Known for its sleek and simple packaging, affordable pricing and commitment to actually making your face feel better, The Ordinary is coveted by many – from total beauty aficionados to people who aren’t even that fussed about skincare but have been won over by rave reviews.
So plenty of people will be delighted to hear the brand has branched out into cleanser territory with a new product that costs just over a fiver and is apparently suitable for all skin types.
While it doesn’t have the sexiest of names – ahem, Squalane Cleanser – it’s a highly anticipated launch from a brand which has previously focused on sell-out moisturisers, foundations and serums.
The new cleanser is soap-free and, when rubbed between the palms, changes consistency from a “balm-like feel” to a “clear oil”, according to Deciem which owns the brand.
It works to remove makeup but also leaves the skin feeling smooth and moisturised, no thanks in part to the ingredient Squalane, a plant-derived oil famed for its hydrating properties. Emulsifying sucrose esters in the formula help to trap and blend dissolved makeup and facial impurities with water, and it all comes off in the rinse.
The product is available at Deciem stores and via The Ordinary’s website for £5.50 – you can buy it here.
If you’re looking for a serum or moisturiser to follow up once you’ve cleansed, here are five of the brand’s best-selling products:
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, ASOS, £5.
What is it? A vitamin and mineral blemish formula which contains Vitamin B3 to reduce the appearance of blemishes and congestion.
Directions for use: Apply to face morning and evening before heavier creams.
Buy it here.
100% Plant-Derived Squalane, Cult Beauty, £5.50.
What is it? A lightweight plant-derived solution to hydrate the skin. It’s suitable for all skin types and will soften and smooth dry skin. It can even be applied to hair to provide natural heat protection and add shine.
Directions for use: Apply a few drops daily or as needed to entire face, ideally after water-based treatments.
Buy it here.
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Look Fantastic, £5.90.
What is it? Another hydrating formula with ultra-pure, vegan hyaluronic acid.
Directions for use: Apply a few drops to face morning and evening before creams.
Buy it here.
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Cult Beauty, £8.
What is it? A lightweight serum containing retinoids which are said to help combat common signs of ageing. It targets everything from fine lines and wrinkles to uneven skin tone, according to Cult Beauty.
Directions for use: Apply a small amount to face in the evening as part of your skincare regimen, using after water-based serums but before heavier treatments. Do not use with other retinoid treatments.
Buy it here.
Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG, Beauty Bay, £5.80.
What is it? A light-textured serum containing caffeine which has been found to reduce the appearance of eye contour pigmentation and puffiness.
Directions for use: Massage a small amount on to the eye contour morning and night.
Buy it here.