# The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane for mature skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for mature skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with mature skin: fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for mature skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your normal skin, as retinol works to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, while squalane and jojoba seed oil provide emollient benefits.
- While the formula offers general skincare benefits and hydration, it lacks sufficient humectants for optimal hydration and may not fully address your primary concern of wrinkles and fine lines.
- The product is safe for your normal 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/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/mature-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-0-2-in-squalane/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/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 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of all-trans-retinol induced epidermal thickening and increased retinoid binding protein expression similar to all-trans-retinoic acid in normal human skin, but without causing significant erythema or measurable retinoic acid levels. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7561157/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit mature skin better

- Caviar oil enhanced adipocyte differentiation in vitro, reduced MMP expression while increasing collagen and elastin formation ex vivo, and improved skin moisture, elasticity, and density in 102 participants over four weeks of Cavi Balm usage compared to baseline. ([In Vivo, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37652485/))
- Chronomodulated daytime application of baicalin and nighttime application of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 synergistically improved skin luminance by 16.29%, nasolabial fold depth by -36.35%, and firmness by 24.35% in 30 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/))
- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))

## 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 work up to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply this serum after your toner and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- You can apply the serum on dry skin for the best results against fine lines.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the sensitive eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane work for mature skin?

The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane works moderately well for mature skin, as retinol helps smooth fine lines while squalane and jojoba seed oil keep the skin soft and moisturized. However, it lacks sufficient water-attracting ingredients for optimal hydration and may not fully address your concerns about wrinkles. A product for this skin needs strong antioxidants, hydrating components, skin-repairing ingredients, peptides, and water-attracting ingredients to improve elasticity and moisture retention.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

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

Retinol makes this serum a good fit for mature skin by helping to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, while squalane and jojoba seed oil keep the skin soft and moisturized. However, because this product only offers an average fit, a treatment for mature skin needs higher concentrations of potent antioxidants, peptides, and humectants to deeply hydrate and improve elasticity.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### What does Retinol do for mature skin?

Retinol helps smooth out fine lines and wrinkles while improving overall skin thickness and firmness over time. It may also cause temporary dryness, scaling, or stinging as your skin gets used to it.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Squalane do for mature skin?

Squalane helps keep mature skin feeling soft and smooth by boosting moisture and protecting the skin barrier. It also provides antioxidant support that helps improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Sources: [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/), [Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21137794/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your cleansing toner and before your moisturizer. Mature skin needs a treatment with stronger anti-aging ingredients and plenty of moisture-attracting humectants to smooth fine lines effectively.

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

You can use this treatment with vitamin C by applying vitamin C in the morning and this treatment at night, as using them at the same time may cause too much irritation. Always apply your lightest products first, letting each layer dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting slowly to see how your skin adjusts. Retinol helps smooth fine lines over time, while squalane and jojoba seed oil keep skin soft and comfortable. Mature skin of this type needs a formula packed with extra moisture-drawing ingredients and stronger wrinkle-smoothing actives for the best results.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause irritation for your mature skin, but reviewers occasionally mention breakouts as a side effect. To better target fine lines and wrinkles while keeping skin comfortable, a product of this type needs richer moisture-binding ingredients alongside proven smoothing actives.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for mature skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — $53.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- [La Prairie Skin Caviar Liquid Lift](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-prairie/skin-caviar-liquid-lift/for/mature-skin) — High fit — $810.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/full-fit-propolis-synergy-toner/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — $17.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Obagi Hydrate Luxe Moisture-Rich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/obagi/hydrate-luxe/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — $85.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United States has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## 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/mature-skin (this page)
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