# The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion for mature skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for mature skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Spain.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with mature skin: fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for mature skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Suitable for normal skin, this formula contains retinal to regulate desquamation and Bisabolol for anti-inflammatory action, offering general skincare benefits like hydration and soothing. Tocopherol also supports skin health, though these ingredients are not specifically targeted for wrinkles and fine lines.
- The product provides excellent visible reduction of fine lines and wrinkles due to the presence of retinal in moderate concentrations for an anti-aging visible effect.
- The safety profile is excellent for your normal skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like Bisabolol.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinaldehyde, Bisabolol, Ergothioneine, Lactic Acid, Hydroxyapatite

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))
- A targeted skincare regimen containing active ingredients such as rhodophyceae extract, ergothioneine, and L-carnosine significantly reduced transepidermal water loss by 24.09%, improved skin elasticity, and decreased redness, dryness, and desquamation in thirty-five female Chinese participants over 4 weeks following advanced optimal pulse technology treatment. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40497421/))
- A triple combination of ergothioneine, collagen peptides, and sodium hyaluronate attenuated UV-induced skin damage ex vivo and improved facial skin hydration, elasticity, barrier function, and wrinkles in Chinese women. ([Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/))
- Ergothioneine at nanomolar concentrations ameliorated UVA-induced skin damage, reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis in human keratinocyte-derived HaCaT cells by upregulating Nrf2/ARE-mediated antioxidant genes. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26021820/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- The combination of botulinum toxin and calcium hydroxylapatite applied together produced higher and earlier satisfaction rates and improved hydration in the lower face and neck region compared to calcium hydroxylapatite alone in 15 participants. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37823019/))
- Topically applied calcium hydroxylapatite successfully penetrated fractional laser-induced skin defects and remained in the healing skin for at least six weeks, inducing collagen production around the microspheres in a human volunteer. ([Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39160686/))
- Calcium ions from nanophased hydroxyapatite embedded in collagen nanofibers significantly enhanced human dermal fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and hMSCs growth and proliferation, prevented pathogenic bacteria adhesion, enabled hMSCs differentiation, and caused no adverse reaction in rat subcutaneous implantation. ([Nanomedicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33421622/))

## Why other serums fit mature skin better

- Topical application of retinol and retinoic acid both increased epidermal thickness and upregulated collagen genes and proteins in human skin, with retinol producing similar histological and molecular changes to retinoic acid alongside a significant reduction in facial wrinkles after 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26578346/))
- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this high-strength retinoid is favored by experienced users for its rapid ability to smooth uneven texture and fade dark spots, particularly acne scars and hyperpigmentation. While highly effective for firming skin and reducing fine lines, it frequently causes dryness or irritation in beginners and leaves a temporary yellow tint on the skin.

- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Yellow staining (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Good value (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation and dryness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Small product size (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week, and work up to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply this serum after your toner and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- You can apply the serum on dry skin for the best results against fine lines.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the sensitive eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% work for mature skin?

This treatment works well for mature skin, helping to smooth the look of lines while keeping the skin calm with bisabolol and tocopherol. A product for this skin needs higher-performing anti-aging ingredients and potent antioxidants to give the best results.

### Which ingredients make this emulsion a good fit for mature skin?

This emulsion contains retinal for an anti-aging visible effect and soothing bisabolol to help keep skin calm. Mature skin typically needs a product that is exceptionally safe with no risk of irritation, effectively targets wrinkles and fine lines with high-quality ingredients, performs its intended anti-aging function excellently, and is perfectly suitable for normal skin.

### What does Retinal do for mature skin?

Retinal helps smooth fine lines, improve uneven skin tone, refine texture, and tighten pores on mature skin. It may also boost skin thickness and elasticity over time while keeping irritation low compared to stronger options.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39496127/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30027612/)

### What does Bisabolol do for mature skin?

Bisabolol helps calm mature skin and may reduce inflammation. It helps soothe dry or irritated areas and supports overall skin comfort.
Sources: [Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24894548/), [Life Sciences, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35753438/)

### Where does this emulsion go in a skincare routine for mature skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Mature skin needs products with targeted anti-aging active ingredients like retinoids and peptides to smooth lines and improve firmness.

### Can I use this emulsion with niacinamide, and in what order?

You can use this emulsion with niacinamide, applying niacinamide first after cleansing and letting it absorb before putting on your treatment. This helps keep your skin calm while layering active ingredients.

### How often should I use this emulsion?

This emulsion works best in your evening routine, starting just once a week so your skin can comfortably adjust. Because mature skin needs targeted wrinkle-smoothing ingredients and concentrated actives, this product of this type needs powerful retinoids and antioxidants to deliver the best results.

### Can this emulsion clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for mature skin?

This emulsion is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on mature skin, as it has a very safe profile with calming ingredients like Bisabolol. However, because it contains retinal, it may occasionally cause some initial dryness or mild flaking as your skin gets used to it.

### Is this emulsion fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for mature skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — €57.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — €169.99 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/mature-skin) — High fit — €29.76 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — €39.80 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/full-fit-propolis-synergy-toner/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — €14.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Shiseido Benefiance Wrinkle Smoothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/shiseido/benefiance-wrinkle-smoothing-cream-enriched/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — €57.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €17.50 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0CZ5VG3L1?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €17.48 (https://www.lookfantastic.es/p/the-ordinary-retinal-0.2-emulsion-15ml/15068150/)
- Notino: €17.90 (https://www.notino.es/the-ordinary/retinal-02-emulsion-serum-serum-de-retinol-antiarrugas/p-16245609/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyapatite, Retinal, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Ergothioneine, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Bisabolol, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Butylene Glycol, Isohexadecane, Hexyldecanol, Maltodextrin, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Stearic Acid, Isoceteth-20, Polysorbate 60, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin