# The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your combination skin, as retinal helps regulate cell turnover and bisabolol provides anti-inflammatory effects, which can support acne and breakouts.
- The formula also includes ingredients like ergothioneine and tocopherol that offer antioxidant protection, contributing to overall skin health.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- 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/))
- Ergothioneine at submicromolar concentrations ameliorated UVA-induced skin aging in human dermal fibroblasts by inhibiting the AP-1 pathway and activating Nrf2-mediated antioxidant genes. ([Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32104530/))
- Ergothioneine protected against UV-induced oxidative stress and cell damage in mouse skin and cell models by activating the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38854850/))
- Ergothioneine decreased hyaluronan radical degradation in a dose-dependent manner, and its addition along with hercynine or histidine to chitosan/hyaluronan membranes improved the treatment of ischemic skin wounds in rabbits compared to controls. ([Polymers, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33383628/))
- 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/))

## 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 your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion work for acne-prone skin?

This product works moderately well for acne-prone skin, as retinal helps regulate cell turnover and bisabolol calms breakouts. To fit this skin type best, a treatment of this type needs soothing and balancing ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA that control excess oil without causing dryness.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40497421/), [Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/)

### Which ingredients make this emulsion a good fit for acne-prone skin?

This emulsion fits acne-prone skin because retinal helps regulate cell turnover and bisabolol provides calming effects to support breakouts. To work even better for this skin, a treatment of this type needs effective ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA that provide excellent benefits and control oiliness without causing excess dryness.

### What does Retinal do for acne-prone skin?

Retinal helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing blemishes, clogged pores, and redness while improving overall skin texture. Side effects are very uncommon when using this ingredient.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42572367/), [Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10564319/)

### What does Bisabolol do for acne-prone skin?

Bisabolol is unlikely to treat acne directly, but it may help calm redness and soothe irritated skin. Acne-prone skin often needs ingredients that soothe inflammation and keep pores clear without feeling heavy.

### Where does this emulsion go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Acne-prone skin needs a product of this type that features ingredients like retinoids to help regulate cell turnover, along with calming ingredients like bisabolol to support breakouts.

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

You can use this emulsion with niacinamide, applying the niacinamide first and letting it absorb before you put on this treatment. Using them together helps calm breakouts and keeps your skin smooth, and niacinamide is very unlikely to cause irritation when paired with this formula.

### How often should I use this emulsion?

This emulsion works best when used in the evening routine. Acne-prone skin needs a product of this type to include ingredients that help clear breakouts while keeping the skin calm and balanced.

### Can this emulsion clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This emulsion can help support acne and breakouts because retinal helps regulate cell turnover, but acne-prone skin may still need a product with stronger oil-balancing and pore-clearing ingredients to get the best fit. It is unlikely to cause severe irritation or breakouts from harsh ingredients, though reviewers occasionally mention dryness.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.25 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €35.99 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €139.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.98 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €10.25 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €17.90 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.fr: €17.48 (https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B0CZ5VG3L1?tag=lovi-care-web-product06-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €17.48 (https://www.lookfantastic.fr/p/the-ordinary-retinal-0.2-emulsion-15ml/15068150/)
Prices checked 17 Oct – 5 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/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin