FAQs

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a popular skincare ingredient with several benefits for the skin. When combined with zinc, as in The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum, it offers even more advantages:

1. Regulates Sebum Production: Niacinamide helps regulate the production of sebum (oil) in the skin, making it beneficial for people with oily or acne-prone skin. Zinc further assists in controlling oil production.

2. Reduces Acne: Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the redness and inflammation associated with acne. Zinc also has anti-inflammatory effects and can help calm irritated skin.

3. Minimizes Pore Appearance: Regular use of niacinamide can help minimize the appearance of pores, leading to smoother-looking skin.

4. Improves Skin Texture: Niacinamide can help improve overall skin texture by promoting collagen production, which can lead to firmer and more elastic skin. This can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

5. Brightens Skin: Niacinamide can help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots, leading to a brighter complexion.

6. Protects Against Environmental Damage: Both niacinamide and zinc have antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation.

7. Suitable for Various Skin Types: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin, making it a versatile option for many people.

However, it’s essential to note that skincare products can affect individuals differently, and results may vary. It’s always a good idea to patch-test any new skincare product and consult with a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns or conditions.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum combines hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to provide hydration and support skin health. Here are the key benefits:

1. Hydrates the Skin: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture from the environment. It can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, making it highly effective at hydrating the skin. This helps to keep the skin plump, smooth, and supple.

2. Improves Skin Texture: By increasing the skin’s hydration levels, hyaluronic acid can improve the overall texture of the skin, making it appear smoother and more radiant.

3. Supports Skin Barrier Function: A well-hydrated skin barrier is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Hyaluronic acid helps to strengthen the skin barrier, which can protect against environmental aggressors and prevent moisture loss.

4. Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Hydrated skin appears firmer and more youthful. By plumping up the skin, hyaluronic acid can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful appearance.

5. Soothes and Calms Irritated Skin: Vitamin B5, also known as panthenol, has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote healing, making it beneficial for sensitive or inflamed skin conditions.

6. Compatible with Other Skincare Products: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum is lightweight and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for layering with other skincare products. It can be used in conjunction with moisturizers, serums, and creams to enhance hydration and improve overall skincare results.

7. Suitable for All Skin Types: This serum is suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for use both morning and night.

Overall, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum is an effective option for anyone looking to boost hydration, improve skin texture, and maintain healthy, radiant skin.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA (Hyaluronic Acid) serum is designed to target hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. Here are its key benefits:

1. Lightens Dark Spots: Alpha arbutin is a skin-lightening agent that works by inhibiting the production of melanin in the skin. Melanin is responsible for dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. By reducing melanin production, alpha arbutin can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.

2. Reduces the Appearance of Hyperpigmentation: Whether caused by sun damage, hormonal changes, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne scars, alpha arbutin can help diminish the appearance of hyperpigmentation, leading to a more even complexion.

3. Brightens the Skin: By reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, alpha arbutin can help brighten the skin, giving it a more radiant and youthful appearance.

4. Hydrates and Plumps: The addition of hyaluronic acid in the serum provides hydration to the skin, helping to plump and smooth the skin’s surface. This can enhance the overall texture and appearance of the skin.

5. Compatible with Other Skincare Ingredients: Alpha arbutin can be safely combined with other skincare ingredients, such as vitamin C, retinol, and niacinamide, to enhance its effectiveness in targeting hyperpigmentation and achieving brighter, more even-toned skin.

6. Gentle on the Skin: The Ordinary formulations are typically designed to be gentle and suitable for most skin types. However, it’s always a good idea to patch-test any new skincare product, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions.

7. Improves Overall Skin Appearance: By targeting hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA serum can improve the overall appearance and complexion of the skin, leading to a more youthful and radiant look.

It’s important to note that skincare products may produce varying results for individuals, and consistent use over time is typically necessary to see significant improvements in hyperpigmentation and skin tone. Additionally, it’s essential to use sunscreen daily when using products targeting hyperpigmentation to prevent further sun damage and maintain results

 The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5 is formulated to provide hydration and support skin health. Here are the key benefits of amino acids for the skin:

1. Moisturizes and Hydrates: Amino acids are natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) found in the skin. They help maintain the skin’s hydration levels by attracting and retaining water molecules, keeping the skin moisturized and supple.

2. Supports Skin Barrier Function: Amino acids play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier. They help strengthen the skin’s protective barrier, which can prevent moisture loss and protect the skin from environmental stressors.

3. Promotes Skin Repair and Renewal: Amino acids are essential building blocks for proteins like collagen and elastin, which are crucial for skin repair and renewal. By providing the skin with the necessary nutrients, amino acids can support the natural repair process, helping to improve skin texture and elasticity.

4. Soothes and Calms Irritated Skin: Some amino acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or sensitive skin. They can reduce redness, inflammation, and discomfort, making them beneficial for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin.

5. Antioxidant Protection: Certain amino acids possess antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. This can help prevent premature aging and maintain skin health.

6. Compatible with Other Skincare Ingredients: Amino acids are generally well-tolerated and compatible with other skincare ingredients, making them suitable for use in combination with other products in your skincare routine.

7. Suitable for All Skin Types: Amino acids are naturally occurring compounds in the skin, making them suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. They can help balance the skin’s hydration levels without clogging pores or causing irritation.

Overall, incorporating amino acids into your skincare routine can help promote healthy, hydrated, and radiant skin. However, individual results may vary, and it’s essential to choose products formulated with high-quality ingredients and to use them consistently for best results.

The Ordinary Buffet + Copper Peptide 1% Serum is a potent skincare treatment designed to address multiple signs of aging and support skin health. Here are the key benefits:

1. Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles: The serum contains peptides, including copper peptides, which can help stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness, thus reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

2. Improves Skin Texture: By promoting collagen synthesis and cellular turnover, the serum can help improve overall skin texture, making the skin appear smoother and more refined.

3. Enhances Skin Elasticity: Copper peptides are known to support the skin’s natural elasticity, helping to improve its resilience and firmness. This can result in tighter and more lifted-looking skin.

4. Boosts Skin Hydration: The Buffet serum contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. This helps to hydrate and plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and giving the skin a more youthful appearance.

5. Brightens the Skin: Copper peptides can help promote skin renewal and repair, leading to a brighter and more radiant complexion. Over time, the serum can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even skin tone.

6. Antioxidant Protection: Copper peptides possess antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors. This can help prevent premature aging and keep the skin looking youthful and healthy.

7. Soothes Irritated Skin: Copper peptides have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or sensitive skin. They can reduce redness, inflammation, and discomfort, making them beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea.

8. Addresses Multiple Signs of Aging: The Buffet serum is formulated to target multiple signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and uneven skin tone. Its comprehensive approach makes it suitable for individuals looking to address various age-related concerns.

Overall, The Ordinary Buffet + Copper Peptide 1% Serum is a potent anti-aging treatment that can help improve the overall health and appearance of the skin. Consistent use can lead to firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin over time.

The Ordinary Buffet Multi-Technology Peptide Serum is a popular skincare product known for its multi-peptide formula. Here are the key benefits:

1. Targets Multiple Signs of Aging: The “Buffet” serum is named after a buffet table, suggesting that it offers a variety of ingredients in one product. It contains a combination of peptides, which are short chains of amino acids that serve as building blocks for proteins like collagen and elastin. These peptides target various signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.

2. Boosts Collagen Production: Peptides in the serum can help stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness, leading to a smoother and more youthful complexion.

3. Improves Skin Texture: By promoting collagen synthesis and cellular turnover, the serum can help improve overall skin texture. This can result in smoother, more refined-looking skin with diminished pores and a more even surface.

4. Hydrates the Skin: The serum contains hyaluronic acid (HA), a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. This helps to hydrate and plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and giving the skin a hydrated, dewy glow.

5. Firms and Tightens: Peptides in the serum can help improve skin elasticity, leading to firmer and more lifted-looking skin. This can help combat sagging and loss of firmness associated with aging.

6. Reduces the Appearance of Wrinkles: By stimulating collagen production and supporting skin elasticity, the serum can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

7. Antioxidant Protection: Some peptides in the serum possess antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors. This can help prevent premature aging and keep the skin looking youthful and healthy.

8. Soothes and Calms: The serum may also contain soothing ingredients to calm and hydrate the skin, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive or irritated skin.

Overall, The Ordinary Buffet Multi-Technology Peptide Serum is a comprehensive anti-aging treatment that targets multiple signs of aging and supports overall skin health. With consistent use, it can help improve the appearance of aging skin, leaving it looking firmer, smoother, and more youthful.

The Ordinary offers two variations of its popular Buffet serum: the “Buffet Multi-Technology Peptide Serum” and the “Buffet + Copper Peptide 1% Serum.” While both serums share the “Buffet” name and contain peptides, they have some key differences:

1. Peptide Formulation:

   • Buffet Multi-Technology Peptide Serum: This serum contains a blend of multiple peptide technologies, each targeting different signs of aging. These peptides work synergistically to address fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and overall skin texture.
   • Buffet + Copper Peptide 1% Serum: In addition to the peptide blend found in the Buffet serum, this formulation contains 1% pure copper peptides. Copper peptides are known for their ability to support skin health, stimulate collagen production, and promote wound healing.

2. Copper Peptides:

   • Buffet Multi-Technology Peptide Serum: Does not contain copper peptides.
   • Buffet + Copper Peptide 1% Serum: Contains 1% pure copper peptides, which provide additional benefits such as enhanced collagen synthesis, antioxidant protection, and skin rejuvenation.

3. Targeted Benefits:

   • Buffet Multi-Technology Peptide Serum: Targets multiple signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and overall skin texture. It offers comprehensive anti-aging benefits.
   • Buffet + Copper Peptide 1% Serum: Offers similar anti-aging benefits as the Buffet serum but with the added benefits of copper peptides, such as enhanced collagen production, antioxidant protection, and wound healing support.

Argireline Solution 10% is a peptide-based skincare product offered by The Ordinary. Here are its key benefits:

1. Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Argireline, also known as acetyl hexapeptide-8, is a peptide that works by temporarily inhibiting muscle movement. By preventing excessive facial muscle contractions, Argireline can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly those caused by repetitive facial expressions such as smiling or frowning.

2. Softens Dynamic Facial Lines: Dynamic wrinkles, also known as expression lines, are formed due to repetitive facial movements over time. Argireline targets these dynamic wrinkles by inhibiting muscle contractions, leading to smoother and softer-looking skin.

3. Non-Invasive Alternative to Botox: Argireline is often referred to as “topical Botox” because it offers similar benefits to botulinum toxin injections but in a non-invasive manner. While Botox injections temporarily paralyze muscles to reduce wrinkles, Argireline works topically to achieve a similar effect without injections.

4. Suitable for Forehead Lines, Crow’s Feet, and Frown Lines: Argireline Solution 10% can be applied to areas where dynamic wrinkles commonly occur, such as the forehead, around the eyes (crow’s feet), and between the eyebrows (frown lines).

5. Quick Absorption: The solution has a lightweight texture that allows for quick absorption into the skin, making it suitable for use under makeup or other skincare products.

6. Complements Other Skincare Ingredients: Argireline Solution 10% can be used alongside other skincare products and ingredients, such as moisturizers, serums, and sunscreen, to enhance its anti-aging effects.

7. Hydrates and Nourishes: While the primary function of Argireline is to target wrinkles, the solution may also contain hydrating and nourishing ingredients to help maintain skin hydration and overall skin health.

8. Suitable for All Skin Types: Argireline Solution 10% is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. However, as with any skincare product, it’s essential to perform a patch test before widespread use, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions.

Retinol in squalane is a skincare product that combines retinol, a derivative of vitamin A known for its anti-aging properties, with squalane, a lightweight and moisturizing oil derived from olives. Here are the benefits of retinol in squalane:

1. Anti-Aging: Retinol is one of the most effective ingredients for reducing the signs of aging. It helps stimulate collagen production, which improves skin elasticity and firmness, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promotes smoother and more youthful-looking skin.

2. Encapsulated Delivery: Squalane acts as a carrier oil for retinol, allowing for better absorption and penetration into the skin. This encapsulated delivery system helps to stabilize retinol and minimize irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

3. Hydration: Squalane is a lightweight and non-comedogenic oil that provides excellent hydration to the skin without clogging pores. It helps restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it soft, smooth, and supple.

4. Nourishment: Squalane is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which nourish and protect the skin from environmental damage and free radicals. This helps to maintain skin health and prevent premature aging.

5. Gentle Exfoliation: Retinol promotes cell turnover, which helps to remove dead skin cells and reveal fresh, new skin underneath. This gentle exfoliation can improve skin texture, tone, and radiance.

6. Reduction of Hyperpigmentation: Retinol helps to fade dark spots, sun spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production and promoting cell turnover. Over time, this can lead to a more even skin tone and a brighter complexion.

7. Acne Treatment: Retinol in squalane can also be effective in treating acne. It helps to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and regulate oil production, making it beneficial for both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne.

8. Overall Skin Improvement: With regular use, retinol in squalane can improve the overall appearance and health of the skin, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin.

The main difference between Retinol 0.2%, Retinol 0.5%, and Retinol 1% lies in their concentrations of retinol, a derivative of vitamin A. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:

1. Retinol Concentration:

   • Retinol 0.2%: Contains 0.2% retinol, which is a lower concentration suitable for beginners or individuals with sensitive skin. It provides a milder introduction to retinol to minimize the risk of irritation while still offering anti-aging benefits.
   • Retinol 0.5%: Contains 0.5% retinol, which is a moderate concentration suitable for those who have already used lower concentrations of retinol or have built up tolerance to the ingredient. It offers stronger anti-aging effects compared to 0.2% but may still cause some irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
   • Retinol 1%: Contains 1% retinol, which is a higher concentration recommended for experienced users or those with more resilient skin. It provides more potent anti-aging benefits but also carries a higher risk of irritation, especially if used by individuals with sensitive or reactive skin.

2. Potency and Efficacy:

   • As the concentration of retinol increases, so does its potency and efficacy in addressing various skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and texture.
   • Higher concentrations of retinol may lead to faster results, but they also increase the risk of side effects such as redness, peeling, and dryness.

3. Tolerance and Sensitivity:

   • Individuals with sensitive or reactive skin may find lower concentrations of retinol (0.2% or 0.5%) more suitable as they are less likely to cause irritation.
   • Those with more resilient skin and who have built up tolerance to retinol may be able to tolerate higher concentrations (1%) and experience more significant anti-aging benefits.

4. Frequency of Use:

   • The frequency of use for each concentration may vary based on individual tolerance and sensitivity. It’s generally recommended to start with less frequent application (e.g., a few times a week) and gradually increase frequency as tolerated.
   • Higher concentrations of retinol may require less frequent application to avoid overexfoliation and irritation.

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For addressing acne scars, The Ordinary Pakistan offers a few serums that are helpful:

1. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Niacinamide is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help with the appearance of post-acne marks. It also helps to improve skin texture and reduce redness.

2. Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA: This serum targets dark spots and hyperpigmentation, which can be useful if your acne scars are darker than the surrounding skin.

3. Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%: A combination of Vitamin C and Alpha Arbutin can help with hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin, which can be beneficial for treating dark spots and uneven skin tone.

4. Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion: Retinoids help with skin renewal and can improve the appearance of acne scars by speeding up cell turnover and promoting collagen production.

Always patch test new products to ensure they suit your skin type and consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns.

1. Promotes Collagen Synthesis: Ascorbic acid stimulates collagen production in the skin, which can improve skin elasticity, firmness, and texture. This can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

2. Antioxidant Protection: Both ascorbic acid and alpha arbutin possess antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from free radical damage caused by UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental stressors. This can help prevent premature aging and keep the skin looking healthy and youthful.

3.  

1. For addressing open pores, The Ordinary offers several serums that can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of pores:

   1. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is great for reducing the appearance of pores by regulating sebum production and improving skin texture. It also helps with inflammation and can improve the overall appearance of the skin.

   2. Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: Salicylic acid is effective at exfoliating inside the pores, which helps to reduce their appearance over time by keeping them unclogged.

   3. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: As an AHA, glycolic acid helps exfoliate the surface of the skin, which can improve skin texture and make pores appear smaller.

   For best results, consider using these serums in combination with a regular exfoliation routine and always use sunscreen, as some of these ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

To target blackheads, you’ll want to focus on serums that help exfoliate and clear out pores. The Ordinary has a few options that can be effective:

1. Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates the pores to exfoliate and remove the buildup of dead skin cells and sebum, which can help prevent and treat blackheads.
2.  Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliates the surface of the skin, promoting the removal of dead skin cells and helping to keep pores clear, which can reduce blackheads.
3. Lactic Acid 5% + HA: Lactic acid is another AHA that gently exfoliates the skin’s surface. It can help with blackheads by keeping pores clear and improving overall skin texture.

Using these serums regularly, along with a good skincare routine that includes cleansing and moisturizing, can help keep blackheads under control. Be sure to use sunscreen daily, especially when using exfoliating products, to protect your skin.