The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion (15ml)

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion (15ml) is a high-strength nighttime retinoid treatment formulated for experienced retinoid users to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven skin texture. It contains 0.2% Retinal (Retinaldehyde)—a next-generation vitamin A derivative that is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, making it faster acting and more potent. The formula is also enriched with Synthetic Oat Analogues to help reduce the dryness and discomfort commonly associated with retinoid use, leaving skin smoother, firmer, and more radiant.

Benefits

• Visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Helps improve skin firmness and elasticity
• Fades dark spots and post-acne marks
• Promotes a brighter, more even skin tone
• Smooths rough and uneven skin texture
• Helps minimize the appearance of pores
• Contains soothing Synthetic Oat Analogues to reduce irritation
• Lightweight emulsion texture absorbs quickly
• Silicone-free, alcohol-free, and vegan
• Designed for experienced retinoid users

Texture & Feel

This treatment has a lightweight cream-emulsion texture that spreads smoothly across the skin.

It absorbs quickly without feeling greasy while leaving a soft, comfortable finish suitable for layering with a moisturizer.

Product Overview

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is the brand’s highest-strength retinal formulation. Unlike retinol, Retinal (Retinaldehyde) requires only one conversion step to become retinoic acid, allowing it to deliver faster visible improvements in skin texture, firmness, wrinkles, and pigmentation. Alongside retinal, the formula includes Synthetic Oat Analogues (Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide and Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid), Ergothioneine, Bisabolol, and Ginger Root Extract to help calm irritation and support the skin barrier, making this powerful retinoid more comfortable to use. It is recommended only for users who have already built tolerance to retinoids.

How to Use

• Use only in the evening.
• Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, completely dry skin.
• Avoid the eye contour and lips.
• Follow with a moisturizer if needed.
• Begin 1–2 nights per week and gradually increase as tolerated.
• Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning while using this product.

How Not to Use

Do not use on broken or irritated skin. Avoid combining in the same routine with other retinoids, direct acids (AHAs/BHAs), benzoyl peroxide, or direct Vitamin C. Avoid the eye area. Do not use during the daytime.

Who Can Use

Suitable for normal, combination, oily, and dry skin that has already developed tolerance to retinoids. It is not recommended for beginners or highly sensitive skin due to its high retinal concentration.

Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyapatite, Retinal (0.2%), Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, 4-t-Butylcyclohexanol, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Ergothioneine, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Bisabolol, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) 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.

Ingredient list sourced from The Ordinary official product page and verified with INCIDecoder. Ingredients may vary slightly by production batch.

Country of Origin

Made in Canada

Manufactured by DECIEM (The Ordinary).

Authenticity

100% Authentic Product
Imported through trusted distribution channels and sold in Bangladesh.

FAQ

Who should use this retinal serum?
It is designed for experienced retinoid users who want a high-strength formula to target wrinkles, dark spots, uneven texture, and loss of firmness. Beginners should start with a lower-strength retinoid.

Is Retinal stronger than Retinol?
Yes. Retinal (Retinaldehyde) is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, allowing it to deliver faster and more noticeable results.

Can I use this every night?
Only after your skin has built sufficient tolerance. Start with 1–2 nights per week and gradually increase usage as tolerated.

Can I use it with exfoliating acids or Vitamin C?
No. The Ordinary recommends avoiding direct acids, other retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and direct Vitamin C in the same routine to minimize irritation.

Is this product pregnancy safe?
No. This product contains 0.2% Retinal (Retinaldehyde), a vitamin A derivative (retinoid). Retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy or while trying to conceive. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using any retinoid-containing skincare products.

Important Note

Use only as part of your evening skincare routine. Mild redness, dryness, and peeling may occur during the adjustment period. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every morning while using retinal products. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

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