Introducing Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, by The Ordinary
Whether new to retinoids, or an avid retinoid user, The Ordinary has always aimed to offer scienceproven solutions to suit all skin types, and texture preferences, so that everyone in our community can find a formulation that is suitable for them. Those who seek out retinoids are typically looking to address the skin’s loss of structural integrity over time due to changes in the skin’s natural collagen and elastin production. This can lead to skin appearing thin with increased lines appearing on the skin.
With the introduction of the newest retinoid formulation, Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, a formula offering a high concentration of retinaldehyde, there are now three different iterations of Vitamin A available from The Ordinary. These offerings include retinol, granactive retinoid, and now retinal-resulting in multiple options to begin or continue one’s journey with this transformative skincare ingredient.
The Ordinary is demystifying where to start on the retinoidjourney by breaking down some of the science behind the ingredient. We want to make it easier to differentiate between all the different formulations the brand has to offer so consumers can choose where to start, or continue, with confidence.
Resurface your Skin-While You Sleep
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is a light emulsion offering a high concentration of retinaldehyde (also more commonly known as Retinal), a well-studied retinoid that targets the look of fine lines and wrinkles, skin roughness, skin tone homogeneity and radiance with skin appearing more plump and firm after 2 weeks, further improving at 6, 8 and 10 weeks.
Retinaldehyde is a form of Vitamin A that is one conversion step closer than retinol to the most direct form of vitamin A, as retinol must undergo two conversions once applied to the skin. Once retinaldehyde goes through its single conversion, it helps to support skin’s natural renewal, thus improving the look of facial wrinkles, skin roughness, and uneven skin tone. This single step process offers a more efficient delivery of the bioactive form of the molecule as most retinoids must be converted to their bioactive form once applied, in order to bring about benefits to the skin.
It is always important to note that the use of topical retinoids (such as retinal and retinaldehyde) can lead to skin irritation and discomfort for some individuals. What sets the formulation of Retinal 0.2% Emulsion apart from existing options from The Ordinary is the addition of Synthetic Oat Analogues, which are a synthetic form of avenanthramide, a key beneficial component found in oats that targets skin discomfort and dryness.
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is a treatment to be used exclusively at night time, which means all the benefits of the product step into action while you’re asleep. It is also heavily recommended to use sun protection daily while using a retinoid as it can make the skin more sensitive to UV exposure.
How to Choose Your Formulation
For the first-time retinoid user:
Retinol 0.2% in Squalane – An oil-like, low-strength retinal great for first-time users.
For the occasional retinoid user:
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion – A creamy formulation strong enough to resurface skin, yet gentle enough to cause minimal irritation.
For the advanced retinoid user:
Retinol 0.5% in Squalane – An oil-like formulation ideal for the occasional retinal user looking for a moderate-strength retinoid.
Retinol 1% in Squalane – A more high-strength version of retinal 0-5% in squalane, with added hydration benefits.
Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane – A highly-advanced retinoid active formula that provides age support and hydration.
For the expert retinoid user:
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion – A very high-strength retinoid formula that has been shown to improve the appearance of multiple signs of aging.
Grab yours at all of these participating stores:
Sephora – Escentials – Zalora
