Skin-loving retinal for under £15… gimme 14 of ’em right now (Picture: The Ordinary)

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Whether you’re a skincare fanatic or total novice, retinal (or retinaldehyde, to use its government name) is an ingredient you’re gong to want on your roster.

The key to all-round better skin, retinal, retinol’s older, harder working and less irritating sister, is a powerful form of vitamin A that helps your skin to defy age, smooth wrinkles and bust blemishes.

The catch is, though, a gold-standard ingredient like that seldom comes cheap – until now.

The Ordinary, everyone’s favourite low-cost, low-fuss skincare brand has released their own product featuring the must-have ingredient: the Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, and users say they’ve seen ‘so much improvement’ from using it.

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, 15ml

Ideal for all skin types but particularly experienced retinol users or those who can be trusted to take it slow amping up their skincare regimen, The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is an ultra-potent serum that works to combat visible signs of ageing and imperfections over time for a gorgeous complexion.

shop £12.16 (save £3.04)

This powerful serum has been formulated with a high concentration of retinal to help firm, smooth and brighten the skin’s appearance.

And the best bit? It only costs 15 quid. In fact, it’s currently on offer on LOOKFANTASTIC with 20% off, making this hard-working serum yours for just £12.16.

Think firmer, more elastic skin with less pesky crow’s feet, fine lines and texture, all for under £13 a pop (Picture: The Ordinary/LOOKFANTASTIC)

Ideal for all skin types but particularly aimed at experienced retinol users, the Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is an ultra-potent serum that works to combat visible signs of ageing and imperfections over time for a gorgeous complexion.

Boasting a yellow-tinted finish, the powerful serum instantly gets to work diminishing fine lines, dark spots, uneven skin tone and even acne and breakouts, helping to leave the skin clearer, smoother and glowing.

Think firmer, more elastic skin with less pesky crow’s feet, fine lines and texture, all for under £13 a pop.

What could be better?

For those worried about skin irritation that often comes alongside powerful retinoids, this Ordinary emulsion has been formulated with skin-soothing oat to help minimise feelings of sensitivity and dryness, making it great for those with more sensitive skin.

Ideal for all skin types, the emulsion is an ultra-potent serum that works to combat visible signs of ageing and imperfections over time for a gorgeous complexion (Picture: The Ordinary/LOOKFANTASTIC)

The brand recommend starting with a once-weekly application and amping up to twice a week a few days apart as tolerated by your skin, and only in the evening.

They suggest applying a pea-sized amount to a clean, dry face and neck then applying a moisturiser once absorbed. And, as always, apply your SPF during the day, as retinoids make you more sensitive to UVA/UVB.

Despite the Ordinary Retinal Emulsion having a super-low price point, users can’t believe how effective it is, calling it ‘powerful but gentle’, adding how they can ‘really see the results’ after using it.

‘0.2% retinal is not heard of at this price!’ Raved one five-star reviewer. ‘I was paying 7x this for a leading brand retinal & this is hands down its equal. Don’t waste your money on hype, believe me this is brilliant.’

Boasting a yellow-tinted finish, the powerful serum instantly gets to work diminishing fine lines, dark spots, uneven skin tone and even acne and breakouts (Picture: The Ordinary/LOOKFANTASTIC)

A second wrote: ‘Great retinal, powerful but gentle. Hasn’t dried my skin or caused dry patches. I followed the instructions and now use 3 times a week. I’ve tried a few retinol products and this is my fave, can really see results; more glowy skin, less texture and fine lines appear diminished. Big big fan.’

‘This is exactly what my skin needed. Was using the Retinol 1% in Squalene for several years. Decided to try the new Retinal and the change in texture and appearance of my skin has been significant.’ Added a third.

For that price it’s hard to resist…

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