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The Ordinary · Serums

Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

$8·30 ml·Leave-on
92
Low concern

Why this score

Concern53 / 55
  • No ingredients carry meaningful, evidence-backed concern.

How much genuine, cited concern the ingredients carry, weighted by how much of each is likely present and whether the product stays on or rinses off.

Transparency20 / 20
  • No hidden fragrance blend.

Whether the full ingredient list, and any fragrance, are actually disclosed.

Formulation restraint19 / 25
  • 1 known irritant or fragrance-allergen ingredient: Retinol.

Needless irritant or allergen load for the product type. A clean, purposeful formula scores well without any "free-from" theater.

Reviewed by PlainBody Editorial · Updated July 2026

What’s inside

  • SqualaneGenerally safe
  • Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideGenerally safe
  • Jojoba OilGenerally safe
  • RetinolWatch if sensitive

    • Below the 1% line

  • BHTFearmongered, actually fine

    • Lower-concern alternatives

    Same category, higher PlainScore.

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    Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. Concern ratings are evidence-graded and cited on each ingredient page. See how we score.