The Ordinary Skincare review – A few other products I've added to my regimen

Hi Stunners
I couldn’t wait to write another review on these products. If you haven’t managed to read my previous one then please click here.

On my previous The Ordinary review post, I mentioned that there were three products I wanted to add and they are

1. Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
2. Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%
3. 100% Organic Cold-Pressed
   Rose Hip Seed Oil

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 

“This serum claims to reduce the look of spots and hyperpigmentation. It’s used at a high 2% concentration versus a standard concentration of 1% and supported by a next-generation form of Hyaluronic Acid for enhanced delivery. Alpha Arbutin is much stronger in effect than Arbutin or Beta-Arbutin.”
I’ve been using this product for the past 6 weeks along with The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% as well as the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with my morning routine. This combination is recommended on the website for pigmentation issues (excluding the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ) and I have seen fantastic results.
Alpha Arbutin is said to be the secret skin brightener. “Arbutin is a molecule extracted from the bearberry plant that prevents the formation of melanin.” It is made from the leaves of bearberry, these plants actually have sun protection properties and can reduce the degree of skin darkening after sun exposure. How amazing is this natural product? It’s fantastic for ladies suffering from hyperpigmentation and one of the benefits of this ingredients is that it’s great for sensitive skin because the active component is released slowly meaning it becomes less irritating on the skin. Please read my review on Hyaluronic Acid here.
It can take several months for blemish scars to disappear and this has sped the time up to several weeks. I don’t really suffer from pigmentation but I have 3-4 little spots from squeezing pimples that took forever to disappear. Since using the Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA with the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% I have seen these spots fading and they’re almost completely gone.
This serum is quite liquidy and lightweight and I love how quickly it sinks into my skin so I don’t have to wait for ages to apply the next part of my skin care routine. My skin’s texture, those stubborn spots, as well as the redness, has improved dramatically. I really am amazed by this combination.
 

Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%

This is an alpha hydroxyl acid that exfoliates the skin. This specific one is at a 5% level which is probably good for entry levels so your skin can get used to it and then you build up the strength. There’s also the Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% which is stronger. I must reveal that I was quite hesitant to purchase this one because the word Acid alone scared me. After reading a few reviews on how to use it if you haven’t used an acid before, I realised that one just has to start off with a small amount and slowly build it up.
Lactic acid is one of the most popular acids in skin care today, marketed as a potent ingredient that helps diminish acne breakouts and the appearance of wrinkles. It is a natural acid derived from milk, fruit, vegetables and other plants which stop any growth of bacteria and is commonly used for chemical peels.
How does it work? Lactic acid works by breaking down the ‘glue’ between skin cells, causing them to shed and expose the newer, healthier skin underneath. It also stimulates and improves collagen production and I’m sure all of us know by now that this is amazing for skin firmness and wrinkles.
I’ve seen a major improvement with my fine lines underneath my eyes as well as my laughing lines and my skin tone and texture has also improved.
 

100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

Please read my Skincare routine post where I discuss the benefits of Rose Hip oil in detail. I didn’t think twice about purchasing this product.
“The Ordinary Rosehip Oil uses 100% pure Rosehip Seed Oil that is both cold-pressed and organic. Rosehip Seed Oil is rich in linoleic acid, linolenic acid and pro-vitamin A, all of which degrade when the oil extraction process involves heat. While cold-pressed extraction is complex, it preserves all of the quality of this important oil which has been shown to reduce signs of photo-ageing and many other skin conditions.”
Rosehip Oil is full of omega 6 fatty acids, antioxidants, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, and vitamins C and A. It is a great all-around product that is hydrating and anti-aging, it also helps repair skin due to sun damage for a more even skin tone. It really is a true miracle oil for any skin type.
This Oil does live up to its claims and I will definitely repurchase it.

My “The Ordinary” regimen:

AM: After cleansing and toning I use these in this specific order

• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
• Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

PM:

• Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%
• Buffet
• Advanced Retinoid 2%
• 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

 
I absolutely LOVE this brand and sooo happy I came across it because it really has changed my skin for the better. It’s so hard to find products that really work for your skin so when you do, it’s best you stick to it and that is exactly what I plan on doing!
 
 
I’ve purchased all my The Ordinary products from samika store who is the only stockist in South Africa and the official distributor.
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this post and that it was informative enough. Have you purchased any of these products and if so, what changes have you seen? Let me know in the comments below.
 
Toodles Stunners! Xx