It works!
My fine lines have definitely improved. Feels great on my skin, easily & quickly absorbed. Doesn’t irritate or dry my skin. I find some of the ordinary overrated, but I rate this product!
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% 30ml
Is this for you?
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% combines two forms of next-generation retinoid actives in a combined concentration of 2% by weight.
- Cruelty Free
- Vegan
- Artificial Fragrance Free
- Sulphate Free
What customers say
Age:
- 20s
- 30s
- 40s
- 50+
Eye Concern:
- Age Prevention
- Deep Lines
Skin Concern:
- Acne, breakouts and blackheads
- Dull, dry or dehydrated skin
- First signs of ageing
- Pigmentation, uneven skin tone
- Wrinkles and loss of firmness
Skin Type:
- Dry
- Normal to dry
- Normal to oily
- Oily
Frequently bought with
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Questions & Answers
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The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2%
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Customer Reviews
Review & Earn4.7 of 615 reviews
93% recommend this product
Most Helpful Positive
Most Helpful Criticism
Yet to see a results
I use it at night time only and have been for about a month. However am yet to see any results in regards to changes in fine lines appearance. It’s a nice serum for the price but I am sceptical of its benefits
very moisturizing
This is a great product, really helped get rid of my acne and strangely its quite moisturizing.The Ultimate!
Helped with clearing my skin, light on the skin and makes your face feel so fresh and wonderful! An absolute must-have! I have oily skin and this has really helped balanced those oils.It works!
My fine lines have definitely improved. Feels great on my skin, easily & quickly absorbed. Doesn’t irritate or dry my skin. I find some of the ordinary overrated, but I rate this product!Great starter
This is a great and non irritant for an anti ageing serum. I use this most nights as part of my routine and I am already seeing the results.Best retinol for beginner
This retinol works well for me as it is not too harsh but i can still see the effect. it doesn't make my skin too dry or peely if you know what i meant when you use retinol too often. I use this every night and can see immediate difference after a full week of use.Yet to see a results
I use it at night time only and have been for about a month. However am yet to see any results in regards to changes in fine lines appearance. It’s a nice serum for the price but I am sceptical of its benefitsRetinoid for beginners
I am in my mid twenties and purchased this product to introduce retinol into my skincare routine. This product is not too full on when you ease into it. I have started seeing effects almost instantly.The ordinary never worked for me.
I'm an 18 y/o girl who has dealt with acne since puberty. I always only get it on my chin which I put down to hormones, I eat vegan for my skin but still battle cystic pimples on my chin at any time of the month. There is only maybe 2-4 days of the whole month where my skin is clear. My skin isn't really sensitive or oily or dry, but it does get dry patches over healing breakouts which I assume is...Read Morevery moisturizing
This is great product if you want a retenoid in your skincare routine that is not too strong but still does the job. Didn't break me out, but takes a long time to absorb fully.Amazing
This is one of my fav ordinary serums. It is a must have for me. Will buy againGentle and moisturising
I really like this as it isn't too harsh for my skin, and I am able to use it most days. They say that retinoid is most effective when used on its own, so I like that this is moisturising enough that I don't need to put moisturiser over the top.Great product for younger skin
Going officially into my "early 30s" at 32, I feel I'm probably a bit late to start with such a light product. I have always had good skin and relied on my youth and genes so I when I started to notice my skin was not as bight and fine as it used to be, I thought best I start to investigate some skincare products. I wanted to reduce and prevent the fine lines that have begun appearing on my fore...Read MoreCan't live without this
I love this serum. It's gentle enough to use everyday, but also amazingly effective. Better than a lot of much more Expy products. Now that I use this, I don't get blemishes and blackheads anymore.
My top tip: Get the NIOD serum pump. It's available on the Deciem website and hopefully Adore will start stocking it soon. It fits all 30ml bottles from The Ordinary perfectly. I HATE the d...Read MoreLove it!!
This is a gentle retinoid product I use right before bed. I'm in my late 20s and this is my first time using retinoids in my skincare regimen. It does not irritate my face at all. The appearance of pores on my cheaks looked much smaller and the overall texture of my skin is so much better. Worth every penny and more.Great when you use a small amount consistently
This is my fave product from this range. It can sometimes feel a little heavy, I try to use the smallest spreadable amount possible. Have definitely noticed less breakouts and less flaky/dry skinMy favourite serum!!
This serum is my holy grail, I absolutely love it! It helps with everything from breakouts to fine lines and pigmentation/scarring. Leaves my skin feeling so smooth with an even complexion. Often when I have gone to get a facial the beauty therapist has asked if I had had fillers as my skin is so plump and smooth and I honestly think it is because of this serum. I will continue to repurchase forev...Read MoreHopeful!
I've been using the granactive retinoid 2% emulsion for a few weeks now. I have been forgetting to use it quite a bit but am still impressed with the results. I hope my skin continues to improve with using this product! I did notice an increase in acne but I know this is just purging and won't last forever. I'm very hopeful that this product will continue to improve my skin!!! I have combination s...Read MoreGreat gift for Mom
I bought this for my mom and she loves it. She uses this emulsion 3 times per week in the evening (She also uses the ordinary buffet serum in the morning). After 1 month she has seen gradual improvement. It's awesome because I didn't expect the product to complete change someone's appearance and remove all lines. We're happy with the small improvement in 1 month and will continue to use the produc...Read MoreStill waiting to see a huge difference.
I have been using this product for about a month now. I love the texture of the product and how easy it is to apply. I also like that it does not irritate my skin like other retinol based products have in the past. I have not seen a huge difference to date, however, I have noticed more of a difference than with other more expensive retinol based products I have used. I would recommend it as an aff...Read MoreGood entry point retinol
I'm 37 with acne prone skin and just starting to get some fine lines. This is the first retinol product that I have tried, and also my first purchase from The Ordinary. The chose this product specifically because it does not contain silicones (which blocks my pores leading to cystic breakouts). I really like this product. At first I only used it once a week, and then quickly moved to every few nig...Read MoreGreat product - super gentle
This is not my first experience with retinol as I was on prescription retinol creams as a teenager. But my skin is much better now, and I have enjoyed adding Retinol back into my night time skin routine. It’s quite gentle, I have experienced no peeling/flaking and it doesn’t feel like it dries my skin out. I use it 3 times a week alternated with my vit c serum. I think it’s a really good place to ...Read MoreGive it time!
This product REALLY did wonders for my skin, I was struggling with terrible breakouts and scarring and this cleared everything right up! However it definitely took a good 2 months of using CONSISTENTLY for me to really reap the benefits - so make sure you really give this product the time to work its magic!! I use in conjunction with the HA + B5 serum to help the product penetrate deeper.Great product
Great product at an affordable price. Doesn’t feel overly heavy on skin and absorbs quite good. I use it every second night before bed and it’s definitely helping with some rednessIntense
This did initially cause cause some minor surface peeling, but since cutting down to applying it every second night I seem to have found the sweet spot! My skin does seem faster to get over any blemishes more quickly and I think the retinoid is playing its part in this!Easy to apply, blends well
I've been using this product for about a month.
Yet to see results obviously, but find it easy to apply, at a great price point and blends well with other serums and products on top.First time using a retinoid
After seeing the Dr for a rashy, bumpy look on my skin, he told me it was Dermatitis, although it was mild I asked him about using a Retinoid and he said yes to try this option.
I'm so glad I did it helped with the flare-up and my skin feels so amazing, its never been this good! I started off as advised 1-2 times a week then built it up to 3-4 times and i just love it. What a great affordab...Read MoreRetinol
First time using a retinol based serum, didn't feel greasy or heavy on skin and left me with tighter skin. Worked well in combination with other serums.Amazing product for the price
I love this product, I have gone through a few different bottles of them. Not harsh and doesn't cause dryness, just makes everything look better. The serum is really thin and nice to wear and it does a great job of clearing up any spots and making everything look better.Excellent retinoid product
Clear & bright skin the morning after use. Perfect for my sensitive skin, mid-40's. Excellent value for money.Good value for money
Contains high quality ingredients and is good value for money. Helps even out skin tone and reduce signs of ageing all for a great price.Great product, great price
I have been using this product for several months & just love it. I have had no irritation to my sensitive skin, it is easy to apply and you only need a small amount. I am now going to try a stronger strength in The Ordinary range. I love that these products are reasonably priced & don't contain a huge list of ingredients. Try it, you won't be disappointed!Amazing
I have used this for months and I can't imagine my night routine without itGreat starter Retinol
About 6 weeks into using this product and although I am not seeing a huge change in my forehead lines, my skin's clarity has improved dramatically and so has the texture. Perfect starter retinoid for sensitive skin.Great Value
Great product at an affordable price, good option if you don’t want to spend hundreds on high end productGreat
I love this product and have never stopped using it since i have started using it for the last few years. My skin has become so much better. The only downfall is that sometimes it is out of stockSkin is definitely smoother and no irritation!
I have been using this for maybe 2 weeks now, the first week I used twice and now I am using every second day in conjunction with the 23% vitamin c. When i apply it my face feels a little hot and is slightly reddish but there is no irritation what so ever and I have semi-sensitive skin with rosacea. I find it absorbs quite quickly, and in the morning my skin feels so nice and smooth. I apply it b...Read MoreWonderful product
I love this stuff. I had been suffering from adult acne for about 5 years until I finally bought this and The Ordinary Niacinamide and both products are fantastic. My acne has reduced so much I barely break out anymore. I've been using this every night for around 4 months and don't even need a moisturiser, which is great because my skin is very temperamental and doesn't like moisturisers anyway. I...Read MoreCheap and easy to use
First time using a retinoid and I've had no irritation at all. I can't see a huge difference since using it so I might try the 5% next time.Loving this product!
I have never used retinoids before so this was a good starting point for me. I have seen amazing changes in my skin in the 6 weeks since I started using it. My skins is soft, smooth and looks clearer. I have had no irritation. I like that it has no smell and it spreads easily. Also the price is amazingly affordable!!! I will definitely be re purchasing this again.Applies well..
Although I cannot prove it has started to help combat lines, or wrinkles yet, as i haven't been using it very long. I can say it soaks into the skin nicely without it feeling heavy/greasy.I’ll never be without this
I’m 37 and slightly devastated that it has taken until now for me to discover the BEST treatment for my acne. My breakouts are 80% improved and the spots I do get now heal up overnight instead of taking days and days to clear.
Honestly, this is the best skin product I’ve ever purchased.zero skin irritation
I’ve been wanting to incorporate a retinoid to my regime for a while now but having sensitive acne prone skin along with a lot of hyperpigmentation, I was afraid to use anything that could make it flare up or make my skin worse so I did some reading and came across this little gem! I was half expecting it to be a sticky serum that would feel uncomfortable on my face and maybe burn but it was actua...Read MoreVisible results after one month
Noticed some pigmentation on my cheek this past year. This product has helped my skin renewal process and my pigmentation marks are starting to lighten. Amazing. I use this every night as indicated, and although slightly oily when you first apply it, it is rapidly absorbed into the skin.Lovely
I'm fairly new to this serum but I really really like it. I feel like it has improved the clarity of my skin.Still on the Fence
I’m in my mid-late twenties and bought this product to reduce and prevent the fine lines that have begun appearing on my forehead. It’s non-greasy, easy to apply and sinks in quickly! I have sensitive, dry skin and haven’t had any irritation. However I am at the end of my bottle and haven’t seen any noticeable change. Will be trying the 5% in Squalane next to see if there’s a difference!Clears and brightens skin
I have used various different prescription topical retinoids for acne before and all others have irritated my skin and made the acne worse, more inflamed with longer healing time and scaring. Finally to find a retinol that actually soothes my skin and assists to clear it is a huge relief. My skin looks brighter, it is clear and if I do get a spot it is small and superficial and clears up without...Read MoreGreat first retinoid
I used this as my introduction to Retinoid and have been really happy. I love the creamy consistency and is leaves my face feeling quite hydrated so I wait a while before I apply moisturiser after. Next time I might try the stronger one but am happy I started with this (currently using every other night). I have very sensitive skin and have had no problems.Bought for my mum
I purchased this for my mum, and she has found that it has not only improved the texture of her skin, but also decreased the redness she has from rosacea.Cheap and Effective
This is my favourite product from the Ordinary.
It has cleared up my acne so well and it's so cheap! I've found this works better than most more expensive products I have used.
It does really dry out my skin, though so I find I have to use an oil and a good moisturiser with it all the time. I have combination skin.
This is now a staple in my skincare routine.My new best friend!
I was scared to try retanol for the longest time because of my sensitive skin. But my skin didn’t react to this at all in fact it’s the best thing I’ve ever done for it. For the price DO IT! Your won’t regret it!Let's see
The consistency of this is a little sticky... I have quite sensitive skin so when first applied it did make my face abit red. Although I have seen people say that this is a dupe to the Sunday riey Luna oil which is very expensive. For the price point worth a try to test it yourself.Easy application
Perfect texture and soaks into my skin well. Such an easy application on the nights I use my niacinamide.AMAZING!
I have been using this product for just over a year, and I swear by it. I get so many positive comments on my skin and I give it to this product! I use it once daily at nighttime after cleansing and before moisturizing. Leaves my skin feeling great!Great product
I thought my skin would be too sensitive for this product, but it was completely fine.
It felt nice on my skin, it didn’t tingle or burn, like most similar products.
I will need to use it more regularly to see results, but I like it so far.First-time retinoid user
This was my first time trying retinoid for my combination skin. I purchased the product predominantly for aging and hyperpigmentation concerns. Still undecided as to its effectiveness after a few months - haven't noticed any dramatic changes in terms of skin texture, moisture, pigmentation... might need more time and diligence in usage. But at this price range, I am happy to purchase another bottl...Read MoreGreat beginner retinoid
This product was my introduction to retinoids and I really liked it. I repurchased several times before moving onto a stronger product. It improves fine lines after consistent use and I found that it helped with acne. I really like the consistency. In summer I can literally use just this after cleansing and my combination skin loves it!Amazing
My skin doesn't peel, get red or irritated with this product. This is really perfect and it has helped my skin so much over timeExcellent for skin tone
I had a lot of pigmentation post pregnancy and have really noticed a difference in my skin since using this product. My skin tone is much more even with the pigmentation lightened and my skin generally looking more refreshed and plumper. I'll definitely keep using this product as part of my daily routineMy favorite retinoid
This retinoid has the perfect texture for me. Personally, I don't like the texture of the ordinary's squalane but all the other retinoids are in squalane. This one does not leave my skin too oily and my skin is very silky after it dries. I do not see amazing effects with this product but it is definitely something that I am happy to put on everyday just for maintenance.Feels Gentle
From everything I've read about retinoids, I was a bit worried about using one, as they can make your skin red and peel. This hasn't had that effect though. It makes my skin feel smooth and healthy. Even though it's active, I find it feels moisturising. I tend to alternate it with my acids at night. It feels gentler if your skin is a bit sensitive.Great retinoid for sensitive skin
This is a really great, gentle retinoid for dry/sensitive skin. My skin actually feels a little hydrated afterwards, so waiting the 10 minutes after applying before using my moisturiser isn't a worry at all. Normally retinoids make my skin break out like crazy, so this has been a nice product to use. Change is noticeable but it's quite gradual, so it's worth sticking with it for a few months in or...Read MoreSmoothing
I have been using this product for 4 weeks now, only at night. I have notoced my complexion is much more even and my skin feels smoother. I have not noticed a difference to any fine lines. Its incredibly gentle and causes no irritation. It dries tacky on my skin but that disappears after i moisturise. I feel after this bottle i will move to a higher strength in the hopes it helps with fine lines.Wake up with gorgeous skin
I love this product. It's the first and only retinol product I've used and I don't think I'll buy any others. I love to put this on at night when I wake up my skin looks fresh, and I find it helps with my acne.Hydrating
Improves skin texture and super hydrating for a cheap price point - would recommend to all skin typesGreat for oily skin
This is the first Retinoid I’ve used and chose this one from the ordinary range as I have oily skin and this was a great alternative to the Squalane based products they have. It goes on very light, it’s non-greasy and absorbs well into the skin. I’ve only been using this for a couple of weeks but I’ve noticed the texture of my skin has improved, pore size is reducing, skin looks brighter and feels...Read MoreSmooth and good price point
definitely a good option for a first time retinoidMagic serum while you sleep
Absolutely love this. I put it on at night every second night, and my skin has not felt better. Pimple spots are slightly fading.
Cannot live without this any more!Love - can't wait for the bigger size!
I originally have used this on my face (and loved it) - very gentle and easy to use. I have now started to use it on my legs - I have always had large pores on my skin, and my legs have been plagued with mini blackheads/bumps, and since using this in combination with The Ordinary Niacinamide, I have noticed my legs looking smooth for the first time since I was a teen! Will be ensuring I keep up ...Read MoreLoving it
It's my first time actually having a skincare routine and it's been amazing to start with this product. My skin is oily and I have a lot of acne scars and blackheads and after a month using this daily at night time, I barely have acne and the scars are getting better.Amazing for the price
I really noticed the difference when my bottle ran out. I'd underestimated the impact this had been having on my skin. I've learned my lesson and won't run out again! Such a great price for an effective product.great value
It is a bit oily after use and it should be apply at night for the great benefit.I like the product, it’s a great price
Great price, but I’m not 100% convinced that it is really effective. I use it a couple of times a week in pm.
It feels nice on the skin but it is quite oily.Fades spots
Very nice for smoothing out my skin and fading spots! So impressed after hearing all the hype about retinols.Nice product
I really like this product. It feels great on my skin and I've noticed an improvement in my complexionLike don’t love
I have recently been told I have dry skin, but am very prone to acne. I use this once per week. as a part of my beauty regime. It helps but dries me outBody Aging
My skin is easily acne prone, I am a person of color and we're more susceptible to scaring. I have had back acne for a long time now and I have a ton of scars on my back. I have my partner put some of this on my back nightly, it has been a week and a half now and I could see them being lightened and eliminating. Since vitamin A encourages skill cells to renew, I would definitely recommend this to ...Read MoreReally Nice Serum to Use at Night
I used this serum at night, as I found it made my skin fairly greasy during the day. Skin always looked nice and bright in the morning. Would recommend!Good for Acne Prone Skin
I recently started using this product in conjunction to a few other The Ordinary serums and have found it has really helped control and clear my skin.Great product
Great product for a great price! Can highly recommend this product!Great benefits
This product has not irritated my skin at all and I wake up with smooth, plump skin. I have never used a retinoid product before and feel like this is a great starter. I have much nicer skin since applying this every second evening.Great Retinol for Beginners
I've been using this product for about 3 weeks now and am starting to notice a difference in my skin now, my scarring is clearing and my ski is overall brighter with a smoother texture. This did cause my skin to "purge" during the first 7-10 days of using, I was getting a few deep, cystic and painful pimples which is normal when you first start using a retinol product but is something to be aware ...Read MoreLove this!
I absolutely love this product I definitely feel as if it does everything, it clears blemishes as well as firms my skin, I use it nightly on its own and feel that I don’t need anything else. My skin always looks clear as well as plump which is amazing!Fantastic product
Excellent - it gives minimal irritation despite it being a retinoid. I love how it smooths my skin overnightExcellent product
I've been using this for a couple of months in conjunction with a few other serums from the ordinary. This is my favourite one by far. It smoothes the skin gently exfoliates. It doesn't sting - for reference, i have combination skin but more on the dry side. This, combined with the lactic acid twice a week has made a huge difference to the smoothness, clarity and look of my skin.Good intro to retinol
This was the first retinol I started using consistently. I like it's not so strong that it dries out the skin or it peels. I use it every second night. I haven't used it long enough to see dramatic results but it does help with keeping my skin clear.Can't go wrong with Vitamin A
I was told by a beautician that Vitamin A helped with acne-prone skin and I haven't looked back since using this. I use it only at night and interchangeably with Alpha Lipoic Acid and it has definitely helped control my breakouts and with my overall complexion. Be careful with this one though if you have sensitive skin, might be good to spot test first.hyperpigmentation hero
This has worked really well on my acne scarred skin! It's reduced hyperpigmentation by a lot!Great for hormonal breakouts!
I'm 42 years old and have been experiencing hormonal breakouts about 3 or 4 days before my period. Nasty pimples around my nose and cheeks that disappear after my period starts, but it's 4 or so days of yucky and painful acne. This product has been a godsend for this time of month. If I apply at night, the next morning the acne is really minimised.
I did have a period of "purge" which for ...Read MoreGreat serum
I accidentally ordered this instead of one of the other retinoid serums from The Ordinary and I love it! Its a lovely light texture and absorbs quickly. My 50 year old face is not looking too bad using Buffet in the morning and this at night followed by a face oil. Love it!Part of my nightly routine
I began using this along with a few other products from The Ordinary and after a consultant suggested this as a first time retinoid user. I use this as part of my night routine and I wake up with my skin looking brighter and a lot less red then it used to. Would definitely recommend.Effective
Non irritating and effective. My wrinkles around the eyes and frown lines have definitely softened. I'll continue using this strength for the next 6 to 12 months, then switch to the 5% strength to see how that goes.Such an Improvement in texture and feel of skin.
This product has been great so far. I have noticed such an improvement in the texture of my skin, its so soft. I have been using every second day. It did dry my skin a bit if used on a daily basis, every second day works better for me. Will keep using, I think it's great.Cheap
I'm just not sure about this product. I love the brand for the cheap price point but I didn't notice much of a difference using it on my skin.Great product repeat order
Love this this brand sits in my bedside ready to use every nightYou need this in your skin care routine!!!
Having had used other retinoid products before I was pretty reluctant to give this a go, I can't turn back now. This is a must have and will change the way your skin looks and feels - obviously go gently when first using but once your skin Is use to it you will be hooked! The ordinary products are amazing and super great value for money!Nightime essential
I use this product every night and it has done wonders for my skin. Would recommend to everyone. Great product, great brand.Nice retinol serum
I bought this a while back and I am still using this now. It doesn't cause any irritation at all and I find that it does help with my acne. It leaves my skin feeling moisturised as well, not drying at all. It's great for beginners new to retinol.not too drying for a retinol
I have fairly sensitive skin, so am slowly easing myself into this, paired with a few serums and lots of SPF. So far ok, feels good and not causing any bad flakiness yet - using twice per week. Will increase, have heard its got great benefits so looking forward to it. So far so good for a retinol as others make me flake.Being a freelancer
Seriously great results! After day 3 of applying at night after my cleanser and wiping my face clean in the morning, I am loving this product. My skin has that after-a-run-glow or fasting glow. I did buy 3 vials when I ordered, to gift and share. A friend who has great skin once recommended this brand to me - I wish I had of got onto it earlier.The best product I’ve ever used
I have had acne/blemishes for years. I’ve had stubborn congestion on both sides of my cheeks from where i used to have acne. No matter what I used, I could never get rid of it. Until I discovered this product! Ive been using it for just over a week, and my skin is almost completely clear of blemishes and my stubborn congestion is almost completely!! My skin hasn’t looked this clear, since before p...Read More
