The Ordinary has taken an unassuming, science-backed approach to skin care products with its unadorned dropper bottles that look like prototypes from its lab.
Kick start your routine with The Ordinary’s Glucoside Foaming Cleanser and finish off with their 100% Plant-Derived Squalane or Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier. Layer on their serums and retinoids to treat hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone or acne marks for effective results.
1. EUK 134
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride (EUK-134) has become widely recognized as a groundbreaking antioxidant that’s been heralded as the next breakthrough skincare ingredient. Mimicking superoxide dismutase and catalase enzymes, it acts as an exceptionally rare self-regenerating molecule to neutralise free radicals while eliminating hydrogen peroxide to protect skin against further oxidative damage.
My dad swears it can reduce redness and protect against UV damage and premature ageing by neutralising harmful particles before they oxidise on skin. Additionally, it can treat atopic dermatitis, rosacea and hyperpigmentation while providing additional benefits from cold-pressed marula, argan, borage, baobab and brazil nut oils for added effect.
My dad recommends this product both alone or combined with non-conflicting products such as The Ordinary Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%, Ferulic acid, and pure vitamin C (ethylated ascorbic acid/l-ascorbic acid). Strong acids could harm it; instead it’s best used alongside products free from oil, water, alcohol and silicone; vegan-friendly and cruelty-free are recommended.
2. Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hyaluronic acid, also known as “hiya-loo-ron-nick,” is an amazing carbohydrate found in your skin that plays an invaluable role in moisture retention. Boasting long and complex chains with plenty of binding sites for other molecules to latch on to it (such as water molecules), this polymer holds moisture like no other, keeping your skin hydrated while reducing fine lines and wrinkles in its wake. A quarter teaspoonful can hold as much as one gallon of water at any given time – keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay!
Hyaluronic acid does more than that: according to research, it also strengthens your skin’s natural barrier from UV rays, environmental pollution and smoking – factors which have been shown to weaken it over time. A strong barrier is essential in combatting signs of aging such as fine lines, dark spots and dryness in order to combat signs of aging such as fine lines.
Finding the ideal hyaluronic acid serum requires selecting one with a light gel formula that won’t feel greasy, while those with oily skin should consider water-based formulas instead. Greenfield advises against alcohol as this can strip skin of its protective layer. Our preferred pick is Vichy Laboratories Mineral 89 Skin Fortifying Daily Booster which contains visibly plumping ingredients like provitamin B5 and centella asiatica to keep skin looking full and soft.
3. Azelaic Acid Serum
Instagram, beauty forums and skincare blogs alike have taken note of this unassuming hero’s remarkable results in treating acne, rosacea and skin discoloration. Azelaic acid acts as an anti-inflammatory and pore decongestant; helping reduce redness caused by breakouts, hyperpigmentation or sun damage while being less irritating than AHAs or BHAs – perfect for sensitive skin types!
Redness and brown marks that accompany acne (known as post-acne pigmentation) can also be treated using Tea Tree oil, while its antibacterial properties keep your pores clear to stop bacteria from overgrowing and overly populating them.
Azelaic acid can be safely used alongside active ingredients like vitamin C, AHAs and BHAs; however if you have very sensitive skin or are pregnant it’s wise to start out slowly increasing the dosage gradually. A dermatologist can assist in helping determine how best to introduce AZA into your routine; check out Nava MD to receive free consultation and custom formulation. No in-office visits necessary (Nava MD utilizes its own pharmacy so costs remain low). Alternatively for optimal results purchase a prescription-strength product directly from this company’s online store!
4. Phytessence Wakame Toner
Undaria pinnatifida (wakame or alaria), commonly found in Japan, boasts anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and skin smoothing properties. Studies have demonstrated it binds elastin and collagen fibers together for firmer skin while simultaneously inhibiting an enzyme known as Hyaluronidase that breaks down Hyaluronic Acid; Hyaluronic acid helps lubricate these fibers for maximum elasticity and smoothness of the skin – without it, the skin starts sagging and losing firmness!
If you want to avoid that scenario, Wakame may be just what’s needed to keep skin hydrated and plump – keeping it youthful in appearance and staying soft over time. It has proven highly beneficial as an antioxidant as well! It has long been proven that Wakame helps the skin retain hydration thereby keeping its plumpness and keeping you looking younger than before!
Discover this incredible ingredient in products like the Swiss-made Dermatologica Vita-Long Oil that was honored with Marie Claire’s Prix d’Excellence de la Beaute 2020 award. Among its natural ingredients are Cynergy TK and Coenzyme Q10 as well as wakame to create beautiful healthy skin. Although not inexpensive, this product boasts rave reviews and several incredible benefits to offer your complexion.
5. Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C can be safely used by most skin types without fear of irritation, provided a formula contains low concentration (10 percent L-ascorbic acid) and soothing ingredients such as aloe vera for added soothing effects (sensitive skin may experience tingling or itching from this).
Experts advise incorporating vitamin C serum into your morning skincare routine after cleansing and before applying a hyaluronic acid or AHA product – and layering on moisturizer, as needed. This formula is lightweight, easily absorbs into the skin without leaving behind a greasy feel; its water-based ascorbic acid formulation also contains no fragrance, parabens, phthalates or gluten.
While vitamin C can be found everywhere from oranges to immune-boosting powders, serum form offers more concentrated results and is easier to incorporate into your skincare regimen. According to experts, serum form offers higher concentrations and stability for skin penetration; Lal recommends seeking out serums with ascorbic acid combined with stabilizers like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate or tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate; these will help reduce oxidation while also helping avoid irritation.
Tags: ingredients, ordinary, skincare