The skincare industry can often be a confusing and overwhelming place for consumers. With a plethora of products available, 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 to deliver miraculous results. 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. Taking claims about products at face value can lead to disappointment, as the reality may not live up to the hype. It is important to critically analyse 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 live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing a product from The Ordinary, a brand known for its transparency and integrity in the skincare industry. The product in question is the Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution, a Vitamin C serum that promises to deliver a range of skin benefits. We will be breaking down the main claims made about this product, and comparing them to the ingredients used in the product, to establish a truth assessment.

So, without further ado, let’s delve into the main claims being made about the Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Visibly Reduces Signs of Aging

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution is an advanced, direct-acting oil-like serum that helps visibly reduce signs of aging…”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a derivative of Vitamin C, which is known for its anti-aging properties. It can stimulate collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. However, the effectiveness of this ingredient in visibly reducing signs of aging can vary from person to person, depending on their skin type, age, and other factors. Therefore, while it’s possible that this product can help reduce signs of aging, it’s not a guarantee for all users.

Claim #2: The Product Brightens and Balances Uneven Skin Tone

The Ordinary’s Website States: “…by brightening and balancing uneven skin tone.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is known for its ability to brighten the skin and improve uneven skin tone. It does this by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for the production of melanin in the skin. By inhibiting this enzyme, Ethyl Ascorbic Acid can help reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten the overall complexion.

Claim #3: The Product Has Advanced Antioxidant Properties

The Ordinary’s Website States: “And because it has advanced antioxidant properties, this water-free formula protects your skin from the visual effects of damage caused by environmental stressors…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Both Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Propanediol have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect the skin from damage caused by environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV radiation. They do this by neutralizing harmful free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and damage to the skin cells. Therefore, this claim is true.

Claim #4: The Product Helps Maintain a More Radiant Complexion

The Ordinary’s Website States: “…helping to maintain a more radiant complexion.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: As mentioned earlier, Ethyl Ascorbic Acid can brighten the skin and improve uneven skin tone, which can contribute to a more radiant complexion. Additionally, its antioxidant properties can help protect the skin from damage, which can also help maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. Therefore, this claim is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The Ordinary’s Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution seems to be a product that can potentially deliver on its claims. It contains ingredients known for their skin-benefiting properties, such as Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, which is a derivative of Vitamin C. This ingredient is known for its ability to brighten the skin, improve uneven skin tone, and stimulate collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of this product can vary from person to person, depending on their skin type, age, and other factors. Therefore, while it’s likely that this product can help reduce signs of aging and brighten the skin, it’s not a guarantee for all users.

Also, this assessment assumes that all ingredients are used in effective quantities. In skincare formulas, ingredient lists are in weight order, but this doesn’t tell us everything. For example, a product might list a beneficial ingredient first, but it could be used in a very small quantity that’s not effective. Therefore, it’s important to do your own research and consult with a dermatologist if necessary.

Remember, not all skincare products work the same for everyone. It’s important to be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true. Always check the ingredient list and look for scientific evidence to back up the claims. And most importantly, listen to your skin. If a product doesn’t work for you or causes irritation, it’s best to stop using it and consult with a dermatologist.

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.