In the usage instructions, it says, "Apply a small amount over the face in the evening as part of your skincare routine after the water-based serum has absorbed, but before night cream." So should you apply a water-based serum before applying this? In one comment, you recommended that it should be applied to completely clean and dry skin?
Also, I have been using retinoid 0.3% until now, is 1% a suitable dose to ramp up to?
Hi Ida😊
Thank you for your question✨
Yes, you can absolutely use a water-based serum before applying The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane – it is actually recommended. The product should be applied to clean, dry skin after the serum but before the night cream, depending on what other products you are using, it is also fine to apply it directly to clean dry skin. The reason is that a water-based serum cannot be absorbed if it is applied after a squalane or oil-based product.
Regarding strength: going directly from 0.3% retinoid to 1% retinol can be a bit too strong for the skin. We recommend gradually increasing, e.g. starting with 0.5% first, to reduce the risk of irritation. Always do a patch test to see how your skin reacts, and don’t forget sunscreen during the day.
Hope the answer can be helpful and that you have a super nice Friday🌞