The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, High-Strength Retinoid Serum

1. Overview

• Finish & Target: Smooth, lightweight treatment finish engineered to target advanced signs of aging, deep fine lines, dynamic wrinkles, structural sagging, and uneven texture; high-potency formula designed for experienced retinoid users.

• Texture & Format: High-strength, vibrant yellow emulsion housed in an opaque, airless pump bottle to shield the light-sensitive retinaldehyde molecule from degradation and oxidation.

• Wear & Frequency: Nighttime specialized treatment; designed to be introduced gradually (1–2 times per week initially) into an evening skincare regimen, building tolerance over time.

• Key Benefits: Delivers high-strength retinaldehyde—which requires only one enzymatic conversion step to retinoic acid—providing faster, more direct anti-aging results than standard retinol while minimizing moisture-barrier disruption. Vegan, cruelty-free, oil-free, silicone-free, and gluten-free.

2. Key Ingredients & Components

• 0.2% Retinaldehyde (Retinal): High-concentration direct-acting retinoid precursor that converts directly into retinoic acid within the skin, accelerating epidermal turnover, boosting collagen synthesis, and refining skin texture.

• Synthetic Oat Analogues (Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid): Bio-inspired soothing lipid complex engineered to target skin discomfort, reduce redness, and mitigate retinoid-induced irritation.

• Glycerin & Aqua (Water): Essential humectant matrix that maintains stratum corneum hydration and buffers active retinal delivery to preserve barrier integrity.

• Stabilized Emulsion Matrix (Lauryl Glucoside, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate, Myristyl Glucoside): Gentle, non-comedogenic emulsifiers that ensure uniform dispersion of the lipid-soluble retinal molecule without clogging pores.

3. How to Use

1. Prep: Cleanse face thoroughly in the evening and pat skin completely dry. Do not apply to damp or broken skin.

2. Dispense: Dispense a pea-sized amount onto fingertips.

3. Apply: Smooth a thin layer over the face and neck, avoiding the delicate eye contour area and lips.

4. Follow & Protect: Follow with a rich barrier-supportive moisturizer. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) during the day, as retinoids increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation.