# The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion for sensitive skin

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

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Suitable for normal skin, this product contains retinal which helps regulate desquamation and bisabolol for anti-inflammatory action, beneficial for your skin type.
- While it offers hydration and soothing with ingredients like ergothioneine, these benefits are mostly supportive and not directly targeted at your redness and irritation.
- The formulation is safe for your sensitive skin, as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/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 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/))
- An ergothioneine-sodium hyaluronate dressing scavenges free radicals, reduces oxidative stress, cellular apoptosis, and inflammation in vitro and in vivo to protect against radiation-induced skin injury. ([ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38813785/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 sensitive skin better

- Topical application of TAT-SOD significantly suppresses UVB-induced erythema formation, blood flow rise, and apoptotic sunburn cell formation in human volunteers compared to a vehicle control. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27460952/))

## 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 in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

This product works for sensitive skin, though other treatments fit it better. While it has soothing ingredients like ergothioneine, it lacks the targeted calming ingredients needed to properly manage redness and irritation.
Sources: [Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/), [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26021820/)

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

This emulsion fits sensitive skin thanks to retinal, which helps smooth the surface, and bisabolol, which helps calm redness and irritation. It also includes ergothioneine to help protect against everyday skin damage.
Sources: [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26021820/), [Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/)

### What does Retinal do for sensitive skin?

Retinal helps smooth fine lines, improve texture, and even out skin tone while generally maintaining a good tolerance profile with a lower likelihood of irritation compared to stronger forms of vitamin A.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39496127/), [Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473963/)

### What does Bisabolol do for sensitive skin?

Bisabolol helps calm sensitive or irritated skin by reducing inflammation and soothing redness. It is generally well tolerated and works well to keep dry and reactive skin feeling comfortable.
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 sensitive skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. It is used once a week to start, and can be used more often if your skin tolerates it well.

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

You can use this emulsion with niacinamide, applying niacinamide first followed by the emulsion after it absorbs. This routine is generally safe and unlikely to irritate your skin, though this skin type needs products with targeted soothing ingredients to help calm redness.

### How often should I use this emulsion?

Start by using this emulsion once a week in your evening routine, and carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results.

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

This emulsion is unlikely to clog pores, but the strong retinal may cause breakouts and flaking as your skin adjusts, along with moderate irritation and dryness. Sensitive skin needs gentle soothing ingredients and barrier-supporting lipids to handle strong treatments without flare-ups.
Sources: [Frontiers in Nutrition, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42698538/), [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26021820/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — S$28.55 at Amazon
- [PCA Skin C&E Advanced with Hexylresorcinol and Silymarin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/sensitive-skin) — Average fit — S$192.38 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.00 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [One Thing Centella Asiatica Extract Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/one-thing/centella-asiatica-extract-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.07 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/isdin/eryfotona-actinica-spf-50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — S$110.01 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Singapore has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

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