The skincare industry can often be a confusing and overwhelming place for consumers. With an array of products on the market, each boasting a multitude of health claims, it can be difficult to discern fact from fiction. Manufacturers often make grandiose promises about their skincare products, and while some may hold true, others can be greatly exaggerated or even misleading.

It is therefore crucial for consumers to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Taking claims about products at face value may leave consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed, with products that do not live up to their promises. It is important to critically evaluate the claims made about a product, and compare them to the ingredients used within the product. This can provide a more accurate assessment of whether or not the product will truly deliver on its promises.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Amino Acids + B5 Hydrating Serum by The Ordinary. We will be examining the claims made about this product, and comparing them to the ingredients used within the product to perform a truth assessment. This will help us establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

So, let’s delve into the main claims being made about this product and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Supports Natural Hydration Barrier

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Amino Acids + B5 is an ultra-thin serum that works with your skin to support its natural hydration barrier.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains several amino acids (Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Threonine, Valine, Proline, Isoleucine, Lysine HCl, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glutamic Acid) which are known to play a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s natural hydration barrier. They help to retain moisture and keep the skin hydrated. Additionally, Sodium PCA and Sodium Lactate are humectants that attract and hold water, further supporting the skin’s hydration.

Claim #2: The Product Keeps the Outer Layer of Skin Protected and Well-Hydrated

The Ordinary’s Website States: “this water-based formula keeps the outer layer of your skin protected and well-hydrated without feeling greasy.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Propanediol and Betaine, which are known to enhance the skin’s barrier function, thus protecting the outer layer of the skin. They also have humectant properties, meaning they can attract and hold water, thereby keeping the skin well-hydrated. The water-based formula also ensures that the product does not feel greasy on the skin.

Claim #3: The Product Provides Surface and Below-Surface Hydration

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Plus, it uses 5% (by weight) pro-vitamin B5 to provide surface and below-surface hydration, giving way to softer, smoother skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Pro-vitamin B5, also known as Panthenol, is a well-known skin conditioning agent that provides deep hydration to the skin. It penetrates into the lower layers of the skin, providing hydration from within. This can result in softer, smoother skin. Additionally, the presence of humectants like Sodium PCA and Sodium Lactate ensures surface hydration as well.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 9/10

Overall likelihood for product to make good on its claims: Highly Likely

The Ordinary’s Amino Acids + B5 serum appears to be highly truthful in its claims. The ingredients listed are known to support skin hydration and protection, and the product is likely to fulfill its roles as stated. However, it’s important to remember that individual skin reactions can vary, and what works well for one person may not work as well for another.

While the product claims are backed by the presence of effective ingredients, it’s crucial to note that the effectiveness of these ingredients largely depends on their concentrations. Skincare formulas list their ingredients in weight order, with the highest concentrations listed first. However, this doesn’t provide a complete picture of the formula’s effectiveness. Some ingredients are effective at lower concentrations, while others require higher concentrations to work. Therefore, the presence of an ingredient in a formula doesn’t necessarily guarantee its effectiveness.

Remember, when evaluating skincare products, it’s essential to look beyond the claims and scrutinize the ingredient list. Be skeptical of products that make grandiose claims without the ingredients to back them up. Also, be mindful of products that list their key ingredients towards the end of the ingredient list, as this could indicate a lower concentration that may not be as effective. Always do your research and consult with a skincare professional if you’re unsure.

This product review has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The review is conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, who utilizes a variety of reliable sources to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided. These sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), and The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, various publicly available sources are also consulted to provide a well-rounded perspective on the product under review.