The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, 15ml

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is a high-strength retinaldehyde serum aimed at experienced retinoid users. Its instructions call for a pea-sized amount in the evening, starting weekly and increasing only as skin tolerates it.

At a glance

The listing says retinaldehyde is one step closer to vitamin A's bioactive form than retinol and positions the formula for experienced retinoid users.
Target concerns named include crow’s feet, frown lines, forehead wrinkles, dark spots and uneven skin tone.
The seller claims firming and smoothing after two uses. This is a product claim, not an independently verified result.

Price

£12.16Save 20%

Reference price: ~~£15.20~~

Price checked: 12 Nov 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

The listed 0.2% retinal concentration and gradual-use directions make the intended strength and starting routine clear.
A pea-sized amount is specified for each application, and customer feedback also notes that a small amount is sufficient.
The formula is claimed to be free from alcohol, oil and silicone, and to be vegan and cruelty-free.

Cons

At 15ml, this is a relatively small listed volume for a product intended to be introduced gradually.

Technical specifications

7 specifications

Identity
Brand	DECIEM

Formula and use
Retinal concentration	0.2%
Product type	Emulsion
Size	15ml
Application	Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry face and neck in the evening. Start with weekly use, increasing frequency as skin tolerates. Avoid contact with eyes.
Formulation claims	Cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan, alcohol-free, oil-free, and silicone-free formulation.

Dimensions and installation
Dimensions listed	2.54 x 3.02 x 11.43 cm; 14 g

What to know before buying

Use in the evening on clean, dry face and neck, beginning weekly and increasing only as tolerated. Avoid contact with eyes. The listing positions this 0.2% retinal formula for experienced users, so it may not suit someone new to retinoids.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Experienced retinoid users seeking a retinaldehyde product for fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots or uneven tone.
Buyers who prefer a small-amount evening serum with a gradual introduction schedule.

Less suited to

People new to retinoids who want a product presented for beginners.
Anyone seeking a larger-volume serum or an unscented, eye-area-specific product, neither of which is established by the supplied listing.

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, 15ml · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.5 / 5 · 3,990 ratings

5 stars76%76%
4 stars13%13%
3 stars7%7%
2 stars1%1%
1 star3%3%

Customer feedback describes the serum as effective and strong, with many reporting a gentle feel, no irritation and clearer-looking or glowing skin. Some mention a yellow tint, and reports on skin appearance are mixed. Those perceptions may matter for users introducing a potent retinal serum gradually, but they do not establish a guaranteed result or that every user will tolerate it. The product’s listed 0.2% retinal and pea-sized application instructions provide context for the strength and amount customers discuss.

Positive themes

Customers report that a small amount is sufficient.
Customers describe the serum as gentle and say it does not cause irritation for them.

Negative themes

Some customers mention that the serum leaves a yellow tint.

Mixed feedback

Customer feedback on skin appearance is mixed, with reports of clear, glowing skin alongside less uniformly positive impressions.

Frequently asked questions

How should this retinal emulsion be introduced?

The listing instructs applying a pea-sized amount to clean, dry face and neck in the evening, starting weekly and increasing frequency as skin tolerates it. Avoid contact with eyes.

Who is this formula intended for?

The listing describes it as ideal for experienced retinoid users and identifies the concentration as 0.2% retinal.

What concerns does the product target?

The listing names dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, frown lines and uneven skin tone. These are product claims rather than guaranteed outcomes.

What do customers report about the serum?

Customer feedback describes the serum as effective and gentle for many, and says only a small amount is needed. Some report a yellow tint, while feedback on skin appearance is mixed.