Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate

Hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) is an ester of retinoic acid and a relatively newer, more stable member of the ever-growing retinoid family, a group of powerhouse vitamin A derivatives that provide skin with potent benefits.

Although hydroxypinacolone retinoate might seem like a foreign ingredient name, you’ve probably encountered this ingredient’s trade name, Granactive Retinoid Pro+. This type blends 10% HPR with 90% dimethyl isosorbide, a solvent.

HPR is a multi-tasking ingredient that communicates with skin by binding to its retinoic acid receptors within skin’s surface layers. Although it connects directly with these receptors, it’s proven to be more gentle than retinoic acid (tretinoin) when applied topically, meaning more reactive and sensitive skin types might want to explore HPR as an alternative to pure retinol.

Beyond its comparably gentle nature, research has proven that this retinoic acid ester provides skin both anti-ageing and blemish-reducing benefits. Studies show that HPR assisted in reducing the occurrence of mild breakouts as well as the redness associated with them with little disturbance to the skin barrier when combined with retinol glycospheres and papain glycospheres.

Those seeking to tackle fine lines and wrinkles as well an uneven tone can also seek out HPR as research has additionally proven this multi-tasking skin care ingredient reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improved uneven tone.

HPR can positively impact skin at percentages as low as .02%. However, its effectiveness drastically decreases when improperly packaged, such as when kept in jars exposed to light and air. Much like all other vitamin A derivatives and antioxidants, HPR must be kept in air-tight, opaque packaging to remain potent.