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The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, Intermediate Retinol Serum - 1.01 fl oz - Ulta Beauty - 2 of 4The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, Intermediate Retinol Serum - 1.01 fl oz - Ulta Beauty - 3 of 4The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, Intermediate Retinol Serum - 1.01 fl oz - Ulta Beauty - 4 of 4
The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, Intermediate Retinol Serum - 1.01 fl oz - Ulta Beauty - 1 of 4

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, Intermediate Retinol Serum - 1.01 fl oz - Ulta Beauty

$9.30

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At a glance

About this item

Highlights

  • Targets uneven skin tone
  • Targets textural irregularities
  • Targets signs of aging
  • Helps combat dryness

Description

Retinol 0.5% in Squalane offers a water-free solution containing 0.5% retinol—an ingredient that improves the appearance of fine and dynamic lines that arise from a loss of collagen and elastin, while evening skin texture and tone. What’s more, this intermediate formula is supported with squalane, a moisturizing agent naturally found in your skin that enhances surface-level hydration and helps combat the dryness that can be associated with retinol use.
Scent: Unscented
Health Facts: Silicone-Free
Product Form: Oil, Serum
Beauty Purpose: Anti-Aging
Recommended Skin Type: Normal, Oily, Mature
TCIN: 87872547
UPC: 769915194012
Item Number (DPCI): 342-01-0274
Origin: Imported
Healthcare Disclaimer:
Content on this site is for reference purposes only. Target does not represent or warrant that the nutrition, ingredient, allergen and other product information on our Web or Mobile sites are accurate or complete, since this information comes from the product manufacturers. On occasion, manufacturers may improve or change their product formulas and update their labels. We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented on our Web or Mobile sites and that you review the product's label or contact the manufacturer directly if you have specific product concerns or questions. If you have specific healthcare concerns or questions about the products displayed, please contact your licensed healthcare professional for advice or answers.
If the item details aren’t accurate or complete, we want to know about it.

Ingredients:

squalane, caprylic/capric triglyceride, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, retinol solanum lycopersicum (tomato) fruit extract, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, hydroxymethoxyphenyl decanone, bht.

Allergens & Warnings:

Caution: Retinol can cause irritation. redness and peeling, especially around the eyes and mouth, in the early stages of treatment while skin builds tolerance. If persistent irritation occurs, cease use and consult a physician. Use only as directed on unbroken skin. Patch testing prior to use is advised. Refer to our website for an in-depth guide to patch testing. Keep out of reach of children. Refrigerate after opening.

Shipping details

Estimated ship dimensions: 1.31 inches length x 4.5 inches width x 1.31 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.2 pounds

Return details

This item can be returned to any Target store or Target.com.
This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, delivered to the guest, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or picked up by the guest.
See the return policy for complete information.

Q: Does this have an expiration date?

submitted by Jane - 1 year ago

  • A: Yes! Once opened, Retinol 0.5% in Squalane should be refrigerated and used within three months for optimal effectiveness. If stored properly it can last for 2 years.

    submitted byGeorgia - 1 year ago

Q: What is the source of the squalane? Sharks or plants?

submitted by Muvy - 7 months ago

  • A: The website indicates sugarcane as the source.

    submitted bySigrid - 24 days ago

Q: Is this the lowest dose of retinol that this comes in because I have very sensitive skin

submitted by Gods girl - 8 months ago

  • A: The lowest dosage I've seen is 0.1 -- Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream is a good introduction to Retinol.

    submitted byserenaxskin - 27 days ago

Q: Is this product in a glass bottle?

submitted by DogAteMyFilter - 5 months ago

Q: I’v had this for 4 months and didn’t know to refrigerate it until now. Is it still effective?

submitted by NJ - 10 months ago
See all questions (5)

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Guests are saying

This retinol serum has garnered mixed feedback from guests, with many praising its effectiveness in improving skin texture, reducing fine lines, and brightening complexion. However, some guests have reported issues with its oily consistency and potential for irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. Despite these concerns, many appreciate its affordability and the positive changes it brings to their skincare routine, making it a popular choice for those looking to incorporate retinol into their regimen.
    Summary created by AI from text of reviews reflecting recent feedback provided across different star ratings (includes incentivized reviews)
    4.2 out of 5 stars with 690 reviews
    61% would recommend
    31 recommendations
    5 out of 5 stars
    27 April, 2026
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    I would buy this product again

    I love this serum! My face tends to be oily and normally all other serums leave my skin feeling extra oily. Not this one! I was very surprised to see and feel the difference the next day, I finally found a serum that fits my skin complexion!
    Vanessa
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    25 April, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Excellent retinol serum product at a terrific price. I’ve used for 2 years. As good as any other facial skin product.
    Robert D
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    21 April, 2026
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Not for sensitive skin

    First of all this isn't a Serum! This a freaking oil. Second of all this isn't for sensitive skin! If you have sensitive skin and are new to retinol do not use this. This is probably for more experienced retinol users or people who don't have fair sensitive skin
    Laura
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    1 out of 5 stars
    17 April, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    My order was packaged like it came from someone’s basement or garage. Do better Target
    Katrina
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    13 February, 2026
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Regret using this

    I've used products from the Ordinary for years, as well as using retinol from different brands for years. This is the first time a skincare product has ever broke me out this bad, and I don't have sensitive skin at all. It gives me small itchy bumps all over my cheeks and forehead that take days to go away. I thought that it was a different product that was causing it at first, so I used this 3 times before I realized this serum was the culprit. I'll definitely continue buying from this brand because I love their other products, but I'll be avoiding their retinoids from now on.
    J
    4 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    4 out of 5 stars
    13 February, 2026
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Would buy again

    I use this 6 nights a week (not the night I exfoliate with Glycolic acid). It's a little greasy and will pill if the previous skincare is not fully absorbed.
    Brittany
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    2 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
    10 February, 2026Verified purchase

    Too oily, caused rash

    Someone said this absorbs quickly - what a joke! I wanted to commit to using this as I know it will take a while to see results. I only made it one month because it's just so oily. you're gonna feel oily and greasy until you wash your face again. It takes hours to absorb. I also must have rubbed a little of the excess on my neck, and I've got a painful rash all down my neck. That was the last straw for me. No more, not worth it.
    Ahowe
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    14 January, 2026Verified purchase

    Great product

    I have use this for several months works great. Feel like it helps with acne and fine lines.
    Wiscomom
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    13 January, 2026Verified purchase

    Great skin product

    I love the way my skin feels and looks.
    Yuli
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    1 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
    29 December, 2025Verified purchase

    Oily!!!! Weird Doesnt absorb

    I’ve used many of the Ordinary skincare and liked their products but this one was terrible. The retinol serum is so oily and doesn’t absorb into my skin. I have mature combination skin
    MMB
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    28 December, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Great for keratosis pilaris

    Works great on arms, thighs and butt for keratosis pilaris, absorbs much faster than Amlactin.
    Em
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    5 December, 2025Verified purchase

    Simple ingredients and helps with moisturizing and suppleness of skin

    The squalane helps this serum to be nice and moisturizing. I haven't had any sensitivity to the retinol and I do notice a difference since I started using this daily.
    Mandy
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    19 November, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    This does not work for me.

    I have been using this for 4 weeks, once a day with one to two drops. I've used retinol before, but I wanted to try this because it's affordable. I usually had a 3-4 day purge period, but my acne has not let up after 4 weeks of use. The last week I've used it every other day but still. Nothing else is new in my routine. Never again—I threw this away. I wish I could attach the photos of my skin right now. I am so frustrated!
    Rosie
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    19 October, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Wow!

    I was skeptical but my 57 year old skin feels so smooth and the few dark spots i have a lightening after a few uses absorbs quickly as well
    NanC
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    19 October, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Great product

    I wanted to start incorporating retinol in my skincare, so I decided to start with a more cost effective option rather than jumping to a $100 product I may or may not like. I ended up loving this product! It's been about 5 weeks since first trying it, and my skin texture and appearance has improved a lot. Almost all of my dark spots are gone, my skin is brighter, and more even overall. I like how the retinol is half strength of other products, and the squalane allows for some moisture support. Niacinamide makes me break out, so the squalane is a nice combination and I have had no problems with a break out since using the product.
    Mia
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    14 September, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Great Retinol!

    I pair this with Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid and my face feels amazing!
    Christina
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    9 September, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Such a great product

    Goes on smooth. Absorbs quickly. Works wonders on my dark spots, is giving me a more even complexion, and provides moisture overnight. Amazing product for the price.
    Tracey
    4 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    2 out of 5 stars
    2 September, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Too Oily

    This product is SO oily and will not dry down whatsoever so I can apply the rest of my skincare routine. It's straight oil. Not a fan.
    Olivia
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    4 August, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    So Oily - Just sits on the skin

    This retinol serum is beyond oily. It just sits on the skin and rubs off with an oily sheen on anything you touch to your face. Would not recommend.
    Melissa
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    4 out of 5 stars
    14 July, 2025
    originally posted on http://www.ulta.com
    Image

    Face soft

    Product is more of an oil, but leaves my face feeling soft and smooth. Unscented
    Letti
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?

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