The Ultimate Guide To The Ordinary's Game-changing Retinal 0.2% Emulsion

[@Lesley-annPowell]

Just want to let people know here in spain tretinoin is available over the counter at the chemist. The name is Retirides tubes of 30g so lasts for a few months. Different strengths available. Cost is 18 euros. If anyone is coming over on holiday or have friends or family etc.

[@karinbuttell9298]

I get mine from Teneriffa 👍🙂

[@paulajay6879]

Thanks for sharing🫶🏼

[@vinillo4ka]

Just bought it in Spain over the counter! 🎉

[@arianecrettaz]

@@karinbuttell9298 what is the name of the one you get in Teneriffe? Thank you

[@ewebster909]

I’m 57 and have used Revolution’s retinol for the past year, starting with the 0.2% and moving on to the 1%. I couldn’t really see any improvement in my skin (fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, firmness). I’m a big fan of The Ordinary so jumped on this new Retinal 0.2% when it came out. I have never had any irritation to any retinols so I quickly moved up to applying it every other day - still no irritation at all but now I can really see a big improvement! I guess I’m just lucky that my skin tolerates retinal so well? This is a great product and I’m so grateful to The Ordinary for making all their products so affordable ❤

[@marianne5288]

I am just glad that the ordinary came out with a retinal so I wouldn’t complain about the strength. Just start slowly.

[@leneskov5184]

For anyone waiting to start with a Retinal - Geek & Gorgeus has two different Retinals - A-Game 0,05% and A-game 0,1 %. I use Tretinoin on my face and A-Game 0,1 % on my neck and around the eyes.

[@teresapedro8751]

Shipping is very expensive to us in uk

[@karenhecht2342]

Using G&G A Game 0.1 & it isn’t causing any irritation. Want to try new Ordinary solution. Thanks for a great video. ❤

[@marianne7122]

Just bought this. I've been using retinol - Paula's Choice 1% which has made a big difference in my skin's texture - for a year and am looking forward to trying The Ordinary's retinal when my last bottle of PC is finished. Thanks for the trustworthy tips on easing in to it.

[@littlevoice_11]

Please can you do a video on eyeshadow for 60+? I'd really appreciate some guidance and tips for products to share with my Ma xxx

[@PamperedWolf]

My mum uses the same products and techniques as I do. X

[@littlevoice_11]

@PamperedWolf does she like the same products or more creamy shadows and primers? Hope you do a new mum makeover soon 🤞

[@jessieh9127]

I've been using this for two months and I really like it. Had to start slow for a bit bc my skin is sensitive. Redness is down and skin a little less dry

[@petertgeorgiev]

Until now I was using Adapalene, but for the past 2 weeks I switched to Ordinary Retinal 0.2% and it works so much better. My only complain is the 15ml. package... 30ml should be the standard for Vitamin A products... I am using it every single night and basically I will need to order a new one each month ... Which is kind of annoying. Apart from that, strongly recommending! Amazing, great product (zero side effects for me)

[@silvyifunanya9105]

Same for me, I've seen visible results in few days of using the ordinary retinal emulsion

[@annhall2331]

PLEASE listen to Gemmas warning about going slowly with thease products, i started low strength Tretinoan 2 years ago, i used it every night thinking id be fine, well i wasn't, i suffered a almost very bad sun burn all over my face it was painful red and tight. I had it checked out and i hadnt damaged the barrier but i took some time off used lots of barrier repaire cream and a good moisturiser then i re started slowly. Im now up to full strength Tretinoan prescribed and my skin is very good but just wanted to tell you my experience xxx

[@mariabarradas4235]

Hi Gemma, so good to have a professional explaining this to us, I have the regular Retinol from the Ordinary, I am very careful because I am afraid that my skin breaks up, so far so good but I am going to try this new one and I will go even slower, thanks.

[@paulam6182]

I know its off subject..can you do a update on the trinny foundations compared to the eborian cc please x

[@M0RRGIE]

Another corker Gemma, am going to buy this as I am a big Ordinary fan, my skin has never been better since using Ordinary products. Hoping the new Lisa Eldridge skin tint is on your list soon

[@PamperedWolf]

I’ve filmed the wear test today, do it will be coming soon x

[@M0RRGIE]

@@PamperedWolf Excellent can't wait as I am not a foundation lass at all, at the moment it is Erborian CC cream so awaiting your verdict, big kiss to Ralph

[@Weeflowerofscotland]

So excited to try this. I’m currently using beauty pie’s youthbomb retinol. I’m using this nightly with no sensitivity. So I’m looking to go up a bit now. Thanks for the wonderful advice as usual ❤

[@aman8086]

I’m currently using The Ordinary 0.5 but will definitely be investing once that’s ran out! ❤ also love how easily you pronounced Butylcyclohexanol ahaha 😂x

[@lindaackerman3507]

Just started using this and already love it...🤗

[@pamelafletcher805]

I use the Good molecules .10 Retinol & it’s mild but cheap & a great starter. I can do it every night if I wanted. Used it the last year or so. My new Ordinary retrial arrives Monday. Ordered from Sephora as during sale would be out of stock. Can’t wait to try. I’m 54x, dry skin …no oils in tone. Thx for your video!

[@cynthiaaustin5447]

Thank you very much for this video. Just ordered this yesterday. Now I know how to use it.

[@phantomthread4385]

Got mine yesterday. I tried the Dermatica tret but the expiry dates were ridiculous. Don't usually like the ordinary due to their formulas being basic but this is great and sinks in well.

[@michelles2299]

I use dermatica and I ignore the expiry I have used it for 6 years I only use it 4 times a week so I set my replacements to 54 days and sometimes I cancel one

[@mariarossi6719]

@@michelles2299good idea. I started Dermatica in June last year. For the first 6 months, all went well until they changed my formula. No matter how they’ve tinkered with the formula since and changed my prescription numerous times, it’s brought back my excema with a vengeance. The sheen has definitely come off Dermatica for me now.

[@michelleellison4724]

I absolutely agree. I was so sensitive to the Dermatica Tretinoin, even though they reduced the strength for me, I was wasting half the tube because of the use by date, which was a month. I am now using The Inky List Retinol Serum, which I can still be sensitive to, but I have bought The Ordinary Retinal to try next. Thank you Gemma for the advice, it’s appreciated 😘

[@keepfitgirl8191]

Am definitely trying this though wish they had done some lower strength options - like you said. Emma x

[@jofrances3296]

Hi I’m totally new to using retinol. So will try the ordinary. Thank you for the tips

[@MadMaxine1979]

I asked The Ordinary about the amount of applications per week & they said to start with 1 & not to go higher than twice a week. I asked what about the other days & they said to use weaker strengths.

[@emmaclough9133]

Thank you for this video. I’m very excited to try it! Can I use it with my existing Ordinary products or cut them out? I currently use Hyaluronic acid on damp skin followed by Argireline on dry skin and then Niacinamide before moisturiser and SPF ❤xx

[@jackieturner4144]

this video gemma has been so helpful thankyou xx

[@mariemcgrath8681]

Will try to buy it here in Australia, thanks.

[@LouLou-Aus]

Just looked, they sell to us, costs $25.50. xx

[@katiewilson2082]

Just the video I needed! Thanks Gemma, looking forward to trying this x

[@wpeds2099]

Highly agree with your last comments. I don't like squaline either. But that's to strong for me. I'm getting paulas choice

[@hanniehoekstra8511]

I have been using Paula’s Choice 1% retinol serum for years and use it also on the neck. Wouldn’t want anything else, but apparently high percentages of retinol will be banned in the EU from 2026 onwards, but this doesn’t involve retinal as it’s supposedly less irritating than retinol.

[@PamperedWolf]

Correct x

[@74griffo]

I have a few more deliveries of Dermatica, but will be trying this after that!

[@BT-st4ho]

Never used any skincare products. Started right away with this product for everyday use and i dont see any side effects or why people say this should be to strong to begin with..

[@agiles6483]

I have to agree that TO should have released lower percentages first. I found I had less irritation when I jumped over to retinal about eighteen months ago after struggling with retinol. I did start slow and very slowly increased the percentage because I had just healed my skin’s barrier. I started with 0.02%, then 0.05%, 0.1% and I am now slowly introducing 0.2% from TO. I think the fact that TO encapsulated their retinal for slow absorption has made it less irritating than I expected. FYI: mature dry/dehydrated skin and rosacea.

[@annacalstone610]

I've just moved up to the medik8 20 (got it on a 25% offer on it to bring the price down) I started with their 3 for 2 tubes, then 6 for 2 tubes, 10 for 2 tubes and now on 20 so very interested to hear about this one. Thank you for explaining this, might give this a try when my medik8 runs out as you say the medik8 one is horrendously expensive. Though as a 37 year old who can still pass for in her 20s, it's working well

[@kristimeyers2221]

I would love to hear your thoughts on the Korean Sulwhasoo products and the Laneige mask!

[@zekaay]

Just info for people who are looking for an affordable retinal up to 0.1%: Geek and Gorgeous - I have been using their retinal for 4 years now and it has never aggravated my skin in any way whatsoever.

[@MsBuggyness]

I'm a little salty about this product being $15 for 15ml or 1/2 oz! you'll still be spending $30 because you'll zoom through it and need another faster. I'm enjoying Naturium's Retinal serum w/ .10% retinal for $32, or .05% for $28. Or Elf's retinal serum for $22 (i don't know the %).

[@clairmorris8104]

Thanks for this review. I use Differin but not due back to the US until October to restock so was looking for an alternative.

[@ianmaonaigh7215]

Hi , I've just come across your channel , and found this really interesting . I'm wondering , do you store this cool or in a refrigerator ? Thanks , and best regards from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@PamperedWolf]

No it’s not stored in a fridge. Glad you found me xxx

[@EstherNathalie190]

Hi Gemma,this video is so helpfull.Thank you.

[@taracole6152]

Hi Gemma, i hope this message finds you. How would you incorporate this product and the copper peptide from The ordinary into daily/weekly skin care routine. Many thanks ❤XX

[@pamelahinds9593]

100% agree with you. Why have they gone straight to this strength 😢

[@rosierichardson]

Thank you Gemma ❤

[@gladysgarrity5721]

Thanks Gemma for all the information got to know Might be good for you to demonstrate the routine steps with other products maybe good as a lot of people might just use this see you soon ❤

[@PamperedWolf]

A skincare routine is coming very soon x

[@gladysgarrity5721]

@@PamperedWolf looking forward Gemma ♥️

[@Roxyroo1959]

This was timed perfectly. I want to order a couple of things from TO. Right now I’m using the Olay Retinol but want to step up a level in strength. Will definitely be ordering this one. Just one question Gemma, would you need a retinol product while you’re on Tretinoin ?

[@PamperedWolf]

Definitely not x

[@Roxyroo1959]

@@PamperedWolf that’s what I thought 😊

[@ruthannhendricks7614]

Thanks for this info!

[@MichelleLeone66]

I LOVE The Ordinary! I'm going to get this! Should I stop my Vitamin C application?

[@juliajulesiscool684]

I think you are fine using both but just ensure Vit c on a morning and the retinal at night

[@kellysblackcat]

The Ordinary 0.2 retinal emulsion packaging states, to start using once a week and once your skin has adjusted to that, to then move to twice a week. It doesn't say to use any more than the twice a week. It's probably why they put it in smaller packaging. It should last if you only need to use twice a week. A product this strong isn't needed daily. I'm a Medik8 retinal user and my face was burnt red looking the day after I used this, TO 0.2%,. It's strong. Be careful.

[@buntyjoy1800]

It contains calming pollywollydoodles

[@cindyphillips7830]

I am definitely going to try this! Thanks Gemma 💜 Also, could you please tell me where you bought the top you’re wearing?? I love the sleeves! Thanks again! 💜

[@PamperedWolf]

It’s from Zara but it’s quite old xxx

[@sulakaricats]

I’m really surprisedTO didn’t bring out different strengths Personally I use Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 under dermatologist guidance, sensitive skin, this will be a big pass for my skin, I’ll stick with medik8 at the much higher price

[@lindastewart4641]

Thanks Gemma, just wondering if this would be one to avoid if I couldn't tolerate tretinoin? My skin just could not get used to tret at all even using the sandwich method and I gave up but I am fine using Beauty Pie's retinol. Would love to know your thoughts x

[@vee1324]

Looking forward to trying this… you have beautiful skin - can I ask do you have fillers or Botox

[@loriprovenzano5152]

I’ve been using naturium .10 percent retinaldehyde. How does this compare Gemma?

[@amymathews4717]

HAPPY EASTER 🐣🐇

[@PamperedWolf]

Same to you x

[@slikjmuzik]

Is it cool to keep this in the fridge? Does that help it last longer or anything like that? I'm coming from the Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion being used nightly for a couple months with no moisturizer and zero signs of irritation. I also don't care for any of the squalane versions and I plan to introduce this one once a week, then of course up to twice, 3 times, etc...

[@joettatidwell544]

If you have never used any vitamin A. Which one would you recommend to start out with? I have used some vitamin C at night. However not consistently. Thank you

[@lillianlliveracos7234]

This video was great. I have been using Paula's Choice 1% retinol treatment with peptides and vitamin C for over a year. I thought this was the highest strength I could get over the counter. Is the ordinary retinal 0.2% much higher? I'm confused. 😊

[@PamperedWolf]

Yes it’s much higher x

[@melbert3795]

Hi Gemma, i started using TO retinol products but have upoed it to Geek &Gorgeous 0.1% retinAl. Love it. Im excited to up it further to this new TO one. If i start it at twice a week, would i still use my lower strength one on other nights ?

[@PamperedWolf]

No you only use 1 retinoid at a time so if you start using TO, you’d stop using G&G all together x

[@paulajay6879]

Sorry Gemma, one last question regarding rets; what is the highest percentage that we can titrate to on prescription that is? Xx

[@SLCon-it7wm]

I use a tretinoin but am thinking about switch to the ordinary retinal. My issue is I get really sore red dry skin at the corners of my nose with tret. Any suggestions for preventing that with the ordinary product.

[@kristimeyers2221]

This will not replace your tretinoin, correct? Tretinoin is still the gold standard if your skin can handle it?

[@FavouriteMercy1]

I could be easily wrong but isn’t there info about how using it 4 times a week is fine & vit A doesn’t have to be daily to be just as effective? Think it was mention on one of Caroline Hiron’s lives

[@PamperedWolf]

Like with anything there’s a sweet spot but it will be different for each individual. Most don’t use daily due to incorporating acids etc and are still getting excellent results x

[@RachelSurman-lu6no]

What's more effective this or tret? What's the difference please.

[@olga_b344]

Is this stronger than the No7 Pure Retinol 1% range? Love your Chanel, thanks!

[@PamperedWolf]

Yes x

[@olga_b344]

@@PamperedWolf thank you x

[@carolequartier1807]

I really want to try this one! But can’t find it on a website to deliver in Belgium ?

[@lucyadams706]

Currently on 0.025 tret every other day, would this be more effective daily?

[@RaptorMum]

Same here and interested too

[@victoriacbee]

Where in your routine would you recommend using this Gemma? AM? PM? After cleansing? At the end before SPF?

[@PamperedWolf]

PM after cleansing on dry skin x

[@StefanieMorgan-b3r]

Do you have any recommendations for a Retinaldehyde for sensitive skin? Naturium Retinaldehyde has pore clogging ingredients so I can't use that. I tried Dermatica Tretinoin .025 but I peel so terribly, even with once a week use for months now. I feel like it has affected my skin barrier because I tried to go back to my Adapalene for my acne and I ended up peeling from that too!! Something in The Ordinary's first retinol products makes me itchy. I'm just looking for something that could help with breakouts and "anti-aging" lol.

[@twoleftfeet9626]

The Geek & Gorgeous A game one is gentle

[@kylieinaustralia]

I 2nd the Geek & Gorgeous A-game

[@StefanieMorgan-b3r]

@@twoleftfeet9626 Thank you! I was looking into that one!

[@victoriawakefield6747]

How does this compare to Tretinoin? I am currently using 0.1% tretinoin is the ordinary retinal stronger?

[@PamperedWolf]

No. The Ordinary is the equivalent of 0.02% tretinoin. X

[@pent4238]

Hi Gemma. How does this compare to Trinny London retinal?

[@stinejacob]

How does this compare to retinal liposome 2% in the Beauty of Joseon revive eye serum?

[@keinohrtini]

I have the joseon eye serum as well and somebody mentioned that it has 0.02% compared to this one with 0.2%. So the ordinary one would be much much stronger

[@carladuglin4036]

I would not be applying 2% retinal around my eyes

[@Marylill]

Hi! Do you know if I should use the inkey list omega cream before or after the retinal? It says to use after water based serums and before moisturizer but since the omega water cream is a water based moisturizer I'm confused 🙃

[@PamperedWolf]

Use the retinal first, let it sink in and then apply your moisturiser x

[@Marylill]

@@PamperedWolf Thank you!

[@amandabamlinggellatly4935]

Hi Gemma , how long would the tube usually last ? Would ot be a month supply like other retinal products ..thanks

[@PamperedWolf]

If you use it every night it would last about 5-6 weeks but obviously it would last longer if you’re using it less x

[@littlevoice_11]

Have you tried the Inky List vit c and EGF?

[@editmartinovits6905]

Has anyone tried the Missalice Retinal (with 3 different strengths)? I would like to ask for your honest opinion.

[@PandaHernandez23]

I am tempted to try this but if it's stronger than Drunk Elephant's 1% retinol I'm not going to be able to tolerate it as that burns my face off after just one use and I look rough as fork for the following week while my skin regenerates

[@PamperedWolf]

It’s stronger than DE retinol x

[@willow9790]

Is retinaldehyde stronger or weaker on the scale?

[@asaf4070]

Stronger.

[@alexaraine4205]

I've been using the Ordinary 1% in squalane and the Granactive emulsion. Can I go straight to this or still only twice a week? And should I continue using the others every night as I do now -I have absolutely no reaction to retinal at all. Also do you use tgis together with your tretonoin?

[@PamperedWolf]

Only use 1 retinoid. This retinal is much stronger than the other products you’ve been using so start slowly as I mention in the video. X

[@janeclarke5275]

Hi gemma is this new one stronger than boots no7 retinal thanks

[@claredyj2015]

Always been scared of using retinoids, I have sensitive skin and not sure if it would be suitable? I can get eczema on my eyelids 😢

[@PamperedWolf]

I wouldn’t apply it on the eyelids anyway. Try The ordinary granactive retinoid 2% emulsion which is a starter retinoid and see how you get on. Start slowly Xxx

[@claredyj2015]

@@PamperedWolf Thanks so much for the tip Gem, I will get this one and give it a try (but stay away from eye area)! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@alexaraine4205]

Can you get it yet on Beauty Bay?? Or anywhere else in the UK?.

[@Weeflowerofscotland]

I got mine from boots in Glasgow. Hope that helps . It may be in your local bigger boots store also

[@michelles2299]

Boots sell the ordinary

[@COgirl394]

K-Secret Seoul 1988 is .2% retinal.

[@katec.4361]

🤔 It says it contains 2% Retinal Liposome which is the same as Beauty of Joseon eye serum. That amount of retinal Liposome converts to 0.02% retinal.

[@Nora-ky9dp]

Gemma, I am pretty sure that you can create weaker versions of this emulsion by simply diluting it with equal amounts of moisturizer or lotion so if you mix say a a quarter teaspoon of your chosen moisturizer or lotion with a quarter teaspoon of this product, you will achieve a half strength 0.1% product that you can then use more liberally or more frequently (use kitchen measuring spoons) And if you want to cut it down even further mix it with bigger amounts of your chosen moisturizer I would advise a fragrance free, actives free simple moisturizer-put your mixture in a little sample pot. You can get them from loads of beauty counters. They’ll happily give you some (Mac are usually very generous) it will allow you to keep your mixture for a few days. I know it would’ve been easier if the ordinary simply created other products that were different strengths, but this is the way to do it at home 😁

[@PamperedWolf]

You're right you can totally weaken it in this way, however, the main element of effective skincare is consistency and it's very difficult to mix the exact same amount of TO with the exact same amount of moisturiser every day so consistency may be hindered. xxx

[@SewWhittle]

Would this take the place of the Agency Tretinoin? TIA

[@samirakaufman6004]

Hi sall6613.. no Tretinoin is the strongest form of retinol that you can get. It is retinoic acid and can only be obtained with a prescription, either by your doctor or by an online service such as Agency, Curology, Dermatica,etc. This is RETINAL which is short for retinaldhyde which is weaker than retinoic acid , but still potent because it only takes your skin to do ONE conversion to turn it into retinoic acid. Hope that helps 😊

[@SewWhittle]

@@samirakaufman6004 Thanks for your explanation. I am already using Agency, so if I understand correctly, I wouldn’t even think of using this unless I DISCONTINUE the Agency. Correct?

[@samirakaufman6004]

@@SewWhittle Hi! If you can tolerate Agency and having no issues then I would keep using Agency because it is stronger than Retinal and you will see results a little quicker . However , if you would prefer to discontinue the Agency prescription for any reason , Retinal is absolutely the next best thing 😊

[@twoleftfeet9626]

How do you think this compares to the Geek & Gorgeous A game retinal?

[@PamperedWolf]

It’s double the strength as the G&G strongest retinal formula x

[@tracy8056]

What are the benefits of this Gemma?

[@3rdtwirl494]

What’s it for

[@PamperedWife]

Another great video! Very informative and helpful. Thank you.

[@annhall2331]

Hi so im confused lol is this stronger than prescription Tretinoan 001% the numbers are so confusing or is this just the strongest retinal on the market. Im looking for something for my neck as cant tolorate my Tretinoan there this maybe just the thing Help Gemma lol xxxx

[@PamperedWolf]

This is the strongest retinal. I would say it's a similar strength to 0.02% tretinoin x

[@annhall2331]

@PamperedWolf I'm on 1% with Dermatica so I guess I'm still on the strongest available. Sorry for all the questions you and Angie hot flashy are my 2 beauty go to's while I'm chasing the anti wrinkle journey lol xxx

[@PamperedWolf]

@@annhall2331 I’m assuming you mean you’re on 0.1% not 1%. That’s a great strength that not everyone can tolerate. Well done for sticking with it. I still wouldn’t use The Ordinary on the neck without going slowly through the lower strengths first x

[@annhall2331]

@PamperedWolf yes thats right lol I'll stick with Dermatica, i thought if that Ordinary one was equal strength, that would be a lot cheaper than Dermatica. I think I'm going to order the Geek & Gorgeous Retinal for my neck and start slowly. Thanks Gemma your a star xxx

[@thomaswang225]

Just hop on it daily usage for two weeks (28 m), no side effect whatsoever

[@joannwhitney2131]

I had always used the 5 percent retinol from ordinary they dont carry it any more the 2 percent i will not buy

[@jennawoodard8386]

💕💄

[@sabrinacastermans9043]

retinol is more irritating than retinal.

[@PamperedWolf]

It can be depending on strength and formulation. This formulation is incredibly strong and therefore will be more irritating than a retinol of the same strength.

[@sabrinacastermans9043]

I understand it is a potent strength. However I used the ordinary retinol in squalane (tried all the strenghts) and that irritated my skin immensely. I have been using the geek and gorgeous 0.1 retinal and no irritation whatsoever. I put it on my neck and decolletage and even around my eyes and eyelid. No irritation whatsoever, and that is saying a lot @@PamperedWolf

[@beatakumorowska4741]

There actually is another product with this strength of retinal. It is KSECRET - SEOUL 1988 Serum : Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng

[@paulajay6879]

Hey Gemma, when would you expect to see a change using this? I’ve never used any rets before but I’ve been told this would work wonders for the loose skin under my chin☹️Is this the correct info I’ve been given? Would really appreciate your professional opinion🫶🏼

[@PamperedWolf]

It’s a slow burn Paula. You should notice a difference in months not weeks. X

[@paulajay6879]

@@PamperedWolf Ty Gemma🤗I’ve just written a list of all your other recommended ordinary products which I’m off to purchase along with the maysama serum😃👍🏼Really appreciate your truthful professional advice & recommendations! You’re the only KZbinr I come to for anything beauty related! You’re the BEST!💖