What is it?
The Retinal 0.2% Emulsion by The Ordinary has our highest-strength retinoid formula with stabilized retinaldehyde for advanced age support, optimal for nighttime use.

Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is a very high strength retinoid formula that rapidly firms and smooths skin, while noticeably reducing the appearance of dark spots. It helps refine skin texture, while targeting uneven tone and boosting luminosity for brighter, more even-looking skin.

The serum-textured formula is suitable for all skin types, and is recommended for experienced users of retinoids. If you are new to using retinoids, we recommend exploring the Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, or the Retinol 0.2% in Squalane, and progressing to higher strengths as your skin builds tolerance.

Retinal (also known as retinaldehyde) is a well-studied retinoid that offers more efficient delivery of the most direct form of vitamin A molecules than retinol, thanks to being 1 conversion step closer to the bioactive form of vitamin A.

With a high 0.2% concentration of retinal, Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is able to noticeably improve skin firmness and improve the look of lines and wrinkles, including crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles.

Retinal 0.2% Emulsion also contains synthetic oat analogues (specifically avenanthramide - a key beneficial component found in oats). This ingredient is known to help target skin discomfort and dryness, which are common concerns associated with retinoid use.

The bright yellow hue of the formula comes from the high concentration of retinal, which is naturally yellow. This may leave some residual colour on skin and light coloured fabrics, which can be minimised by allowing the product to fully absorb, and skin to dry before making contact with light-coloured fabrics. This residual colour can be removed by washing skin with water, and washing fabrics with your regular detergent according to their care instructions.

How to use
Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry face and neck in the evening. Avoid the eye contour and contact with eyes. Start with a weekly application and gradually increase to twice a week, a few days apart, as tolerated by your skin. Apply a moisturizer afterwards. Do not use with other retinoid products. Use sun protection during the day.

If irritation occurs, rinse off, cease use, and consult a physician. Use only as directed on unbroken skin. Patch testing prior to use is advised. Refer to our website for a patch test guide, regimen guide, and product compatibility. Keep out of reach of children.

Who’s it for
All skin types.

What else you need to know
Alcohol Free, Oil Free, Silicone Free, Vegan, Gluten Free, Cruelty Free

Ingredients List
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.

Our formulations are updated from time to time as part of our commitment to innovation. As such, the ingredient list shown here may vary from the box of the product depending on time and region of purchase.

At THE ICONIC we do our best to provide you with accurate information about product ingredients, based on information provided to us by our Suppliers. For the most complete and up-to-date information, please refer to the product packaging.

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