TheOrdinary

Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane

19 Reviews

• yvonne2009

  Jun 21, 2025 (UTC)
  Combination Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  Even when applied generously, there was no notable irritation or other side effects.

  Cons

  It doesn't absorb well and feels like it's just sitting on top of the skin. It's also quite sticky.

  Tip

  As part of my evening skincare routine, I apply it generously before bed. However, it tends to transfer onto my pillowcase, requiring daily changes, which can be a bit of a hassle.

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• 붕어뿡빵

  Feb 9, 2025 (UTC)
  Combination SkinAcne Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  My biggest skin concern has always been sagging pores, but I've seen amazing results with this product. With consistent use, I could visibly see an improvement in my enlarged pores. Despite containing 2% retinol, it didn't cause any irritation. It's also one of the more affordable retinol serums out there, making it a great entry-level option for those new to retinol.

  Cons

  - When I first started using it, I really disliked the scent. - It seems you need to use it 'consistently' to see results. When I stopped using it for a while, my skin reverted back to its original state.

  Tip

  I didn't use it daily, but rather every other day along with Lidl Shot (100).

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• callmekat

  Dec 6, 2024 (UTC)
  Dry SkinAcne Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  The retinol in the squalane oil was too greasy for me to use comfortably, but this emulsion feels light and fresh. After patting it in, it absorbs quickly without pilling. It provides light hydration and seems to be relatively gentle compared to other retinol products.

  Cons

  Due to the nature of retinol, you need to be careful with the amount you apply (use less than you might think). Avoid applying it around the eyes and mouth. If irritation occurs, redness may persist for a few days.

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• 실용적인아나콘다5323

  Mar 3, 2024 (UTC)
  Oily SkinSensitive Skin

  Review under verification

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  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  While I'm not sure about the results yet, I'm pleasantly surprised by how gentle this retinol product is. I was worried about irritation, but there's hardly any. The low irritation factor is absolutely fantastic!

  Cons

  The scent is a bit off-putting. Also, it's slightly inconvenient that it needs to be stored in the refrigerator.

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• 메론맛사약

  Oct 27, 2023 (UTC)
  Normal Skin

  Review under verification

  The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.

  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  It's definitely less irritating compared to retinol. While products with 1% retinol might be more effective, I'm using this because it's gentler, which is great when you want to use it alongside vitamin C. I plan to move up to the 5% product next time.

  Cons

  You need to use it within 3 months after opening, and it has a slight starchy smell.

  Tip

  It's good to split it between two people to use it up within 3 months.

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• 따뜻한복서172007

  Sep 8, 2023 (UTC)
  Combination Skin

  Review under verification

  The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.

  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  I love that it provides hydration as well. It's also less irritating to the skin.

  Cons

  I'm not sure if it really has the retinoid effects as claimed. To be honest, there aren't any major drawbacks.

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• galim11

  Aug 20, 2023 (UTC)
  Dry SkinSensitive Skin

  Review under verification

  The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.

  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  It absorbs well, leaving the skin feeling hydrated on the inside with a light, protective layer on the outside. For a retinol product, it's relatively gentle on the skin. Even with my sensitive skin, I found it tolerable after about a week of adjustment.

  Cons

  The dropper makes it challenging to dispense small amounts, which is necessary for this product. I wish there were more detailed product information and application guidelines available on the website or elsewhere. The lack of guidance and information is disappointing.

  Tip

  For best results, apply this after using a niacinamide product.

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• 인생템찾기e

  Jul 31, 2023 (UTC)
  Combination SkinSensitive SkinAcne Skin

  Review under verification

  The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.

  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  I have combination skin that leans towards dry. This oil-based formula is perfect for those with dry skin. If you find oil formulations a bit heavy, try applying a modeling mask after using it for just the right amount of hydration. With consistent use, you'll start to see results in about 2-3 weeks. It's a gentle retinol product that even those with sensitive skin can use without worrying about irritation.

  Cons

  There's nothing I dislike about it. Once I finish this bottle, I plan to purchase a higher concentration product.

  Tip

  If you're looking to start using retinol but are concerned about the cost and potential irritation, I highly recommend The Ordinary's retinol serum. For those who find oil-based products a bit heavy, I suggest applying a modeling mask after using this product.

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• 가지런한기러기32943

  Jul 10, 2023 (UTC)
  Combination SkinSensitive SkinAcne Skinproduct.Atopy Skin

  Review under verification

  The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.

  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  As someone with super sensitive skin, I love that there's absolutely no irritation even when I mix a couple of drops with my moisturizer. The next morning, I notice my blemishes have shrunk and there's a definite improvement in my skin texture.

  Cons

  It's a bit disappointing that you have to use it all within 3 months after opening. I'll need to use it more generously. As for pore reduction, I'm not sure if I've seen any significant changes yet.

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• 밝은청새리상어2171

  Apr 18, 2023 (UTC)
  Combination Skin

  Review under verification

  The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.

  OK

  Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers

  This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.

  OK
  Pros

  It doesn't irritate my skin and absorbs really well. It's effective at smoothing out skin texture and somewhat helps with pores.

  Cons

  It leaves my face feeling a bit greasy. I think I need to be more careful with how much I apply.