The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum Review

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum
4.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
8.5 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Review

Does The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.
  • Considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy: The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum has an anti-wrinkle rating of 5.0 out of 10, indicating a moderate ability to reduce wrinkles.

Key Benefits of The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.3 out of 10 and a very high humectancy of 8.5 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propanediol (est. ≈4.0%) and Pentylene Glycol (est. ≈3.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, offering significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients.

It’s also a great choice for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Considerable Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum has a moderate anti-wrinkle rating of 5.0 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Retinal (est. ≈0.2%), 
 also known as retinaldehyde, is a potent retinoid with anti-wrinkle efficacy confirmed by a single clinical study involving 125 participants (Creidi et al.). This study demonstrated that a cream containing 0.05% retinal reduced the average wrinkle depth by 8% after 18 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without retinal).
 
Among others, The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum also contains Ascorbyl Palmitate, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Ascorbyl Palmitate provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum to your skincare routine:
 

If It’s an Exfoliator, It May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Lactic Acid

This product contains lactic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is more vulnerable to sun damage.

In smaller quantities, lactic acid is often used as a pH adjuster and may not significantly contribute to exfoliation. However, at higher concentrations, it functions as an effective exfoliant with benefits and risks similar to other AHAs. Products with AHAs, including lactic acid, may increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

If this product is designed for exfoliation, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential to protect your skin. Always check the label or the manufacturer’s website for specific usage instructions.

Pros & Cons of The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Provides considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Retinal

Cons: 

  • We couldn't find any

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
6
4
3
2
0.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyapatite
Function:
Origin:
Retinal
Function:
Origin:
Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide
Function:
Origin:
4-t-Butylcyclohexanol
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Ergothioneine
Function:
Origin:
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols
Function:
Origin:
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Isohexadecane
Function:
Origin:
Hexyldecanol
Function:
Origin:
Maltodextrin
Function:
Origin:
Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Isoceteth-20
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 60
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Lactate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Chlorphenesin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
8.5
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 8.5 10
8.5
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 8.5 10
8.5
All humectants
8.5
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
5 /10 0.05 0.2 5
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
5
Retinal
5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
5 /10
when present at, %
0.05
in this formula, est. %
0.2
Ascorbyl Palmitate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.2 3 No
All antioxidants
1.2
Ergothioneine
0.3
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
0.3
Ascorbyl Palmitate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.5 5 No
All soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Coco-Caprylate/CaprateA naturally-derived emollient ester. It is a blend of caprylates and caprates and, relative to other emollients, is lightweight and dry on the skin. As a result, coco-caprylate/caprate serves as a natural alternative to volatile silicones.
Propanediol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Hydroxyapatite
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Hydroxyapatite
Retinal
Est. %0.2
Function
Origin
Retinal

A potent ingredient of the retinoid group with confirmed anti-wrinkle capabilities.

Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide
4-t-Butylcyclohexanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
4-t-ButylcyclohexanolA powerful bioactive compound designed to soothe irritated, burning, and itchy skin. The effectiveness of its soothing properties has been proven by clinical trials and it is often combined with other soothing ingredients.
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid
Ergothioneine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ErgothioneineA naturally-occurring amino acid that functions as a powerful and versatile antioxidant.
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Biosaccharide Gum-1A polysaccharide with humectant moisturizing and soothing properties.
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bisabolol

An anti-inflammatory compound found naturally in German chamomile essential oil. It has a pleasant, sweet, and floral scent. Bisabolol also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties but can cause an allergic reaction in more sensitive individuals.

Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) SterolsBrassica campestris sterols are a mixture of sterols (fat-like compounds) obtained from rapeseed oil. They are used as an emollient additive to the oil base of a cosmetic product. Read more about rapeseed oil here: Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Seed Oil.
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root ExtractA fragrant and anti-inflammatory extract derived from ginger roots. It is a major part of Chinese traditional medicine. In can increase blood circulation, which helps with skin healing and skin metabolism.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Isohexadecane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
IsohexadecaneA clear, colorless liquid that is commonly used as an emollient. It is made up of pure hydrocarbons and leaves a dry feeling on the skin upon application. It also increases the spreadability of a product.
Hexyldecanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HexyldecanolAn oil-like ingredient (ester) that is more stable and easy to incorporate than some other oil-based emollients. It is used in water-free and stick products.
Maltodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MaltodextrinA formula helper manufactured from starch. It has a sweet flavor and is often used in rinse-off products to support their foaming structure. Maltodextrin is also used to stabilize emulsions and to absorb and bind other ingredients in the formula.
Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caesalpinia Spinosa GumA plant-based formula helper also known as Tara gum that contains thickening galactomannans (polysaccharides).
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6A polymeric ingredient that works best in water-based formulas to create gel textures. It helps to stabilize emulsions and control viscosity.
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerAn emulsion stabilizer and thickener that helps to create a pleasant, satiny, and light formula texture. It works by forming a gel-like network within water or oil, which both stabilizes other ingredients and produces a thickening effect.
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Isoceteth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isoceteth-20A synthetically produced emulsifier and surfactant. It can create foam for mild cleansing or help stabilize oil-in-water emulsions.
Polysorbate 60
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 60An ester based on sorbitan. It is good for emulsifying water and oils together – specifically making oil-in-water emulsions. Polysorbate 60 is also said to give a product a notable fragrance.
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl PalmitateA form of vitamin C derived from ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. It is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. Unfortunately, Ascorbyl Palmitate lacks the studies to prove its anti-wrinkle efficacy.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactic AcidThe most popular AHA in skincare and less irritating than glycolic acid. It can be naturally found in sour milk. It is a humectant moisturizing, pH stabilizing, and gently exfoliating ingredient, able to soften dry, cracked, and peeling skin.
Sodium Lactate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium LactateA sodium salt of lactic acid. Its main function is as a humectant but it can also serve as a pH adjuster. Additionally, sodium lactate can also be used as a chemical exfoliant due to its close chemical relation to lactic acid.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChlorphenesinA preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.