Night time serum of my dreams!
Luxurious enough to use on its own at night, or under a beaver night cream. The results delivered vs the cost are just incredible - I struggle to see myself buying many other night serum! Huge fan of The Ordinary
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
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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 667 reviews
94% recommend this product
Most Helpful Positive
Most Helpful Criticism
Not quite what I expected
I am kinda used to that ‘sting’ that Retinol products give. This product didn’t have this, only very slightly. Haven’t seen as dramatic results so far as other retinol products, but will keep using and see if it holds up.
Night time serum of my dreams!
Luxurious enough to use on its own at night, or under a beaver night cream. The results delivered vs the cost are just incredible - I struggle to see myself buying many other night serum! Huge fan of The OrdinaryExactly what my skin craved
I started using this after reading an article that Kim Kardashian swears by it haha... It was then that I discovered The Ordinary and all that this wonderful and affordable skincare brand had to offer. I love this emulsion - it has a milky, creamy texture and goes on smooth. It doesn't leave my face oily or wet as I initially expected, instead absorbs beautifully. Increasing my use slowly (it is s...Read MoreLove the texture
verified purchaserLove the way this feels on my face after I cleanse and exfoliate. Leaves my skin feeling smooth and hydrated. No stingy effect which I like, and yet to notice a difference however nice to apply for that 'clean face' feeling before bed.Better texture than Retinoid in squalane
It's a good retinoid serum, to apply after my moisturiser at night, don't need to keep this one in the fridge, compared to the squalane retinoid. I don't have any irritation using The Ordinary retinoids range, I prefer this emulsion texture to the Squalane Retinoid, which is very oily and make my eyes watery when I apply it near my eyes. Love the emulsion Retinoid 2%, just want it more potent!Awesome
I’ve only been using for a short time but I’m seeing really good results already! I have dry highly reactive/rosacea skin, I’ve had to give up on retinol in the past. This hasn’t caused any sensitivity so far and I’m seeing clear improvement with spots and redness. Started every other night then went to nightly within a week no probs so farThe best
This serum has really helped bring closed comedones out and stopped them all together, would definitely recommend if this is a problem you have.Not a fan
verified purchaserI wasn’t overly impressed by this serum, you get what you pay for. I didn’t notice any improvements to my skin and I won’t be repurchasing. Asap vitamin A is much better.First time retinold user
Using night time along with esteer lauder. As a first time user, experiencing light "stingy" using it (short time but happens Every time using it) but it seems normal as seeing people having same reaction.
Will definitely keep continue to see how it really work.Love it!
I have combination oily skin. I have always had issues with breakouts and now I am in my late 20’s I wanted something to help with the fine lines I am noticing.
I love this product- I put it on at night before bed and my skin always feel great the next day. I have noticed my breakouts clearing a lot too. I will continue to purchase- such a great price!Great first timer retinoid
I was looking to add retinol to my routine and read how great The Ordinary is. I love it, its super nice to put on and it's helped heaps with breakouts in the first month of use and my skin looks so freshNot quite what I expected
I am kinda used to that ‘sting’ that Retinol products give. This product didn’t have this, only very slightly. Haven’t seen as dramatic results so far as other retinol products, but will keep using and see if it holds up.gentle
I find this to be a great retinol product to use on alternate nights when I dont want to use my full strength retinol. Its nice and gentle.Anti Ageing product
I use this several times a week at night after applying Buffet, have noticed an improvement in skin tone and texture using this, may upgrade to a higher percentage next time though.Good value
Helps with pigmentation and fine linesgreat serum and amazing price point!
used one bottle of this and loved how it made my skin feel! feel like im seeing results from the ordinary retinol range! i recently switched to a product in squalane as this was unfortunately sold out. i do like it as well.. the only downside for me is that i do get a bit confused by the large range of products and which one would be best for me !Heavenly
Absolutely love this! I have really bad scars and hyperpigmentation from acne and within days of using this i could see a difference.Amazing
I have dehydrated skin and surprising I find this a bit moisturising too. I use it underneath my moisturiser and my skin has improved so muchSmooth
This seems to be doing a great job I use it with nianimicide acid to combat pimples at night time. It goes on smooth and smells good. It brightend your skin and feels good. I recommend using after a toner and before a moisturiserPerfect
This is my go to product at night and it works for my skin all the time. My skin felt textured and dry when I ran out of thisGreat results
I have pigmentation and dry aging skin and I have been using this for 2 months or so now and have really noticed a difference. My skin tone is definitely more even. I will be moving up to the 5% next time in the hope I get even better results.Brightens face overnight
I use this once a week and I feel like I can see this difference in my skin the next morning, face looks brighter and feels nice and smooth!Seeing minor results after a fortnight
I’ve only been using this for 2 weeks and I can already see some minor improvements which is great for such a short amount of time. I have sensitive dry skin and purchased this with that in mind but also in hope to help with aging of my skin. I have had zero issues sensitivity wise and would definitely recommend as a starter product to move onto something stronger when my skin adaptsGood retinol
I like it as it isn't harsh..i use every night and its not overly drying.. but i also haven't seen a huge improvement in my skin..definitely not worse thoughGreat Product
Use this nightly several times a week over the Buffet serum, have definately noticed an improvement in skin tone and texture using this. Skin looks healthier.Lotion-liquid texture is non-greasy and sinks into skin.
The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion’s had a bit of an ingredient makeover since we first reviewed it, and we’re glad to say that it’s an upgrade.
In addition to the different arrangement of ingredients, there’s also been a name change; this used to be called Advanced Retinoid 2%, but is now called Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion to distinguish it among The Ordinary’s growin...Read MoreYet to see results
I have dry, sensitive skin and was wary of introducing a retinol into my routine. This has been a good product in that I haven't had any reactions at all and my skin handles it very well. That said, it's hard for me to pinpoint whether I've seen any results. I'll definitely stick with it longer term and see how I go.Yet to see results
I have dry, sensitive skin and was wary of introducing a retinol into my routine. This has been a good product in that I haven't had any reactions at all and my skin handles it very well. That said, it's hard for me to pinpoint whether I've seen any results. I'll definitely stick with it longer term and see how I go.Great product for nighttime use
I’ve been using this for a week now and I am very happy. My skin has been looking and feeling great (I use this with other TO products). I think the prices of TO are great!Great if you’re using retinol for the first time
I have sensitive skin and this product does not irritate my skin at all. It helps fade acne scars and make any pimples I do have go away much quicker. The only downside is that it can be a little greasy if you have oily skin. Overall, great product that is budget friendly.Great starting product for a retinol product with no irritation.
I've been using this retiniod serum for 5 nights now & I'm starting to see an overall improvement to my skin. My skin is looking a little brighter & smother in texture. The serum is lovely i wasn't sure how these products worked but I'm confident they are doing what they say as my 50 year old skin is already looking better.No fear retinoid
I love this retinoid serum - it’s gentle, non abrasive, and does NOT sting one little bit! There are no issues with redness or next - day peeling. My skin tone is evening out and I have noticed less depth in my fine lines. I have had a few issues with retinoids before, from different brands, and I must admit that I was nervous to try another; but I honestly, really love, this retinoid!Really helped my skin
Ive had really bad acne since highschool but when i changed up my skincare routine to incorporate this retinoid (and the ordinarys hyaluronic acid) there was a noticeable difference in my skin appearance! My acne is almost non existent these days. The only downside is that it can be super drying so if you dont moisturise well you might end up with some dry patchesGreat value, but strong for my skin
Compared to other retinoids on the market, for the quality of what you’re getting ,this is such good value! I wish I could use it more regularly, but it’s too drying on my skin. Ive got acne prone and dry skin, so once a week is as much as i can handle. When I first used this, i broke out, but stuck with it, and after a few weeks, skin started to tolerate it much better. ( i know people with acne ...Read Moremy go-to
This is my go-to retinoid. I use it at night, after EUK 134 and before my night cream to combat the first signs of ageing and minimise fine lines. Results are gradual but I haven't noticed any new fine lines so it must be working.Improves overall skin texture
This has improved my overall skin texture and appearance. I definitely will purchase the next strength up!Amazing product
I’ve been using this product for about a month and have already seen a lot of improvement in my skin tone and texture as well as my cystic acne no longer flares up!!! For me this has been incredible after struggling with cystic acne for 21 yrs. for reference I’m 40 with combo skin. I have had zero irritation from this product. I use this every night and once absorbed follow with Rosehip or borage ...Read MoreI wish I took a before and after photo!
I had a small section on my cheek where I would get breakouts (think something like cystic acne); I never had acne but this one spot seemed to always breakout. I put it down to being an open pore and continuously cleaned my phone and pillows to help avoid the breakout, but nothing would work! When it wasn't flaring up, it was very texturised and created pigmentation. I've had this issue for over a...Read MoreLove!
Love this! My first retinol product that I've purchased.
Its a light creamy texture and a little goes a long way. Notice that my breakouts keep at bay, more even skin and a healthier glow when I use this serum.
I aim to use this 3/4 times a week at nights. I rotate between my vitamin C in the AM and this retinol and niacinimide on alternative nights.Perfect
This makes my skin soft and moisturised and healthy looking. Third buyPerfect
This feels so moisturising on my skin and without this, my skin gets scaly and dry. Best retinoid for young skinLight and creamy formula
I've been using this now for a few days, and it's really exceeded my expectations in terms of the formula. I've used much more expensive retinol brands in the past but they haven't left my face feeling moisturised, but this product does. The formula is really light but creamy, and has not flared up my sensitive skin at all. It's fast-absorbing, and I can wait for an hour or more before I feel the ...Read MoreDelivers results!
I've been transferring this product onto the front of my left hand and then applying it to my face!
I had a predominant, unsightly brown spot on my hand that has now completely disappeared!
Very impressed with the r Granactive Retinoid Emulsion both on my face and now my hands!
Easy to apply and skin is much brighter and glowing in the morning.
Good introduction to retinol
I was cautious the first few times I used this because it is my first retinol product and I have slightly sensitive and very dry skin. I used it every few days and built up a tolerance. I got a bit flaky around my nose and lips in the first few weeks of using it, but nothing that a light exfoliation couldn't fix in the morning. I've definitely noticed results in the reduction of acne scars and my ...Read MoreA lovely introduction to Retinoids
This is a wonderful starting product to the world of Retinoids and Retinols. I have slowly introduced my skin to Retinols by starting with this Retinoid and building my way up gradually. I didn't have any issues with inflammation or sensitivity, but as this product isn't as high strength as Retinol 0/5% or 1%, the effects won't be quite as strong. I recently bought this product for a friend who ha...Read MoreGreat
I love everything about this product. I use it almost every nightAmazing
i almost never skip this at night since it adds more moisture to my dehydrated skin along with my cream. my skin also looks plump and healthyGreat product
It took me a few nights to get used to the texture of this serum as it is quite oily but now I absolutely love it. My skin feels great the next morning and I feel it’s working on my fine lines. I think this product gives really good results for the cost - try it you have nothing to lose! I started with the lowest dose first and slowly moved up in strength. Really happy with retinol as a product an...Read MoreOne of my favorites
Definitely one of my favorite serums. Has helped with acne and fine lines and feels great afterwards.Great entry-level retinoid
I have just commenced using retinoids, and this is quite gentle on my skin. I have dry skin and the formula does not dry it out. I can use this more than once a week without irritation.Makes your skin look fresh
I personally liked this product.
Also I wanted to ask as i have ordinary's niacinamide hyaluronic acid vit s suspension 30 and retinoid 2% and also ordered buffet. How to use them all. Also my skin has open pores pigmentation black and white headsGreat
After the first few uses my face felt very warm but woke up with extremely soft skin. I took a break from it for one night and then have used every night since and had no warmth or irritation (I am using after the buffet and niacinamide, with no oil or moisturiser over the top). I've been using it for 3-4 weeks and believe my skin is skill purging (a few white heads at a time) but have noticed my ...Read MoreMakes a difference
This is amazing, I see a difference in my skin after a couple months of using, definitely a holy grail product now.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.
