to start”
Positive
“For dry skin in your 40s the non-negotiable trio is retinol, a good moisturizer, and daily SPF.”
Positive
“SPF at your age does more for fine lines than most serums will.”
Positive
