Retinal 0.2% Emulsion

Product Overview

Experience the peak of non-prescription age support with The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion. This very high-strength retinoid formula is specifically engineered for those who have already built a tolerance to Vitamin A and are looking to target advanced signs of aging, deep textural irregularities, and stubborn dark spots. Retinaldehyde (Retinal) is unique because it is just one conversion step away from the bioactive form of Vitamin A (Retinoic Acid), making it significantly more efficient than standard Retinol. This serum rapidly firms, smooths, and brightens the complexion while utilizing a soothing oat-based complex to manage the potential for dryness and discomfort.

Key Benefits

• Advanced Age Support: Visibly reduces the look of deep wrinkles, including forehead lines, frown lines, and crow's feet.
• Rapid Firming: Promotes a more "lifted" and elastic skin feel through advanced retinoid technology.
• High-Efficiency Delivery: Retinaldehyde is 1 conversion step closer to bioactive Vitamin A than Retinol, offering faster visible results.
• Dark Spot Reduction: Noticeably fades the appearance of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
• Textural Smoothing: Refines skin grain and smooths out rough patches for a polished finish.
• Boosts Luminosity: Encourages a brighter, more radiant complexion by accelerating surface skin renewal.
• Soothing Complex: Infused with synthetic oat analogues to help minimize the look of redness and irritation-induced discomfort.
• Airless Pump Delivery: Packaged in an airless pump to protect the light-sensitive formula from degradation and ensure maximum potency.
• Optimized Stability: Formulated at a precise pH and stabilized for high-strength application.
• Nourishing Emulsion Texture: Lightweight and comfortable on the skin, providing a smooth application for all skin types.

Key Ingredients and The Science Behind Them

• Retinaldehyde (Retinal) at 0.2%: A potent form of Vitamin A that acts as a precursor to Retinoic Acid. Its "one-step" conversion pathway means it can work more efficiently on the skin's surface and deeper layers than standard Retinol, providing high-performance age support.
• Synthetic Oat Analogues (Avenanthramide): Beneficial components mimicking those found in oats that are scientifically known to soothe the skin. They help target the itching, dryness, and discomfort that often accompany high-strength retinoid use.
• Bright Yellow Hue: The serum's distinctive yellow color is 100% natural and stems from the high concentration of pure Retinaldehyde, ensuring no artificial dyes are used.

Specification Table

How to Use

1. Timing: Use only in your PM (evening) routine.
2. Application: Apply a pea-sized amount to a clean, dry face and neck. Avoid the immediate eye area and mouth.
3. Staining Warning: The bright yellow hue may leave residual color on skin or light-colored fabrics. Allow the product to absorb and dry completely before making contact with pillows or towels.
4. Priming: On first use, prime the airless pump. If it doesn't dispense, turn the tube upside down and tap the cap end firmly on a hard surface.
5. Sun Protection: Always apply a high-factor SPF in the morning, as retinoids increase skin sensitivity to UV rays.

Who is it for?

• Experienced Retinoid Users: Specifically for those who have used lower-strength retinol or granactive retinoids without irritation.
• Mature Skin: Ideal for addressing visible loss of firmness and deeper-set wrinkles.
• Sun-Damaged Skin: Individuals looking to fade dark spots and improve overall skin luminosity.
• Texture Concerns: Those wanting to smooth out "orange peel" skin texture or rough irregularities.
• Skincare Minimalists: Users looking for one high-performance nighttime treatment that handles multiple age concerns.
• All Skin Types: The emulsion format is designed to be well-tolerated across oily, dry, and combination complexions.

FAQ

Q: Why is the serum so yellow?
A: Retinaldehyde is naturally a very vibrant yellow. The 0.2% concentration is very high, which gives the formula its signature hue. It is not an artificial color.

Q: Will this stain my face permanently?
A: No. Any residual yellow tint on the skin is temporary and will wash away with your regular morning cleanser and water.

Q: Is this stronger than Retinol 1%?
A: Yes. Because Retinal only requires one conversion step to become active (Retinol requires two), it is considered much more efficient and powerful at a lower percentage.

Q: Can I use this every night?
A: If you are an experienced user, yes. However, we recommend starting 2-3 nights per week and gradually increasing frequency as your skin builds tolerance to this specific strength.

Q: What should I do if the pump doesn't work?
A: This product uses an airless pump. If it doesn't dispense, turn it upside down and tap the cap firmly against a hard surface to "prime" the vacuum seal.

Q: Can I use this with the AHA 30% Peeling Solution?
A: No. We highly recommend avoiding strong direct acids on the same night as Retinal 0.2% to prevent over-taxing the skin barrier and causing severe irritation.

Complete Your Skincare Routine

• Gentle Start: Always cleanse with the Squalane Cleanser to keep the barrier intact.
• Moisture Anchor: Apply Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 to damp skin before the Retinal for better hydration.
• Barrier Support: Pair with Soothing & Barrier Support Serum if you experience any initial dryness.
• Maximum Recovery: Seal with Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides for deep nighttime nourishment.
• Daytime Protection: Protect your progress with a high-quality SPF every single morning.

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