Undoubtedly a brand who have made their mark on the skincare world over the last twelve months, The Ordinary, and their highly-coveted line of products, have achieved cult status for a number of reasons. Their products are effective; simple and ingredient-focused formulas allow prices to remain low, and products aren't clouded with overwhelming marketing gimmicks - honesty and clarity stand at the heart of the brand.
The Ordinary remain part of umbrella brand Deciem, alongside NIOD and Hylamide. The line is noticeably more affordable than that of sister brands, yet without falling behind on performance. All products are free from parabens and sulfates (preservatives linked to cancers), mineral oils (comedogenic), and animal oils, as well as openly abstaining from animal testing.
The Ordinary are a breath of fresh air in an overwhelming world of serums and potions. However, the informative labels can seem unfamiliar at first. To point newbies in the right direction, here's a fairly detailed breakdown of my faves from the brand.
The Ordinary remain part of umbrella brand Deciem, alongside NIOD and Hylamide. The line is noticeably more affordable than that of sister brands, yet without falling behind on performance. All products are free from parabens and sulfates (preservatives linked to cancers), mineral oils (comedogenic), and animal oils, as well as openly abstaining from animal testing.
The Ordinary are a breath of fresh air in an overwhelming world of serums and potions. However, the informative labels can seem unfamiliar at first. To point newbies in the right direction, here's a fairly detailed breakdown of my faves from the brand.
Salicyclic Acid 2% Solution
It's a beta-hydroxy acid, a keratolytic, comedolytic and bacteriostatic agent. This essentially means that salicyclic acid causes shedding of the outer-layer of skin - it exfoliates, and it fights blemishes. It's incredibly effective because of its chemical structure: two hydroxy molecules are separated by two carbon atoms, which makes salicyclic acid oil soluble. Oil soluble substances can penetrate the skin easily, and target deeper layers of congestion.
Use it after you've cleansed and (if you do) toned, but before any heavier creams or oils. You could dot it onto any blemishes for a targeted treatment, or apply a small amount all over for generally improved skin clarity.
Notes - salicyclic acid can be drying, so avoid applying to the entire face if your skin is already dry or dehydrated.
Use it after you've cleansed and (if you do) toned, but before any heavier creams or oils. You could dot it onto any blemishes for a targeted treatment, or apply a small amount all over for generally improved skin clarity.
Notes - salicyclic acid can be drying, so avoid applying to the entire face if your skin is already dry or dehydrated.
Lactic Acid 5% and HA 2%
Lactic acid, the stuff that makes your legs hurt after a run, is p. good for your face. It's an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), so essentially breaks down the sort of 'glue' that holds onto your old, dull skin cells, alongside mildly exfoliating. The Ordinary's solution also contains Tasmanian pepperberry, which works to reduce inflammation and skin sensitivity. Using this product will result in improved skin texture, as well as reduced breakouts.
You can apply this to your face daily if you're an experienced acid user (!), but if you're new to AHA's, try every other day at first. Use it in the evenings, all over the face, before night-time moisturiser. The Ordinary's website recommends diluting it to begin with.
Notes - AHA's can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, so apply this in the evening, rather than at the beginning of a day. Always protect your skin with an SPF; try to find a primer or tinted moisturiser that offers some sort of sun-protection.
AHA 30% and BHA 2% Peeling Solution
If the name of this one doesn't freak you out, the colour certainly will. A '10-minute exfoliating facial' utilises the following AHA's: glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid. On top of that, salicyclic acid is in there too, 'cos why not? Like we've previously touched on, the salicyclic acid (BHA) in this allows it to penetrate the surface of the skin to provide a slightly deeper exfoliation, this means a brighter and more even skin tone, as well as reduced congestion. It's essentially a [more] powerful mixture of the two products above.
Not to be messed with, you can use this as a mask, but no more than twice per week - especially if, like me, you incorporate milder acids into your daily skincare routine. Wash an thoroughly dry face, apply a thin layer over the face. After no more than 10 minutes, rinse away with warm water.
Notes - This is a formula containing very high concentrations of direct acids, don't make this the first thing you try from the brand. It also smells quite weird, btw.
High-Adherence Silicone Primer
The formula for this super sticky (in a good way) primer uses adaptive silicones that sit on the surface of the skin, creating a smooth surface for makeup to be applied to. It hydrates, it mattifies, and it blurs imperfections. Foundation looks better, and it stays around longer, too.
Use this as the final step in your skincare routine, before makeup application. It can also be worn alone, for naturally enhanced skin and less shine.
Notes - Silicone has been known to cause breakouts, but that shouldn't be a problem if you cleanse at the end of the day.
100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil
Literally just rosehip seed oil, but it's unrefined, so it's super rich in linoleic acid, linolenic acid (both are hydrating and assist in healing skin), and vitamin A. It works to correct dark spots, it hydrates skin, it reduces irriations, fights against scarring, and helps to prevent fine lines. There's honestly no downside to using rosehip oil, and it's suitable for all skin types.
Apply it once daily, all over the face, probably after all those acids! My skin can be oily during the day, so I prefer to apply it before bed.
Next on my The Ordinary to-buy list: Glycolic Toning Solution and the Serum Foundation. If only they weren't constantly sold out!