The skincare industry can often be a confusing place for consumers. With a plethora of products on the market, each boasting a myriad of health claims, it can be difficult to discern fact from fiction. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, promising everything from reversing the signs of aging to curing acne. However, these claims can sometimes be greatly exaggerated, leaving consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed.

It is therefore crucial to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Rather than taking claims about products at face value, it is important to delve deeper into the ingredients used within the product and how they work. This can help to establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% by The Ordinary. This product is a Vitamin C serum that claims to brighten the skin and reduce signs of aging. We will be examining the claims made about this product, comparing them to the ingredients used, and performing a truth assessment to determine if this product is as effective as it claims to be.

So, let’s delve into the main claims being made about the Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Reduces Signs of Aging by Brightening and Balancing Uneven Skin Tone

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% offers a lightweight, water-based formula that helps reduce signs of aging by brightening and balancing uneven skin tone.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The primary active ingredient in this product is Ascorbyl Glucoside, a stable form of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is well-known in skincare for its ability to brighten the skin and reduce signs of aging, such as uneven skin tone and dullness. When applied to the skin, Ascorbyl Glucoside converts into Vitamin C, providing the same benefits. Therefore, the claim that this product can brighten and balance uneven skin tone is true.

Claim #2: The Product Contains a Water-Soluble Vitamin C Derivative That Converts into Vitamin C Once Applied

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Unlike direct forms of vitamin C, this easy-to-use serum contains a water-soluble vitamin C derivative that converts into vitamin C once applied.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Ascorbyl Glucoside, the main ingredient in this product, is indeed a water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C. Once applied to the skin, it is converted into Vitamin C. This process allows the benefits of Vitamin C to be delivered in a less irritating form, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin. Therefore, this claim is true.

Claim #3: The Product Protects Skin from the Visual Effects of Damage Caused by Environmental Stressors

The Ordinary’s Website States: “And because it has advanced antioxidant properties, it also protects skin from the visual effects of damage caused by environmental stressors, helping to maintain a more radiant complexion.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Vitamin C, in its various forms, is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants help to protect the skin from damage caused by environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV radiation. By neutralizing harmful free radicals, antioxidants can prevent premature aging and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. Ascorbyl Glucoside, being a derivative of Vitamin C, possesses these antioxidant properties. Therefore, the claim that this product can protect the skin from environmental damage is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 9/10

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

The Ordinary’s Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% appears to be a highly truthful product based on the claims made on the brand’s website. The active ingredient, Ascorbyl Glucoside, is a well-researched and effective form of Vitamin C that can indeed brighten skin, balance uneven skin tone, and protect against environmental stressors. However, it’s important to remember that individual skin responses can vary, and what works well for one person may not work as well for another.

While the product claims are truthful, users should be mindful of the concentration of active ingredients. In skincare formulas, the ingredient list is ordered by weight, but this doesn’t always reflect the effectiveness of the product. A product can contain a high concentration of an active ingredient, but if it’s not formulated in a way that allows the skin to absorb it, it may not be effective.

Remember, when evaluating skincare products, it’s important to look beyond the marketing claims and understand the ingredients. Be skeptical of products that make grandiose claims without the research to back it up. And remember, even the best skincare products won’t work overnight – it takes time and consistent use to see results.

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.