Top Retinol Serums by The Ordinary, Recommended by Dermatologists

The Ordinary is widely known among skincare enthusiasts for its science-based formulas and affordable prices. The brand gained popularity for its minimalist approach—each product contains only one or two high-performance active ingredients, making them both effective and budget-friendly. One of the most anticipated product launches from The Ordinary was its retinol serums, which quickly captured the attention of skincare lovers.

This product line focuses on two main active ingredients: retinol and granactive retinoid. Retinol is a well-researched, over-the-counter form of vitamin A that helps improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and stimulate collagen production. Granactive retinoid, scientifically known as Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR), is a synthetic retinoid that acts directly on the skin’s retinoid receptors without needing to be converted by the body. This makes it gentler on the skin. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Deanne Robinson, granactive retinoid carries a lower risk of irritation compared to traditional retinoids.

The term “retinoid” includes all vitamin A derivatives, both prescription-based—like tretinoin—and over-the-counter options like retinol. Prescription retinoids are usually stronger due to their high concentration of retinoic acid, but they may cause side effects such as dryness and peeling.

The Ordinary offers six serums with varying strengths of retinol and retinoid, allowing users to build up skin tolerance gradually and reduce the risk of irritation. This step-by-step system is ideal for beginners, as it helps the skin adjust safely. Dermatologists like Dr. Robinson and Dr. David Lortscher recommend choosing a concentration that matches your skin’s condition to achieve the best results with minimal side effects.

Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion

The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is one of the brand’s pioneering products in its retinoid line, priced affordably at around $12. This serum is formulated with Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR), known as granactive retinoid—a next-generation active ingredient that targets signs of ageing and acne with a much lower risk of irritation than traditional retinoids. Unlike pure retinol, which can be drying, this product has a soft, creamy emulsion texture, making it ideal for those with combination skin or beginners new to retinoids.

According to Dr. Deanne Robinson, this serum is well-suited for people with sensitive skin or those concerned about early side effects such as redness, peeling, or dryness. The granactive retinoid in this formula works directly on the skin’s retinoid receptors without needing to convert into retinoic acid first. This makes it gentler while still being active.

Dr. David Lortscher describes granactive retinoid as a “milder version of tretinoin,” a prescription-strength retinoid often used to treat acne and ageing. While granactive retinoid is less irritating, it is also generally less potent than high-strength retinol or tretinoin. Because of this, the product is considered a great starting point for retinoid use—either as an introduction or as a transition to stronger formulas.

However, some reviews note that its results are not as strong as other retinoids. Once the skin builds tolerance, it’s recommended to switch to a more potent formulation for long-term, optimal results.

Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane

The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane is a gentle retinoid serum designed to deliver results with minimal irritation. Priced at around $12, this product combines Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate—a next-generation, more stable and gentler vitamin A derivative than traditional retinol—with squalane, a natural emollient that helps maintain hydration and reduce dryness. Unlike the thicker emulsion version, this serum has a lightweight oil texture that absorbs easily into the skin.

This formula is ideal for sensitive skin and for those new to retinoids. According to Dr. Deanne Robinson, it’s a good choice for people prone to irritation, redness, or peeling. Free from alcohol, fragrance, and harsh ingredients, it’s also safe to use in multi-step skincare routines, such as before moisturisers or other actives.

However, because granactive retinoid has lower biological activity than retinol or tretinoin, the results may be slower or less dramatic compared to stronger retinoid products. This serum serves as a gentle introduction to retinoids, rather than a solution for more serious skin concerns. Additionally, as an oil-based formula, it is more sensitive to temperature changes—so storing it in a refrigerator is recommended, which might be inconvenient when travelling.

Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane

This product is a high-strength retinoid serum designed for experienced users who have already adapted to lower concentrations, such as the 2% version. With a 5% concentration of Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR), it offers more intensive anti-ageing and skin-smoothing effects—without the harsh irritation often associated with stronger retinoids. Dr. Deanne Robinson describes it as “an ideal next step” for those looking to continue their retinoid routine with more noticeable results.

The formula uses squalane as a base, a natural moisturiser that helps maintain the skin’s lipid barrier and reduces dryness or flaking. Despite its potency, the serum remains gentle enough for night-time use—retinoids should not be used during the day, as they can break down under sunlight, according to Dr. David Lortscher. For maximum protection, sunscreen should always be used during the day when retinoids are part of your skincare routine.

However, because of its high active concentration, the skin may need time to adjust. New users should watch for signs of irritation, such as redness or breakouts. If any reaction occurs, it’s best to pause use and allow the skin to recover. Some reviews also mention that the product feels oily and takes time to absorb, which might not be ideal for oily skin types.

Retinol 0.2% in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane is a low-strength retinol formula highly recommended for beginners, especially those with dry and/or sensitive skin. According to Dr. Deanne Robinson, it is an ideal starting point for introducing vitamin A derivatives into a skincare routine without causing excessive irritation. At a 0.2% concentration, the retinol works gradually to encourage cell turnover, boost collagen production, and fade hyperpigmentation, while keeping common side effects like redness and peeling to a minimum.

The formula is supported by squalane, a natural emollient with antioxidant properties that mimics the skin’s own lipids. It helps maintain hydration, strengthens the skin barrier, and provides a moisturising effect without feeling heavy or greasy. This makes the product especially suitable for sensitive skin that needs a balance of gentleness and effectiveness.

One notable benefit is its popularity among users with deeper skin tones due to its ability to fade dark spots without triggering additional irritation—a common issue with stronger retinoid formulas.

However, some users have reported mild irritation when using this product alongside other active ingredients. It’s recommended to apply it on alternate nights and avoid pairing it with exfoliants or strong acids. If irritation persists, Granactive Retinoid 5% may be a gentler yet still effective alternative.

Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane is a medium-strength retinol serum formulated for users who have already developed some tolerance to retinoids. Priced at around $9, this product contains 0.5% pure retinol suspended in squalane—a non-comedogenic emollient that helps moisturise and strengthen the skin barrier. This combination allows the retinol to work effectively without causing extreme dryness, making it ideal for those with combination skin.

According to Dr. Deanne Robinson, this 0.5% retinol is a great choice for people who are already comfortable with lower-dose retinoids. The mid-level concentration helps accelerate skin cell turnover, improve elasticity, stimulate collagen production, and gradually reduce hyperpigmentation and fine lines. Many user reviews report noticeable improvements with consistent use—though results do require patience. It’s recommended to start with a low frequency (such as once a week), then gradually increase as the skin builds tolerance.

However, because this formula is stronger than the 0.2% version, the risk of irritation is also higher—especially if not introduced slowly. Side effects like redness, flaking, or temporary breakouts may occur if the skin isn’t fully adjusted. For this reason, it’s best not to combine this retinol with other strong active ingredients in the same routine.

Retinol 1% in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane is designed for experienced users seeking maximum results in addressing signs of ageing and hyperpigmentation. With 1% pure retinol, this high-strength formula can deliver noticeable improvements in skin cell turnover, tone and texture, as well as fading acne scars and dark spots. The squalane base acts as a protective emollient that helps maintain hydration and reduce the risk of irritation.

According to Dr. Deanne Robinson, due to the high potential for irritation at this concentration, users should first build tolerance with lower strengths such as 0.2% or 0.5% retinol. It’s best to start using this serum 2–3 times per week at night, then gradually increase the frequency as the skin adjusts. This approach helps minimise common side effects like redness, peeling, or breakouts.

Dr. David Lortscher also highlights the importance of matching the product to your skin type. Dry skin benefits from moisturising, non-comedogenic formulas like this one, while oily skin may do better with a lighter texture. Despite its benefits, this product is not recommended for beginners or those with very sensitive skin, due to its high irritation risk.