The Retinol 0.5 Oil
The Retinol 0.5 Oil
Product Description
Product overview
A highly concentrated 0.5% pure retinol oil formulated with 91% squalane and Super Vitamin E (tocotrienol) to target deep wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and refine texture for intermediate-level retinol users seeking powerful anti-aging results.
0.5% Pure Retinol
Stabilized pure retinol (not derivatives) for maximum efficacy in reducing wrinkles and boosting collagen production.
Texture & feel
SENSORY0.5% Pure Retinol
Stabilized pure retinol (not derivatives) for maximum efficacy in reducing wrinkles and boosting collagen production.
91% Squalane Base
Nourishing squalane base protects skin barrier and minimizes irritation commonly associated with retinol use.
Super Vitamin E
Tocotrienol (40-60% more potent than regular Vitamin E) provides enhanced antioxidant protection against aging.
Clinically Proven
Clinical trials show 22% improvement in forehead wrinkles and 48% improvement in pore volume within 2-4 weeks.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENOT SAFE. Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risk of fetal retinoid syndrome. Discontinue use if planning pregnancy.
NOT SAFE. Contains soybean oil and palm oil which are C11-C24 fatty acids that feed Malassezia yeast and can trigger fungal acne flare-ups.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day. Avoid direct sun exposure while using this product.
Do not combine with AHAs, BHAs, or high-concentration Vitamin C in the same routine. May cause excessive irritation when layered.
Dermatologist tested and formulated without common irritants. Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and added fragrances.
Not tested on animals. COSRX is a certified cruelty-free brand with ethical manufacturing practices.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSqualane 91%Proven
A highly stable, skin-identical emollient that mirrors the natural sebum your skin produces. Creates a protective barrier while delivering deep hydration without clogging pores.
- Source: Plant-derived hydrocarbon that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Benefits: Non-comedogenic, lightweight, helps other ingredients penetrate deeper
- Research: Studies show squalane is non-irritating even at 100% concentration
Retinol 0.5%Gold Standard
Pure Vitamin A that accelerates cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
- Mechanism: Binds to retinoid receptors to normalize keratinization and boost collagen synthesis
- Potency: 10-20x less potent than prescription tretinoin but with significantly fewer side effects
- Research: Most extensively studied anti-aging ingredient with decades of clinical evidence
Tocotrienols (Super Vitamin E)Proven
A more potent form of Vitamin E with 40-60% higher antioxidant activity than regular tocopherol. Provides exceptional protection against oxidative stress and UV damage.
- Source: Fat-soluble antioxidant naturally found in palm oil and rice bran
- Benefits: Neutralizes free radicals, reduces visible signs of aging, supports skin healing
- Synergy: Works synergistically with retinol to enhance anti-aging benefits
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilEmollient
A plant oil rich in linoleic acid (48-59%) that helps restore the skin barrier and provides nourishing moisture. Contains natural antioxidants.
- Fatty Acid Profile: 48-59% linoleic acid, 17-30% oleic acid, 4.5-11% linolenic acid
- Benefits: Barrier repair, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory properties
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideSafe
A lightweight emollient derived from coconut oil containing only C8 and C10 fatty acids. Creates a smooth texture and helps skin retain moisture.
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and glycerin
- Benefits: Light texture, non-greasy, helps dissolve other ingredients
- Safety: Fungal acne safe (C8/C10 fatty acids cannot be metabolized by Malassezia)
10 ingredients
Squalane, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Di-C12-13 Alkyl Malate, Retinol (0.5%), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, BHT, Tocotrienols, Tocopherol, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEPM only • Apply after water-based products, before heavier creams • Can be mixed with moisturizer for gentler application
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Complete your toner and essence steps first. Wait until skin is completely dry before applying retinol.
Dispense
Put 1-2 drops on your hand. A little goes a long way – using too much can leave skin feeling oily.
Apply
Tap with fingertips and gently massage into face from inside out. Avoid eye area and lips. Focus on areas of concern: forehead, cheeks, chin, neck.
Wait & Moisturize
Allow 10-20 minutes for absorption. Follow with a moisturizer to lock in benefits and minimize potential irritation.
Build Tolerance
Week 1-2: Use 2-3 times per week. Week 3+: Increase to every other night. Adjust based on skin tolerance. Always use sunscreen in the AM.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have prior retinol experience and have built tolerance
- You're targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity
- You want to improve skin texture and refine pores
- You prefer oil-based formulas over creams or serums
- You're looking for a mid-strength retinol step-up
- You can commit to consistent SPF use during the day
Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy
- You have fungal acne or Malassezia-prone skin
- You're a complete retinol beginner (try 0.1% first)
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You dislike oil textures or have very oily skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe 91% squalane base provides intense nourishment. Oil formula helps combat dryness typically caused by retinol use.
Ideal match. Balanced formula delivers retinol benefits without disrupting skin's natural equilibrium.
Works well overall. Focus application on drier areas; may feel slightly rich on T-zone but absorbs by morning.
Oil texture may feel heavy. Use sparingly (1 drop) and ensure complete absorption. Consider cream alternatives.
Squalane helps buffer irritation, but 0.5% retinol may be too strong. Start with 0.1% cream first to build tolerance.
Retinol helps unclog pores and reduce breakouts. However, NOT suitable for fungal acne due to soybean and palm oils.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12+Adjustment Period
Skin may experience mild tingling, dryness, or temporary purging as it adjusts to retinol. This is normal. Some users notice improved skin smoothness and glow.
48.87% saw pore improvementVisible Texture Improvement
Skin texture becomes noticeably smoother. Pores appear refined. Fine lines begin to soften. Skin tone starts to even out.
45.74% reduction in pore areaWrinkle Reduction
Clinical studies show significant improvement in forehead wrinkles (22%), eye area lines (17.68%), and nasolabial folds (18.4%). Skin feels firmer and more elastic.
22% improvement in forehead wrinklesCumulative Benefits
Continued collagen stimulation leads to sustained firmness improvement. Dark spots fade. Overall complexion appears more radiant and youthful. Best results with consistent long-term use.
16.91% improvement in elasticityRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle formula despite 0.5% concentration – less irritation than expected
- Noticeable improvement in fine lines and skin texture
- Non-greasy absorption; silky smooth finish
- Squalane base minimizes typical retinol dryness
- Clinically tested with published results
- Short, clean ingredient list (only 10 ingredients)
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive-adjacent skin
- Visible pore refinement within 2 weeks
Criticized
- Small bottle (20ml) doesn't last long with regular use
- Short 3-month shelf life after opening
- Requires refrigeration for stability
- Not suitable for fungal acne (contains soybean/palm oil)
- Oil texture may feel heavy for oily skin types
- Price per ml higher than some competitors
- Initial purging/adjustment period for some users
- Dropper can dispense too much product
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same retinol concentration in squalane base. Contains jojoba seed oil instead of soybean/palm. Fungal acne friendly. Larger bottle (30ml) but requires refrigeration and 3-month PAO.
Lower retinol concentration with added bakuchiol for gentler approach. Includes niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Better for beginners but less potent for experienced users.
Contains slow-release retinol with squalane. Includes granactive retinoid for gentler delivery. Larger 30ml size. Water-based serum texture vs oil formula.
Lower concentration (0.1%) in a cream base. Better for retinol beginners. Contains squalane and ceramides. Different texture and strength profile.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
3 MONTHS3 months after opening. Retinol degrades quickly once exposed to air and light. Mark your opening date on the bottle.
Store in refrigerator after opening. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat. Original packaging protects from light degradation.
Amber glass dropper bottle to protect from light oxidation. Dropper dispenses 1-2 drops at a time for precise application.
Yes, under 100ml TSA limit. However, should be kept cool – not ideal for extended trips without refrigeration access.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo, this product is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Retinoids (including retinol) are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential risk of fetal retinoid syndrome and birth defects. While topical absorption is lower than oral retinoids, dermatologists and the American Academy of Dermatology recommend avoiding all retinoids during pregnancy and nursing. Discontinue use if you're planning to become pregnant and consult your healthcare provider for pregnancy-safe alternatives like azelaic acid, vitamin C, or niacinamide.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil and Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, both of which contain fatty acids in the C11-C24 carbon chain length range that Malassezia yeast can metabolize and use as food. If you have fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis, consider The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane (without soybean/palm oils) or look for retinol products with only squalane and MCT oil as the base.
Be cautious when combining with other actives. Do NOT use with other retinoids in the same routine – this can cause severe irritation. Avoid using with AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) on the same night as this can compromise your skin barrier. High-concentration vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) should be used in the AM while retinol is used PM. You can use hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and centella alongside this retinol oil without issues.
This oil formula is best suited for dry, normal, and mature skin types. The 91% squalane base provides excellent nourishment and helps counteract the drying effects of retinol. Combination skin can use it but may find it slightly rich on the T-zone. Those with very oily skin may prefer a water-based retinol serum or cream instead. It's designed for intermediate retinol users – beginners should start with the 0.1% cream first.
Based on clinical trials, you can expect: improved skin smoothness within 1-2 weeks; pore volume reduction of ~48% by week 2; visible wrinkle improvement (~22% on forehead, ~17% around eyes) by week 4; continued elasticity and firmness improvement through weeks 8-12. Individual results vary based on skin condition, consistency of use, and other factors. Retinol is a long-term ingredient – best results come from consistent use over months to years.
Apply this oil as step 5 in your PM routine: after cleanser, toner, essence, and serum, but before heavier moisturizers and sleeping masks. As an oil, it should come after water-based products but can be followed by a cream moisturizer to seal everything in. For a gentler introduction, you can mix 1-2 drops with your moisturizer. Use only at night – retinol is light-sensitive and increases sun sensitivity. Always follow with SPF 30+ during the day.
The comedogenic rating is approximately 2/5 (low-moderate). The main ingredient squalane has a 0 rating and is non-comedogenic. However, soybean oil has a comedogenic rating of 4-5. The overall formula is balanced by the high squalane percentage. Most users with acne-prone skin report no issues, and retinol actually helps reduce breakouts by increasing cell turnover. Clinical trials showed 48-55% reduction in comedones. Patch test if you're concerned, but clogged pores are not a common complaint.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 3 months. Retinol is inherently unstable and degrades when exposed to air, light, and heat. After opening, store in the refrigerator to maximize stability and efficacy. The 20ml bottle typically lasts 2-4 months with regular use (1-2 drops every other night). Mark your opening date on the bottle. If the oil changes color significantly (becomes darker) or develops an off smell, it may have oxidized and should be replaced.
Verdict: COSRX The Retinol 0.5 Oil is an excellent mid-strength retinol option for users who have built tolerance and want to step up their anti-aging game. The 91% squalane base makes it gentler than many 0.5% formulas, and clinical results are impressive. The main drawbacks are the small bottle size, short 3-month shelf life requiring refrigeration, and unsuitability for those with fungal acne or during pregnancy. For the price-conscious with fungal acne concerns, The Ordinary's version offers better value, but COSRX delivers a more elegant, clinically-backed formula with superior Vitamin E antioxidants. Best for dry to normal skin types ready for intermediate retinol.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
DI-C12-13 Alkyl Malate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 9 |
Retinol
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 6 |
BHT
Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant
|
|