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

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

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

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

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

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

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for acne and blemishes on your oily skin, as retinal promotes cell turnover and reduces inflammation, while bisabolol provides anti-inflammatory action.
- The formula includes tocopherol for antioxidant support, contributing to overall skin health.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Retinaldehyde, Bisabolol, Ergothioneine, Lactic Acid, Hydroxyapatite

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))

## 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

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This product is a great fit because retinal promotes cell turnover and reduces blemishes while bisabolol provides calming anti-inflammatory action on oily skin. It also includes tocopherol for antioxidant support to keep your skin healthy without irritation.

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

Retinal and bisabolol make this emulsion a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because retinal helps speed up cell renewal and calm blemishes, while bisabolol provides extra soothing action. Tocopherol also supports overall skin health with antioxidant benefits.

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

Retinal helps clear clogged pores, reduces bumps and pimples, and helps balance oil production for oily, acne-prone skin. It is generally well tolerated when used regularly as part of an acne skincare routine.
Sources: [Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10564319/), [European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25219827/)

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

Bisabolol helps calm redness and irritation on oily, acne-prone skin, and may help with dark spots left behind by breakouts. To care for this skin type, products also need ingredients that clear pores and control oil.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/), [Cutis, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26682557/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

Apply this treatment in the evening as part of your routine. It helps clear acne and blemishes on oily skin by speeding up cell renewal and calming inflammation, with a safe formula that is unlikely to cause irritation.

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

Yes, you can use this emulsion with niacinamide by applying niacinamide first in your routine and following it with the treatment. This approach helps keep your oily acne-prone skin clear while minimizing the likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use it?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting just once a week to let your skin adjust. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/), [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

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

This emulsion is a great fit for oily acne-prone skin because retinal helps clear pores with cell turnover while bisabolol calms redness. It is unlikely to cause irritation or heavy breakouts due to its soothing ingredients.

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £25.95 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £25.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £12.16 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CZ5VG3L1?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: £15.20 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/the-ordinary-retinal-0.2-emulsion-15ml/15068150/)
- Notino: £15.40 (https://www.notino.co.uk/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion-serum-anti-wrinkle-retinol-serum/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/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/retinal-0-2-emulsion/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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