Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum by DoSe contains the next generation retinol-alternative. Granactive Retinoid is a creamy emulsion to help combat ageing and blemish-prone skin for a brighter, more youthful complexion.

Granactive Retinoid Serum emulsion provides one of the most bio-available, non-prescription forms of Vitamin A, along with an effective delivery system to protect skin against ageing, uneven skin tone, and surface irregularities with little or no irritation.

The DoSe - Key Actives:

Granactive Retinoid - A high performing, non-prescriptive retinoid to help improve the appearance of fine lines and dynamic lines as well as improving skin clarity and texture due to loss of collagen & elastin
Ergothioneine - Protects against oxidative stress and pollution with antioxidant properties to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles
Hyaluronic Acid - Draws moisture deep within the epidermis for intense hydration. Formulated with high and low molecular weights to help target multiple layers of the skin

The DoSe Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum Benefits:

A low-irritating, high performance alternative to retinol that offers significant defence against multiple signs of ageing
Helps to target blemish-prone skin
Helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Protects against environmental stressors and oxidative stress
Water-based serum free from squalane

How to use: Introduce Granactive Retinoid face serum slowly, applying it once every three days at night for the first two to three weeks, gradually increasing application thereafter. As a guide, use a pea-sized amount for your entire face - applying more will not help it work faster. End your morning routine with an SPF. Retinoids may make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

All DoSe by VH skincare products are manufactured and filled in the UK.

Our in house pharmacist Shabir Daya has written three articles about Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum benefits plus read our DoSe Glossary and guide to all DoSe formulations:

Avoid contact with eyes. For external use only. Discontinue use if irritation occurs. Retinoids may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of reach of children. Store in cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

Aqua (Water), Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Glycerin, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Ergothioneine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Gluconate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine, Sclerotium Gum, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Dehydroxanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid

What is Granactive Retinoid?
Granactive Retinoid is a derivative of vitamin A which has positive effects on skin and its appearance.

How does it differ from Retinol and Retinal?
Granactive Retinoid, Retinol and Retinal are all vitamin A derivatives that share the similar functions on skin and are termed ‘retinoids’. They are considered by most dermatologists as transformative in the treatment of acne as they work by exfoliating dead skin cells and by enhancing cell turnover to reveal healthy new cells. These new cells push the dead cells including excess oil out of blocked pores. It is this same cell turnover that also means that retinoids are the gold standard for any anti-ageing treatment.

How does it differ to Tretinoin?
Trans-retinoid acid, also known as Tretinoin is a prescription only retinoid used for decades to treat acne and ageing skin. Tretinoin has a direct effect on skin but it is only available on prescription because it can be highly irritating, burning, reddening on skin, and can cause discolouration.

All other over the counter retinoids such as Retinol and Retinal have to go through the vitamin A pathway and be converted into retinoic acid to obtain their benefits. Retinal is one step away from its conversion into retinoic acid which means it acts quicker than Retinol however it is also very irritating on skin. Retinol is converted into Retinal in skin which in turn then converts to retinoic acid so although its two steps away, it can still be irritating depending on the strength used. Granactive retinoid due to its molecular structure is one of the most bioavailable, non-prescription, next generation forms of vitamin A with little to no irritation in a delivery system that protects skin against multiple signs of ageing as well as helping to improve spot-prone skin.

What skin types are best suited to Granactive Retinoid?
Granactive Retinoid is suitable for all skin types including skin prone to acne, blemishes, blackheads, as well as ageing skin. Granactive Retinoid is not recommended for use during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding.

What are the benefits of Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum?
Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum contains a high concentration of an active ingredient called Granactive Retinoid, which is a derivative of retinoic acid, which is a form of vitamin A known for its anti-ageing and skin-renewing properties. Granactive Retinoid is considered to be less irritating compared to other forms of retinoids like retinol or retinoic acid, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin or those who are new to using retinoids. It works by stimulating cell turnover and increasing the production of new skin cells, leading to smoother, more youthful-looking skin over time.

When and how should I use Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum?
Using Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum correctly is essential to maximising its benefits while minimising the risk of irritation. Introduce Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum slowly, applying it once every three days at night for the first two to three weeks, gradually increasing application thereafter. As a guide, use a pea-sized amount for your entire face; applying more will not help it work faster. End your morning routine with an SPF. Retinoids may make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Can Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum be used on all skin types?
Granactive Serum is generally considered suitable for all skin types but we always recommend performing a patch test before using it on your face, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Can Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum be used with other skincare products?
Yes, Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum can be combined with other skincare products. They can be used alongside moisturisers, serums, and other active ingredients.

Can Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
The use of Granactive Retinoid 5% Serum or any other skincare product containing retinoids during pregnancy and while breastfeeding is generally not recommended, so it is always advisable to seek medical advice from your healthcare professional before introducing any new products into your skincare regime.

The colour of my serum is different to my previous one. Is this normal?
Due to the high percentage of natural extracts, this serum is naturally scented and colour may vary.

What is an active ingredient and what does it mean?
An "active ingredient" refers to the specific component or substance within a product that provides a therapeutic or beneficial effect on the skin. Active ingredients are typically responsible for targeting and addressing specific skin concerns.

How can I maximise the longevity and effectiveness of my serum?
Keep away from direct sunlight, avoid extreme temperatures, seal the container properly to minimise air exposure and avoid moisture and humidity and pay attention to the period after opening symbol. Layering products in the correct order, such as applying serums before moisturisers, can optimise their absorption and effectiveness.

Do I need to wear an SPF while using Granactive Serum?
It is recommended to always apply SPF as the last step in your skincare routine.

What is the pH of Granactive Serum?
pH 6.5-7.2

Does DoSe by VH replace Garden of Wisdom?
DoSe by VH is a natural evolution of Garden of Wisdom and we are confident that the DoSe by VH products will exceed your expectations, delivering a heightened level of quality and efficacy. The DoSe serums and oils have been meticulously formulated, and in some cases reformulated by Shabir Daya MRPharmS, our co-founder who originally formulated GOW. While some formulations share the same INCI, we searched for and incorporated the optimal iterations of each, guaranteeing an enhanced quality. Not all ingredients are created equally and developments in formulations can change. It gave us the opportunity to better our offer for our customers who have previously loved GOW. We listened to the feedback from our customers regarding GOW and the bottles are now glass, which means they are also waterproof for the bathroom. We believe in constant improvement and staying at the forefront of skincare innovation.

Where is DoSe manufactured?
All DoSe by VH skincare products are manufactured and filled in the UK.

Can I recycle my DoSe packaging?
We are committed to sustainability. Our DoSe skincare range packaging is designed to be eco-friendly and recyclable. The cardboard box, insert and glass container can be easily recycled. However, please note that the pump is not recyclable. We encourage you to properly dispose of it according to local waste management guidelines.

Are DoSe products non-comedogenic and cruelty free?
All DoSe products are non-comedogenic and not tested on animals.

If pregnant, or breastfeeding consult your physician prior to use. While we work to ensure that product information on our website is correct, on occasion manufacturers may alter their ingredient lists. Actual product packaging and materials may contain more and/or different information than that shown on our website. All information about the products on our website is provided for information purposes only. We recommend that you do not solely rely on the information presented on our website. Please always read the labels, warnings, and directions provided with the product before using or consuming a product. In the event of any safety concerns or for any other information about a product please carefully read any instructions provided on the label or packaging and contact the manufacturer. Content on this site is not intended to substitute for advice given by medical practitioner, pharmacist, or other licensed health-care professional. Contact your health-care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem. Information and statements about products are not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. The customer reviews are only moderated for offensive content – they should not be regarded as medical or health advice; no reliance should therefore be placed on them; and they are not endorsed by Victoria Health. If you have any health problems or questions regarding the suitability of any product please contact a health professional. Products are not medicinal unless otherwise stated. Victoria Health accepts no liability for inaccuracies or misstatements about products by manufacturers or other third parties. This does not affect your statutory rights. Store in a cool dry place out of sunlight. For external use only, unless specified.