Eclectic Northeast – July 2019

July 2019 │ │ 81

T

here is nothing remotely ordinary about most
of the products that I have tried from this line
so far. This brand should have been named The
Extraordinary in my opinion. Sure there are a few
misses but most worked out superbly well.
Skincare devouts must have surely heard of The
Ordinary by now. This new Canadian brand has
revolutionised the beauty industry by offering active
ingredients in a no-frills packaging at an unbeatable
price. Most products in the line are under $10 making
it VERY affordable. Their products contain active
ingredients at a low, affordable price point without the
fluff that you’ll find in other skincare brands. You won’t
find fragrance and fillers in this brand; only active
ingredients that have a purpose.
Here I list out few of the products which I have used
over time and found worthwhile.

100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
This is a dry sort of oil, not heavy or tacky and
gets absorbed into the skin within minutes. It leaves
your skin fully moisturised without looking greasy
and gives you a subtle glow. Use is at night time after
your water based products. I found with regular use
my skin feels hydrated and much brighter. Perfect for
summer when most of us hate slathering on anything
heavy. People with sensitive noses take note that this
completely unrefined oil has a natural scent due to its
high omega fatty acid content. This however is not an
indication of rancidity. In fact Rose Hip Oil that doesn’t
have a scent is refined and offers reduced benefits.

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Alpha arbutin is most well known for its ability to
treat hyperpigmentation as well as minor breakouts by
brightening and evening out skin tone. The Ordinary’s
Alpha Arbutin in my opinion is its star product.
This watery serum has no fragrance with a sticky
and smooth texture. On application, it feels sticky
and tacky over the skin. However, within a minute of
absorption, the skin feels soft and smooth. Most of the

time I don’t feel the need to apply a moisturiser since

it is super hydrating on its own. The ordinary alpha

Arbutin 2 % + HA brightens the skin and makes it

plump and softer, as well. Overall, it does whatever it

claims to do to your skin.

Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG

This light-textured formula contains an extremely

high 5% concentration of caffeine, supplemented with

highly-purified Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside

(EGCG) from green tea leaves. Independent studies

have shown that topical use of each of caffeine and

EGCG can help reduce looks of puffiness and of dark

circles in the eye contour. Additional studies have

shown that caffeine can also reduce the appearance of

cellulite.

This light-textured formula is soothing when

applied to the eye contour area. Heard many good things

about this one and I must say I am not disappointed.

Although there was no huge difference to the shadows

underneath the eyes, it works like a charm to reduce

puffiness and make the delicate undereye skin firm.

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) exfoliate the skin’s

topmost surface for a brighter and more even

appearance. Beta hydroxy acids (BHA) also exfoliate

the skin with an extended function to help clear pore

congestion. The combined 32% AHA/BHA solution

is said to offer deeper exfoliation to help fight visible

blemishes and for improved skin radiance. The

formula also improves the appearance of skin texture

and reduces the look of fine lines with continued use.

For those with a fetish for things macabre, this

product is up your alley with its blood like colour and

consistency. Apply a thin even layer on clean, dry skin.

It is normal to feel a tingly and hot sensation at first.

Keep no more than 10 minutes and wash off to smooth

and glowy skin. This product gives instant results and

is great to prep up the skin ahead of special occasions.

Instant facial in a bottle!

MsJaySpeaks

Beauty and skin care products are personal, what works for one may not for

another. With that out of the way, here is my take on few hyped products.

Hopefully these points help while you think of buying products and are

looking for reviews. Do share your feedback at [email protected]