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.
What this is good for
✓ Great forAgingRough TextureDark Spots
⚠ Skip ifPregnancyBreastfeedingSensitive skinDamaged barrier
Ingredient stack
Each ingredient is listed in descending concentration. Above the 1% line the order is regulated — below it, brands can list in any order.
Ingredients above the dashed gold line are dosed above 1% (the regulatory threshold) — these are what the formulation is really built on.
position-estimated %★ brand-disclosed %1% regulatory line
What's actually doing the work
Retinol
Vitamin A (OTC) / All-Trans Retinol
Retinoid
The most evidence-backed OTC anti-aging ingredient. Converts in skin to retinaldehyde then retinoic acid, which binds nuclear RAR receptors to regulate gene expression: driving cell turnover, collagen I and III synthesis, MMP downregulation, and acne normalisation. Decades of controlled trials confirm efficacy for wrinkles, texture, pigmentation and acne.
Routine placement
Evening only
Similar on the shelf
Put this in context
Skin Stacker is independent and receives no payment from any brand. Ingredient analysis is based on publicly disclosed INCI lists and the peer-reviewed literature. Formulations change — always re-check the label on your specific batch before using.