I have a round-up of exciting new skincare launches on its way to you, but felt The Ordinary deserved an ode of its own. This is the latest line by Deciem, The Abnormal Beauty Company, who can do little wrong in my eyes (I'll link previous reviews below).
This incredibly clever range could not be less ordinary. Its ethos is based on honesty and integrity in skincare, offering advanced clinical technologies at pocket-friendly prices. Shockingly pocket-friendly in fact, with most products around the £5-10 mark.
I've tried three to date and will absolutely be picking up some more.
Advanced Retinoid 2% contains two types of retinoid said to be more effective against signs of ageing than retinol, retinyl palmitate and almost all other forms of retinoid. For £8. Now I'll be honest and say that I've tried a few different retinoid products in recent months (more on that soon), which makes it difficult to single out the exact results of this latest addition. It's also worth noting that the effects of retinoids often take time to show (at least several months), but I am impressed by this, have had no negative reactions and will find it difficult to justify higher priced competitors after trying this one.
Lactic Acid 5% is an alpha hydroxyl acid (aha) that gently exfoliates the skin. Available in two strengths from The Ordinary (mine is the weaker one at 5%), it contains Tasmanian Pepperberry, known to reduce signs of inflammation and sensitivity. My skin is dry and sensitive and I haven't had any negative reactions to this... I find it very softening, more than other similar products I've tried. Out of the three products, I think this one has made the biggest visible difference to my skin. The Lactic Acid is £5. Knock yourself out.
NB All Retinoids and Lactic Acid make skin more vulnerable to UV damage, so use at night and apply SPF daily during use and for one week after - non negotiable, seriously.
Buffet serum is a bit of an all rounder that all skins will benefit from, particularly those wishing to target multiple signs of ageing at once. It's packed with peptides, probiotics, skin-friendly amino acids and hyaluronic acid, which I personally find soothing, hydrating and softening. Almost gel like in texture, this feels like a luxurious treat on my skin and I'm blown away by the £12.70 price tag for all those sophisticated active ingredients.
I use each of these products as the first skin care step post-cleansing, applying my usual serum and moisturiser on top. I'm still really enjoying the Juice Beauty products reviewed here. I tend to rotate the Advanced Retinoid and Lactic Acid, using each a few times per week, with Buffet on top.
You'll find a huge product menu from Ordinaries which can be a little overwhelming if you're new to skincare... if you're not sure where to begin, this is a good place to start.
Ordinary skincare is available directly from ordinaries.com or at Victoria Health.
