New The Ordinary retinol praised by skincare fans for being a ‘magic eraser for the face’
WHENEVER The Ordinary drops new skincare it’s always cause for excitement – and the brand’s latest drop is seriously impressive.
The iconic skincare brand has just revealed the new Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, a powerful anti-ageing formula that gives real results – here’s everything you need to know about it.
The Ordinary already offers several different retinoid-based products, from Retinol 0.2% in Squalane for beginners, all the way up to Granactive 5% Retinoid in Squalane for those more accustomed to using the skincare ingredient.
Their new £15 serum is their strongest yet, and suitable for only the most advanced user.
The Ordinary called retinal ‘retinol’s stronger sister’; otherwise known as retinaldehyde, it’s closer to pure vitamin A than retinol.
This means that it only has to go through one conversion step compared to retinol’s two, which translates to quicker and more noticeable results.
These results are impressive, The Ordinary’s studies revealed that participants’ skin was firmer and plumper after using Retinal 0.2% Emulsion for just two weeks, with further improvements in frown lines, crow’s feet, skin tone and radiance noted after six, eight and 10 weeks.
This new serum also contains ‘synthetic oat analogues’ to combat any dryness and discomfort that sometimes comes from using retinol and other retinoids.
However, it should be stressed again, that Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is aimed at those already experienced in using the anti-ageing ingredient, and it’s advised to introduce this product gradually into your skincare routine.
The Ordinary has several tips on their website for first-time retinol users they say “Start with Retinol 0.2% in Squalane and slowly work your way up to Retinol 0.5% in Squalane and Retinol 1% in Squalane.
“That said, if you are prone to sensitivity, you may prefer to use newer retinoid technologies, such as those found in our Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion.
It should also only be used in the evening (after cleansing and before moisturiser, if needed) and ensure that you use an SPF the next morning, as retinoids can make the skin more sensitive to sun exposure.
Another impressive thing is the price. The Ordinary products are, in our eyes, excellent value, with most products coming in at under £20 (we recommend the new-and-improved Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum).
This new retinal is no exception, priced at a very respectable £15.20 and available to buy from The Ordinary’s website as well as third-party retailers such as LookFantastic, Boots and Beauty Bay.
Shoppers have been singing its praises, with one review saying “Get your glow back” adding “I already have great skin (thanks, Mom!) but it is changing naturally a little as I age. This retinal has been helping me get my glow back. Will continue using this.
Another called it a “must try”, adding “I have to say that I feel it does work. My skin feels like it’s a lot smoother and my dark spots seem to be lighter while my face feels brighter and firmer. The emulsion didn’t have a scent and went on smoothly.
“I did notice a little peeling by my nose but I think that happens with retinol products. This is my first time using retinol. The packaging is simple which I like and the price is affordable. Overall I think if you’re looking for a product to help with age this is one to try.”
While a third called it a “Magic Eraser for the Face”, adding that “I was starkly impressed with the results of the screen after using it three times you begin to see the difference in the refinement of the texture on the surface of your skin.
“Fine lines fade and the texture of the skin and the feel becomes more satin-like! I will be adding this to my skincare arsenal.
“For me, this was a golden buzzer product when you can use something three times and see the difference that’s enough for me. Even the immediate effects of this retinol are obvious the skin feels more moisturized than more supple.”
Looking for more products from The Ordinary? Try the new £9 ‘Botox in a bottle’, as shoppers say ‘It’s got rid of fine lines I’ve had for years’.
Another great anti-ageing product that has caught our eye recently is Trinny London’s at-home micro-needling tool, now back in stock after racking up a 5,000-person waiting list.
This vitamin C serum has been receiving glowing reviews from the glowing skin it gives shoppers.
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