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The Ordinary

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion 15ml

15ml
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†1138 Reviews

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion delivers fast-acting vitamin A power for visibly smoother, clearer, more refined-looking skin.

ยฃ 16.00ยฃ 28.00 Save 43%

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion delivers fast-acting vitamin A power for visibly smoother, clearer, more refined-looking skin.

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  • Sealed original packaging โ€” batch code visible
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How to use
- PM: After cleansing and drying skin, apply a pea-sized amount to face and neck, avoiding the eye and lip areas. - Start 2โ€“3 nights per week; increase to nightly as tolerated. - Follow with a simple moisturizer; skip other strong actives the same night. - AM: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily while using retinal. - Do not use with other retinoids; patch test before first use.
Key ingredients
- Retinal (0.2%): High-potency vitamin A that converts efficiently to retinoic acid for rapid visible results - Squalane: Cushions skin and helps counter potential dryness from actives - Lipid Emulsifiers: Enhance delivery and reduce irritation by supporting the skin barrier - Glycerin: Attracts water to maintain a comfortable, well-plumped complexion
Key benefits
- Accelerates skin renewal to soften the look of fine lines and uneven texture - Targets blemish-prone areas while supporting a clearer, more balanced complexion - Promotes firmer, more elastic-looking skin with a radiant, even tone - Lightweight emulsion absorbs quickly without greasy residue or heavy feel
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Reviews (1138)

Best retinal โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
Rashid1220โœ“ Verified

Love this, the best retinal Iโ€™ve ever used . I use this nightly !

Larger supply would be good. โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
Lola

Delighted with this product but wish it was a larger container and there was more in it. Runs out too fast with a surprise as there is no way you can see how much is left

Does this need to be refrigerated?? โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
Kate

Iโ€™ve used this off and on (rotating with the ordinary other retinol products) since long before it was repackaged. Have to say Iโ€™m not a fan of the new packaging and the fact that you get half the product now. :( This emulsion is not super irritating if youโ€™ve used retinol before. I still wouldnโ€™t use it more than a few times a week (over use of the ordinaryโ€™s retinols turned my face orange in the past). I still have sensitive combo skin that can get suuuper oily in my early 40โ€™s, and this helps the overall appearance of my skin. However - can someone from The Ordinary please tell me definitively if this product needs to go in the fridge? I know this is the case with some other retinols. Also, if the ordinary could please get your developers to add another filter option to reviews so we can filter out influencer reviews, which I donโ€™t trust and donโ€™t want to see, Iโ€™d greatly appreciate it! ๐Ÿซถ๐Ÿป

Marvelous Little Miracle! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
Lisa64

This is it; this is, for me, the pinnacle of visual result skin care. Started out using it on a weekly basis, then gradually increased it to daily. It softens and smooths and clarifies in some fashion because even my adult daughter noted a marked improvement. And I finally have a bit of the glow I've been searching for. I follow it up with NMF with Beta Glucan, which is a lovely little moisturizer and perfect with the Retinal 0.2% Emulsion. My skin is just...better.

Defective pump โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†
Lynnieโœ“ Verified

Product is ok but packaging is DEFECTIVE as the pump doesnโ€™t work. Extremely annoying โ€ผ๏ธ

Love! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
Jujuโœ“ Verified

This is my second bottle and I bought it as back up during the sale (was still waiting to see results at the time). Iโ€™ve been using it 3x a week for over a month now (in conjunction with other products) and my skin has become smoother, and pores have significantly tightened up. Iโ€™m looking forward to seeing further improvements over time. Iโ€™m in my early 50โ€™s and this has been a real game changing product, not to mention absolute value for money, so Iโ€™ll definitely continue using it.

Worth it โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
Bunnygirl

I have purchased this twice and this is my go-to retinal from now on.

The best anti-aging product โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
Sarah Z.โœ“ Verified

Very potent retinol. My favorite anti-aging product to this day. I started seeing a huge difference using this from the first week. My skin looks dewy and fresh. Itโ€™s better user at night to avoid environmental irritation. I will be buying this again!

Easy application โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
kimmy81478โœ“ Verified

Easy application and blended out well didn't have any oily residue or stickiness left behind an in leave my skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Definitely avoid the eye area and it doesn't have any odor or foul smell

Love this!! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
jenl114โœ“ Verified

s an advanced retinol user, I absolutely love this product. However It is not for people who do not have a tolerance already. Iโ€™ve ditched my tret for this much gentler and extremely effective alternative. This is my new holy Grail.

A little goes a long way โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†
colleenm78โœ“ Verified

I appreciate Influenster sending me this complimentary product to review in exchange for my honest opinion. For starters, a little goes a long way and it's nice to have a non scented product, especially for sensitive skin. Price also seems reasonable, once I did some product research. Not blow away, but not bad.

Soft smooth skin โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
breezyrโœ“ Verified

I received a sample size to try and as everyone knows you can not really get a good feel for skincare in samples. There's no miracle, works the very first time, cure all product. So I've been giving this my best go. I only applied weekly as instructed since I'm newer to retinols and do tend to be sensitive. I didn't have enough to work up to more than that. A pea size was all that was needed and it went on nicely, no immediate irritation and my skin felt smooth. In the morning my cheeks were redder than usual and after washing my face and doing my makeup I noticed only the days I had used this the night before, my makeup wouldn't sit well. It was separating and my pores seemed larger. My skin was softer though but a little dry although I already have dry skin. I feel over time my skin would adapt and it would be a good addition to my routine and luckily it won't break the bank either.

Great retinol โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
rachelp33โœ“ Verified

Great retinol! I loved the texture of the product and the fact that it didnโ€™t overly Dry out my Skin. I was able to use it daily without any issue. Fragrant free!

Give it a few weeks to notice a difference โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
mybigcutedimplesโœ“ Verified

I suggest starting off using this product every other day until your face gets used to it. I loved how the texture on my face appeared smoother after a few weeks of using. Thereโ€™s no scent, so it doesnโ€™t irritate my skin. The packaging is simple and I love that, you can easily read the ingredients and instructions. It helps that itโ€™s reasonably priced too.

Lightweight โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
ambertc51bโœ“ Verified

I really liked this retinal. I usually donโ€™t use this type of product due to the dryness and irritation it causes. This one I had no issues with. Itโ€™s very lightweight and easy to apply. Would buy again.

Good skincare โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
Customerโœ“ Verified

The Ordinary Retinal is easy to add to your skin care routine. It goes on smoothly and a little goes a long way. I started to see skin improvement after continued use.

Really like this so far โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
ericar138โœ“ Verified

I am really enjoying this product so far. Itโ€™s not irritating or as drying as straight tentinoin and itโ€™s really helping to improve my skin texture. Will purchase for sure.

Smooth skin โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
marialuisag9801โœ“ Verified

This product made my skin feel soft and smooth. I noticed a difference with. The first week. I would highly recommend for anyone on a budget for skin products.

Nice product โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†
instagrayโœ“ Verified

Product has a nice consistency and goes smoothly with immediate absorption into your skin. I appreciate that there isnโ€™t a heavy scent and honestly you canโ€™t smell anything! For effectiveness I noticed a slight difference in my skin texture being a bit smoother but nothing drastic.

Nice, but not effective after a month โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†
sherrynutsโœ“ Verified

I'm in my 40's and regularly use retinol and I usually enjoy The Ordinary products--I have several in my regular routine--but after using as directed for a month this one didn't do anything for me. The positives first: The packaging is modern and clean like the rest of The Ordinary's line and the pump bottle feels nice in hand and dispenses the perfect amount with one pump. The scent is subtle and not really noticeable; always a plus when it's going on your face. The product itself is surprising bright, but leaves a welcome subtle glow. It goes on smoothly, but does dry very quickly. If you aren't working fast enough, you'll need another pump. It doesn't feel heavy or greasy. I've noticed no irritation or dryness, but I have used a lot of retinol products. However. I've not seen any reduction to my fine lines. It also will stain anything white a nice yellow-y color. It might have a mild brightening effect, but other than that I don't know that this will go into my regular lineup. Iโ€™ll finish the bottle and make a decision.

I dont think I've used it long enough to see results โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
aureliamโœ“ Verified

Packaging was nice - tube very easy to use. Texture felt great on my skin- left it feeling smooth and moisturized! Only has a slight scent which I also am a fan of!

Goid use โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†
sexiialexy13

I received this product for free through influenster to give my honest opinion. I unfortunately can not use these products cause A) I injured my face, and it's been a month and still healthing. (Stiches, etc..) and B) I am pregnant and can not use retinol products. So, instead, I let my hubby be my trial. He said the product was good but kind of irritated his face at the beginning, but he is now seeing good signs. He adds his moisturizer and goes on with his day. He says he will keep using it as long as it does not irritate his face.

Great exfoliation and my face looks much brighter! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
kelleyt

This product is pretty effective. I have rosacea no problems. My skin is super soft and brighter. It gives your skin a boost! I would definitely recommend this product.

Effective โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
Customer

I love the simple clean look of the brand in general. The product is easy to apply and does not have a strong scent or leave an unpleasant residue on hands after application. I look forward to using this product more.

Great product! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
laurikissโœ“ Verified

Definitely add this to my normal routine when product I currently have is gone. Love the way this made my skin look and feel. Definitely recommend this to ALL... I see that some of my frown lines have diminished. I received this product for free from Influencer in exchange for my honest opinion

Great product โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
katiem150

After receiving and using the Ordinary Retinal 0.2 Emulsion cream I really like it! It has a creamy texture that absorbs quickly into skin. It doesnโ€™t have a strong scent, I barely can smell it. I have sun spots and it seems that it has lightened them and I donโ€™t notice any new dark spots. Overall Iโ€™m impressed and would recommend.

Incredible quality for the price! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
miztresswinterโœ“ Verified

I have been consistently using this product for about a month now. I am an experienced Retinol user. This new Retinal from The Ordinary is an incredible value for the quality and price! It is encapsulated, which is important when it comes to retinol products. I have definitely been seeing good results, and plan to add this product to my skin care routine! ๐Ÿ˜

I love it!!!!! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
marianao85โœ“ Verified

I been using this product for about a month, and I am really impressed by it. I already can see the improvement in my forehead and around my mouth. The texture is really soft and delicate and of course I didnโ€™t have any reaction in my skin.

Dried up my face โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†
tiff_jenksโœ“ Verified

I used this for a good week straight and at first i loved the way it made my face feel! The color was a little much beinf bright yellow but went on clear. After a few days my face broke out and was so dry i had to stop using it.

Magic Eraser for the Face!!! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
thyj

I would like to thank @theordinary and @influenster for allowing me to take part in this incentivized campaign. I received this product free of charge and in return I shall give an honest review, and here are my thoughts. I was starly impressed with the results of the screen after using it three times you begin to see the difference in the refinement of the texture on the surface of your skin. Fine lines fade and the texture of the skin and the feel becomes more satin like! I will definitely be adding this to my skincare arsenal. For me this was a golden buzzer product when you can use something three times and see the difference that's enough for me. Even the immediate effects of this retinol are obvious the skin feels more moisturized than more supple. Where to caution this product can be a bit spicy so be careful when using it with other products the same day such as I would not use this with something that is heavily active with Alpha Hydroxies Beta Hydroxies or Poly Hydroxies. The way you utilize those products is you alternate one day you can use your retinol cream and the next day use your vitamin C cream or your glycolic or your Alpha hydroxies. That way you're less likely to get irritation. If when utilizing this for the first time and you're not sure how you're going to react to it have a hydrating mist on hand in case you need to dilute the strength of the product as it is on your face sometimes I find when a product goes on pure and we're not used to it if we can dilute it a bit it helps ease the irritation. Thank you for making it this far and I hope you will try this too this is an amazing product

Nice product โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
alegrialennisโœ“ Verified

It is a very promising product, I have combination skin and it never tends to be sensitive, easy absorption and I loved the results I got, my skin felt so good. I like that it doesn't have a bad smell and the packaging is cute and accessible to get just the desired amount.

Great Price Point! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
sbw29โœ“ Verified

Such a great price point for retinol. Makes it easy as a first time retinol or addition to your current routine. I had been using retinol already but still noticed the effects of this one. No issues with any yellow tints or tones to my skinโ€ฆbut maybe thatโ€™s just because my skin sucked it ALL in ๐Ÿ˜‚

The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% Emulsion โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
rachelkieran

This The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% Emulsion is a powerful serum for anti aging. It's so powerful that you can only use it once a week at the first application. After your skin gets used to this emulsion, you can gradually start using it twice a week but a few days apart. When I first applied this serum, I didn't have any irritation or redness. It went on my skin easily, and it absorbed quickly. I've used this skincare product for a few weeks now, and I've kept it in my skincare routine. I only use it once a week because I have sensitive skin, and it's working that way for me. It's helped my fine lines to look diminished, and my skin also looks smoother! I also use a moisturizer and SPF when I apply this serum. It helps to protect my skin, and you should always wear SPF with Retinol.

A must have in your skin care routine! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
winelover85โœ“ Verified

I received The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum and i absolutely love it! The scent is extremely clean and virtually no fragrance at all which is great. After I cleanse my face I apply the serum and then I apply my moisturizer. I use the serum about 2-3 days a week and I have been loving it ever since I received it! I highly recommend it!

Scar lightening after just 2 weeks! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
heatherj112โœ“ Verified

They say to start slow with retinol products, so I was able to sample this product five times in 12 days (allowing a few days space between applications). Pros: Lightened some scars (see the circular scar on my chin from before to after). Cons: Very drying (typical of a retinoid in the beginning though). You can see the lines in my forehead are much more pronounced in the after due to the dryness. Overall: with the success I had in scar reduction after just five applications, I would definitely love to see what this product could do long-term.

Great product! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
anyagafโœ“ Verified

I love this simple formula of retinol, easy to use after serum, absorbs quickly, l, has no smell. Definitely is going to be part of my weekly routine. Be careful. It has a bright yellow color, so don't use it in the morning/day.

Effective !! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
lovelyeyes926โœ“ Verified

I really like the ordinary retinol serum. It is not only affordable but effective it smoothed my skin especially with this cold weather . It also helped lessen the appearance of my dark spots they still have long to go before fading but I see a lil diff . I will continue to use this to see if my spots diminish more but I do not like the yellow tone :(

This one is is definitely a must try โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
jenniferp488โœ“ Verified

This product was very effective in fading dark spots and improving the tone and brightening. I highly recommend trying this. You can't beat the price point for someone like this.

Love it!! โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
kspar002โœ“ Verified

I love everything about this product. The pump makes it convenient. I love the texture and how it it feels on my skin. It doesn't have and overpowering scent and my skin looks glowy and bright after using it consistently for 2 weeks. I normally use another retinol but this one is nice! Will repurchase.

Easy application โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
sandrar268โœ“ Verified

I've used it and I really haven't seen a difference in my skin. I will keep using though and maybe I will see some good changes. It's easy to use and not greasy.

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