TheOrdinary

Retinol 0.2% in Squalane

13 Reviews

• 공부한개도안했어

  Jun 1, 2025 (UTC)
  Oily SkinAcne Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  First off, it seems that applying retinol, a vitamin A derivative, is really helping to calm down my blemish-prone skin! While many people might reach for cica products for acne care, I'd cautiously recommend retinol products to those who haven't seen results with other treatments. Among these, The Ordinary's product stands out - it's stripped of all frills, focusing solely on retinol, making it an affordable option. In my opinion, it's one of the best value-for-money products out there.

  Cons

  While this doesn't apply to me, those with super sensitive skin might need an adjustment period, starting with products containing lower retinol concentrations. Also, retinol can accelerate skin cell turnover, leading to increased dead skin cells, which might be challenging if you wear makeup frequently. In my case, I use a multi-balm from Daiso to cover any flaking.

  Tip

  Try using this product at night, and if you have a beauty device, use them together. Since this product is oil-based, it doesn't absorb quickly, allowing you to use your beauty device for longer with just a small amount. The tingling sensation makes it feel like it's penetrating deep into the skin.

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• 려니밍

  Nov 21, 2024 (UTC)
  Combination SkinAcne Skin

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  I feel like my blemishes decreased while using this, especially at the beginning! (Though I still got some breakouts later on, even with continued use.) The low concentration didn't produce dramatic results for me, but I think I saw a slight improvement in pore size. What I really loved was how it made my skin feel smooth and glossy when applied! I've finished this bottle and plan to try a higher concentration next.

  Cons

  The effects weren't exactly earth-shattering. But I suppose that's to be expected with a low 0.2% concentration.

  Tip

  I remember it stung a bit when I first started using it! Since it's retinol, there's an adjustment period at the beginning. It's especially important to apply sunscreen diligently during the day when you start using this product!

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• 동양적인쏠배감펭2705

  Nov 3, 2024 (UTC)
  Combination SkinAcne Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  It seems to be improving my pores and fine lines. I think my blemishes are disappearing too!

  Cons

  The texture is a bit rich when I apply it before bed. I'm using a few drops in my palm and gently patting it all over my face.

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• 커피마시는뽀로로

  Oct 19, 2024 (UTC)
  Combination SkinSensitive Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  On days I use this, my blemishes magically disappear - it's incredible! You can easily pick it up at Olive Young for a very reasonable price. True to The Ordinary's reputation, it has reliable ingredients and comes in a pretty bottle. Given the great value, it's perfect for those wanting to try retinol for the first time!

  Cons

  The shelf life is super short, only about 3 months. It's extremely rich, almost like pure oil. Be careful as it can spill right when you open it. You need to store it in the fridge, which is a hassle. I've heard that the caprylic/whatever long-named ingredient might clog pores for oily skin, so sadly I'll be looking for a different product...

  Tip

  I recommend this for those with dry skin! If you have oily skin, it might be too rich to use effectively.

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• 시카러버ㅎㅎ

  Apr 1, 2024 (UTC)
  Dry Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  This is perfect for retinol beginners! The Ordinary's retinol is affordable and has great ingredients - it's a trustworthy choice. It's the main culprit behind clearing up almost all the acne scars on my face. Retinol is truly amazing! I also love how thoughtful they were in making the bottle dark to prevent the retinol from oxidizing.

  Cons

  The only downside I can think of is that the retinol formula doesn't absorb instantly into the skin, but everything else is great.

  Tip

  Remember, don't use retinol products with vitamin C, and avoid sun exposure after application! It pairs wonderfully with cica ingredients, so I recommend using them together. In the morning, use vitamin C, and in the evening, apply retinol + cica ampoule. When starting out, don't use it daily. Begin with twice a week, then gradually increase to three or four times. To minimize skin irritation, prep your skin with another ampoule or a hydrating toner before applying retinol.

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• 뚜루먼사또

  Jan 8, 2024 (UTC)
  Oily SkinSensitive SkinAcne Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  I bought this because I heard retinol is effective for calming blemishes and improving wrinkles. Before this, I tried Dr. Different Vita Lift A7g, which did improve elasticity and brighten my complexion a bit. However, maybe because I have a thin skin barrier, my face felt tight and the surface became rough, so I stopped using it. I decided to try The Ordinary product instead. I chose this one with 0.2g as it seemed less likely to cause irritation. I mixed one drop of The Ordinary retinol with By Wishtrend's niacinamide serum and applied it. So far, there have been no side effects, but also no noticeable improvements yet. I'll keep using it though. I'm hoping it might have some effect on minimizing my pores.

  Cons

  While there's no dramatic effect after one use, I like that it's gentle and doesn't cause any adverse reactions. It might be best to mix it with your moisturizer when applying.

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• 쑤쓰

  Dec 25, 2023 (UTC)
  Dry SkinSensitive Skinproduct.Atopy Skin

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  +. Skin Soothing Fortunately, my skin seems to tolerate retinol very well. I built up usage gradually - starting with twice a week at 3-4 day intervals, then every other day after 2 weeks, and finally daily after 4 weeks. Throughout this process, I experienced no blemishes from the retinol. In fact, my existing blemishes noticeably decreased, and hormone-related inflammation seemed to improve faster than before. +. Rich Texture Containing jojoba oil, it leaves an effect similar to applying a face oil. +. Value for Money It offers exceptional price competitiveness among retinol products on the market. If it weren't for the potential allergens, it would have been perfect.

  Cons

  -. Ingredients As someone with atopic skin, it's disappointing that it contains antioxidants/fragrances known to be potential allergens.

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• 히코리

  Dec 15, 2023 (UTC)
  수부지Acne Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  After using Innisfree products, I was looking for something with a higher retinol content. I decided to try this product since it's affordable and popular at Olive Young. Personally, I find it much better than Innisfree! While Innisfree was effective for pustules, it caused small bumps on my forehead. This product, however, works wonders for both pustules and small bumps, allowing me to apply it all over my face. Although it's marketed for pore care, I've seen amazing results for blemishes too. I'm extremely satisfied!

  Cons

  I have oily skin, and this product is definitely not suitable for use on its own. It's recommended to use it with a niacinamide product, which is what I'm doing. Oily skin types should absolutely avoid using this alone as it feels very rich. Also, it wasn't available at my local Olive Young, so I had to order online without being able to check the texture, which was a bit disappointing. There's definitely an adjustment period needed. At first, it didn't seem to suit me, but as I gradually increased the amount, I've grown to love it so much that I can't imagine being without it now. One significant drawback is that when I apply it around my eyes, it causes frequent eye discharge and tearing. This means I have to go to sleep right after my skincare routine, which can be inconvenient. Despite these drawbacks, the improvements in blemish calming and skin texture are so remarkable that even people around me have noticed, so I'm willing to overlook the negatives.

  Tip

  It works great when used together with a niacinamide product! Personally, I find that applying this product, followed by a niacinamide ampoule, and then using Daiso's Real Shot results in even better skin texture the next day.

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• 도비는공짜요

  Nov 22, 2023 (UTC)
  Dry SkinSensitive Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  It really clears up blemishes. I think it also has an effect on reducing wrinkles.

  Cons

  My skin becomes extremely dry... Absolutely not recommended for those with dry skin.

  Tip

  Use it only once a week!

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• 코코넛스노우볼

  Sep 25, 2023 (UTC)
  Combination SkinAcne Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  - It's effective for skin texture and pores. I've always been concerned about my large pores on my nose and T-zone, but they've noticeably shrunk. They're less noticeable to the naked eye and easier to conceal with makeup. Previously, there was a limit to how much makeup could cover, but now it's easier to achieve better coverage. With smaller pores, my overall complexion looks improved too. - It's also effective for acne marks. For red pigmentation (not deep scars), you can see better results by using products with brightening ingredients like Vitamin C, Niacinamide, or Tranexamic acid during the day, and applying retinol at night. Just make sure to be diligent with sunscreen! Retinol makes skin more sensitive to UV rays and can be irritating, so apply sunscreen meticulously every morning. When using retinol, stick to gentle, non-irritating products for the rest of your routine. Before this product, I used a 0.015% retinol from another brand, which didn't irritate my skin due to its low concentration. But with this 0.2% concentration, I felt some irritation, so I'm now applying sunscreen even on days I stay at home!

  Cons

  - Due to the nature of retinol, some irritation is unavoidable. You need to start with a low concentration and slowly build up tolerance. It requires a lot of patience... When I was 21-22, I had a bad reaction to retinol and avoided it for years. Some people say you get through that stage and it gets better, but I didn't have the courage to continue. However, starting with a very low concentration and gradually increasing it by mixing with other serums or creams, I've now reached a point where I can use it directly without any adverse reactions. As the concentration increases, so does the potential for irritation, so it's crucial to let your skin adapt gradually. This is especially true for sensitive skin... I'm not particularly sensitive, but I still felt irritation each time I increased the concentration. I use barrier creams, regenerating creams, and do modeling masks 3-4 times a week while using this. Also, I completely stopped using retinol when my skin barrier was compromised and I had a lot of blemishes in summer. - Storage is a bit tricky and the shelf life is short. It needs to be refrigerated after opening and used within 3 months. While refrigeration is manageable, you can't slather retinol on like other products - you need to use only a small amount. This makes it difficult to finish a bottle within 3 months, so I wish they'd offer a smaller size. - The thin, oily texture isn't my preferred formulation... I like products that absorb moistly, but this feels like applying pure oil, so the user experience isn't great... I'm only using it for the effects, honestly...