The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum
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Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is a very high-strength retinoid formula that rapidly firms and smooths skin, while noticeably reducing the appearance of dark spots. It helps refine skin texture while targeting uneven tone and boosting luminosity for brighter, more even-looking skin.
With a high 0.2% concentration of retinal, Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is able to noticeably improve skin firmness and improve the look of lines and wrinkles, including crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles.
The serum-textured formula is suitable for all skin types and is recommended for experienced users of retinoids. If you are new to using retinoids, we recommend exploring the Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, or the Retinol 0.2% in Squalane, and progressing to higher strengths as your skin builds tolerance. For more tips on how to use Retinoids, be sure to explore our Retinoid Guide.
Retinal (also known as retinaldehyde) is a well-studied retinoid that offers more efficient delivery of the most direct form of vitamin A molecules than retinol, thanks to being 1 conversion step closer to the bioactive form of vitamin A.
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion also contains synthetic oat analogues (specifically avenanthramide a key beneficial component found in oats). This ingredient is known to help target skin discomfort and dryness, which are common concerns associated with retinoid use.
The bright yellow hue of the formula comes from the high concentration of retinal, which is naturally yellow. This may leave some residual colour on skin and light coloured fabrics, which can be minimised by allowing the product to fully absorb, and skin to dry before making contact with light-coloured fabrics. This residual colour can be removed by washing skin with water, and washing fabrics with your regular detergent according to their care instructions.
This product uses an airless pump, which can sometimes require priming before the product will dispense on first use. If your pump does not dispense product after 10 pumps, turn the product upside down and tap the cap end firmly on a hard surface a few times.
