According to CreamScan analysis, The Ordinary Retinol 1% In Squalane is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10.
Is it more humectant or occlusive? It is purely occlusive. It has zero Humectancy (we didn't find any humectant ingredients on the ingredient list) and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, due to the high content of Squalane (est. ≈55.0%), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈28.9%) and Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (est. ≈14.5%).
This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of The Ordinary Retinol 1% In Squalane suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.
Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.
According to CreamScan analysis, The Ordinary Retinol 1% In Squalane has a maximum anti-wrinkle rating of 10.0 out of 10.
Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.
Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.
This product contains retinol, which offers powerful anti-wrinkle benefits. The mechanism behind retinol’s action is boosting cell turnover. This process exposes new, more delicate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.
As a result, using products with retinol may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.
To protect the skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment, along with avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be used at night, as it is sensitive to sunlight and can lose its potency when exposed to UV rays.
Please always check the manufacturer's instructions for using the retinol-containing products, either on their website or product label.
With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.
If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.
An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while The Ordinary Retinol 1% In Squalane contains no humectants at all.
People with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding water-binding humectants to their moisturizing routine for effective dual-action moisturizing. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
Est. %
The Estimated % is our algorithm-based assumption about an ingredient's concentration in a formula. Learn more The Estimated % is our algorithm-based assumption about an ingredient's concentration in a formula. Learn more | Ingredient | Origin | Functions | |
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55 | Squalane An occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil. Squalane An occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil. | Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic, All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic, All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Animal Ingredients derived from animals (including birds, fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and insects) or produced by animals (e.g. dairy- and egg-derived ingredients, bee products, silk, pearls, etc.) Animal Ingredients derived from animals (including birds, fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and insects) or produced by animals (e.g. dairy- and egg-derived ingredients, bee products, silk, pearls, etc.) | Moisturizing (Occlusive), Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Moisturizing (Occlusive), Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. | |
28.9 | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride A natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride A natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss. | Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. | Moisturizing (Occlusive), Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Moisturizing (Occlusive), Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Emollient, Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Emollient, Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Formula helper
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14.5 | Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil A liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier. Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil A liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier. | Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. | Moisturizing (Occlusive), Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Moisturizing (Occlusive), Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. | |
1 Verified concentration of an ingredient as indicated on its package, in the ingredient list, or on the official website. Verified concentration of an ingredient as indicated on its package, in the ingredient list, or on the official website. | Retinol One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne. Retinol One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne. | Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. | Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-wrinkle ingredients prevent the formation or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-wrinkle ingredients prevent the formation or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-Acne, Anti-acne agents treat acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Anti-Acne, Anti-acne agents treat acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. | |
0.3 | Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract A bright red extract obtained from tomato fruit. Its main bioactive compound is lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. It also contains other antioxidants like various phenolic acids and flavonoids. Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract A bright red extract obtained from tomato fruit. Its main bioactive compound is lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. It also contains other antioxidants like various phenolic acids and flavonoids. | Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. | Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. | |
0.3 | Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract A soothing and astringent extract derived from the fragrant, spicy leaves of rosemary. It has strong antioxidant properties. Rosemary extract can reduce signs of inflammation and also acts as an emollient and antimicrobial agent. Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract A soothing and astringent extract derived from the fragrant, spicy leaves of rosemary. It has strong antioxidant properties. Rosemary extract can reduce signs of inflammation and also acts as an emollient and antimicrobial agent. | Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. | Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Soothing, Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Soothing, Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Astringent, Astringent ingredients provide the skin with a tightened feeling, help to reduce the appearance of large pores, and assist in the healing of small cuts and wounds. Astringent, Astringent ingredients provide the skin with a tightened feeling, help to reduce the appearance of large pores, and assist in the healing of small cuts and wounds. Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. | |
0.3 | | Soothing Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Soothing Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. | ||
0.3 | BHT An antioxidant ingredient that naturally occurs in green algae and some bacteria or fungi but, for commercial use, is created synthetically. BHT is also used occasionally as a fragrance, where it presents a sweet, camphor-like odor. BHT An antioxidant ingredient that naturally occurs in green algae and some bacteria or fungi but, for commercial use, is created synthetically. BHT is also used occasionally as a fragrance, where it presents a sweet, camphor-like odor. | Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. | Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. | |
55 Squalane Function: Moisturizing (Occlusive), Moisturizing (Occlusive) Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Moisturizing (Occlusive), Moisturizing (Occlusive) Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Emollient Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Emollient Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Origin: Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic, Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic, Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Animal Animal Ingredients derived from animals (including birds, fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and insects) or produced by animals (e.g. dairy- and egg-derived ingredients, bee products, silk, pearls, etc.) Animal Animal Ingredients derived from animals (including birds, fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and insects) or produced by animals (e.g. dairy- and egg-derived ingredients, bee products, silk, pearls, etc.) |
28.9 Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Function: Moisturizing (Occlusive), Moisturizing (Occlusive) Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Moisturizing (Occlusive), Moisturizing (Occlusive) Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Emollient, Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Emollient, Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Formula helper Formula helper
Formula helper Formula helper
Origin: Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. |
14.5 Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil Function: Moisturizing (Occlusive), Moisturizing (Occlusive) Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Moisturizing (Occlusive), Moisturizing (Occlusive) Occlusives are moisturizing ingredients that seal moisture into the skin, forming a water-resistant barrier. Emollient Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Emollient Emollient Emollients fill the micro-cracks in the skin and leave it feeling soft and pleasant to the touch. Emollients are often mistakenly perceived as moisturizing ingredients. Origin: Botanical Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. |
1 Verified concentration of an ingredient as indicated on its package, in the ingredient list, or on the official website. Verified concentration of an ingredient as indicated on its package, in the ingredient list, or on the official website. Retinol Function: Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-Wrinkle Anti-wrinkle ingredients prevent the formation or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-Wrinkle Anti-wrinkle ingredients prevent the formation or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-Acne, Anti-Acne Anti-acne agents treat acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Anti-Acne, Anti-Acne Anti-acne agents treat acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Origin: Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. |
0.3 Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract Function: Antioxidant Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Origin: Botanical Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. |
0.3 Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract Function: Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Soothing, Soothing Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Soothing, Soothing Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobial Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobial Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Astringent, Astringent Astringent ingredients provide the skin with a tightened feeling, help to reduce the appearance of large pores, and assist in the healing of small cuts and wounds. Astringent, Astringent Astringent ingredients provide the skin with a tightened feeling, help to reduce the appearance of large pores, and assist in the healing of small cuts and wounds. Fragrance Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Origin: Botanical Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. |
0.3 Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone Function: Soothing Soothing Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Soothing Soothing Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Origin: |
0.3 BHT Function: Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Fragrance Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Origin: Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. |