Beauty

This Review Of The Ordinary Skincare Line Highlights Which Products You Should Cop At Ulta

by Kelsi Zimmerman
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Originally Published: 
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In case you haven't yet heard, The Ordinary, the skincare brand that has positioned itself in the skincare industry as extremely effective yet shocking affordable, is now available on Ulta.com. And come Aug. 5, a whopping 26 of their products will be available in about 400 Ulta stores nationwide. Since so affordable products are now available at your fingertips, it's only right that I deliver an account of how the brand's key products hold up. This The Ordinary skincare review highlights five products that you should consider copping now that they are available on Ulta.com.

When it comes down to it, The Ordinary's shtick is that they deliver science-backed results through products that contain strictly the active ingredients that deliver the results — all at an unbelievably inexpensive price. Basically, in each bottle, whether it be a serum, face mask, peel, or moisturizer, you will only find the concentrated acids designed to help achieve the desired results — and no product is more than $20.

While effectiveness and affordability are two very important qualities to have in a skincare brand, knowing what each acid is designed to do can be the tricky part. So luckily for you, I've reviewed of some of the brand's key products to break down what each does to your skin, and how it held up on mine.

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

What could probably be considered The Ordinary's hero product is considered such for a very good reason. The AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a 10-minute exfoliating facial that buffs off the skin's surface layer for a brighter, more even complexion. The alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) do the exfoliating, while the beta hydroxy acids (BHA) decongest the pores. I've used the facial peel twice a week for the past three weeks, in conjunction with the rest of my skincare routine, and the difference in texture, decrease in blemishes, and improved radiance is pretty remarkable. What's more is that this key product is one of The Ordinary's products that are now available at Ulta.

The peeling solution is to be used after cleansing, before applying a serum. It's important to note that you should pay special attention to applying SPF when using the peel as your skin may be a bit sensitive due to the acids in the peel.

Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

Salicylic acid is considered a BHA, meaning it works to unclog pores and to treat and prevent acne. The Ordinary's Salicylic Acid 2% is formulated with witch hazel to exfoliate and clear pores for visibly clearer skin. As someone who is prone to hormonal acne around my jaw line, after incorporating the acid into my routine as my new go-to serum, any blemishes that I had were gone within two days, and my skin was smoother, brighter, and appeared more even.

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid 2% contains a combination of low, medium, and high molecular weights, meaning the acid moisturizes the skin at different depths, so each layer of the skin is being reached and hydrated.

I've used hyaluronic acids before; however, after consistently using The Ordinary's HA 2% after serums and before creams in the morning and at night for a period of two weeks, my skin proved to be more supple, hydrated, and all around brighter.

100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

If you love facial oils that are intended to moisturize and soften the skin, then The Ordinary's 100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil should be your next purchase at Ulta. The oil feels luxurious on the skin and hydrates without leaving skin greasy, so you can easily put your makeup on right after applying the oil.

Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

While The Ordinary's Salicyclic Acid 2% Masque is not sold at Ulta as of right now, it definitely deserves a shout out. This $12 face mask has repeatedly given me drastic, fast results each time I've used it. The SA 2% mask is infused with charcoal and clay to help the BHA exfoliate and remove dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. After just 10 minutes, the mask can be rinsed off, and underneath, you'll find skin that is clearer and smoother.

As mentioned, each of The Ordinary's products contains only what is suggested in the product's name, meaning they're free of gluten, alcohol, silicones, are cruelty-free, and vegan. Make sure to check out the brand's full range on Ulta.com so you can treat your skin to trustworthy, inexpensive products.

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