# The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for oily skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for oily shine and oily skin due to the presence of retinol, which promotes cell turnover and regulates sebum production, while squalane balances oiliness without exacerbating it.
- The presence of retinol aids in minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, offering a moderate anti-aging visible effect.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin): Low (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-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 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 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 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/))
- 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

This retinol is highly recommended for beginners and those with sensitive skin, effectively addressing fine lines and texture with minimal irritation. Its hydrating base helps prevent dryness, though many users find the oil-based formula greasy and note the need for refrigeration and a relatively short shelf life.

- Liked: Gentle and beginner-friendly (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Great price (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture and glow (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Short shelf life (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane a weak match for oily skin?

This product is a weak match because its oil-based squalane formula does not fit oily skin as well as lighter options do. An oily skin type needs products with ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, and soothing extracts to control shine and pores comfortably without heavy oils.

### Which ingredients make this serum a poor fit for oily skin?

This serum is a weak match for oily skin because it is heavy on oils like squalane and jojoba seed oil. Oily skin needs a product with ingredients like niacinamide, ferulic acid, and zinc PCA that control sebum production and manage shine without clogging pores.

### What does Retinol do for oily skin?

Retinol helps oily skin by keeping pores clear and balancing sebum production, which may reduce shine and breakouts. Because it can sometimes cause dryness or peeling in the beginning, starting slowly is recommended.
Sources: [Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21914489/)

### What does Squalane do for oily skin?

Squalane helps keep oily skin soft and smooth without feeling heavy, though oxidized forms may sometimes trigger irritation. To work well for oily skin, this type of product needs lightweight, non-clogging ingredients that balance moisture without adding excess grease.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, as evening application helps ensure extra safety around sun exposure. Because this is a weak match for oily skin, a product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and oil-balancing ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid to properly care for oily skin.

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

This treatment is unlikely to be a good fit for oily skin because its heavy oils can feel too rich, so oily skin needs lightweight, oil-controlling ingredients and gel formulas instead.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is a weak fit for oily skin, so it needs to be used carefully, starting just once a week in the evening before your moisturizer. Oily skin needs lighter hydrators like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, along with oil-controlling ingredients, rather than heavy oils that can feel greasy.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This product may cause breakouts for oily skin because reviewers often complain about its greasy texture, and a product of this type needs a lightweight, oil-free formula with non-clogging hydrators and balancing ingredients to keep oily skin clear.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €169.99 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €29.76 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €29.76 at Amazon

## Routine for oily skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €20.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €17.49 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €97.52 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €20.50 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Caudalie Vinopure Clear Skin Purifying Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/caudalie/vinopure-purifying-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €5.20 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €17.49 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €97.52 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €20.50 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €48.55 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [VT Cosmetics Cica Purifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vt-cosmetics/cica-purifying-mask/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €16.79 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €5.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Lookfantastic: €5.11 (https://www.lookfantastic.es/p/the-ordinary-retinol-serum-0.2-in-squalane-30ml/11638501/)
Prices checked 17 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Squalane, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Jojoba Seed Oil, Retinol, Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit Extract Tomato Fruit Extract, Rosamarinus 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-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin