Does The Ordinary Retinol in Squalane need to be refrigerated?

When should you put it in the fridge?

The refrigeration instruction starts after opening. The opened bottle belongs in the fridge, even if that gives your skincare a closer relationship with the groceries. Write the opening date on the bottle so you can track the three month use period. Refrigeration and the use period are separate instructions: follow both.1

How do you use the refrigerated serum?

The Ordinary lists retinol as a treatment step, not a reason to assemble a department store counter. Its beginner evening routine places Retinol 0.2% in Squalane between cleansing and moisturising.2

1. 1Cleanse your face.
2. 2Apply a few drops of Retinol 1% in Squalane in the evening, after other serums and before richer creams. Use only on intact skin.
3. 3Follow with your moisturiser.
4. 4Return the opened bottle to the fridge.

For frequency, general dermatology guidance is to start with the lowest strength you can find every other night, then build up slowly. That is general retinoid advice, not a reason to begin with 1%. Use sunscreen during the day, and protect exposed skin with shade and clothing.3

What should you be careful about?

Patch test before use. Do not combine this formula with other retinoids, including prescription retinoic acid. The Ordinary also advises against combining it with direct acids or vitamin C. Avoid retinoid skincare during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If irritation occurs, rinse the product off, stop using it and seek medical advice promptly.1

People with skin allergies or dryness are often poor candidates for retinoids. If your skin already has substantial redness or inflammation, ask a dermatologist about alternatives before starting. For darker skin tones, watch especially closely for irritation because it can trigger dark marks. Starting slowly and using moisturiser helps reduce that risk.3