The Ordinary is a skincare line that has taken the world by storm. Never before have products which are so effective been so affordable. I’m going to review my current favourites from the huge range that can leave even skincare junkies feeling confused.
Advanced Retinoid 2% Retinols and Retinoids promote cell turnover in the skin which can prevent and even reverse signs of skin ageing. This is a lightweight milky consistency that absorbs nicely. It’s comfortable on the skin with minimal irritation and downtime. It’s certainly not the mildest retinoid product so if you are a newby you may want to consider something milder. Check out my post on retinols here.
Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% This is an effective chemical exfoliator that works well on dry skin. Don’t be frightened by the word chemical, it won’t leave you red and raw, however if you are new to acid exfoliators then there is a milder 5% option you can start off with.
Buffet Probably my favourite in the range this is a multi peptide serum that left my skin noticeably plumper and smoother after the first use. I apply this religiously once if not twice daily. If you were going to pick one product from the range I would recommend this one.
Caffeine Solution 5% + ECGC Being someone who occasionally wakes up with very puffy eyes I instantly wanted this product. The high percentage of caffeine is effective at de-puffing the eye area and reducing dark circles brought on by lack of sleep. This also contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin.
100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil This is a gentle, calming and healing oil that works nicely when used at night on top of either the retinoid or lactic acid.
When to use these products and in which order.
These five products provide a good all round skincare routine in addition to a vitamin C, a cleanser and SPF, the caffeine solution isn’t essential unless you have an issue with puffy eyes in the morning.
I use the retinoid 3-4 evenings a week which I apply as a first step after cleansing followed by buffet and finally the rosehip oil.
In between using the retinoid I try to use the lactic acid 2-3 evenings a week as a first step after cleansing followed by buffet and then the rosehip oil. (For more info on acids, check out the GW: All About Acids feature)
I use buffet every morning as a serum after cleansing, followed by my moisturiser and SPF. Buffet can be used morning and evening. Apply this to the entire face and neck including the eye area and lips.
Rosehip oil works as a moisturiser and antioxidant and should be used as a last step in the evening or before an SPF in the day time.
Caffeine Solution is something I would only use in the morning when my eyes are puffy but the directions suggest morning and night.
Since last year when I started collecting these products several more have launched that I want to try. Next time I’m in London I’m going to check out the store and see what else I can find.
You can find all the of the products listed from The Ordinary website. You can find me on twitter and instagram @mrjamessamuel
