La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum vs The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane
Both serums contain Retinol, but each adds something the other doesn't. Here's where they overlap and where they split.
A pure retinol plus retinyl-derivative serum buffered with niacinamide and glycerin for wrinkles and texture. A well-tolerated mid-strength retinol from a clinical brand; ramp up slowly and always follow with SPF.
The advanced-strength option in The Ordinary's retinol ladder — oil-based, no water, stable. For users who've already tolerated 0.2% and 0.5% and are ready to escalate. Expect visible purging and dryness in the first 2–4 weeks; pair with a barrier-supporting moisturiser and strict AM SPF.
Which should you choose?
Both contain Retinol. La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum adds Niacinamide. Pick the one whose extra matches what you're treating. La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum is the better fit for fine lines and preventing sun damage; The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane for signs of aging and dark spots. On price, The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane is the less expensive option (Budget versus Premium).
What they share
This hero active appears in both formulas:
Ingredient stacks, side by side
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum — top of the list
- Aqua~50–80%
- Glycerin~5–25%
- Dimethicone~3–10%
- Niacinamide~2–6%
The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane — top of the list
- Squalane~50–80%
- Caprylic/Capri…~5–25%
- Solanum Lycope…~2–6%
- Simmondsia Chi…~1.5–4%
- Rosa Rubiginos…~1–2%
● marks ingredients that appear near the top of both lists. Percentages are positional estimates from INCI order, not disclosed doses.
The specs
| La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum | The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Serum | Serum |
| Price tier | Premium | Budget |
| Best for | Fine Lines, Rough Texture, Photoaging Prevention | Aging, Rough Texture, Dark Spots |
| Usage notes | Evening only | Evening only |
| Shared hero actives | Retinol | |
Common questions
Is the La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum or The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane better?
What's the difference between the La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum and The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane?
Are the La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum and The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane dupes for each other?
Can I use the La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum and The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane together?
Related comparisons
Want a deeper, personalised read? Drop both products into the live comparison tool for an ingredient-by-ingredient breakdown tuned to your skin profile.
Compare these yourself →