Can you use The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane with The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution?
Yes, with timing
Use them at different times of day or on different nights.
The Ordinary's own product page also advises against using its salicylic acid 2% Solution with other acids, retinoids or peptides, because the combination can add irritation and dryness, which is why we keep them in separate routines.
Based on 2 active-ingredient pairings, listed below.
How to use them
- Gentlest option: salicylic acid cleanser in the morning, retinol at night.
- Or alternate nights between a leave-on BHA and retinol.
- Moisturize and use daily sunscreen.
Every active pairing checked
| Actives | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Retinol + salicylic acid | Yes, with timing | Yes, with timing. Use retinol and salicylic acid on alternating nights rather than together. |
| Squalane + salicylic acid | Yes | Yes. Squalane is a good partner for salicylic acid. |
What's in each product
Actives read from each brand's published ingredient list (as transcribed on INCIDecoder and INCIDecoder). Formulas change; check your bottle.
Sources
- The Ordinary. Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: product page, usage FAQ.
- Kafi R, et al. Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol). Arch Dermatol. 2007;143(5):606-612.
- Mukherjee S, et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clin Interv Aging. 2006;1(4):327-348.
- Kornhauser A, Coelho SG, Hearing VJ. Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2010;3:135-142.
- Reynolds RV, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2024;90(5):1006.e1-1006.e30.
- Code of Federal Regulations. 21 CFR 333.310, Acne active ingredients.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Beta Hydroxy Acids. Cosmetic ingredients. Content current as of 02/25/2022.
- Fiume M, et al. Squalane and squalene. Int J Toxicol. 2023;42(3 Suppl):107S-109S.
- Huang ZR, Lin YK, Fang JY. Biological and pharmacological activities of squalene and related compounds: potential uses in cosmetic dermatology. Molecules. 2009;14(1):540-554.
- INCIDecoder. The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane: ingredient list.
- INCIDecoder. The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: ingredient list.