The Ordinary Review: There is nothing “ordinary” about this brand
The Ordinary has built a reputation for itself that is far greater than the modest brand name would suggest.
The company – which is owned by popular brand Deciem – exploded onto the market with stripped-back packaging, products and prices. But it became clear that the one thing they never skimped on, was the quality. With clinical ingredients and unique products that expertly tackle a range of skin concerns, The Ordinary has quickly become one of the most popular and affordable skincare brands on the market.
I have had more than my fair share of skin struggles (more on that here!). Unfortunate though that has been for me, it is actually a definite benefit for you, because when I back a skincare brand, you can guarantee it is worth it! There is nothing “ordinary” about this brand and here is why it lives up to the hype.
Sparing your skin and your savings!
The skincare market is without question a highly saturated one; offering products to aid every concern and supplying options to suit every budget. However, with the glowing reviews and miraculous results many luxury brands claim to provide, it may seem like a small (or not so small!) fortune is required to glean any significant benefit. For this reason, my student budget and I are extremely grateful for the reasonable and affordable prices attached to The Ordinary products.
Take this dry skin routine for example; the Squalane Cleanser, Hyaluronic Acid + B5, 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Borage Seed Oil and Natural Moisturising Factors + HA are four fantastic products to help hydrate dry skin and the total comes to less than €24 for all four items!
Company with a conscience
The simple packaging does not give too much away about the company, but it is definitely worth knowing. As if we couldn’t love The Ordinary anymore, the brand is cruelty free and all of the formulas are also vegan. The company have already proven that they are good for your savings, but they are also good for your skin as all of their skin care products are free from parabens, sulphates and mineral oils.
However, this is not all they are free from, as many of The Ordinary products also exclude or reduce much of the excess plastic packaging some cosmetics companies use making them a more environmentally friendly pick than many of their competitors.
My Top Picks From The Ordinary
If by some miracle you are still not convinced, then these tried and tested products will definitely persuade you!
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Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
This is not just my favourite of “The Ordinary” products, this is one of my favourite skincare products ever!
Scarring is an incredibly frustrating element of acne and one that tends to linger even after breakouts and spots are eliminated. This rose hip oil is amazing at clearing and evening out skin tone.
Adding an oil to oily skin seems utterly counterproductive but this non-greasy formula is definitely one of the most effective products I have ever tried.
The formula also contains Vitamin A to reduce the effects of sun damage. Admittedly the earthy smell is not great, however, considering that this is a sign of the primarily natural ingredients used in the formula, I can easily overlook this.
My only complaint: the bottle is far too small!
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The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Salicylic acid is another skincare saviour for acne prone skin such as mine. It expertly exfoliates the skin and clears pores to help reduce breakouts.
Adding acid to your skincare routine sounds more harmful than beneficial but The Ordinary’s Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is a water-based serum that promote a smoother and clearer complexion. The only downside of this product is that it is regularly out of stock.
As a great alternative it is also available in a charcoal infused face mask for radiant and refreshed skin.
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Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a bit of a mouthful but simply put, it is a fantastic toner that mildly exfoliates while also cleansing and brightening the skin.
The ingredients include Tasmanian Pepperberry, Ginseng and Aloe Vera to help promote healthy and radiant skin. While it is a fantastic toner this is definitely not a product for sensitive skin, and it can sting slightly following the initial application.
Missy Top Picks
Amazing products that are excellent for your skin and also sold at fantastic prices from a responsible and ethical retailer? Brb, just filling up our basket with these dreamy products!
Are you a fan of The Ordinary?