Retinal 0.2% Emulsion
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion
Product Description
Product overview
A very high-strength retinoid formula featuring 0.2% stabilized retinaldehyde that rapidly firms and smooths skin while noticeably reducing the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Enhanced with synthetic oat analogues to minimize irritation and dryness commonly associated with potent retinoids.
11x Faster Than Retinol
Retinaldehyde converts to retinoic acid in just one step, working up to 11 times faster than traditional retinol.
Texture & feel
SENSORY11x Faster Than Retinol
Retinaldehyde converts to retinoic acid in just one step, working up to 11 times faster than traditional retinol.
Soothing Oat Analogues
Contains synthetic avenanthramides (oat derivatives) to combat irritation, dryness, and discomfort during retinoid use.
Multi-Concern Targeting
Addresses fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, uneven texture, and loss of firmness in one powerful formula.
Stabilized Formula
Advanced stabilization technology ensures retinaldehyde remains potent and effective throughout the product's life.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains retinaldehyde (a retinoid). All retinoids should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development.
While topical retinoids have low absorption, most experts recommend avoiding during breastfeeding. Consult your physician.
Contains Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Polysorbate 60, and Stearic Acid which can feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 on comedogenic scale. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Increases photosensitivity. Must use SPF 30+ daily and limit sun exposure while using this product.
Recommended for those already accustomed to retinoids. New users should start with lower-strength formulas first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinaldehyde (Retinal) 0.2%Gold Standard
The star active ingredient and direct precursor to retinoic acid (tretinoin). One conversion step closer to the active form than retinol, making it significantly more potent and fast-acting.
- Research: Studies show retinaldehyde converts to retinoic acid up to 11x faster than retinol
- Benefits: Accelerates cell turnover, boosts collagen production, fades hyperpigmentation
- Efficacy: Clinically proven to improve fine lines, wrinkles, and skin firmness
Synthetic Oat Analogues (Avenanthramide)Soothing
Biomimetic compounds that replicate the beneficial properties of colloidal oatmeal without potential sensitivities. Specifically included to counteract common retinoid side effects.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory and barrier-supporting properties
- Benefits: Reduces redness, itching, and dryness associated with retinoid use
- Synergy: Allows for better retinoid tolerance and consistent use
ErgothioneineAntioxidant
A powerful naturally-occurring amino acid with exceptional antioxidant properties, often called the "longevity vitamin" in skincare research.
- Protection: Shields skin cells from oxidative stress and environmental damage
- Anti-Aging: Helps preserve collagen and prevent premature aging
- Stability: May help protect the retinal molecule from degradation
BisabololCalming
Derived from chamomile, this ingredient provides additional soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits to complement the oat analogues.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms irritated skin and reduces redness
- Antioxidant: Provides additional protection against free radicals
- Skin Brightening: May help inhibit melanin production
32 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.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEPM routine only. Apply after water-based serums, before heavier creams. Always use SPF 30+ the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Start with a clean, completely dry face. Wait 5-10 minutes after cleansing before applying to reduce sensitivity.
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount and dot across forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose. Avoid the eye contour area.
Gently Spread
Use fingertips to gently spread the product across face and neck in upward motions. Allow to fully absorb.
Follow with Moisturizer
Wait 5-10 minutes, then apply a hydrating moisturizer to seal in the treatment and support skin barrier.
Build Tolerance Gradually
Start once weekly, increase to twice weekly (a few days apart) as tolerated. Do not use with other retinoids, direct acids, or Vitamin C.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're an experienced retinoid user ready to level up
- You want faster results than traditional retinol
- You're targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness
- You have uneven skin tone or dark spots
- You want a more affordable alternative to luxury retinal products
- Your skin has good tolerance to active ingredients
Consider alternatives if:
- You're new to retinoids (start with Granactive Retinoid 2%)
- You're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You can't commit to daily SPF use
- You use prescription retinoids like tretinoin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight emulsion absorbs well without adding shine. Helps regulate oil production and minimize enlarged pores over time.
Oat analogues help prevent excessive dryness. Follow with a rich moisturizer and consider buffering method if experiencing flaking.
Balanced formula works well across different face zones. Light texture won't overwhelm oily areas or dry out drier patches.
High-strength formula may be too intense. Start very slowly, consider buffering, or try Granactive Retinoid 2% first.
Retinoids help unclog pores and speed cell turnover. May cause initial purging. NOT suitable for fungal acne sufferers.
Ideal for advanced anti-aging concerns. Targets fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness, and age spots effectively.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Adjustment Period
Skin acclimates to the retinal. Some users may experience mild tingling, dryness, or temporary purging. This is normal.
90% noticed initial effectsTexture Improvement
Skin begins to feel smoother. Cell turnover increases, revealing fresher skin. Dark spots may start to fade slightly.
78% reported smoother textureVisible Glow
Noticeable improvement in skin luminosity and tone. Fine lines appear softened. Dark spots continue to fade.
85% noticed brighter skinFirming & Anti-Aging
Significant improvement in skin firmness. Wrinkles (crow's feet, frown lines) appear reduced. Overall youthful appearance.
82% reported firmer skinRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value compared to luxury retinal products
- Visible results in weeks, not months
- Effective for fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Soothing oat analogues reduce irritation
- Works well as Medik8 Crystal Retinal alternative
- Clean, science-backed formulation
Criticized
- Small 15ml bottle runs out quickly
- Yellow color can stain fabrics and pillowcases
- Too strong for retinoid beginners
- Can cause initial purging or peeling
- Not suitable during pregnancy/breastfeeding
- Not fungal acne safe
- Requires strict sun protection
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 0.2% retinaldehyde concentration with double the size (30ml). Uses Ectoin instead of oat analogues for soothing. Hungarian brand with excellent reviews.
Lower 0.1% retinal concentration makes it better for those new to retinaldehyde. Same quality delivery system at a more accessible price point.
Uses HPR (hydroxypinacolone retinoate) instead of retinal. Gentler but less potent. Better for beginners not ready for true retinaldehyde.
Traditional retinol, requires 2 conversion steps vs 1 for retinal. Slower results but very budget-friendly. Good stepping stone product.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening. Mark your opening date on the bottle for reference.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration not required but can extend potency.
Airless pump bottle protects the retinal from oxidation and light degradation. Opaque packaging maintains stability.
Yes, under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Keep in carry-on to avoid temperature extremes in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This product contains retinaldehyde, a form of vitamin A (retinoid). All retinoids should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development. While topical retinoids have lower absorption than oral forms, most dermatologists and healthcare providers recommend avoiding them during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consider safer alternatives like bakuchiol, niacinamide, or azelaic acid.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Polysorbate 60, Stearic Acid, and Brassica Campestris Sterols. If you have fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis, look for FA-safe retinoid alternatives or consult a dermatologist for prescription options that may be safer for your condition.
The Ordinary recommends NOT using this product with other retinoids (including retinol), direct acids (AHA/BHA), or vitamin C in the same routine. These combinations can cause excessive irritation, compromise your skin barrier, and reduce the effectiveness of each ingredient. If you want to use these actives, apply them on alternate nights or at different times of day (vitamin C in AM, retinal in PM).
This product works well for most skin types including oily, combination, and mature skin. It's particularly excellent for those with anti-aging concerns (fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness) and uneven skin tone. However, it's best for experienced retinoid users. Those with sensitive or very reactive skin should start with gentler options like Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion first. Not recommended for those with fungal acne.
Results vary by individual, but most users report: improved texture within 2-4 weeks, visible brightening and glow at 4-8 weeks, and significant improvement in fine lines and firmness at 8-12 weeks. Retinaldehyde works up to 11x faster than traditional retinol, so you may see results sooner than with retinol products. Initial purging or adjustment period of 1-2 weeks is normal.
Apply in your PM routine only: (1) Cleanse, (2) Tone (optional), (3) Water-based serums, (4) Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, (5) Moisturizer. Wait until your face is completely dry before applying. You can also "buffer" by applying moisturizer first, then the retinal, to reduce irritation. Always apply SPF 30+ the following morning as retinoids increase sun sensitivity.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. Retinoids actually help unclog pores by increasing cell turnover. However, individual reactions vary, and some ingredients like Stearic Acid can potentially cause issues for very acne-prone skin. If you're prone to clogged pores, patch test first and introduce gradually.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 6 months. After this time, the retinaldehyde may begin to degrade and lose effectiveness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize potency. The airless pump packaging helps protect the formula from oxidation. Mark your opening date on the bottle so you can track usage time.
The bright yellow color comes from the high concentration of retinaldehyde itself, which is naturally yellow. This may leave temporary residual color on skin and can stain light-colored fabrics (pillowcases, towels). To minimize staining: let the product fully absorb before bed, use dark-colored pillowcases, and apply moisturizer on top. Any skin discoloration washes off easily with water.
Yes! Many users consider this an excellent, affordable alternative to Medik8 Crystal Retinal. Both contain retinaldehyde at similar concentrations. The Ordinary version costs significantly less ($14.90 vs $69-99) while delivering comparable results. Key differences: Medik8 includes vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, while The Ordinary uses oat analogues for soothing. Many users report switching from Medik8 with equal satisfaction.
Verdict: The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion delivers exceptional anti-aging results at a fraction of the cost of luxury alternatives. With its 0.2% retinaldehyde concentration working 11x faster than retinol, plus soothing oat analogues to minimize irritation, this is a powerhouse formula for experienced retinoid users. The small bottle size and yellow staining are minor drawbacks compared to the impressive efficacy. Not recommended for pregnancy, breastfeeding, fungal acne sufferers, or retinoid beginners. For those ready to level up their anti-aging routine without breaking the bank, this is one of the best value retinal products on the market.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Hydroxyapatite
Emulsion Stabilising, Abrasive, Bulking Agent
|
|