The Ordinary – Retinal 0.2% Emulsion (15ml)

Product Details

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is a high-strength retinoid formula designed to rapidly firm and smooth the skin while reducing the appearance of dark spots, uneven tone, and fine lines. With a potent concentration of 0.2% retinal, it effectively improves skin firmness and minimizes the look of wrinkles, including crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines.

This serum-textured emulsion enhances skin luminosity, leaving it brighter and more even-looking. However, it is recommended for experienced retinoid users only. Beginners should start with gentler options like Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion or Retinol 0.2% in Squalane before progressing to this advanced formula.

Key Ingredients

• Retinaldehyde: A potent form of Vitamin A that smooths and firms skin while addressing wrinkles and dark spots.
• Synthetic Oat Analogues: Help to calm and soothe the skin.

Full Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyapatite, Retinal, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, 4-t-Butylcyclohexanol, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Ergothioneine, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Bisabolol, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Butylene Glycol, Isohexadecane, Hexyldecanol, Maltodextrin, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Stearic Acid, Isoceteth-20, Polysorbate 60, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.

Important Note

It is important to understand that retinal and retinol are not the same, even though both are Vitamin A derivatives. Retinal (retinaldehyde) is one step closer to retinoic acid—the active form of Vitamin A used by the skin—making it more potent and faster-acting than retinol.

This allows retinal to deliver visible results more quickly while still being gentler than prescription retinoids. Products containing retinal, such as The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, are therefore best suited for experienced users seeking advanced anti-aging benefits.

Always check the label carefully to ensure you are using the appropriate strength and formulation for your skin’s needs.