TheOrdinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane Reviews

Name: Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane
Brand: TheOrdinary
Rating: 4.42 (71 reviews)

4.42

Most Recently AddedFilter

This Korean review was translated by AI and may contain inaccuracies.

8 Reviews

붕어뿡빵
Feb 9, 2025
Combination 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.
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.
Pros
I've been struggling with enlarged pores as my biggest skin concern, but I've seen great results from using this product. With consistent use, I've noticed a visible improvement in my enlarged pores. Even though it contains 2% retinol, it didn't cause any irritation. Additionally, it's one of the more affordable retinol ampoules, so I'd recommend it as a great entry-level retinol product.
Cons
At first, the fragrance was really disliked. It seems that you need to use it 'consistently' to see the effects. When I stopped using it in the middle, it reverted back to its original state.
Tip
I did not use it daily, but used it about once every two days along with Riddle Shot (100).

jinabeauty
Jan 16, 2025
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.
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.
Pros
The effects - smooths fine wrinkles, instantly improves skin texture, and my freckles have become smaller. Pore-minimizing effect. The formula and application - a light, fluid-like ampoule formula. Moisturization - it takes away moisture from the face, making it slightly dry. This is a characteristic of retinol-based products.
Cons
0.2% is intended for intermediate to advanced users, so those with sensitive skin should be cautious as it may cause peeling, flaking, or redness, and should use it carefully.
Tip
After applying a retinol-based product, allow for approximately 2 minutes of absorption, then follow up with a regenerative cream to further support the skin's renewal cycle.

아이쵹쵹해
Jul 9, 2023
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.
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.
Pros
I started using retinol as an introductory product, and within a week, I noticed that my pores had shrunk and my skin texture had improved. 1. Irritation If you visit the official Deciem website, you'll find an explanation of the difference between retinoids and retinol. Retinoids come in 2% and 5% concentrations, and they are developed to maintain the effects of retinol while minimizing side effects. They are a bit more expensive. Retinol comes in 0.2%, 0.5%, and 1% concentrations, and it's generally recommended to start with 0.2% and gradually increase the dosage. Deciem recommends using retinoids, but many people seem to start with 0.2% retinol. While the website states "no irritation," it's not completely irritation-free. There may be a slight tingling sensation, but it doesn't lead to peeling or breakouts. If you have sensitive skin and are concerned about using retinol, I recommend starting with this product. 2. Effectiveness I was initially skeptical about Deciem's claim that their retinoid ingredients can reduce the side effects of retinol while maximizing its benefits, as I wasn't sure how well-established this was. However, I have experienced definite positive effects.
Cons
It's not completely free of irritation. Right after application, there is a slight tingling sensation and some redness in certain areas. The product information states that oil production may increase in the initial stages of use, and I did experience more breakouts a couple of days after starting it. I had to take a break for a day and use soothing products to calm my skin. It's important to monitor your skin's condition and adjust the usage accordingly.
Tip
Use an appropriate amount of the product in the evening (no need to worry about sunlight or indoor lighting). Apply it together with an ampoule containing hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, and follow up with a hydrating, soothing cream. Cleanse your face gently in the morning. Additionally, since the original product is discontinued, you'll need to use the emulsion version. While the instructions state it can be used daily, I found that the skin reaches its peak condition and sees the most improvement around the 2-week mark. Your pores shrink, oil production decreases, and your skin texture improves. However, if you continue using it beyond 2 weeks, the next day your skin may feel thin and you may experience some redness and bumpiness, indicating it's affecting your skin barrier. It's best to monitor your skin and adjust the usage accordingly. Taking a break for about a week can completely reset your skin. Consistent use with periodic adjustments seems to be the way to go.

밝은청새리상어2171
Apr 18, 2023
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.
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.
Pros
It has a gentle formula and good spreadability. It helps to refine skin texture and somewhat improve pores.
Cons
My face feels a bit shiny. I think I need to adjust the amount used.

NEW.O
Oct 10, 2022
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.
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.
Pros
The skin texture becomes smoother. While the pores do not become smaller, it seems to help manage sebum and be effective against blackheads. I'm not sure about the wrinkle improvement or skin tone correction effects, as I used it rather sparingly. The squalane spreads very smoothly. So in the beginning, I only used a very small amount, but I couldn't really tell if it was effective at all. When I applied it more generously, the skin texture improvement effect became quite noticeable. The skin looks much smoother. And while I didn't directly feel dryness when I only used this, adding a cream on top was better for me. The squalane feels like a diluting agent to reduce irritation. I used to really like the Ordinary vitamin C products, but I haven't been using them since I started using this. But now I might just stick with this... It felt a bit oily at first, but it's much easier to apply now.
Cons
Not much. The oily feel of the squalane was a bit off-putting in the beginning, but that's about it. It's oily, but a bit lacking to use on its own.

sonomo
Jun 28, 2022
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.
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.
Pros
It's decent and affordable, so it's worth trying. They say retinol is good for pore and wrinkle improvement, and there's a 2% product that I like.
Cons
The spreadability is really poor, so it's hard to apply. No matter how much I pat it, it doesn't absorb and just feels greasy on the skin.

케케묵은쌀밥
Mar 29, 2020
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.
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.
Pros
At night, it cares for you and when you wake up in the morning, you can feel a different kind of elasticity compared to before using this product. I originally had very large pores and my skin would get clogged with blackheads and enlarged pores if I neglected my skincare routine even a little, but lately, due to wearing masks, my skin has really gone to the dogs. The humid and hot temperature inside the mask has caused my T-zone to stretch out terribly. But after using this product for about a week, I can feel a certain degree of elasticity in the mornings. The visible effects are so surprising. On top of that, the moisturizing and hydrating properties of the squalane make it so that I don't even need to use a cream or emulsion.
Cons
It's a thin, watery, oily-feeling liquid that's yellowish and transparent, and when you apply it to your face, it makes your face look slightly yellow haha. I'm just really sensitive to even the slightest changes in skin tone haha, so I don't use it in the morning when I'm doing my makeup, only at night.
Tip
If you mix it with the serum from the previous step, you can use it more comfortably with a lotion or emulsion-like texture!

ez_yu
Mar 6, 2020
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.
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.
Pros
After endless overtime work and drinking sessions, I started to notice enlarged pores and a loss of skin elasticity. After an intensive online search, I decided to try a retinol product. In the end, I am very satisfied. It is just the right fit for a retinol beginner like me. The inclusion of squalane oil leaves a slight residue after application, but it actually helps prevent moisture loss and is beneficial. My overall skin elasticity and texture have improved significantly. The amount is truly generous, and I was able to use it 3 times a week for almost 3 months. I'm so satisfied that I bought another bottle. For now, this will be my go-to anti-aging product.
Cons
The Granactive Retinoid is really well-absorbed. The downside is that it is extremely runny, so it easily gets into the eyes, which is quite irritating. Other than that, it's the best.