Granactive Retinoid
An ester of retinoic acid that binds RAR receptors directly without conversion, delivering retinoid efficacy with markedly reduced irritation. Commercially sold as Granactive Retinoid by Grant Industries.
The hydroxypinacolone ester delivers all-trans retinoic acid directly to RAR sites, bypassing the retinol→retinal→retinoic acid cascade. Lower receptor turnover translates to less inflammatory signalling.
- Retinoid efficacy without retinisation
- Photostable
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Compatible with AM use
- No purge period typically
What the evidence supports.
- Sensitive
- Normal
- Reactive
- Mature
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding (precautionary)
Later treatment or moisturiser step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.2%–2%
Year-round including summer; photostable.
No dietary equivalent.
No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.
Excellent retinoid for first-timers and clients who failed retinol due to irritation. Pairs with vitamin C without conflict.
- Veraldi et al. 2013, HPR 0.2% improved acne with minimal irritation
- Industry data, equivalent collagen gene expression to retinol at lower irritation
The research behind Granactive Retinoid.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019
Maturitas, 2017
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
Annals of Internal Medicine, 2013
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
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