The Best Retinol Serums from The Ordinary, According to Dermatologists

It's safe to say that pretty much every skincare lover knows about The Ordinary's bestselling products at this point. The hyper-affordable skincare brand has made waves for its simple and effective products, highlighting one or two active ingredients at very accessible prices. So, when the brand launched retinol serums, it piqued our interest.

Its products use one of two ingredients: retinol and granactive retinoid. "Granactive retinoid is a blend of a synthetic form of retinoic acid and is gentler than a traditional [one], which is a naturally occurring derivative of vitamin A," explains Deanne Robinson, MD, a Connecticut-based dermatologist. Furthermore, she explains that "retinoid" refers to the umbrella term of vitamin A derivatives that include retinol (and are available over the counter). Rx-strength retinoids also require a prescription and offer a higher concentration of the retinoic acid ingredient.

With six retinol serums in the lineup, there's something for every skin type. Furthermore, the differences in retinol/retinoid concentration make easing into these actives gentler on the skin as it builds resistance. Below, board-certified dermatologists Deanne Robinson, MD, and David Lortscher, MD, break down each product.

Keep scrolling for the details on The Ordinary's retinol offerings, including pros and cons. 

Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion $12.00

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The Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion ($12) is the brand's original retinol serum and offers the same advanced retinoid complex in a creamier texture. Dr. Robinson says this product is ideal for anyone with combination skin who is new to retinoids and is concerned about getting overly irritated and dry.

Pros

"Granactive retinoid (or hydroxypinacolone retinoate) is a weaker cousin to tretinoin, a prescription ingredient commonly used to treat acne and signs of aging," says Dr. Lortscher. "Granactive retinoate may be an effective alternative to retinol and other less potent retinoids," and it might be gentler on the skin.

Cons

Though it's gentler, granactive retinoid is weaker to tretinoin, so its efficacy could plateau with continued use. Think of this as an entry-level foray into retinoids. So much so that, according to some reviews, it doesn't tout the efficacy of other products. Once your skin adjusts, you can build to higher strengths and products with time.

Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane $12.00

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The Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane ($12) is a more lightweight formula than the emulsion and offers moisturizing squalane to balance out any dryness.

Pros

It's still gentle enough not to irritate the skin and offers better compatibility for a multi-step skincare routine. Dr. Robinson says those with sensitive skin types— and those prone to redness and dryness— can use this formula.

Cons

Again, this product is not going to be as strong as others on the market (or even others by The Ordinary) so it may not yield the most impressive results if your skin is already used to active ingredients. Also, as many reviewers note, this product (like the others on the list) requires refrigeration after use, making it impractical for travelers.

Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinoid 5% in Squalane $17.00

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Like the above, the Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane ($17) has a higher concentration of the lightweight Granactive retinoid. "If you’ve tolerated lower concentrations well, this would be an advancement in strength," says Dr. Robinson.

Pros

This product will deliver results with little to no irritation and is an ideal progression from the above 2% option if you want to take it up a notch. As with all retinoids, this should only be applied at night and used in conjunction with sunscreen to prevent extra damage from UV rays. Additionally, "applying a retinoid at bedtime means you will reap the most benefits; applying it in the morning may cause the retinoid to break down and be less effective," says Dr. Lortscher.

Cons

Since this offers a higher concentration of the active ingredient, your skin could take some time to adjust. If you notice breakouts or irritation, discontinue use and give your skin some breathing room. Also, many reviewers are critical of the texture, which some say feels greasy and does not sink into the skin.

Retinol 0.2% in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane $8.00

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Deemed as a good retinol for beginners with dry and/or sensitive skin by Dr. Robinson, the 0.2% formula is also suspended in squalane—a natural antioxidant that promises to hydrate without being heavy.

Pros

This product is a good option for those who have introduced some form of vitamin A in their skincare routine and, as a result, may be more tolerant—as using too many active ingredients and adding a stronger retinol might cause irritation. This product also gets high marks from online reviewers for its ability to help fade hyperpigmentation on a range of darker skin types and tones.

Cons

As mentioned above, this product can be used in conjunction with others—though some users have noted irritation. Use every other night, but if peeling occurs, consider trying the Granactive retinoid 5% as an alternative.

Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane $9.00

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Retinol 0.5% in Squalane ($9) is the same formula as the above, just in a higher concentration. As such, Dr. Robinson says it's good for intermediate users with combination skin.

Pros

If you're already a religious retinol user, this could work well for you. Plus, at such a high concentration, it's likely to yield fairly significant results over time. Many reviewers note that its effectiveness comes with continued—but patient—use, so try using it once a week before working up to every night.

Cons

Simply put, this is a strong product. If you aren't used to retinoids, it's best to try a lighter product before and allow your skin time to adjust before moving up to this one. Otherwise, you may suffer from irritation or breakouts.

Retinol 1% in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane $9.00

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The last of the bunch, Retinol 1% in Squalane ($9), has the highest amount of retinol suspended in squalane, making it super effective. "This is the brand's highest concentration, and users should ease their way into it by starting with a lower concentration to see how their skin responds," says Dr. Robinson. Another option is gradually integrating this strength into your routine– "starting every two to three nights and working your way up to more frequent use." She adds that it's Ideal for anyone looking to reverse hyperpigmentation and even out both skin texture and tone. 

Pros

This product offers a lot of bang for your buck, as it comes with such a high concentration of retinol. That also means it's likely to yield impactful results. Many reviewers cite this as their staple product, saying it helps with both scarring and hyperpigmentation.

Cons

Those with reactive skin should proceed with caution. "The best OTC retinol for you may depend on your skin type. For dry skin, I suggest looking for hydrating and non-comedogenic products," says Dr. Lortscher. "For oily skin, I suggest looking for lightweight products."