Soothing

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (Granactive Retinoid)

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) — a modern retinoid that acts directly through skin receptors without conversion. More effective than retinol with much lower irritation — an ideal choice for sensitive skin.

anti-agingretinoidwithout irritationdirect action

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) — a synthetic ester of retinoic acid (tretinoin) with 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol. INCI: Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate. Trade name 'Granactive Retinoid' (from Grant Industries). Molecular weight is close to retinol, but the molecule directly activates RAR receptors (like tretinoin) and does not require conversion through skin enzymes. Concentration: 0.05–2%.

Anti-aging serums and night creams for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate classic retinol. Effective for reducing wrinkles, evening skin tone, correcting post-acne. Can be used in the morning and evening due to stability.

Key Benefits

✦

Direct activation without irritation

Unlike retinol, HPR does not require conversion — it directly binds to RAR receptors and activates collagen synthesis genes. The conversion pathway retinol → retinaldehyde → retinoic acid produces intermediate products that irritate the skin. HPR bypasses this pathway.

◈

Reduction of wrinkles and even tone

Clinical study (2018, Cosmetics): HPR 0.1% is more effective than retinol 0.3% in reducing fine wrinkles and increasing collagen synthesis, with significantly lower irritation. Also brightens tone, reduces pigmentation.

✧

Stability and daytime use

HPR is significantly more stable than retinol — does not require strict storage away from light. Some HPR formulas are safe for daytime use (with SPF). Simpler routine compared to traditional retinol.

Suitable for

sensitive skinmature skinskin that reacts to retinolall skin types

Main Actions

✓ direct retinoid activity✓ wrinkle correction✓ even skin tone

HPR compared to retinoids

Tretinoin (the strongest, irritates) > HPR ≈ Retinyl Retinoate (effective, gentle) > Retinol (moderate) > Retinyl Palmitate (the gentlest). HPR is a better choice than retinol for those who previously had retinol dermatitis or skin irritation. Both options are effective, but HPR often wins in clinical comparisons.

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