The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion | 15mL

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.

Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Pentapeptide-18, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Acetylarginyltryptophyl Diphenylglycine, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Trehalose, Fructose, Glucose, Maltose, Urea, Sodium Pca, Pca, Sodium Lactate, Citric Acid, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Sodium Benzoate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.

**The formulations are updated from time to time as part of The Ordinary's commitment to innovation. As such, the ingredient list shown here may vary from the box of the product depending on time and region of purchase.

1. Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry face and neck in the evening.
2. Avoid the eye contour and contact with eyes.
3. Start with a weekly application and gradually increase to twice a week, a few days apart, as tolerated by your skin.
4. Apply a moisturizer afterwards.
5. Do not use with other retinoid products.
6. Use sun protection during the day.
7. If irritation occurs, rinse off, cease use, and consult a physician.
8. Use only as directed on unbroken skin.
9. Patch testing prior to use is advised.
10. Keep out of reach of children.

⚠︎ Apply a small amount of the product onto a clean area of skin on the upper forearm.

⚠︎ Keep the area dry.

⚠︎ If the product has a specified duration of use, rinse off after this time has elapsed. Otherwise, rinse off after 24 hours.

⚠︎ If any redness, burning, itching, blistering or irritation is observed at any time throughout the test, do not use the product.