The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
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R 349.00 ZAR
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The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane – Transform Your Skin with South Africa’s Favourite Retinol Serum

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane: Unlocking Youthful Radiance for South Africans
Ready to wake up to radiant, smoother skin? Discover why South Africans are raving about The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane – the affordable, results-driven anti-ageing serum designed to target South Africa’s unique skincare needs.
Why South Africans Love The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
- Clinically Proven Anti-Ageing: Reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage caused by our intense climate.
- Gentle yet Effective Formula: 0.5% pure retinol in a hydrating squalane base, balancing potency and comfort for visible results without excessive irritation.
- Ideal for Dry, Sun-Exposed, or Maturing Skin: Especially formulated for common South African skin concerns, including photoaging and dehydration.
- Perfect Synergy with K-Beauty Routines: Works seamlessly with your Korean skincare essentials. Pair it with hydrating toners, gentle cleansers, and daily high SPF sunscreen for ultimate results (browse our curated K-Beauty range).
- No Added Fragrances: Enjoy a minimalist, fragrance-free serum suitable for sensitive skin types.
- Vegan & Cruelty-Free: Beauty with a conscience – never tested on animals.
Powerful Benefits for Radiant Skin
- Fade Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Promotes firmer, smoother, more youthful skin by stimulating collagen and cellular renewal.
- Even Tone & Repair Sun Damage: Helps reduce pigmentation, sun spots and redness from South Africa’s strong UV exposure.
- Refine Skin Texture: Gently exfoliates, minimises pores, and softens rough patches and blemishes.
- Deep Hydration: Squalane oil locks in moisture, preventing the dryness and peeling often caused by retinol.
- Blemish-Prone Skin: Supports clearer skin by unclogging pores and reducing breakouts.
Feature | Benefit |
---|---|
0.5% Pure Retinol | Anti-ageing, collagen-boosting |
Squalane Base | Hydration, barrier repair |
Water-Free, Minimalist | Powerful, stable, non-irritating |
Fragrance-Free | Gentle for sensitive skin |
Vegan, Cruelty-Free | Ethical beauty |
South African Delivery | Fast, tracked shipping nationwide |
How to Use Your Retinol 0.5% in Squalane Safely
- Start with a Patch Test: Apply a small amount to your arm to test for sensitivity – crucial for sunny, sensitive or reactive South African skin.
- Evening Only: Smooth 2-3 drops onto clean, dry skin at night, after any water-based serums and before heavy moisturisers.
- Begin Gradually: Use 1-2 times per week to start, then increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance.
- Hydrate & Protect: Follow with a rich moisturiser (try pairing with The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics or COSRX Advanced Snail 92 Cream) and always apply SPF 30+ in the morning. Never skip sunscreen!
- Avoid Mixing Harsh Actives: Do NOT use with direct acids (like AHAs/BHAs), Vitamin C, or benzoyl peroxide. Alternate on different days if needed.
- Monitor for Irritation: If you notice persistent peeling, reduce frequency, add an extra layer of moisturiser, or consult your skincare specialist.
- Not Suitable for Use During Pregnancy/Breastfeeding.
Storage and Care Tips
- Cool, Dark Storage: Keep your serum in a drawer or bathroom cabinet, away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Keep Bottle Upright & Tightly Sealed to maintain potency.
- Shelf Life: Use within 12 months of opening. Discontinue if colour or texture changes.
Who Should Use The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane?
- Best for: Women and men aged 24+, especially those with visible signs of ageing, sun damage, or uneven skin tone.
- Great for: Busy professionals, skincare enthusiasts, and anyone looking for affordable, high-performance anti-ageing in South Africa.
- Not for: Retinol newbies (try the 0.2% variant first), very sensitive skins, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Real South African Reviews ★★★★★
- Nomzamo D., Johannesburg ★★★★★: “At last – an anti-ageing serum that works in our Joburg climate! My skin is smoother, sun spots are fading, and it’s gentle enough. Exceptional service and fast local delivery.”
- Pieter R., Cape Town ★★★★☆: “Saw results in just weeks! Fewer wrinkles, texture improved. Just be sure to use sunscreen daily in our harsh sun.”
- Aisha K., Durban ★★★★★: “Lightweight yet so hydrating! My pigmentation and breakouts are under control. Will definitely repurchase.”
- Thando M., Pretoria ★★★★★: “Best value for money. My glow is back, and my makeup sits beautifully now!”
- Lize S., Port Elizabeth ★★★★☆: “No irritation, no heavy scent. Really impressed with the service and delivery in the Eastern Cape.”
Key Ingredients & Technical Specifications
- Retinol 0.5%: Pure Vitamin A derivative, proven for anti-ageing and skin renewal
- Squalane (plant-derived): Deep moisturising, strengthens the skin barrier
- Water-free, Oil-based formula: Maximum stability and penetration
- Fragrance-Free, Cruelty-Free, Vegan
- Size: 30ml glass bottle with UV-protective dropper
What to Expect – Sensory Experience
- Texture: Lightweight, silky oil – absorbs quickly, leaves no sticky residue
- Scent: Virtually scentless – pure, clean feel
- Finish: Soft glow without greasiness – perfect for layering or as a stand-alone nighttime treatment
Typical Results Timeline
- Initial smoothing and hydration: 2-4 weeks
- Brighter tone & fine line improvement: 8-12 weeks
- Consistency is key – retinol transforms with time and patience!
Shipping & Delivery Across South Africa
- Fast, Nationwide Courier Delivery: 3–7 business days to main centres, with tracking and fulfilment updates.
- Affordable Shipping Fees: Verified at checkout – transparent rates for all regions.
- Delivery Guarantee: Your order is protected for peace of mind.
Need to bundle and save? Check out our full skincare collection, including bestselling Hyaluronic Acid Fillers and dark spot correctors.
FAQs – The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane in SA
-
Q: Can I use this serum every night?
A: Start 1–2 times weekly. Build up frequency as your skin adapts. -
Q: Does it help with pigmentation and acne?
A: Yes, it promotes even skintone and can help clear mild breakouts – for persistent acne, add Alpha Arbutin for extra pigment-correcting power. -
Q: Will it make my skin peel?
A: Mild peeling is possible early on – that’s retinol working! Use moisturiser and ease back if uncomfortable. -
Q: Do I need sunscreen?
A: Absolutely! Daily SPF is essential in South Africa. Try Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Sun Gel. -
Q: Is this product cruelty-free and vegan?
A: Yes, certified vegan and never tested on animals.
Tips for Best Results & Compatibility
- Layer with Hydration: Use gentle, hydrating serums (like hyaluronic acid) before retinol application. Explore our hyaluronic serums.
- “Retinol Sandwich” Method: Apply a layer of moisturiser before and after retinol to buffer any irritation.
- Mix and Match: For brightening, pair your routine with Alpha Arbutin Serum. Avoid using Vitamin C or acids directly with retinol.
Our Commitment: Quality, Value & Service
- Trusted by South Africans: One of the most popular anti-ageing serums across SA, thanks to its visible results and affordable price.
- Money-Back Policy: If our product is not up to standard, we’ll work hard to make it right. (See return policy).
- Secure Checkout: Flexible local payment options for safe online shopping. Sorry, PayPal is not currently available.
Ready to Reveal Younger, Brighter Skin?
Experience the skin-renewing power that wins 5-star reviews from customers in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and beyond. For leading-edge actives and affordable The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane SA, Shop Now and start your journey to visible radiance!
For specialist anti-ageing, hydration or glow-boosting, browse our exclusive skincare shop or discover targeted formulas like the Mary & May Vegan Cica Toner, Medicube Deep Vita-A Retinol Serum, or COSRX Retinol Cream.

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane – The Local Favourite for Transformative Anti-Ageing
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