The Ordinary offers highly affordable (approx. $9–$15) vitamin A serums, primarily in squalane, that are designed to target anti-aging by treating fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture. For years, I’ve used these serums in strengths of 0.2% and 0.5%, as well as other name brands, which also claim to improve collagen production and cell turnover.
A few days ago, I started using The Ordinary Retinal 2% Emulsion, a high-strength retinaldehyde (a/k/a retinal) formula, which I like as it has the well-studied retinaldehyde ingredient, and it doesn't irritate my skin.
So let's have a quick review of Vitamin A serums: The medical or generic name for Retin-A is tretinoin (= prescription strength). Differein Gel is an FDA-approved non-prescription retinoid called adapalene 1% that was developed to treat acne. When 1st on the market, it was obtained by prescription, then it became non-prescription. Adapalene works by regulating skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation to clear, treat, and prevent blemishes, but this same process also eases the signs of aging.
Here’s how the different forms of Vitamin A serums work: retinol -> retinal -> retinoic acid. Retinol is converted into retinoic acid in 2 steps, whereas retinal requires 1 step. Retinoic acid is the active, oxidized metabolite of Vitamin A (from either retinol or retinal) that regulates cell growth, differentiation, and gene expression in the body. It’s potient skin renewing (or cell turnover) power is what erases the visible signs of aging.
The Ordinary was the original game changer in making affordable anti-aging products, but other skincare companies followed. CereVe, Olay, L’Oreal, Neutrogena, Differein, Roche Posay, and Avene (to name several) are fantastic drugstore options backed by science!
Choice galore lets consumers who take the time to learn about skincare ingredients find the best deals for less moola, so we can afford to use them daily!
