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Is the „feels“ side of a product important to you? Or is the sensual experience secondary, as long as a product delivers?
And isn´t even asking this question the epitome of #firstworldproblems?
I guess it is. If a product delivers ingredientwise, shouldn´t that be the only thing that matters? Why would we spend more just to have a more pleasant experience when applying something?
A question I do ask myself quite often when it comes to The Ordinary products, and one that I have yet to find an answer for.
But I have learned, the „feels“ do matter to me, and, within reason of course, I am willing to pay extra just because something feels nicer.
Last product to proove that? The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2 % + B5
What The Ordinary claims
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) can attract up to 1,000 times its weight in water. The molecular size of HA determines its depth of delivery in the skin. This formulation combines 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. This system is supported with the addition of Vitamin B5 which also enhances surface hydration.
Facts
Prize and size
One bottle (dropper, frosted glass) contains 30 ml and retails for 6,80 € on the website here.
Texture and smell
Clear and without any noticeable scent the fluid is easy to distribute on your face and neck.
Application and effects
If you have used Hyaluronic Acid serums before, you are familiar with the stickiness they can leave on your face. Some formulas are more sticky than others, and this is definitely one of the stickier versions. Adding a mist or a moisturizer on top will make it go away.
Immediately after application my skin feels and looks plump and I noticed that my foundation doesn´t settle into my pores as easily as it did beforehand, a sign that it is less dehydrated.
Ingredients
Favorable ingredients
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Hydrating, smaller form of hyaluronic acid with deeper penetration
- Propanediol: Increases penetration of acids, Humectant
- Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer: Humectant, five times as effective as sodium hyaluronate (claimed by manufacturing company)
- Panthenol: Vit. B 5, humectant, penetrates into deep layers of skin, antiinflammatory
- Ahnfeltia Concinna Extract: Red algae extract, mineral rich, humectant and antiinflammatory
- Glycerin: Humectant
- 1,2-Hexanediol: Humectant
- Caprylyl Glycol: Emollient
- Pentylene Glycol: Humectant. Improves absorption of other ingredients. Few case reports about contact dermatitis
Other ingredients
- Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate: Chelating agent
- Citric Acid: AHA/pH adjuster
- Isoceteth-20: Emulsifier
- Ethoxydiglycol: Solvent, controls viscosity
- Ethylhexylglycerin: Preservative
- Hexylene Glycol: Solvent
- Phenoxyethanol: Preservative
This is what I would expect from a hyaluronic acid serum: Different kinds of hyaluronic acid, a few other humectants, panthenol and, with the exception of red algae extract, no surprises.
Does it live up to its claims?
Yes.
I mean, I don´t have the means to weigh the hyaluronic acid in it, but… yes.
Would I repurchase?
Maybe.
It is a nice hydrating and soothing formula, but I am not too excited about the sticky feeling, so I am on the fence. #firstworldproblems, I told you.
Who do I recommend it to?
Anyone looking for a hydrating and soothing serum.
Hyaluronic acid is beneficial for every skin type, so if you don´t have another one in your routine (and especially if money is an issue), The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2 % + B5 is an excellent choice.
