# The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-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 oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate anti-aging benefits for your oily skin due to retinol's desquamation regulation and antioxidant activity, but lacks strong seboregulating ingredients to directly address your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- Squalane and jojoba seed oil provide hydration, which is supportive for overall skin health, but these do not specifically target oiliness or congestion.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Squalane, Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit Extract Tomato Fruit Extract, Jojoba Seed Oil, Bht

## 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/))
- Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is safe as used in cosmetic formulations at concentrations ranging from 0.0002% to 0.5% due to low dermal penetration and systemic exposure compared to oral administration. ([International Journal of Toxicology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12396675/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))

## Why other serums fit oily acne-prone skin better

- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))

## What reviewers say

This water-free serum is widely praised by users with dry or mature skin for its ability to deeply hydrate while delivering potent anti-aging benefits, such as reduced fine lines and smoother texture. Its oil-based squalane formula is frequently described as heavy or greasy, making it a polarizing choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin who often struggle with absorption.

- Liked: Highly affordable (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy/oily finish (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Moisturizing base (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective anti-aging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation & sensitivity (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Short shelf life (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane work for oily acne-prone skin?

This product works moderately well for your oily acne-prone skin because retinol helps smooth out fine lines and surface texture, but it lacks ingredients that directly target breakouts and excess oil. A treatment for this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or vitamin C to control oil and clear blemishes while keeping skin comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Retinol offers moderate anti-aging benefits for your oily skin, while squalane and jojoba seed oil provide light hydration without harsh irritation. However, a product for this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin C to target excess oil, blemishes, and breakouts.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does Retinol do for oily acne-prone skin?

Retinol helps oily acne-prone skin by clearing up breakouts and smoothing the skin, though it may occasionally cause some mild scaling or stinging. This ingredient works by addressing the root causes of acne, making it a reliable choice for keeping pores clear and skin smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30586483/)

### What does Squalane do for oily acne-prone skin?

Squalane may help keep oily skin soft and smooth, but oxidized squalene can trigger inflammation in acne-prone skin. Because of this, oily acne-prone skin needs lightweight, non-greasy ingredients that balance moisture without clogging pores.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

Apply this treatment in the evening after cleansing and toning, and before your moisturizer. Oily acne-prone skin requires a product of this type that also includes ingredients to control oil and clear clogged pores.

### 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. Using them at different times of day helps your skin avoid irritation while still getting the benefits of both ingredients.

### How often should I use it?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting just once a week so your skin adjusts comfortably. Retinol helps smooth and rejuvenate the skin, while added oils provide gentle hydration with a very low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This serum may feel greasy and leave an oily finish on your skin, but it is unlikely to cause irritation. Because it lacks strong oil-controlling ingredients, oily acne-prone skin needs products with targeted blemish-fighting ingredients to stay clear.

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.08 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $25.08 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $9.90 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0779YGB2G?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Squalane, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit Extract Tomato Fruit Extract, Jojoba Seed Oil, Bht, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract
## 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-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/retinol-1-in-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin