Anyone who consistently uses retinoids will know just how transformative the results can be. In fact, there’s a reason why vitamin A is lauded by derms as the ‘gold-standard’ ingredient for fading pigmentation, filling fine lines, smoothing texture and creating a more unified complexion.
I've tried many of the luxury players, but I always run back to The Ordinary’s Retinal 0.2% Emulsion. Not only do I greatly appreciate the £15.20 price tag – which in the world of retinoids is very reasonable – but it has done a damn good job at fading pesky acne scars (yes, I am a serial spot picker), and has sloughed away dead skin cells to brighten my complexion without irritation.
I was first introduced to the emulsion on a trip to The Ordinary’s HQ in Toronto to view the reformulated hyaluronic acid serum, but I was also given a sneak preview of this highly advanced product. Instantly I noticed that it’s formulated with 0.2% retinal, as opposed to retinol, and if you’re a true skintellectual you’ll know that this rivals one, very famous, luxury player.
Every beauty editor loves Medik8’s Crystal Retinal – including me. And while I’ll forever stay loyal to it, The Ordinary’s emulsion contains the same percentage of retinal, making it a brilliant alternative if you don’t fancy spending upwards of £45.
The Ordinary’s 0.2% Retinal Emulsion review
Usually, I take tentative steps into retinoid use, but The Ordinary’s emulsion seamlessly joined my skincare routine without causing turmoil. Since the Toronto trip, I've been using it twice a week in my evening routine (I could do three, but my twenty-something skin doesn’t need it) and the results are worth shouting about.
The biggest improvement is in my skin tone. I’m not rosacea-prone, but since using the serum, my complexion is far more unified and the tomato-toned areas on my cheeks are no longer. We’ve also acknowledged that I’m a spot picker, and usually, scars will take a few months to fade entirely, but the serum sped up this whole process.
I’ve noticed a difference in the texture of my skin too, pressing ‘Ctrl+Alt+Delete’ on the small, under-the-surface bumps that populate my chin and nose. With those gone, it has also contributed to a radiant and more expensive (I’m sure you get what I mean) look to my complexion.
What also keeps me hooked is the synthetic oat analogues that are formulated in the emulsion. Derived from oats (duh), the ingredient is often used as a moisturising agent to keep the skin barrier hydrated and sturdy. Seasoned retinoid users will know that going too fast with the active can trigger possible side effects, dryness and irritation included, so the oat will help to mitigate this possibility.
While nothing is stopping you from harnessing the benefits of retinal when you have sensitive skin, The Ordinary suggests using this product if you’re a seasoned retinoid user. Like many formulas sitting on today’s shelves, this serum isn’t here to mess around.
If you're a twenty-something, start with a once-a-week application and work your way up to twice a week. If you're in your thirties or forties, again, start by using it once weekly and then build up your tolerance until you can use it a couple times a week, or even every other evening.
I also highly appreciate the silky consistency of the emulsion. Lighter than a cream, it instantly sinks into my skin without leaving a trace. Oh – and don’t mind the fluorescent yellow tinge; this is a big green flag as retinoic acid, in its purest form, has a yellow tone. In my experience, my white bed sheets have remained stain-free (minus the chocolate ones, of course).
But, aside from the stellar INCI list and tried-and-true results, what baffles me is how affordable the serum is. The Ordinary uses technologies and ingredients that are already proven, well-researched and fragrance-free, allowing its prices to stay famously petite. So, allow The Ordinary to prove that ‘just because it’s cheap, doesn’t mean it’s less effective’ if that’s how the saying goes – right?
What’s the difference between retinol and retinal?
The whole retinoid conversation can be a confusing one, so here’s a quick explainer. Retinal sits within the retinoid family – essentially, actives that are all derived from vitamin A.
At the bottom of the retinoid chain are retinoid esters, the weakest form of retinoid. Next you have retinol, which is the slightly stronger and more popular derivative. And then you have retinal – also called retinaldehyde. For all these derivatives to work in your skin cells, they must convert into retinoic acid, so the closer they are up the chain, the stronger they will be.
As retinal is one step closer to vitamin A in its most active form (retinoid acid) it is a stronger active compared to retinol – plus, it’s known to work eleven times faster. If you’re looking to fade acne scars or improve texture, a 0.2% formula is the ideal strength to show quick results without irritating the skin barrier.
Clare Stephenson is a Beauty Ecommerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Red and Good Housekeeping, covering all things makeup, skincare and hair care, as well as deals events including Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
Clare has been an ecommerce writer since 2022, writing matter-of-fact such as deep dives into and filled with her favourite products for every budget and need.
Before working at Hearst UK, she received a BA degree in Multimedia Journalism at Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on the world of magazines and editorial. From there, she worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events like Fashion Week and interviewing reputable brand founders, including Rea Ann Silva creator of Beautyblender.
When she’s not testing the latest and greatest products, you can find Clare sifting through vintage clothing stores in the city or horseback riding in the countryside.
