---
product_id: 47882822
title: "Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Advanced Retinoid Alternative for Anti-Aging and Skin Texture Improvement, 30ml"
brand: "the ordinary"
price: "R470"
currency: ZAR
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 13
category: "The Ordinary"
url: https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/47882822-granactive-retinoid-2-emulsion-advanced-retinoid-alternative-for-anti-aging
store_origin: ZA
region: South Africa
---

# Tasmannia Lanceolata Extract - anti-irritant calm Lightweight emulsion - hydration without heaviness 2% Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate - potent yet gentle Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Advanced Retinoid Alternative for Anti-Aging and Skin Texture Improvement, 30ml

**Brand:** the ordinary
**Price:** R470
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> ✨ Glow Up Overnight with the Future of Retinoids!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Advanced Retinoid Alternative for Anti-Aging and Skin Texture Improvement, 30ml by the ordinary
- **How much does it cost?** R470 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.co.za](https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/47882822-granactive-retinoid-2-emulsion-advanced-retinoid-alternative-for-anti-aging)

## Best For

- the ordinary enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted the ordinary brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Gentle Yet Effective:** Formulated with Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate to minimize irritation, perfect for sensitive, reactive skin types.
- • **Next-Gen Retinoid Power:** Delivers advanced anti-aging benefits with 2% Granactive Retinoid for visible wrinkle reduction and skin texture refinement.
- • **Nighttime Renewal Ritual:** Optimized for evening use to support collagen and elastin production, promoting firmer, youthful skin by morning.
- • **Hydrating Emulsion Texture:** Lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly and layers seamlessly under moisturizers and sunscreen.
- • **Skin-Calming Botanical Boost:** Includes Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract to soothe and reduce potential redness or irritation.

## Overview

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is a cutting-edge anti-aging serum that combines a moderate-strength, next-generation retinoid with soothing botanicals in a lightweight emulsion. Designed to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture without the typical irritation of retinol, it’s ideal for sensitive skin and nightly use. This fragrance-free, cruelty-free formula supports skin elasticity and hydration, making it a must-have for millennials seeking effective, gentle skincare with a modern edge.

## Description

This retinoid serum targets visible aging with a next-gen retinoid for results without irritation. The formula also contains anti-irritant extracts to help calm skin.

Review: Emulsion is way better than any serum! Good for sensitive skin - I can’t stop talking about this product- I’ve been using The Ordinary Gran Active Retinoid 2% Emulsion for some time now and it has quickly become a standout product in my skincare routine. Unlike their usual serum formulations, this is a lightweight emulsion that feels gentle on the skin but packs a powerful punch. This retinoid emulsion delivers a strong, effective dose of active retinoid (Gran Active Retinoid, a next-gen retinoid) equivalent to retinal in performance but with a more skin-friendly profile. Despite having sensitive skin, I’ve had minimal irritation or redness, which is often a concern with retinoids. The emulsion texture really helps with tolerance and hydration- I find it so much more moisturising but not comedogenic. I’ve done a lot of research on ingredients and formulations, and this product truly lives up to the claims of being as effective as retinal, making it an excellent alternative for those who want results without harsh side effects. The emulsion is light, easily absorbed, and doesn’t leave a greasy or sticky residue. It layers beautifully under moisturizers and sunscreens. It’s different from The Ordinary’s serum textures so if you prefer something less heavy but still want the benefits of a strong retinoid, this is perfect. After consistent use, my skin looks smoother, more even-toned, and has a noticeable glow. It also helps with fine lines and overall texture without the usual dryness or peeling I experienced with other retinoids. This product is a great option for anyone, especially those with sensitive or reactive skin, who want to upgrade their retinoid game. I highly recommend it. No fragrance or smell which I love- indicates simplicity and always makes me breakout which this se mulakon does not do- I think I have found my favourite serum ever!
Review: Very good retinol - Low concentration, leading to no irritation or redness. good quality for the price

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN  | B071HHSMTT |
| Best Sellers Rank | 1,543 in Beauty ( See Top 100 in Beauty ) 49 in Face Serums |
| Country of origin  | Canada |
| Customer reviews | 4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars (3,847) |
| Date First Available  | 7 Feb. 2017 |
| Is discontinued by manufacturer  | No |
| Item model number  | 3052784 |
| Manufacturer  | DECIEM |
| Product Dimensions  | 3.33 x 3.33 x 11.43 cm; 30 g |

## Product Details

- **Active ingredients:** Retinol
- **Brand:** The Ordinary
- **Item form:** Serum
- **Item weight:** 30 Grams
- **Material feature:** Cruelty Free, Fragrance Free, Vegan
- **Scent:** Fragrance Free
- **Skin type:** All
- **Special ingredients:** Glycerin, Retinol
- **Use for:** Face

## Images

![Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Advanced Retinoid Alternative for Anti-Aging and Skin Texture Improvement, 30ml - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/516V6CiKopL.jpg)

## Questions & Answers

**Q: Are you able to tell me the ingredients? Wondering if it's natural.**
A: Hi Kate, firstly as of late August 2017, The Ordinary's Advanced Retinoid 2% has been renamed to Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion.
The ingredients are:
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Ethyl Linoleate, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Bisabolol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Retinol, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Glyceryl Stearate, Ceteareth-12, Ceteareth-20, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carrageenan, Xanthan gum, Acacia Senegal Gum, Cetyl Palmitate, Sucrose Laurate, Polysorbate 20, Isoceteth-20, Behentrimonium Chloride, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Disodium EDTA, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.

pH
5.00-6.00
water-free
alcohol-free
oil-free
silicone-free
nut-free
vegan
gluten-free
soy-free
cruelty-free
Hope this helps

**Q: Is this a genuine product? Can it be proven it’s real?**
A: my arrived from china amd i experienced biggest allergic reaction ever. i still have skin pigmentation left from it after 2 months. i truly believe this is fake. I have other The Ordinary products and comparing the packaging I cam tell small differences like smaller print, colours ect. trying to get my money back for months now

**Q: How do you put on your face ? And do you cover your whole face with it ? Or just where you have dark spots etc?**
A: I put a few drops in my hand and just lightly run or tap it all over my face. Avoiding eyes

**Q: Does this get rid of pigmentation on the forehead and upper lip?**
A: Yes, this item will reduce the pigmentation. but another product also from the same company will be suitable for pigmentation, https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07CK7BMC4

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Emulsion is way better than any serum! Good for sensitive skin
*by A***R on 28 May 2025*

I can’t stop talking about this product- I’ve been using The Ordinary Gran Active Retinoid 2% Emulsion for some time now and it has quickly become a standout product in my skincare routine. Unlike their usual serum formulations, this is a lightweight emulsion that feels gentle on the skin but packs a powerful punch. This retinoid emulsion delivers a strong, effective dose of active retinoid (Gran Active Retinoid, a next-gen retinoid) equivalent to retinal in performance but with a more skin-friendly profile. Despite having sensitive skin, I’ve had minimal irritation or redness, which is often a concern with retinoids. The emulsion texture really helps with tolerance and hydration- I find it so much more moisturising but not comedogenic. I’ve done a lot of research on ingredients and formulations, and this product truly lives up to the claims of being as effective as retinal, making it an excellent alternative for those who want results without harsh side effects. The emulsion is light, easily absorbed, and doesn’t leave a greasy or sticky residue. It layers beautifully under moisturizers and sunscreens. It’s different from The Ordinary’s serum textures so if you prefer something less heavy but still want the benefits of a strong retinoid, this is perfect. After consistent use, my skin looks smoother, more even-toned, and has a noticeable glow. It also helps with fine lines and overall texture without the usual dryness or peeling I experienced with other retinoids. This product is a great option for anyone, especially those with sensitive or reactive skin, who want to upgrade their retinoid game. I highly recommend it. No fragrance or smell which I love- indicates simplicity and always makes me breakout which this se mulakon does not do- I think I have found my favourite serum ever!

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very good retinol
*by J***N on 27 August 2025*

Low concentration, leading to no irritation or redness. good quality for the price

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐ A great buy for a simple longterm routine.
*by C***Y on 7 December 2025*

The texture is lightweight and milky, spreads effortlessly, and absorbs quickly without any greasy or sticky residue, no noticeable scent. It layers perfectly under moisturizer and never pills. What stands out most is how tolerable it is. No dryness, flaking, redness, or sensitivity at all, even when used nightly. At the same time, it’s clearly working—skin looks noticeably smoother, more even-toned, and refined. Fine lines appear softened and overall clarity has improved significantly. For the price, the quality and performance are outstanding. Simple packaging, precise pump, and a little goes a long way. This has become a permanent step in my routine. Highly recommend for anyone wanting real retinoid benefits without the usual irritation.

## Frequently Bought Together

- The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Advanced Retinoid Alternative for Anti-Aging and Skin Texture Improvement, 1 Fl Oz
- The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin
- The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG, Depuffing Eye Serum for Dark Circles and Tired Eyes

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*Product available on Desertcart South Africa*
*Store origin: ZA*
*Last updated: 2026-02-22*