Correct me if I’m wrong, but it feels like The Ordinary is the Fight Club of the beauty world right now - anonymous to those who are unaware, and cult to those who are. My own personal love affair with the brand has only been short, but I’m quickly learning why this sought-after collection is becoming a firm favourite amongst the millennial masses.
Two weeks ago, during a morning of stellar YouTube binging (thank-you Nadine Baggot and Caroline Hirons), I was introduced to The Ordinary – the latest wallet-friendly skincare brand that seems to be in favours of vloggers, bloggers and anyone in between since its launch in 2016. Using ‘Clinical Formulations with Integrity’, these superlative products aim to deliver near premium results, without the fist-biting price tag.
So, after all the online excitement (and envy), my curiosity got the better of me and before I knew it I was punching keywords into Google left right and centre. Little did I know, getting my hands on the stuff wasn’t going to be as easy as I’d thought – incoming l o n g digital waiting list. After a week of website stalking, I was surprised to see the exact products I’d been lusting over on the ASOS website – I’m convinced it was fate, however my bank account may disagree. Wasting no time, I stocked up on six of their best-sellers – a mixture of serums, mild peeling treatments and a toning solution.
With the same principal in mind for the majority of their products, The Ordinary look to target the usual commonplace skincare concerns with a gentle chemical exfoliant approach. Using proven Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acids and minerals that are free from parabens and fragrances – the range works by gently eating away (PacMan style) at dead skin cells to leave smoother, clearer and brighter looking skin.
Although some of the product names remind me of a Year 9 Chemistry lesson, once you’ve figured out how to tailor your own regime – it’s smooth sailing. If you’re really struggling, The Ordinary have their own guide on their website: http://theordinary.com/regimenguide.
So, after some in-depth research – I’ve finally settled on a morning and evening routine, which goes a little something like this…
AM:
[Quick face wash in the shower]
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%,
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
PM:
[Double cleanse – micellar water + balm]
Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution.
Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%,
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
TWICE WEEKLY:
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
The Verdict?
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Since my first application (about nine days from writing this) I feel strangely smug about my newfound skincare practice. Not only that, but I have genuinely seen an improvement in the texture and appearance of my skin. Speaking as someone who has always suffered with oily skin and blemishes, trying almost every fad (including toothpaste) under the sun - I am happy to give my Brownies* vouch of honour that these products have contributed to a massive improvement. Let’s not forget about the EXTREMELY budget friendly pricing and light-weight formulations, making this probably one of the most cost-effective ways to get better skin in 2018.
(FYI - I was never in the Brownies, but you get the gist).
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Due to it’s popularity, it’s pretty likely that you’ll be signed-up to about three email waiting lists before you can get your paws on the real deal. I advise this, but also regularly check ASOS.com – those sneaky suckers have been re-stocking under our noses over the past couple of weeks, so you COULD just get lucky. Otherwise, be sure to try; Cult Beauty, QVC, Victoria Health.
So there we have it, a very brief introduction and haul of my very un-ordinary experience with The Ordinary. I’m really pleased with the results of these products, but please do remember that everyone’s skin is different – what’s worked for me may do fudge all for you and visa versa. I do encourage you to try out the range (if and when you can) – just be sure not to share the secret with too many of your friends, otherwise we may have a global shortage on our hands.
What happens in Fight Club, stays in Fight Club - and all that.
