The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% – Anti-Aging Serum for Smooth, Youthful Skin
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Background
All skin types
30 ml
12 USD
Description
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is a creamy serum that targets visible signs of aging through a highly-advanced retinoid active, one of the best all-around ingredients for skin. This next-generation retinoid improves the appearance of fine and dynamic lines that arise from a loss of collagen and elastin, while evening skin texture and tone.
How to use it
For application, use it in your nighttime skincare routine after cleansing and before applying heavier creams or oils. As with all retinoids, it’s important to use sunscreen in the morning as they can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
Ingredients
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Retinol, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract
My thoughts on The Ordinary granactive retinoid emulsion
Retinoids are amazing in skincare for anti-aging, acne, and improving skin texture. But for many, the idea of starting with retinoids can feel somewhat intimidating due to their reputation for causing irritation, redness, and peeling. But it really isn’t something to be intimidated by, you just need to know how to start and how to start in a gentle way.
And as always when it comes to skincare and ingredients or substances that are new to you, you should always do a patch test before using it on your face.
Packaging
The packaging is the same as all the other serums from The ordinary. It comes in a simple glass bottle with a dropper application and clear labeling.
I am not a super fan of glass bottles in the bathroom, simply because I picture myself dropping the bottle both on the floor and in the sink. This is probably just a me thing but still I cant help feeling that one day I will drop it.
Texture and scent
The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is a lightweight, unscented, creamy serum. It has a smooth, creamy consistency that feels somewhat hydrating without being heavy or greasy. Unlike some retinoids that can dry out the skin, this emulsion actually leaves your face feeling moisturized. It absorbs quickly, leaving no sticky residue, and layers well with other products in your routine.
Why Granactive Retinoid instead of retinol
Granactive Retinoid is a form of retinoid known as Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR). Unlike traditional retinol, HPR is a retinoid ester that doesn’t need to be converted by the skin into active retinoic acid. This means it’s more effective at lower concentrations and significantly less irritating, making it an ideal choice for sensitive or dry skin types.
Does it work
Science says that it does, and I do believe that it does, but proving it is another thing. As a skincare blogger it is impossible to prove since I will never know how my skin would look if I didn’t use this specific product. I always hate it when bloggers and influencers claim that they see a reduction in wrinkles just using the product for a week, since that is not how it works. So instead of believing every word just read the science behind it and come to your own conclusion. If science says it reduces wrinkles and has other benefits it is more likely to be true.
This is absolutely not a quick fix, nothing really is unless you want to use fillers or botox. So you should not expect it to.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a gentle, beginner-friendly retinoid, The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% is a great option to consider. It delivers steady, reliable results with none of the irritation typically associated with retinoids. While it’s not a miracle cure for deeper wrinkles or severe acne, it’s a solid, affordable choice for anyone looking to start incorporating a retinoid into their routine without the harsh side effects of stronger formulations.
I give this product 7/7
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