Tag: the ordinary

The Ordinary Regimen For Dry Skin

With the winter months approaching it’s a good idea to develop a skincare routine to tackle your dry skin concerns. We’ve developed a skincare regimen/routine for dry skin using only products by The Ordinary .

What causes dry, flaking skin?

Dry skin has several causes, below are just a few:

  • Hot Showers: Hot showers are an excellent way to de-stress and help your muscles relax, but this water can wreak havoc on your skin. Hot water strips the skin of natural oils and moisture it needs to function properly. This can cause dry, red, and flaking skin.
  • Aging: Skin dryness becomes a bigger problem as we age. Aging skin produces less oily secretions, coupled with reduced collagen synthesis which contributes to drier, wrinklier skin.
  • Over-cleansing: Cleansing your face too often or using harsh soaps can cause dry skin. It’s best practise to wash your face twice a day using a gentle cleanser. Always follow up with a moisturiser.
  • Genetics: Dry skin can potentially be inherited, something you have little control over. The best thing you can do in this case is develop good skincare habits to deal with your dry skin to keep it looking at it’s best.

Of course there are many other causes of dry skin, including medical conditions and allergies but the above are some of the most common. Now, let’s get onto the dry skin routine:

The Ordinary Regimen For Dry Skin

We have assembled two routines, one for the AM and the other for the PM. Both of these routines include the most effective products by The Ordinary which seek to minimise skin dryness and hydrate the skin.

Daytime routine

  • Squalane Cleanser: Dry skin or not, cleansing is an essential step in any skincare routine. This Squalane cleanser by The Ordinary is effective at achieving a thorough cleanse without overly drying the skin. Squalane is an excellent non-comedogenic oil with several benefits for the skin, including anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties.
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Supersize Exclusive 150ml | Free Shipping | LOOKFANTASTIC
  • Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: When it comes to restoring skin moisture, Hyaluronic Acid is the holy grail of all ingredients. Hyaluronic acid can hold 1000x it’s weight in water, this means it’s a fantastic hydrator working to keep your skin supple and soft. Regular use of hyaluronic acid can help combat dry skin and also reverse signs of aging.
The Ordinary: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
  • Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Moisturising is critical step of any skincare regime. NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin. Not only will these protect the skin from pollutants and free radical damage, but it also means the skin’s moisture is locked in.
Deciem The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants - 50ml

Night time routine

  • Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing twice a day is crucial, this squalane cleanser is effective for both night time and daytime use.
The Ordinary | Squalane Cleanser | Cult Beauty
  • Lactic Acid 10% + HA: Chemical exfoliation is essential to even out the skin tone and minimise any skin flakiness. Conventional acid treatments such as glycolic acid can often be harsh to dry and sensitive skin. This Lactic Acid 10% Solution by The Ordinary is a mild exfoliant which is excellent for dry and flaky skin, and the addition of Hyaluronic Acid helps to restore lost moisture. Tasmanian pepperberry also works to reduce skin redness and irritation.
Deciem The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%
  • Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Hyaluronic acid immediately boosts skin moisture and plumps the skin. Not only will this reduce signs of aging, but it will also combat dryness.
The Ordinary | Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
  • Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Every skincare routine should be followed up with a moisturiser. As described earlier, NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin, preventing damage and locking in moisture.
Deciem The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors
  • “B” Oil: This blend of non-comedogenic skin oils works to provide extreme skin hydration, enhance radiance and to fight harmful skin radicals. This blend includes squalane, marula, argan and brazil nut oils to promote skin health.
The Ordinary "B" Oil - 30ml

Things to look out for

All of the above products carry low risk of irritation, but as with any new products it’s good practise to carry out a patch test. We’ve written an effective patch testing guide here.

Any questions or comments? Leave them down below 🙂

Posted on by Obviously 0

The Ordinary Regimen/Routine For Acne

The Ordinary have an excellent range of products that can help tackle stubborn acne and skin blemishes. We’ve put together a simple routine/regime only using products by The Ordinary to help tackle your facial skin oiliness and acne.

What causes oily skin and acne?

Acne forms when pores (the small openings in the skin) become clogged. There are several causes for this, the primary cause being excessive sebum production. Sebum is a waxy secretion produced by the sebaceous glands in your pores to hydrate and protect the skin. Excess sebum production however can lead to blocked pores and acne.

The Ordinary Regimen For Acne

Two routines have been put together, one for the morning and the other for the night. Both of these routines include the most effective products by The Ordinary which seek to minimise skin congestion, reduce sebum production, and tackle inflammation and acne.

Daytime routine

  1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing your skin is essential to get rid of unwanted dirt, oil and pollutants that can clog your pores. Often acne and breakouts are a result of oily skin or overactive sebaceous glands, it is therefore essential that you get an effective skin cleanse at the start of your regime. This squalane cleanser is a gentle but effective formulation at a reasonable price point.
  2. Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: *CURRENTLY BEING UPDATED. This is one of the most effective skincare serums available to tackle acne. Salicylic acid is a BHA which works to exfoliate the inside walls of your pores thus preventing acne from forming. Salicylic acid also possesses excellent anti-inflammatory properties which will reduce the appearance of acne, while penetrating deep into the skin to break up breakout-causing debris.
  3. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: Glycolic acid is an AHA which can work to increase skin cell turnover, boost collagen production and prevent blemishes and acne. *Do not use with Salicylic Acid.
  4. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B-3 which can work to tackle skin congestion and blemishes. Niacinamide is excellent at regulating sebum production, and can therefore help those suffering from oily skin; this is often the culprit for acne and breakouts.
  5. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Moisturising is critical step of any skincare regime. NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin. Not only will these protect the skin from pollutants and free radical damage, but it also means the skin’s moisture is locked in.
  6. Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants: This SPF solution neutralises free radicals, reduces transepidermal water loss and helps the skin stay hydrated for longer.

Nighttime routine

  1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing twice a day is crucial, this squalane cleanser is effective for both nighttime and daytime use. It might be tempting to double-cleanse but we this can often be doing more harm than good. Over-cleansing can excessively dry the skin, causing redness or even leading to overactive sebaceous glands. This means more sebum production and potentially more acne and breakouts.
  2. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Hyaluronic acid immediately boosts skin moisture and plumps the skin. Not only will this reduce signs of aging, but it will also combat dryness from any acid treatments.
  3. Retinol 1% in Squalane: Retinol is a form of Vitamin A which can work to boost skin cell turnover, therefore reducing the probability of clogged pores and breakouts. Retinol can also help boost collagen synthesis and reduce scarring associated with acne.
  4. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Every skincare routine should be followed up with a moisturiser. As described earlier, NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin, preventing damage and locking in moisture.

Things to look out for

Consistency is key with any skincare regime. Note that you may initially experience a skincare purge, a period of increased acne and breakouts. This should normally subside within a few weeks as your skin adjusts to the products.

Direct acids can also increase skin sensitivity, both in general and to sunlight. Ensure you apply SPF if in direct contact with sunlight, and ensure you moisturise to replenish lost skin moisture.

Any questions or comments? Leave them down below 🙂

Posted on by Obviously 7

How To Incorporate Niacinamide Into Your Skincare Routine

Niacinamide, also known as Nicotinamide is a derivative of Vitamin B3 used in skincare products for it’s excellent blemish battling and oil controlling properties. Continued use of niacinamide can help you reduce the size of your pores, minimise skin blemishes, regulate sebum activity and improve overall skin texture. It is no surprise then that niacinamide is a very popular vitamin being added to thousands of skincare formulations.

How to incorporate niacinamide into your skincare routine

Niacinamide is most commonly available in serum form. It is usually combined with active ingredients to deliver potent all-round blemish battling results. What makes niacinamide a winner is that it is suitable for all skin types with little risk of irritation. This makes adding niacinamide to your skincare routine a simple process. Below are a few ways you can incorporate niacinamide into your skincare regime:

  • Apply niacinamide serum after cleansing and toning facial skin: Niacinamide serums are best applied right after cleansing and toning. You’ll find that these serums are usually water-based, and so should be applied before any moisturisers and thicker oil-based serums. This ensures maximum absorption and effectiveness of the serums. You should use the serum on the entire face, make sure you get even coverage on areas with high sebum activity.
  • Apply niacinamide moisturiser at the end of your skin care routine: Many pore refinining and anti-aging moisturisers now include niacinamide. These moisturisers should be applied toward the end of your skincare regime, after cleansing, toning and serums, but before sun protection and makeup.
  • Apply niacinamide day or night: Niacinamide is effective when used both day or night, and sunlight has little effect on it’s potency. You can use it at both day and night, but remember to apply it in the correct order. If you’re wondering how to layer skincare products properly, this article is for you.

Things to look out for:

Do not use niacinamide serums/creams at the same time as topical vitamin c serums/creams. Niacinamide can affect the integrity of vitamin c, rendering both treatments significantly less effective.

Remember that niacinamide is not a treatment for ongoing acne/blemishes. If you suffer from acne, consult a dermatologist for professional advice.

Posted on by Obviously 1

The Ordinary Regimen For Large Pores

Large pores can take a significant toll on your complexion. There are many causes for large or enlarged pores, including sun damage, aging and genetics. We’ve put together a simple regimen for large pores using only products by the ordinary that can help to minimise the size of your pores.

The Ordinary Regimen For Large Pores

We’ve put together two routines, one for daytime and another for nighttime. Both of these routines include the most effective products by the ordinary which are proven to minimise pore appearance.

Daytime routine

  1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing your skin is essential to get rid of unwanted dirt, oil and pollutants that can clog your pores. Often large pores are a result of oily skin or overactive sebaceous glands, it is therefore essential that you get an effective skin cleanse at the start of your regime. This squalane cleanser is a gentle but effective formulation at a reasonable price point.
  2. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: Glycolic acid is an AHA which can work to increase skin cell turnover, boost collagen production and prevent blemishes and acne. By boosting collagen production you can tighten the skin around the pores and make them appear smaller.
  3. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B-3 which can work to tackle skin congestion and blemishes. Niacinamide is excellent at regulating sebum production, and can therefore help those suffering from oily skin. By reducing skin oiliness, pore size is dramatically reduced.
  4. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Moisturising is critical step of any skincare regime. NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin. Not only will these protect the skin from pollutants and free radical damage, but it also means the skin’s moisture is locked in.
  5. Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants: This SPF solution neutralises free radicals, reduces transepidermal water loss and helps the skin stay hydrated for longer.
  6. High-Adherence Silicone Primer: This is an excellent skin primer which works to blur and matte the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and imperfections.

Nighttime routine

  1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing twice a day is crucial, this squalane cleanser is effective for both nighttime and daytime use.
  2. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Hyaluronic acid immediately boosts skin moisture and plumps the skin. Not only will this reduce signs of aging, but it can also help minimise pore appearance.
  3. Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%: A potent anti-oxidant solution which will work to combat free radical damage as well as brighten and tighten the complexion overnight.
  4. Retinol 1% in Squalane: (Never use with Vitamin-C, use on alternate days instead.) Retinol is one of the most potent anti-aging and pore refining ingredients available on the skincare market. Retinol will help to promote collagen synthesis with continued use, tightening the skin and pores.
  5. 100% Plant-Derived Squalane (Optional): Squalane is an excellent skin moisturiser with anti-aging and sebum regulating properties. This step is optional as the retinol formulation already contains squalane, if however you suffer from dry skin best to apply this serum.

Note that you likely won’t see results overnight. Reducing the size of your pores is a slow process, you should definitely begin to see results at the 3 month mark. Consistency is key!

Any questions or comments? Leave them down below 🙂

Posted on by Obviously 23

The Ordinary Regimen For Aging And Mature Skin

If you’re a big fan of Deciem products like ourselves here at Obviously Skincare, you may be wondering which products will work best for your aging or mature skin. We’ve made a skincare routine/regimen for aging and mature skin only using products by The Ordinary.

The focus we had in mind is to restore hydration, minimise signs of aging and protect the skin. Luckily The Ordinary have a complete range of products that tackle signs of skin aging, with the added benefit of being at a very reasonable price point.

Mature/Aging Skin Type

Mature or aging skin has many characteristic qualities, these are:

  • Drier, less hydrated skin
  • Deep or shallow wrinkles around face and neck
  • Large pores due to reduced skin firmness
  • Loose, sagging skin due to reduced elastin and collagen
  • Hyperpigmentation and age spots
  • Fine lines

The goal when establishing any skincare regimen or routine is therefore to provide mature skin with much needed hydration. Often the skin looks very dehydrated and this can worsen the appearance of wrinkles and lines in the skin.

Other concerns include reducing signs of aging, slowing down the aging process, reducing the size of pores and boosting collagen production.

The Ordinary Regimen For Mature/Aging Skin

This section has been split into morning and night routines using products that are only from The Ordinary. Continued use of this routine can completely transform your complexion and give your aging/mature skin a much needed glow.

Morning Regimen

  1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing should be the first step in any skincare routine. This squalane cleanser is an excellent first step as it will clear the skin of any makeup, dirt, oils and impurities without overly drying the skin. Read more about Squalane here…
  2. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: This toning solution by The Ordinary contains glycolic acid which works to boost skin radiance and texture. Continued use of glycolic acid can help battle scars, reduce the size of pores, as well as boost collagen production. The addition of aloe vera also helps to hydrate and soothe the skin.
  3. “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1%: This is a serum that works to tackle multiple signs of aging at once. Peptides work to promote collagen synthesis and fight inflammation.
  4. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Hyaluronic Acid is an excellent humectant which works to draw water from it’s surroundings to deliver deep skin hydration. This product can give mature skin the hydration it needs, skin is immediately more plump and fine lines are minimised.
  5. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin. Not only will these protect the skin from pollutants and free radical damage, but it also means the skin’s moisture is locked in.
  6. Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants: This SPF formula contains SPF 30 to protect your skin from sun damage which is known to accelerate skin aging. Free radicals are neutralized, transepidermal water loss is reduced and the skin stays hydrated for longer.

Night Regimen

  1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing before bed is an essential step to clear away all the dirt, pollutants and oils that built up on your face during the day. This squalane cleanser is perfect for morning and night use, one less thing to worry about.
  2. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Hyaluronic Acid will work all night to keep the skin hydrated and therefore promote collagen synthesis. It will also restore moisture lost as a result of acidic treatments or damage from the elements.
  3. Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%: One of the most potent anti-aging ingredients available.
  4. Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%: A potent anti-oxidant solution which will work to combat free radical damage as well as brighten and tighten the complexion overnight.
  5. Retinol 1% in Squalane (On alternate days to Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid): A high strength retinol formulation with squalane. If you’re new to retinol try a lower strength retinol such as 0.2% or 0.5%. Retinol is a form of Vitamin-A that promotes collagen synthesis and can therefore reduce signs of aging on mature skin.
  6. 100% Plant-Derived Squalane (Optional): Squalane is an excellent skin moisturiser with many skin health boosting properties. This step is optional as the retinol formulation already contains squalane. If however you’re on an alternate day and not using retinol, then it’s perhaps best to apply this squalane solution.

Also try The Ordinary: AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. This solution provides a 10 minute facial which can brighten the skin, fade age spots and hyperpigmentation as well as boost collagen production.

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution - 30ml
Posted on by Obviously 22

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane

We love products by the Deciem group here at Obviously Skincare. Not only are these products cheap as chips, they’re also highly effective. We’ve previously reviewed The Ordinary’s Salicylic Acid 2% solution as well as their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% solution, it’s time we reviewed their Retinol 1% solution in Squalane.

THE PRODUCT

The Ordinary – Retinol 1% in Squalane claims to “reduce the appearances of fine lines, of photo damage and of general skin aging”. Retinol is the working ingredient in this formulation, also known as Vitamin A. The Ordinary also do weaker forms of the solution, retinol 0.5% and retinol 0.2% are available for those that are just starting out with the product.

WHAT IS Retinol?

Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A. When applied topically, retinol is converted by enzymes into retinoic acid which has been shown to boost collagen synthesis and therefore reverse and reduce signs of aging. Retinol serums can also help to make pores smaller and even skin tone.

Pure forms of retinoic acid are available for purchase, but you should note that these are significantly harsher on the skin and have the potential for more side effects.

Retinol Chemical Formula

What is squalane?

Squalane is a non-comedogenic oil derived from olives. It has various benefits for the skin including excellent hydration which can plump the skin and minimise fine lines and wrinkles.

A common side effect of retinol is that it can dry the skin, the addition of squalane in this product aims to counter this dryness to keep your skin hydrated and protected.

READ BEFORE USING

Typical side effects of retinol include; skin peeling; redness; irritation and inflammation. You’ll likely experience the side effects if this is the first time you’re using this product; it can take a couple of weeks to fully adjust.

As always, make sure you patch test the product prior to use on an small inconspicuous bit of skin.

The Results

My goal when using this retinol solution by the ordinary is to minimise the fines lines and wrinkles around the forehead, eye area and the mouth area. I’ve a bad habit of being a little to expressive with my face and this has led to the development of fine lines around these areas. I also have enlarged pores around my T-zone which I would like to lessen the appearance of, fingers crossed. I’ll be applying this retinol solution every night to my face after cleansing for a period of 90 days.

DAY 1

The Ordinary recommend that this retinol solution in squalane be applied at night only. Retinol can increase sensitivity to sunlight, not to mention sunlight can reduce the effectiveness of the serum; this is why it comes it a dark, amber-coloured dropper bottle. Having applied this for one night, I woke up with slightly puffy, red skin. My skin was also a little drier than usual. I wasn’t alarmed however, these are very common side effects when retinol is first used and will often take a few weeks to subside.

DAY 7

My skin is feeling sensitive and is still drier than usual. I’m experiencing redness around some pores. So far not much difference in reduction of fines lines or pores, but often it can take up to 2 months to see changes. Yep, we’re in it for the long run with this product. Anytime my skin feels a little too dry I’ll use a hyaluronic acid serum to restore lost moisture.

DAY 30

At about week 2 my skin adjusted well to the product; skin redness and irritation was at a minimum and any peeling that had happened before has subsided at this point. I feel my skin feels a little more plump on the day 30 mark, perhaps a minute difference in the appearance of my forehead lines but not much else going on yet.

Day 90

Roughly 3 months in is where I start to see a visible difference in both the appearance of fine lines, as well as the size of my pores. I feel my skin looks and feels more plump which in turn has minimised the signs of aging around my eyes, forehead and mouth area. While I do see a difference, I wouldn’t call it substantial. To be fair however, 3 months is a fairly short time-frame and to see good results requires continuous use of the product. I’ll update this post when I hit the 1 year mark.

The verdict (after 90 days)

  • Minimised Pores: 6/10
  • Reduced fine lines and wrinkles: 7/10
  • Improved skin tone: 6/10

To see these results after just 90 days definitely make this product worth buying. Just know that you’re in it for the long run with retinol and it requires continued use to see effective results.

Get The Ordinary – Retinol 1% in Squalane Here

Posted on by Obviously 0

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin B5, another excellent formulation by The Ordinary at a reasonable price point. We’ve reviewed The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution as well as The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, naturally it’s time we review their Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5.

The Product

The Ordinary – Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 claims to include “low-, medium- and high-molecular weight HA, as well as a next-generation HA crosspolymer at a combined concentration of 2% for multi-depth hydration”. These difficult molecular sizes are essential to deliver hydration which penetrates the skin.

What is Hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid, also known as Hyaluronan is a substance which is naturally occurring in our bodies. Roughly half of the Hyaluronic acid in our bodies is present in our skin. A summary of the key benefits is as follows:

KEY BENEFITS

Hydration

Hyaluronic Acid is an excellent humectant meaning it can draw water from it’s surroundings to boost skin moisture. This means soft, supple looking skin.

Anti-Aging

The hydration Hyaluronic Acid provides can immediately reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Stimulates Cellular Regeneration

By providing the skin with adequate moisture and a protective barrier, Hyaluronic Acid can promote the cellular regeneration process.

Hyaluronic acid chemical symbol

Directions For Use

A few drops of this product should be applied on the whole face twice a day and massaged in gently. As this is a water-based product, it should be applied immediately after cleansing, and before any oil-based treatments and moisturisers.

The great thing about Hyaluronic Acid is that it can generally be used with most other serums, including AHA/BHA’s as well as Retinol.

THE RESULTS

Here’s what we found after using this product for thirty days:

Day 1

As this is an oil-free water-based serum, it is very light and easy to spread all over the face. It takes only a few drops and sinks in immediately. At first it leaves a slight shine but this subsides in a few minutes as it penetrates your skin. I have combination skin, dry around the cheeks and mouth and this formula immediately reduced the dryness around these areas.

Day 7

Significantly reduced dryness overall, and my skin looks more plump than before. I’m starting to see a little less oiliness around my T-Zone also, this is likely due to the sebaceous glands producing less oil as the skin is already hydrated.

Day 30

Not too different from Day 7, some of the fines lines around my forehead are less visible. Reduced dryness as before even after cleansing, now using a lot less moisturiser.

THE VERDICT

It works, hydrates and plumps the skin. The serum is light-weight and does not clog the pores. Using this in the long-run will slow the signs of ageing and combat dryness. A must have for those suffering from dry skin.

Using this in conjunction with Retinol will provide excellent anti-aging results, read What is Retinol? And Why You Should Be Using It.

Get the product HERE from The Ordinary’s official website.

Posted on by Obviously 2

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, yet another popular formulation by The Ordinary; we’ve reviewed our experience with this product as well as included some pointers to maximise effectiveness. Niacinamide has been increasing in popularity in the skincare world due to it’s excellent blemish fighting and sebum regulating activity, great for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

The Product

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% claims to “reduce the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion. A high 10% concentration of this vitamin is supported in the formula by zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid to balance visible aspects of sebum activity.”. The active ingredients include niacinamide and zinc in an oil-free, alcohol-free solution.

What is Niacinamide?

As with most of The Ordinary’s products, it can be hard to work out the full scope of benefits of the products from just reading the label, so here are the key functions of Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3:

Regulates sebum production: Sebum is the oily secretion produced by your pores through the sebaceous glands, the key function of which is to keep your skin protected and hydrated. Excess sebum however can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and an oily complexion.

Niacinamide reduces sebum production, and can therefore minimise breakouts, skin oiliness, and also decrease the size of your pores.

Improves skin barrier function: Niacinamide helps to improve the skins natural barrier function, which keeps pollutants out while retaining moisture; thus keeping the skin hydrated. This is especially good for those suffering from flaking/dry skin. Ceramide production is also enhanced by this formula, which are lipids that protect the skin.

Reduces inflammation and skin blemishes: Niacinamide helps to reduce inflammation caused by acne, eczema or other skin conditions, and also reduces the appearance blemishes and skin congestion.

Zinc is also a fantastic ingredient which also helps to combat inflammation and fight acne.

So, how do I use this product?

Apply in the morning and evening. Product should be used on your whole face after cleansing. As this is a serum, it should always be applied prior to any moisturising creams or oil-based products. There are a few ingredients that you shouldn’t mix with niacinamide, read more about the skincare ingredients you should never mix here.

Chemical diagram for Niacinamide

The Results

Following our classic day/week/month review format, here’s what we found:

Day 1: The serum is quite lightweight and sinks right into the skin, it leaves a very slight shine. Would form a good base for foundation. Not much to see here yet though, slightly reduced oiliness around the T-Zone area. I’ll be applying this product twice a day.

Day 7: Having applied this twice a day for a week I notice that my pores are visibly smaller; likely due to the reduced sebum activity. Ensuring I keep a good cleansing and exfoliating routine while using this product has meant my skin is certainly clearer than prior to starting the treatment. There is little sign of redness or blemishes, and my skin tone has improved a little. Still a little oiliness however.

Day 28: The motivation for using this product was the mainly reduced the oiliness around the T-zone and minimise the size of my pores. I have quite enlarged pores which I can attribute to the excessive sebum production around the T-zone area. This product has reduced that significantly, I was a little sceptical on day 7 but these products often take a few weeks to come into full effect.

The Verdict

As with most of Deciem’s range, it does exactly what it says on the tin.

Minimised Pores 8/10. My pores are a lot smaller than before, with little to no blackheads.

Reduced Oiliness 8/10. Significantly reduced oil activity, no longer have that ‘shine’ at the end of the day.

Improved Skin Tone 4/10. Independent studies suggest that this product improves skin tone, didn’t see much of that happening myself.

Reduced Acne – N/A. Can’t really comment on this one as I don’t really suffer from acne, but judging by the reduced oiliness on my face it likely would. Note that this is not treatment for ongoing acne, you should either be using a BHA formulation or visit a qualified dermatologist.

Get the product here from The Ordinary’s official website.

Posted on by Obviously 8