Amazingly good!!
This was my first experience using retinol-based products and I was blown away!! My outbreaks have settled and my skin feels so much better. Can’t recommend this enough!
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% - 30ml 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
- Artificial Fragrance Free
- Sulphate Free
- Vegan
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
Please wait while we find a match
Questions & Answers
(43 Questions)
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% - 30ml
Get an expert to answer your question about this product!
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% - 30ml Reviews
4.6 of 771 reviews
94% recommend this product
Most Helpful Positive
Most Helpful Criticism
Not sure if this is effective, mildly irritating
I purchased this several times, and thought my skin was just sensitive, but as soon as I stopped using it, I no longer had the red sensitive skin I seemed to be suffering from... Maybe this is because I used it too much (every night). I also did not see a noticeable reduction in wrinkles, but these things are really difficult to gauge. I am 27 with first signs of ageing.
Amazingly good!!
This was my first experience using retinol-based products and I was blown away!! My outbreaks have settled and my skin feels so much better. Can’t recommend this enough!Best Retinoid so far
This is by far the best affordable retinoid that I can find from the Aussie drugstore. It comes with a milky liquid lotion and easily absorbs into the skin. I did noticed a bit of stinging and peeling when I first starting it. I went with 2 times/week to now everyday or every second day depends on my skin condition. Have repurchased so many bottles already!Good
I do like this and it’s a good price. It takes a while to sink into the skin thoughGood
I can see and feel the improvement in terms of my skin texture and pore size.Highly recommend this productExcellent Dupe
This is the first time that I've tried this product and I'm thoroughly impressed. It's got a very liquidity texture and not an overwhelming smell. I recommend starting slow. My skin looks glowy the next day!amazing
I can't explain how or why this does what it does, but its amazing!!! it changed my skin for the betterLove it
effective and super cautious introduction to retinal would recommend to anyone looking to start out on retinol but knowing what to go withLove it
For the price I absolutely love this product it's not better them some expensive ones but if you on a budget yes yes yes I saw results after one use my skin looked fresher and dewy I did pack it on tho but loving the results would definitely buy this again worth a try can't go wrong xxretinoid
this retinoid makes my skin feel really smooth and clear however it can make my skin drygranactive retinoid
This definitely has an adjustment period but I do like the effect it gives over time - plumping my skin and fading my scars (hyperpigmentation)Give my skin a wonder
been using this for 2 weeks w/o fail and its giving my skin such glowwwww and minimizing all tiny bumps. Defffooooo repurchasing thisWould recommend
I have sensitive skin and I tried this as my first retinoid and had no problem. Found my skin looked younger and brighter after only a few usesGreat introduction to retinoid
I love this product and I think it’s a great introduction to retinoid. I always wake up with dewy fresh skin after.
It’s been out of stock for so long though that I’m looking into different brands. I don’t love the squalene version so it’s a shame and I hope it comes back soonworks
This is very gentle to use to improve your skinGood affordable retinol
This was my go-to but it’s been out of stock for agesssss! I highly recommend it if you are just beginning your retinol journey and want something affordable and gentle!Great first starter
Really love this product. Easy to use and start on with Retinols, and a little goes a long wayNew to Retinol? Start here.
This is such a great starter kit for someone new to the retinol world. It does not give you breakouts, no need to start "slow", it's very gentle!Do yourself a favour, and get this!
if there is one product that i could recommend to start using in your early to mid 20s, its this! i do find it to be a bit drying on its own, i use rose hip oil over the top and the results the next day are amazing. it really does help with texture and dark spots. just sure you are using sunscreen when you are using this!Good start to Retinol
I started with this product to begin building up to a higher strength retinol. I noticed my skin felt a lot more hydrated and my acne was a bit calmer, but I think I needed a higher strength to see a bigger difference.
I am glad I started with this however to see how much my skin could tolerate.Probably the best budget purchase I've ever made
I'm halfway through my first bottle of this, and I am incredibly impressed. I've used Skincentuals and Peter Thomas Roth retinol to name just a few and this performs as well as anything else on the market I've tried. This is my first time using a retinoid and it is certainly more gentle but just as effective.
It's a wonderful formula. I will be repurchasing and would recommend to anyo...Read MoreGreat Entry Retinol
This was my first ever retinol purchase as I was worried about getting negative side effects due to my sensitive skin. However I followed the advice from the company and started slowly, gradually working up to using it 3 nights per week and I haven't had any irritation or dryness! It leaves my skin feeling very soft in the morning and it seems to be helping with reducing the visibility of my pores...Read Moregranactive retinoid
I was a little disappointed with this at the start because it made me break out, but over time I noticed those breakouts cleared and my skin became smoother overall thanks to this product.An absolute gem
This was my first ever retinol purchase and I must say that it has not disappointed! As I have sensitive skin, II was super cautious of how my skin would react and if i would flare up / break out, but it did not cause any of that. The consistency is creamy / supple and the smell is pleasant. Highly recommend this product and i will certainly be repurchasing.Love it !
I have been using The Ordinary’s niacinamide 10%+ zinc 1% for almost three weeks now, along with the Ordinary’s granactive retinoid 2% emulsion and buffet serum. I can see and feel the improvement in terms of my skin texture and pore size.Sceptical at first but thoroughly pleased
I bought this on a whim due to the low price and only expected average results. I’ve been using it for about a year and I can say that it has given me the same results as my more expensive retinol creams. We’re conditioned to believe that price indicates quality but this product is the exception. My skin is clearer and smoother and I look more refreshed. This is now a staple in my regime.A great first step
I'm in my mid-20s and am starting to see the first sign of some forehead wrinkles. I chose this as it was a good price point, a good strength (do your research!), and have loved everything I've tried from The Ordinary previously. I chose the emulsion over the squalane as I didn't want something too greasy for my skin and the texture of this is perfect. After the initial flaking and purge associate...Read Moregranactive retinoid
mildly irritating but worked a treat on my acne scars - faded them gradually over time. the formula is quite light and easy to apply.Perfect
I find this moisturising and it has helped the appearance of my skinGood Value
I started using this a few months ago, I was hesitant to use retinol at first but this is very gentle. I have noticed a significant improvement in my skin overall and reducing the signs of aging.granactive retinoid
there was definitely an adjustment period for this (I experienced dry and flakey skin) but now that I've been using it for a few weeks my skin is so soft and smooth and some of my acne scars are fading. Would repurchaseGreatest of all time
I started using this product a few years ago and I am still as obsessed with it. If I had to choose one product only, it would be this. It helped clear up my cystic chin acne and gives me a more refined, and even look the day after applying it. It is also helping my first signs of aging which I LOVE! My skin is not sensitive to this product, which it tends to be with retinoids. Please never stop m...Read MoreGreat entry retinoid
Started off with this as my first retinoid and its gentle but shows results. The look of my skin improved significantly. Great with my sensitive skinBest thing ever
I cannot say how much i LOVE this product. Early 30s with drying sensitive skin, super worried about using retinol, then tried this low percentage. OMG the results are amazing. Lines are more faint and looks youthful.The goat
Buying this was one of the best decision I made. For a long time, i was scared to use retinol on my dry and somewhat sensitive skin. Ensuring I had a good skin barrier I got this product and wow. My skin is looking more youthful and lines have decreased. Highly recommend to anything thinking about trying it!1000% LOVE This Retinol
This product is gentle and is a cheap option when stepping up your retinol game!
I really love it!Light texture, skin feels amazing next morning
I apply the Granactive Retinoid Emulsion every night before going to bed, after a toner, and I love how my skin feels when I wake up. When I have spots or small pimples in the evening, the next morning they are way less prominent. I have an oily skin and this emulsion works perfectly for me. Highly recommended!Light texture, skin feels amazing next morningLove love this serum!
This serum has transformed my skin! Waiting for this to come back in stock as I have run out! I apply at night and wake up with glowy, plump skin! So, so good!!Love
I found this retinol doesn't irritate my skin as much as other retinol products so I will definitely repurchase.Looking fabulous never came easier!
Easy on the skin, gentle and light weight. Just 2-3 drops on the skin after a shower and a face cleanse. Boom, easy to look fab and help your skin regain collagen.Retonal
Great product to start you on retinoids, didn’t cause much of a purge and my skin tolerated it really wellFantastic
I use retinoid in my nighttime routine but more sporadically then routinely. But this retinoid emulsion is amazing, even my husband commented on my skin after using a few nights in a row. I did not have any issues with it but perhaps that’s because I do use retinoid from time to time.Absorbed quickly and left skin feeling hydrated.
Absorbed quickly and left skin feeling hydrated. Great value and speedy postage.Really like this
This has helped with some fine lines that were beginning to form on my forehead. It's also helped a little with texture. It does have a wee bit of a smell to it, but it's next to nothing and goes away quickly.Glowing skin
Love this! Started it as part of a new skin care regime with 3 other The Ordinary products that were recommended for ageing skin and it’s been amazing! Even my husband has mentioned you look like you are glowing! Definitely recommend it especially for the price!Fantastic!!
i only purchased it not even 2 weeks ago and i can already see a massive difference. i have even been getting compliments saying that my skin looks so much better and more alive. 100% going to repurchase. i HIGHLY recommend.Effective
I had major acne breakouts and using this has helped my skin reduce how frequently my skin breaks outamazing
This does not dry out my skin and is so creamy and helpful for my skinGood for price !!
I was really expecting amazing results from this product because of all the amazing reviews, and was hoping to see some immediate reduction of the fine lines around my eyes, but so far I can honestly say I cant see any difference as far as the lines and wrinkles are concerned. I have noticed that my skin has a really healthy glow and appears much smoother. Since I have never used retinoids before,...Read MoreFantastic!!
i have always had a lot of dark spots on my face such as under my eyes, my cheeks. this product is amazing. i only purchased it not even 2 weeks ago and i can already see a massive difference. i have even been getting compliments saying that my skin looks so much better and more alive. 100% going to repurchase. i HIGHLY recommend.Really happy with this purchase!
Retinoid products generally wreck havoc on my skin, but NOT THIS ONE! I didn't experience a massive breakout or redness like I have in the past. Great product at a great price.Don't know what you've got till it's gone!
I used this for about 6 months straight and then it became sold out everywhere and I ran out. I did not realise what a difference this was making to my skin. I have quite oily, dehydrated skin that is super prone to breakouts. When I was using this product my skin was really hydrated and plump and any breakouts I did get were gone within a day or so. I've really noticed a big change in my skin sin...Read MoreAwesome product for a great price!
I recently finished my first bottle of this stuff and can only recommend it to anyone!
My skin loved it and felt hydrated and plump.
Overall I highly recommend this product to anyone(!!), especially if you are new to skincare and want to try something, its a great place to start:)A staple in my skincare routine
Pros, all pros.
- lightweight
- noticeable fading of pigmentation
- gentle enough for my very sensitive skin
First time retinol user
First time using a product like this, starting a skin care regime. I find that its a good start, low irritation to my skin and works well with the buffet and caffeine solution.Great addition to my simple routine
I started using this after reading a book by Anjali Mahato, a dermatologist in the UK. I was on roaccutane for 2 years in my early 20s with very heavy, painful acne, so I am very cautious about the products I use these days. This retinoid has helped clear up my acne scars long term, and I was lucky not to experience any of the sensitivity that some have. I use it nightly after cleansing and have h...Read MoreGreat addition to my simple routine
I started using this after reading a book by Anjali Mahato, a dermatologist in the UK. I was on roaccutane for 2 years in my early 20s with very heavy, painful acne, so I am very cautious about the products I use these days. This retinoid has helped clear up my acne scars long term, and I was lucky not to experience any of the sensitivity that some have. I use it nightly after cleansing and have h...Read MoreNo complaints
Couldn't imagine not using this, I have been using it every second night so my skin can get used to the retinoid. It has a milky texture, slightly runny - I believe it has contributed to the overall health of my skin!No noticeable difference
This serum didn’t do much for my oily Asian skin that is prone to breakouts. Found that it contributed to my breakouts and didn’t notice any visible difference to my skin health and fine lines.Great Product!
I’ve been using this product for the last 6 months and it’s amazing! It makes my skin feel and look great! I had an issue with my product having faulty packaging and immediately contacted customer service and they got back so quickly and sent a replacement out! Awesome customer service and awesome product!Enjoying It So Far
I recently decided to begin using retinoids in my skincare regimen and I thought I'd start with this product due to its affordable price and popularity. I use it three times a week at night and while I haven't found any immediate effects - I am happy that it has been suitable for my sensitive, acne prone skin. All retinoids take time to work so I'm looking forward to continuing to use this!So far so good
I've used this product for around 2 weeks now and I do feel like it does reduce the appearance of breakout slightly. I think I would have to use this longer to see the proper effects of it!Love it!
I mostly use this when my skin feels dry or sensitive. Although it is a retinoid, I find it more hydrating but not heavy!Unsure
I like the creamy consistency, and it was definitely non-irritating for a retinol product, but even after months of consistent use, I'm yet to see of any changes in my skin.Good introduction to retinol
A good introduction to retinol. Noticeable difference in skin, using twice a week once I’d just about finished the bottle. Zero irritation but ended up purchasing a more expensive and stronger retinol once I used this one up. Use alone at night time for best results.My Intro to Retinol
Gentle enough that I didn't experience any adverse side effects, with a lovely texture. Really enjoyed finishing my PM skincare routine with this a few times a week. Looking forward to seeing the longer term effects for such a decent price!Amazing
My first retinoid product and I’m definitely converted! It reduces signs of aging and breakouts and ill be upgrading to the 5% when I’ve finished this as my skin is not at all sensitive to itNot sure if this is effective, mildly irritating
I purchased this several times, and thought my skin was just sensitive, but as soon as I stopped using it, I no longer had the red sensitive skin I seemed to be suffering from... Maybe this is because I used it too much (every night). I also did not see a noticeable reduction in wrinkles, but these things are really difficult to gauge. I am 27 with first signs of ageing.GREAT RETINOID PRODUCT
I have seen so many retinoid products with oil in nomination. It is a great formula but I sometimes prefer not to mix with oil as I have my own favourite ones. This emulsion is just retinoid and not irritating my skin. I started using once per week and now a couple of times per week mixing with low strength retinol.Not brilliant
I have been using this retinoid every third night for about 3 months now and I haven’t noticed a difference in my skin at all... for a while I was using this after my hyalauronic acid serum and it was just polling straight off. Now I just use it on freshly washed skin. It feels really oily and smells really chemically. I’m going to keep using it until it runs out But I probably won’t be repurchas...Read Morecreamy
I like how even though this is a retinoid, I did not experience a lot of dryness with use. I thought it was easy to apply, and i noticed some fading of dark marks over a monthSo far so good
Bought this for my boyfriend as I have finally convinced him to start doing skin-care after 4 years together. This was a product that was recommended on the podcast (if I remember correctly). It's great for those just starting/easing into the use of Retinoid as it is considered a lighter option and not too crazy for the skin. My boyfriend hasn't had any issues with it and likes the creamy texture,...Read MoreGreat nighttime product
Great as a first step in my nighttime routine, i combine with the ordinary buffet and a more hydrating oil then moisturiser. While it doesn't feel like its doing anything, my skin always looks more even and rested in the morningA nice retinol to try
I was pleased with this product as I am prone to breakouts and had seen the odd report of someone claiming it caused them to breakout. I found this had the opposite effect and my skin has been looking calmer and my blemishes have significantly decreased. I also have sensitive skin and it appears more hydrated and has been behaving itself.Good
I like the creamy texture and the smell. It helps with acne tooHoly grail product
Holy moly. This along with the glycolic toner has changed my skin. I used to suffer with awful breakouts and red pimple scars. 12 months on from using this product 2 times a week my skin is so much better. I still have faint scars and the occasional breakout but the difference in texture and pigmentation has been incredible. I experience NO irritation whatsoever. Will continue to use a few more bo...Read MorePretty good but makes my skin slightly dry
This product is great and draws all of the impurities out of your skin. The serum does make my skin feel dry by morning but have combated that by wearing a heavier moisturiser on the days after i use this at night.Changed my life!
Best and cheapest retinol product on the market. I was using samples of the Sunday Reilly Luna oil (~$150 for a small bottle) which really helped my skin- did some research and realised it was probably the retinol so found the (much, much cheaper) Ordinary version and am now so much more confident in my skin. My skin feels smoother but also firmer. Was alternating retinol one night and vitamin c a...Read MoreGood introduction to retinol.
Its a really good product for someone venturing into Vit A products. Did not irritate my skin at all. I could use it almost everyday although I did introduce it slowly to avoid any peeling/flakiness.Non-irritating and creamy, unsure of results
This is my first retinol/retinoid and it's not what i was expecting! it's really creamy and nice to apply, not at all irritating but i haven't yet seen obvious results in terms of anti-aging properties.My Mum Loves This Product
I bought this product for my mum and she has advised me to feed back that she loves the formulation. She finds it to be great value for money, a very smooth and well tolerated formulation, and is thrilled with the results. She says she feels her skin is hydrated and fresh, and that her redness and pigmentation are becoming less obvious.A family staple !
I've used this serum for 2 years . Now my 18 and 16 year olds also. The 18yo's acne proned dry skin has become manageable since. The texture has smoothed while the acne scarring has lightened. However, the 16yo's combination skin isn't really problematic though it's being used sporadically as a preventative measure.My first retinoid
I use this 3 times per week. Skin always feels so soft after applying. I like the consistency of the product. Hasn't made a s much of a difference as i expected so next time i will probably go to stronger formulation. My skin is oily and oiliness has reduced as result of this i think.gold standard
You have to be consistent with this product to get the best out of it. I didn't use it properly the first time round, but I've gotten a second bottle and am seeing a difference.Multiple benefits
I actually bought this for the anti-ageing benefits of retinol but I find it also works really well for helping to keep my skin clear. More than once it's stopped a blind people from coming through! It's a lifesaverLove!
Really happy with how non-irritating this solution is (only using 1-2 x per week). Nice experience to use and always leaves me with clear, fresh skin the next day.Repurchasing
I love this product. Texture is creamy, hydrating and moisturising. It is my second bottle, and I can see that my skin texture has improved, it is more even.Second purchase of this product!
thinking about price and brand recognition, great value for those need to consider money and quality same time!!The best and most affordable Retinoid
This stuff is amazing - every night I use it, I wake with glowy, lush skin.
I'm in my early twenties, starting to notice some fine lines, after I use this, they're basically gone the next day. Also works wonders for my skin (I used to have bad cystic acne, now just mild congestion and scarring), it really helps with thatCost effective anti-ager
Love this retinoid, I have fair and sensitive skin and this product works quite well. I use x3 times a week in the evening and think it 100% helps manage my age-ing!Stick with it and be amazed
This is my first time trying a retinol. I was a little nervous and initially I broke out a lot around my nose and chin. However I was told to stick with it and I am so glad I did. After about 2 months my pores appear smaller as do the lines around my eyes. My skin has never looked better, I love this product, the price is amazing tooWorks!
Don't understand how it works, but skin always looks more refined after I use this. Doesn't dry me out either.doesn't last long
i prefer the oil version because it lasts longerNo reason to be sacred of Retinol
I had never used Retinol as I never knew how to use it properly - but this formula and system is simple to plan and understand. You only need such a small amount so it's excellent value for money.Fantastic!
I have never used a retinol before and this was not too harsh for my normal to combination skin type. the main improvement that I've seen is that emerging pimples last no where near as long as they normally would and sometimes prevents them even surfacing. Absolutely love and am about to repurchase but at the 5%.Smoothens Skin
I apply this at night only, after I put on the Hyorolic Acid.
It evens out my skin and removes any whitehead bumps. Feels really soft the next morning too.excellent retinoid
This is a great retinoid for breakouts and acne scarring. My go-to product now, will definitely be purchasing more.No need for highlighter
This gives my such an amazing glow, use it every night and my skin has never looked this nice!Great oil-free retinoid first sensitive skin
I started off using it 1-2 days per week and it’s already helping so much- noticing less breakouts, smoother skin around my eye area, perfect to squeeze into the 3 step moisture method and non irritating at all. Excited to see how my skin looks in 3 months!Stunning product
Hands down the best alternative to oil based retinoids that I've found thus far. 4 bottles through this and it really takes the cake. Squalene based retinoids often break me out but this emulsion is very effective at doing what it advertises. It's gentle but still effective enough to see obvious changes within weeks and I've had no issues with dryness after easing into using it (2-3 times a week) ...Read MoreEh
Smells funny, and after months of use, did not notice a difference. Have gone up to a higher percentage, so maybe I will change my mind!
