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 note that retinal and retinol are not the same, even though they are both Vitamin A derivatives. Retinal (short for retinaldehyde) is a step closer to retinoic acid—the active form of Vitamin A your skin uses—which makes it more potent and faster-acting than retinol.

This means retinal can deliver visible results more quickly while still being gentler than prescription retinoids. If you see “retinal” in a product name, like The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, know that it’s stronger and more effective than retinol, making it ideal for experienced users seeking advanced anti-aging benefits.

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