Latest news with #TheOrdinary
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Woman hospitalised with 'bulging' eyes after using cult bargain beauty product
A woman was left with 'bulging eyes' and skin that felt as if it was 'on fire' after using a popular spot-busting treatment. Neasa McGrattan, from Newcastle upon Tyne, claimed she had been using the Salicylic Acid two per cent Solution serum by budget beauty brand The Ordinary for years before she purchased a new bottle in March. But a week later the 27-year-old said she noticed a new rash on her forehead and found her eye lids became itchy. She initially dismissed the symptoms as a sign of stress, but grew concerned after spotting extreme swelling around her eye area, and visited her GP for help. The doctor prescribed hay fever tablets and told her to stop using any skincare products. A break from using her much-loved £6 product saw her skin clear up—until she re-applied it. The following day, she woke up 'terrified', with her face feeling like it was 'on fire' and her eyes having 'doubled' in size, she claimed. Ms McGrattan said she was rushed to hospital where doctors suggested the serum could be the cause of the reaction. She has now warned others to patch test every new bottle of cosmetics they buy because 'it's not worth the allergic reaction'. Recalling her initial symptoms, she said: 'After one week [of using the new bottle] I had quite a small rash in the centre of my forehead, which was similar to a mild sunburn. 'I started getting an itchy eye and eyelids and I got a dry patch to the right of my lower lip. It was similar to psoriasis or eczema, which I'm not prone to.' The next wave of symptoms that appeared the morning after using the serum were even worse. 'I felt terrified when I woke up because my face was so hot it was on fire and it was burning. I wasn't getting any relief even from ice cubes,' she said. 'My eyes doubled in size and they were puffy. It looked worse than if I'd been beaten up, I could only open my eyes to a slit.' Hospital doctors told her she was having an allergic reaction and prescribed her antihistamines and eye drops. Once the swelling went down she claimed she was left with 'aged, red, blotchy and dry skin'. 'It just looked like I had psoriasis on my eyelids, which was terrible.' She added that doctors told her to 'bin' her bottle of Salicylic Acid as soon as she got home. As for why she hadn't experienced such an extreme reaction to the product previously, eye specialists suggested a change of formula may have taken place. 'Eye doctors told me that products can get contaminated by other things or maybe it was not sealed correctly,' she added. The Ordinary website suggests applying the product to a small area first, stating: 'If you develop severe irritation, hives, swelling of eyes and mouth, blistering, or difficulty breathing, rinse off, cease use and consult a physician right away'. Ms McGrattan advised: 'You should patch test every new bottle that you buy even if you've used that skincare product for a decade. 'I think now every time I buy a new bottle of everything, even if I've used it a million times before, I'm going to patch test every time because it's not worth the reaction I got.' The Ordinary was approached for a comment.
Buzz Feed
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
43 Thrifty Products You Are Going To Be A Little Bit Smug To Tell Your Friends About
A Baccarat Rouge 540-inspired moisturizing body wash infused with white jasmine, red currant, and sweet amber that reviewers swear by for a cheap alternative to keep that delectably luxe scent on them all day long. Nothing wrong with smelling a lil' ~~expensive~~! A reviewer-beloved basic crewneck tee that plays nice with ALL your jeans and skirts, since it's just the right amount of compressive and easily slides under waistbands. Also, at that price point, and in THIS MANY colors??? Seems like it's Restock Your Wardrobe O'Clock. A tinted lip balm so close to the same magic as "Black Honey," TikTok's beloved $25 ~universal shade~ from Clinique, that it will genuinely startle you — especially when you see the price. This is a perfect, non-sticky "go-to" lippie that's just a step above the "no makeup makeup" look, giving the perfect subtly polished effect. A pair of luxe retro-style oval sunglasses giving Miu Miu vibes without the $489 price tag. The devil's in the chic details on this one, including the little gold embellishments on the sides and the nostalgic shape of the lenses, which are softer than the typical skinny oval lens. The Ordinary's Multi-Depth Hydration Serum to achieve that "glassy," plumped effect *without* breaking the whole bank. This delightfully affordable, super effective serum helps hydrate and protect your skin barrier so you wake up with firm, refreshed skin. Gold Bond's firming neck and chest cream your skin will be SO happy to soak up — this is formulated with aloe, salicylic acid, and jojoba oil to help hydrate, tighten, and gently exfoliate your skin so effectively that you should be able to see early results in two weeks. Reviewers especially love how affordable this is compared to creams that often cost three times this $12 price tag (or more)! A cult-favorite Creamy Coconut fragrance rollerball reviewers compare to the $25 Sol de Janeiro version 👀☀️ . This is from TikTok-famous small business brand Kuumba Made, known for its luxury scents at ridiculously affordable prices, so you know they're on their game — reviewers especially love how ~beachy~ and long-lasting this sweet but elevated fragrance feels and how nicely it plays with other scents! E.l.f's Lash XTNDR Tubing Mascara, a GODSEND for anyone with thin or fragile lashes. This uses lightweight ~tubing~ technology to wrap around lashes and give them a natural-looking, smudge-proof extension so good it almost looks fake. The real boon, though, is how easily the "tubes" slide off in clean, easy swipes at the end of the day when you're washing your face — absolutely no smudging, over-scrubbing, or special eye makeup removal products required. Plus E.l.f.'s iconic eyelash curler that'll blow all the expensive versions out of the water — this gives your lashes such an instant, gentle lift that you'll be like, "Oh, cool, there's dark magic in here somewhere." If you want to take your bare lashes or mascara to the next level, this little gizmo will do it in a few seconds flat, without the $22 price tag of the Shu Uemura version that reviewers compare it with. A delightfully affordable instant foot peeling spray for anyone ready to go full YEEHAW!! on a pedicure, without the big salon price tag. This not only helps gently remove dead skin, but moisturizes dry and cracked heels, so you'll really get some refreshing bang for your buck. A pair of cheerful, super lightweight boxer-style shorts so comfy and adorable that you are about to put your denim shorts on notice for the rest of the year — especially since these are a MUCH cheaper alternative to the $98 Reformation version. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face SPF 60 Serum, which finally answers the question of, "What if a high-quality priming moisturizer could also punch the UV right out of the sun??" This lightweight, nongreasy, no-white-cast formula is here to solve all your warm weather beauty woes once and for all by playing nice under your makeup *and* protecting you from the sun's rays. A set of limited edition wildflower Band-Aids so the next time you get a little ouch, you can be like, "wound care, but make it fashion." A roll-up wide brim UPF 50 sun hat to protect your cheeks from the sun's rays *and* keep you looking effortlessly chic no matter how many days it's been since your last hair wash. This one is a real winner because of how absurdly packable it is, making it perfect for shoving into a tote bag on long days and a suitcase on vacation — and how affordable it is compared to $87+ versions from brands like Bloomingdale's, Wallaroo, and Cuyana. A set of darling reusable Swedish dishcloths that can be washed up to 50 times in the dishwasher, and are designed to replace 17 (!!) rolls of paper towels each. These are strong enough to tackle tough stains and grime, but gentle enough that they won't scratch cookware or hurt your skin. Eos' Shea Butter Vanilla Cashmere body lotion, which TikTok is going *feral* over both because of the lightweight, long-lasting moisture, and the soothing, delicious smell that reviewers compare to more expensive brands like Philosophy and Bath & Body Works. A set of Victoria's Secret–inspired seamless "invisible" underwear so soft and stretchy your butt will want to *sing* when you slide them on. This is a true holy grail underwear that doesn't show, doesn't ride up, and somehow manages to look cute all at the same time. Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener, which will be your holy grail for concealing and brightening dark circles under your eyes when your summer schedule is throwing you for a loop. This lightweight, color-adapting formula is designed for truly ~invisible~ coverage that makes a drastic difference — one that a lot of reviewers compare to the $33 Becca version. Plus Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel, a cult-fave product for your beauty arsenal that will quickly help minimize eye puffiness and swelling thanks to its winning combo of caffeine and hyaluronic acid. It's basically an alarm clock for your eyeballs, because boy howdy are they awake now!! Lottabody's Coconut Oil Foaming Curl Mousse designed for all hair types to give you satisfyingly hydrated, volumized, frizz-free curls at a FRACTION of the price of its competitors. A Skims-inspired square-neck compressive body suit that's basically 10 outfits in one — you can rock it solo, wear it as a bodysuit tucked into jeans, or pair it with a hoodie or a jacket. Go, little base layer, gooooo! E.l.f. Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm for all the ultra fans of Summer Fridays, Rhode, and Laneige whose bank accounts are begging them to put a stop to the lippie madness. These new deliciously tinted, moisturizing, buildable glosses are just as buttery and decadent as the balms that inspired them, for a fraction of the price. (Brb, drowning myself in the "Strawberry Shortcake" and "Vanilla Toffee" flavors.) A truly gargantuan but lightweight striped beach bag that holds so many of your shenanigans that you'll feel like you opened a hole in the time-space-tote-bag continuum. Truly a lot of audacity for it to be so boho chic and affordable on TOP of all that!! An affordable, Lululemon-esque longline sports bra so comfy, supportive, and versatile that reviewers love it both for outdoor workouts, gym use, *and* errand running. This is designed to be supportive without being too compressive, with lightweight fabric that keeps you breezy in the heat. And a pair of high-waisted running shorts with a comfy scrunch-elastic waistband reviewers compare to the Lululemon version. These are lightweight, quick-dry, and come in so many adorable colors that your butt might just want them on rotation until laundry day. A set of earthy pastel knives to add some quiet calm and downright shocking functionality to your kitchen — reviewers are in love with how sharp, efficient, and easy to handle these blades are, not to mention how easy they are to clean. A shockingly affordable "Glow Up!" Vitamin C Face Serum that packs a punch as powerful as the $30+ versions — reviewers swear by this for reducing dark spots, brightening skin, restoring tone, and giving skin a more radiant, firm look. This particular serum's secret is the 3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, which helps boost ~radiance~, in addition to the hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and vitamin E to help with hydration. A pair of pretty pastel wireless over-the-ear headphones crafted to look like AirPods Max, so you can still enjoy the comfort and chic style of their iconic headphones without shelling out hundreds of dollars. These feature premium cushion padding, a built-in mic with the ability to take calls, 10 hours of playtime per charge, and surprisingly decent noise blocking for the price. Jergens Natural Glow Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion to give you a gradual-building, vacation-worthy ~sunkissed glow~ over the course of just a few days. Not only is this easy peasy to apply compared to other finickier, streaking lotions, but it's formulated with collagen and elastin to help your skin appear firmer *and* glowier, and a HECK of a lot cheaper than its competitors. A crinkle cutter tool for veggies, fruit, potatoes, and cheese that not only makes meal prep a breeze, but makes certain foods more enticing for the picky eaters in the fam. Everyone knows a squiggly-shaped thing tastes better than a regular shape ... it's just science! A set of satin pillowcases that not only have a cooling effect, but are soft on your skin and create less friction for your hair so it won't get as tangled while you sleep. Reviewers especially love these because they're an affordable alternative to ones that typically run $18 per case! A set of golden bracelets giving ~quiet luxury~ vibes at "I want to pay rent this month" prices. Reviewers especially love these mix-and-match sets because they look like expensive versions from Cartier — the middle one is giving the $8,000 "Juste Un Clou" and the studded one is giving the $6,000 "Love Bracelet!" A bodycon lounge dress perfect for fans of Skims looking to spare themselves a few bucks — this versatile, figure-hugging dress has just the right amount of compression to mimic the iconic style and stay oh-so-comfortable for long periods of wear. A set of sophisticated cylindrical wineglasses to rival Crate & Barrel's, and to elevate your Friday wine-cheese-and-Netflix nights so instantaneously that you'll feel like an extra in one of those Shows About Rich Families Who Fight All The Time. An affordable cult-favorite luxury-scented candle with a scent reminiscent of Le Labo's Santal 33, and a throw so satisfying that reviewers can't stop gushing about it. If you're in the market for a signature scent for your space this fall, look no further than this jasmine, oud, and sandalwood blend. A plated, jewel-embedded ring you can buy yourself as a little treat if the $1,250 Cartier Love Ring is decidedly out of your budget. Dare I say this version is ... prettier than the designer one? A ribbed button up tank top with some real Abercrombie & Fitch energy to perfectly straddle that line of "professional" and "I am 100000% going out after work today, and a martini glass will be involved." A chic under-the-cabinet banana hanger so easy to install that you'll wonder why you didn't free up all your counter space *YEARS* ago. Also digging the whole "bananas as decor" vibe here. Essence's Drop of Sunshine Bronzing Drops, aka the more affordable version of the beloved $39 Drunk Elephant version. This buildable, hydrating formula is an easy way to add a ~sunkissed touch~ to your beauty routine without breaking the bank (or compromising your skin!). Physicians Formula Butter Glow & Go Stick with similar energy as the $46 Charlotte Tilbury Beach Stick for a smooth, rich, and ridiculously easy-to-apply contour to give your skin that ~sunkissed~ glow with as little effort as possible. This dual-ended stick is the definition of no muss, no fuss, and so versatile that when you're not using them on the go, you'll love experimenting with all the different ways you can make a subtle colorful *pop*. A super lightweight, loose-fitting high neck muscle tank for fans of the Lululemon version at a *much* lower price point. This is a breezy *dream* thanks to the quick-dry fabric, the cross-over pleat in the back, and the slight petal hem at the bottom. A set of Bala Bangle-inspired wrist and ankle weights to get your ~fitness~ on this summer — these serve all the same cuteness and function without the $55 price tag. Not to mention this has a TON more colors available to match your 'fits. A Lululemon-esque adjustable mini belted pack (aka ~fanny pack~) you can wear around your waist or shoulder for a lightweight bag alternative that you won't lose, since it is literally attached to you. A lot of reviewers mention how genuinely *stunned* they are by how much this little bag can secretly carry.
Daily Record
06-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Medik8 unveils 'miracle' new serum that 'defends against premature ageing'
The results-driven brand has added a powerhouse new serum that boasts an "intelligent" combination of ingredients. Looking to target dull skin and wrinkles? Then many experts experts would agree that it is worth purchasing skincare products with vitamin C One that has become a staple for many beauty enthusiasts is Medik8's C-Tetra range, with the celebrity approved brand's range of serums said to "visibly reduce" wrinkles and hyperpigmentation within four weeks. Now there's a brand new addition, as the firm says the "wait is over" after adding the C-Tetra Advanced to the line-up, and, owing to Medik8's reputation, it has been hailed as a "miracle in a bottle." Retailing at £69 for a 30ml bottle, this serum has been designed to be used in a morning skincare routine, using a powerful formula that works to "defend against premature skin ageing and achieve accelerated visible skin brightening." Said to be infused with a next-generation combination of 20 percent vitamin C and cutting edge phyto exosomes, it helps to shield and improve the skin from any environmental aggressors that can cause early signs of ageing. The "intelligent" formula provides smarter, not harsher, results, with skin tone said to be "visibly brightened" in just seven days, leaving a soft, smooth, even complexion. It also offers a unique texture, acting as a gel-serum that is said to be "fast absorbing", leaving the skin "instantly refreshed", while also hydrating, priming and smoothing. Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced, 30ml £69 Medik8 Buy here Product Description While the new Medik8 serum is a unique addition to the market, there are a few other powerhouses on the high street. This includes The Ordinary's £14.28 Multi-Antioxidant Radiance Serum (30ml) that uses eight technologies to brighten and protect. Another that is fairly new to the UK is Olay's Super Serum that costs £18.14 for a 30ml on Amazon. The first of its kind to offer five ingredients, including vitamin C, it offers a multitude of benefits that range from brightening to anti-ageing. Skincare buffs keen to know more about the new C-Tetra Advanced might be eager to know that it has already earned a 4.8 rating from those who managed to sample it, with praise saying it "minimises" lines and leaves skin "brighter." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. A five-star review read: "This was an absolute treat to use. Applied smoothly, visibly made my complexion look radiant and bright. In the morning I looked nice and fresh, smooth looking skin reduced the look of wrinkles. Another miracle in a bottle by Medik8." A second read: "I absolutely love this product, within a few days my skin looked so much brighter & smoother plus my wrinkles seemed to have reduced, in my experience it's not often you see a noticeable improvement so quickly with skincare products, even my husband said I look fresh faced!!! Beauty deal of the week It's almost Father's Day, and are you in need of some gift inspiration? If you don't want to buy a last minute gift, then we have you covered, as a bottle of aftershave is always a good shout and Debenhams has just cut the Yves Saint Laurent L'Homme Eau De Toilette from £92 to just £55.20 for a large 100ml bottle. There is also a smaller 60ml bottle that is a bit cheaper, with the price being reduced by 37 per cent from £68 to £43. Since reviews say it "stands out from the crowd", it's a deal worth bagging for dad. Launched in 2006, this YSL fragrance has been described as "a fragrance for the urban and charismatic 21st century male". For the guy in your life who likes to smell a little different, then this is the bottle to reach for. It opens on sparkling notes of bergamot, zesty cedarwood and Chinese ginger that has been met with the middle notes of violet leaves and basil flowers, offering a floral and spicy contrast. It is said to end on base notes of sandalwood, Virginia cedar wood and Haitian vetiver to "highlight this charismatic and magnetic fragrance." Those who want to stand out from the crowd will appreciate the YSL L'Homme Eau De Toilette, as it has earned a 4.7 rating from Debenhams fragrance buffs who have said it is "unusual" and "always gets compliments." One positive review read: "An unusual and outstanding men's perfume! What an interesting fresh yet a hint of spice men's perfume! It's different. Stands out from the crowd. Purchase the Yves Saint Laurent L'Homme Eau De Toilette (100ml) in the Debenhams sale here. "It's light & quickly absorbed so very easy to apply. C Tetra Advanced really made a difference & I will be making a purchase when it's launched!" Someone else praising the results said: "My skin looked visibly improved after four weeks of use in terms of ageing and minimising lines and wrinkles. It also gave it a radiance that made it look healthy and younger. I can't recommend this product enough!" A few users haven't been keen on the texture or the scent, as one such three-star review read: "Although this serum absorbs quickly I was not keen on the smell and found the consistency too thin for my liking." Although, this wasn't the case for most reviewers, as a fan of the formula said: "The C-Tetra advanced is the perfect consistency goes onto the skin nice and smoothly and is not greasy. It has a lovely smell and gives a nice radiance to the face." Purchase the new Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced (30ml) for £69 here.
Refinery29
05-06-2025
- Health
- Refinery29
14 The Ordinary Products Beauty Editors & Experts Can't Live Without
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission. Since its inception nine years ago, The Ordinary has come to define affordable, no-nonsense skincare. Firmly committed to ingredient transparency and reasonable pricing, the brand consistently delivers innovative products at a fraction of the cost you would normally pay elsewhere. It's no wonder that each new launch and restock from the brand has become a highly anticipated event, with waitlists often stretching into the thousands (recent successes like the GF 15% Solution and Serum Foundation come to mind). Ahead, we've asked our community of beauty editors and experts to share their all-time favorite products from The Ordinary — the ones they'd gladly repurchase with their own money. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the brand, these are the standout heroes that deserve a spot on your bathroom shelf. The Ordinary GF 15% Solution, $15.50 'I maintain that this serum ended my Botox obsession. Hear me out: the star ingredients are growth factors — a type of peptide or protein known to kickstart and encourage skin cell growth over time. Besides being used to heal wounds, they have another major skincare benefit: boosting collagen and elastin, the two things that make skin plump. Collagen-rich skin shows fewer fine lines and wrinkles. Don't get me wrong — those are totally natural and a normal part of aging, but I suspect mine are down to my own doing, thanks to too much sun exposure when I was younger, not to mention dehydration. (I'm terrible at drinking water.) This serum smooths my skin without making it feel tight, and since using it, I've noticed a significant difference in the depth of my forehead lines. They're more filled out, and my forehead is noticeably smoother, as are my under-eyes. I'm already on my third bottle and love layering it under sunscreen or a nourishing night cream before bed. Even better? It's nowhere near the price of Botox — and there are no needles involved.' — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director 'I've been using this milky toner religiously since last September and haven't looked back — my skincare routine would be nothing without it. I've tried a lot of hydrating toners over the years, and this one is by far my favorite. It delivers long-lasting hydration for my normal-to-dry skin type [thanks to squalane, an emollient that helps trap moisture in the skin]. Meanwhile, saccharomyces, a type of yeast ferment, gently exfoliates the skin and leaves a radiant glow. It also makes for the perfect skincare base before applying makeup.' — Vanese Maddix, contributing beauty writer The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner, $8.70 'Full disclosure: my skin doesn't usually do well with chemical exfoliants. It almost always ends in irritated skin and rosacea-related flare-ups. Yet this glycolic acid toner from The Ordinary is one of the very few formulas that has never failed me. I've been steadily relying on this clever formula for improving my skin texture and achieving a radiant complexion. What I love most is that this water-based AHA exfoliator also features a Tasmanian pepperberry derivative, which is a plant extract that helps soothe the skin in the process, ensuring minimal irritation (if any).' — Denise Primbet, freelance beauty writer The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum, $14.90 'This is easily the best retinoid I've ever tried, especially for the price. I've gone through two tubes of this already and have the brighter, smoother skin to show for it. If you're a retinoid newbie, this may be a bit much to start with and might cause some purging [breakouts, redness, and sensitivity]. I didn't experience any irritation or flaking after integrating this product into my routine. In fact, I found this serum to be one of the gentler, high-strength retinal serums I've tried, thanks to synthetic oat analogues that soothe and calm the skin. I've seen a visible reduction in my dark spots and texture, and at just under $15, it easily beats products that cost quadruple.' — Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer 'I have fond memories of this product, as it was my go-to face cream when I lived and worked in Hong Kong at the start of my career. The city has a subtropical climate, so it's hot and humid for the majority of the year, and most moisturizers are just way too greasy in that type of weather. Not this formula, though. Ingredients like urea, ceramides, and fatty acids strengthen and moisturize the skin's natural barrier without clogging pores, while hyaluronic acid adds further hydration. I enjoy the airy, fast-absorbing texture so much that I also use this under my eyes, in place of heavier eye creams. The budget-friendly price was much appreciated when I was earning an entry-level paycheck, and it's still very much a staple for me now.' — Venus Wong, senior writer The Ordinary Glycolipid Cream Cleanser, $12.50 'Whenever I get to the bottom of this cleanser, I feel a bit sad — that's how good it is. It's one of the most gentle and moisturizing face washes I've tried (that'll be the glycolipids; more on them in a sec), yet it dissolves foundation, sunscreen, and even thick mascara in moments, leaving my skin clean but never squeaky. It manages all that without lathering, which usually dries my skin out and leaves it feeling like it might shatter. The star ingredients are glycolipids. Without taking you back to science class, a lipid is a fat that occurs naturally in the skin. Glycolipids are fats with carbohydrates attached, and they help care for the cells that form tissues like skin. In this cleanser, they soothe and moisturize — exactly what I want from a face wash. Better still? It's just $12.50, so I'm not too annoyed when my partner steals it from the shower.' — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director The Ordinary Serum Foundation, $7.50 Shop This 'I'll always have a soft spot for this serum foundation as it was one of the first I ever tried that matched my dark skin tone exactly. I have such fond memories of visiting The Ordinary's pop-up store years ago and being perfectly shade-matched. While I'm yet to try it again since its return, the brand has confirmed that the formula is the same as when it was discontinued back in 2022. From what I remember, it was one of the OGs of the no-makeup makeup look. It glides seamlessly onto the skin and feels incredibly lightweight. As someone who can't stand the feel of heavy foundation or skin tints, this serum formula is a dream. Here's hoping it becomes a permanent fixture in The Ordinary's product line.' — Vanese Maddix, contributing beauty writer The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Eye Serum, $25 'This is somewhat of a sleeper hit in The Ordinary's catalog. I'm solidly team eye serum, since they tend to be lighter in texture and absorb much more readily than a thicker cream. My main goal with my eye area is to hydrate and brighten; this serum does all that, and feels like heaven to apply. It feels so refreshing and cooling (I don't even leave it in the fridge!) when I gently tap it underneath my eyes, and it doesn't create a slip-and-slide effect for any makeup that goes over it. It's an easy, no-frills essential in my routine.' — Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque, $13.80 'I love putting on this charcoal and clay clarifying mask on a Sunday; it's part of my end-of-week reset ritual. This is a fast-acting product, due to salicylic acid [a gentle BHA that helps dissolve blackheads and dead skin cells]. I turn to this product every summer, when breakouts happen more often due to sweat and heat, and it always helps keep my skin in check. Of course, it's important to always follow with sunscreen.' — Tanyel Mustafa, senior writer The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum, $17 'As someone who has rosacea and dry skin, focusing on barrier repair is a must when it comes to curating my skincare routine. I've sworn by this serum from The Ordinary for over a year now, and I still haven't found a formula that manages to soothe, hydrate, and nourish my skin as effectively. Not only does it have an aesthetically pleasing pink hue, but it genuinely does a great job at calming my redness and treating sudden flare-ups. It's also packed with my favorite barrier-loving ingredients like centella asiatica, ceramides, and niacinamide.' — Denise Primbet, freelance beauty writer The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum, $19 'I've been using this sunscreen since it launched last month, and it's now a mainstay in my skincare lineup. It gives my skin a healthy, luminous finish without any uncomfortable tackiness, and it grips makeup beautifully, helping everything stay in place longer. The UV protection comes from chemical filters, so it actually disappears on all skin tones — a major upgrade from the brand's now-discontinued mineral sunscreen, which was known for its noticeable white cast! You might wonder why it's labeled SPF 45 instead of the more familiar SPF 50. According to The Ordinary, SPF ratings aren't just picked by brands — they're determined through lab testing. In this case, the formula tested at SPF 45, which they point out blocks only 0.2% less UVB rays than SPF 50. Basically, the difference is negligible. Just be sure to use enough; I aim for two finger-lengths worth of product to cover my face and neck.' — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm, $9.50 'I'm shouting out this lip balm on behalf of myself and my husband. It's lightweight (a key factor for men, who simply can't cope with anything resembling a gloss) but really hydrates and smooths rough, cracked lips. I think it's more like a lip serum, personally, since the texture is much thinner than other balms in my rotation, which I love for the daytime. (I prefer something more occlusive at night.) I'd also be remiss not to mention the packaging, which I find positively adorable — also small purse/pocket friendly.' — Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser, $10.50 Shop This 'A creamy, hydrating cleanser is the only way to go when you have dry, sensitive skin like mine. This one is by far my favorite. Once massaged into your hands, it applies like a buttery oil which effortlessly cleans my face of makeup, dirt, and grime (yes, even the most stubborn of products). It does so without leaving skin feeling parched or making me feel greasy, like I need to double cleanse, as many oil cleansers can do. Better yet, it's only $10.50. Who says you have to shell out big bucks for good quality skincare? Not The Ordinary!' — Esther Newman, affiliate writer The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil, $10.90 'When I started my gua sha routine a couple of years ago, I searched far and wide for an inexpensive face oil, and this was the winner. It has the perfect consistency for the practice, since it has a rich consistency (but not too rich) and provides enough slip for the tool to glide over the entire face without absorbing too quickly. Rosehip seed oil is rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids, which help slow the breakdown of skin cells from environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV damage. I tend to switch to this oil when I do gua sha in the winter, and notice my skin tone becoming more even as a result.' — Venus Wong, senior writer
Straits Times
05-06-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Here comes the sunscreens: The new guard of SPF
A slew of sunscreen offerings has just entered the market, and they are tailored for different skin types and lifestyles. PHOTO: THE ORDINARY Here comes the sunscreens: The new guard of SPF SINGAPORE – As Singapore swelters through one of its hottest spells in recent memory, with daily maximum temperatures likely to hover around 34 deg C on most days, beauty insiders in the country are gearing up for the arrival of European skincare label Lancaster, known for its high-performance sunscreens. The brand is set to bring its cult-favourite formulas to department store BHG Bugis and an exclusive pop-up in Hylam Street in July. Globally, Lancaster's suncare portfolio spans nearly 30 variations across four lines: the glow-enhancing Sun Beauty (its biggest range), the anti-ageing Sun Perfect, the ultra-gentle Sun Beauty Sensitive Skin range and the bronzing Infinite Bronze line, ranging from SPF30 to SPF50+. Details on pricing will be available later. It remains to be seen which products will land on local shelves, but fans can expect Lancaster's signature Full Light Technology , the brand's patented filter system, in formats from tinted compacts to spritz-on mists to swipe-and-go sticks. In the meantime, here are recent sunscreen arrivals to check out. Shiseido's Global Suncare Range (from $45) Developed with patented technology that is said to reinforce its protective veil upon contact with heat, water or perspiration, Shiseido's Global Suncare range is available in four formats. PHOTO: SHISEIDO The Japanese skincare giant recently entered the chat by unveiling its new range, powered by next-gen SynchroShield Technology, a patented tech that is said to strengthen the sunscreen's protective veil when exposed to heat, water or perspiration. Available in four formats – including the Perfect Sun Protector Lotion and Hydro Gel Cream – the line was developed with the brand's guiding philosophy of 'Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere' in mind. Each product is infused with more than 50 per cent skincare ingredients, including five types of algae extracts and glycyrrhizic acid derivatives, merging serious UV protection with luxurious textures and feel-good finishes. Especially notable is the Perfect Sun Protector Lotion SPF50+ PA++++ ($70 for 50ml), which includes AutoRepair technology – a smart film-forming system that is said to 'self-heal' minor disruptions from sweat or friction, helping maintain even coverage across the skin. Info: Available at Shiseido boutiques, Sephora and The Ordinary's UV Filters SPF45 Serum ($34) The Ordinary returns to the suncare scene with the UV Filters SPF45 Serum, a weightless formula that glides on like a serum and sinks seamlessly into the skin. PHOTO: THE ORDINARY This is not The Ordinary's first brush with sunscreen. Its debut SPF, the Mineral UV Filters SPF30 with Antioxidants, launched in 2018, was quietly pulled from shelves after users voiced concerns about its gloopy texture and white cast. But instead of throwing out the idea entirely, the Canadian brand returned to the laboratory to develop a formula that could tick all the boxes: high protection, daily usability and a price that is as no-frills as the packaging. Enter the UV Filters SPF45 Serum ($34 for 60ml) after two years of development. True to its name, this hybrid formula delivers high-level sun protection in a lightweight, serum-like texture that melts effortlessly into skin, and is said to offer broad-spectrum SPF45 coverage without the heavy, greasy feel or white cast. But in a world where SPF50 has become the unofficial standard, its SPF45 label might raise some eyebrows. 'It's simply the result the formula achieved during third-party clinical testing,' says Ms Rita J. Silva, scientific communications manager at The Ordinary. While the number may look modest, she notes the protection difference between SPF45 and SPF50 is just 0.2 per cent in UVB filtration, and the serum still boasts broad-spectrum coverage with a rating of PA++++. To celebrate its launch, The Ordinary is hosting an interactive SPF Studio from June 6 to 8 at photography and events studio Rawspace at 48 Niven Road. Open to the public by registration (via this pop-up experience aims to raise awareness of everyday suncare and demonstrate how the new product fits effortlessly into any skincare routine. Info: Available at Sephora and Re:erth's Radiance Defense ($65) Re:erth's onsen-tested sunscreen is said to protect not just against UVA and UVB, but also near-infrared radiation and blue light. PHOTO: RE:ERTH Radiance Defense SPF 50+ PA++++ delivers what Japanese founder Shinji Yamasaki calls a 'one-of-a-kind product' combining five layers of defence – against UVA, UVB, near-infrared radiation (NIR), blue light and the lesser-known Damps ( damage-associated molecular patterns ), molecules released by stressed or UV-damaged skin cells which trigger inflammation and can lead to pigmentation and premature ageing. 'In today's world, sun exposure isn't just about UVA and UVB any more,' he says. 'Radiance Defense is designed to defend against these broader aggressors while still feeling lightweight, elegant and seamless within any skincare routine.' For years, the Singapore-based, Japanese-inspired skincare brand resisted adding a sunscreen to its line-up, as crafting one that could guard against five skin aggressors without sacrificing comfort required what he describes as 'real, complex chemistry'. The team spent years experimenting, analysing ingredient interactions and testing multiple iterations to perfect the formula. Knowing that Singapore's climate can be relentlessly hot and humid, the sunscreen was put through onsen-testing – a rigorous assessment that simulates extreme heat and humidity at around 42 deg C to evaluate its resistance to sweat and water. The result? A high-performance sunscreen that is said to hold up without feeling like a mask. Info: Available at and Design Orchard, 250 Orchard Road Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
