The short version
The short version of this review
The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, launched in March 2024, delivers 0.2% retinaldehyde with a synthetic oat analogue and hydroxyapatite for experienced retinoid users. The brand directs evening use starting once a week and building to twice a week. It cost £15.20 for 15ml on The Ordinary UK on 25 September 2026.
Product information reviewed 2026-09-25.
01 / The basics
What is Retinal 0.2% Emulsion?
The Ordinary’s retinal emulsion, launched in March 2024, pairs 0.2% retinaldehyde with a synthetic oat analogue and hydroxyapatite; the brand directs a pea-sized amount in the evening, starting once a week and building to twice a week, never alongside other retinoids, with sun protection by day.
- Best for
- Experienced retinoid users
- Launch month
- 2024-03
02 / Review
What is in Retinal 0.2% Emulsion?
The Ordinary’s Retinal 0.2% Emulsion delivers retinaldehyde at 0.2% in a serum emulsion, with a synthetic oat analogue and hydroxyapatite in the supporting formula. The brand launched it in March 2024 for users already accustomed to retinoids.
The direction to start once a week and build only to twice a week reflects its strength. Frequency, not quantity, is the lever.
03 / Review
Who is Retinal 0.2% Emulsion best for?
Experienced retinoid users who want retinal at a modest price. It is not a starting point for someone new to vitamin A.
04 / Review
What should you check before buying?
Follow the brand’s low-frequency schedule and do not layer it with another retinoid. The Ordinary notes its products have not been tested on people who are pregnant or breastfeeding; speak to a doctor. At 15ml, the bottle is half the size of most serums in this category.
05 / How to use it
How should you use Retinal 0.2% Emulsion?
- 01Apply a pea-sized amount in the evening, after cleansing
- 02Start once a week and build gradually to twice a week, a few days apart
- 03Do not combine with other retinoids
- 04Use sun protection during the day
06 / Quick facts
What should you know before choosing Retinal 0.2% Emulsion?
- —0.2% retinaldehyde emulsion, 15ml — £15.20 on The Ordinary UK (25 September 2026)
- —Launched March 2024; aimed at experienced retinoid users
- —Contains hydroxyphenyl propamidobenzoic acid (a synthetic oat analogue) and hydroxyapatite
- —Alcohol-, oil- and silicone-free and vegan, per the brand; no fragrance on the ingredient list
- —Pea-sized amount in the evening, once a week at first, building to twice a week a few days apart
- —Not for use with other retinoids; sun protection during the day