Retinal 0.2% Emulsion High-Strength Retinoid Nighttime Treatment
The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion High-Strength Retinoid Nighttime Treatment scores 5.5/9.8 overall. It ranks highest in low irritation risk (9.5) and formulation safety (9.0).
✶ Hero ingredients
Light coconut-derived emollient
Draws in moisture
Humectant with antimicrobial properties
Score breakdown
Estimated — based on ingredient analysis. Scores refine as user reviews are added.
Scores last verified: July 2026
What makes The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion High-Strength Retinoid Nighttime Treatment stand out
The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion High-Strength Retinoid Nighttime Treatment is a decent serum with an overall score of 5.5/9.8. it takes a straightforward approach to skincare. The formula leads with Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol — ingredients that support the skin barrier and moisture levels.
It performs well on low irritation risk (9.5). On the flip side, active ingredient concentration is on the lighter side.
Is this right for you?
Great for
- ✓Sensitive skin — low irritation risk with a gentle formulation
- ✓Safety-conscious shoppers — clean formulation with minimal flags
- ✓Ingredient-aware buyers — transparent, well-documented formula
May not suit
- ⚠Those seeking potent actives — this leans more maintenance than treatment
Key ingredients
- ✶Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Softens and smooths — #2 in the INCI list
- ✶Propanediol
Draws in moisture — #3 in the INCI list
- ✶Pentylene Glycol
Draws in moisture — #4 in the INCI list
- ✶Hydroxyapatite
Works on your skin — #5 in the INCI list
- ✶Ergothioneine
Works on your skin — #10 in the INCI list
Full ingredient list
26 ingredients — listed in INCI order (highest concentration first)
Compare with similar products
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- innisfree Gentle Retinol + Salicylic Acid Acne Serum for Blemishes + Post-Acne Scars9.6
Ingredient breakdown
- Works on your skin7
- Holds the formula together6
- Draws in moisture4
- Softens and smooths3
- Keeps the product fresh3
- Other ingredient2
- Formula balancers1