# The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Germany.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers high suitability for your combination skin due to retinol regulating desquamation and squalane providing emollient action, though its hydration benefits from squalane and jojoba seed oil are not directly relevant to your oily shine concern.
- The presence of retinol at a 0.5% concentration provides a moderate anti-aging effect by minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Squalane, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Jojoba Seed Oil, Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit Extract Tomato Fruit Extract

## What the research says

- Topical application of jojoba wax reduced LPS-induced secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα by approximately 30% and increased the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid compared to untreated skin in an ex-vivo human skin organ culture model. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Topical application of an emollient emulsion containing 15.0% caprylic/capric triglyceride doubled the amount of urocanic acid isomers and increased skin hydration with reduced transepidermal water loss in healthy subjects, though it did not prevent ultraviolet-induced urocanic acid isomerization. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Topical jojoba oil application in male mice decreased exercise-induced pro-inflammatory gene expression (Il-1b and Il-6 in soleus, Il-1b in gastrocnemius) compared to untreated exercised mice. ([Biomolecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41154623/))
- Nanolipidgel formulations with argan or jojoba oil and humectants demonstrate good sensory attributes, instrumental properties, and moisturizing efficacy for cosmetic application. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24772476/))
- Topical lycopene-based emulgel significantly enhanced skin hydration and elasticity while reducing erythema, melanin, and sebum contents in human volunteers compared to a placebo formulation over 12 weeks. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36283632/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing lycopene and melatonin showed significant differences in skin sebum content, hydration, elasticity, erythema index, and melanin index compared to control in 36 healthy women. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33070140/))
- Topical delivery of lycopene via MG- and TG-containing microemulsions significantly increased stratum corneum and viable skin layer penetration compared to a control solution, with the MG-containing microemulsion also increasing skin antioxidant activity by 10-fold. ([Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19798758/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users generally praise this serum as an affordable and effective entry-level retinol that improves skin texture and reduces fine lines, though the oily squalane base is a polarizing feature. While many with dry or mature skin appreciate the added hydration, those with oily or acne-prone skin frequently report that it feels heavy, greasy, and can cause congestion or purging.

- Liked: Improves skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Unbeatable price (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces aging signs (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy residue (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle effectiveness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Short shelf life (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Messy packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane work for combination skin?

This product works for combination skin, though other products fit it better because its oils do not directly help with oily shine. A treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to regulate oiliness while keeping the skin balanced.

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for combination skin?

Retinol makes this serum a good fit for your combination skin because it helps regulate skin renewal, while squalane provides a soft feel, though treatments that rate higher for this skin need ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to better manage oily shine.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Retinol do for combination skin?

Retinol helps smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and improve firmness in combination skin. It works by encouraging faster skin renewal and boosting collagen, though it may occasionally cause mild dryness or scaling while your skin adjusts.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Squalane do for combination skin?

Squalane helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by locking in moisture without feeling heavy or greasy. It supports the skin barrier and provides lightweight hydration that works well for both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [Skin Health and Disease, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39355739/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. A product of this type works well for combination skin when it includes ingredients that balance oil and smooth texture.

### Can I use this serum with vitamin C, and in what order?

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in your morning routine and this treatment at night, as this keeps your skin calm and avoids combining too many strong actives at once. To care best for combination skin, a product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and ingredients that balance oil while smoothing the skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### How often should I use this serum?

Apply this treatment in your evening routine, starting just once a week to see how your skin adjusts. Combination skin needs ingredients like niacinamide and lightweight hydrators that balance oil while providing moisture without heaviness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This treatment may cause breakouts for combination skin because reviewers report this issue moderately often. A product of this type needs lighter ingredients that balance oil and keep pores clear without leaving a heavy, greasy feel.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €35.29 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €333.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €39.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €13.67 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Lookfantastic: €9.66 (https://www.lookfantastic.de/p/the-ordinary-retinol-serum-0.5-in-squalane-30ml/11638502/)
Prices checked 17 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Squalane, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Jojoba Seed Oil, Retinol, Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit Extract Tomato Fruit Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Bht
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-5-in-squalane/for/combination-skin