The skincare industry can often be a confusing and overwhelming 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 bold claims about their skincare products, promising to deliver miraculous results. However, these claims can sometimes be greatly exaggerated or even entirely untrue.

As a consumer, it is crucial to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Taking these claims at face value may leave you out-of-pocket and underwhelmed, as the product may not live up to its lofty promises. It is therefore important to critically analyze the claims made about a product, comparing them to the ingredients used within the product. This truth assessment can help establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing a product from The Ordinary, a brand known for its straightforward approach to skincare. The product in question is their Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% Antioxidant Serum. We will be examining the main claims made about this product, breaking them down and comparing them to the ingredients used in the serum.

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

Claim #1: The Product Protects Skin from Oxidative Stress

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% serum is a light, oil-like serum for daily skin protection from the impact of oxidative stress.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Oxidative stress refers to the damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that can harm cellular structures. This damage can lead to visible signs of aging and other skin issues. Both Resveratrol and Ferulic Acid are powerful antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, thus protecting the skin from oxidative stress. Resveratrol is a natural antioxidant found in grapes, berries, and peanuts, while Ferulic Acid is found in the cell walls of plants like oats and rice. Their presence in the serum means it can indeed offer protection from oxidative stress.

Claim #2: The Product Protects Skin from Environmental Stressors

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Using two well-known antioxidants, this formula helps protect your skin from the visual effects of damage caused by environmental stressors.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Environmental stressors include factors like UV radiation, pollution, and harsh weather conditions. These can cause damage to the skin, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. Both Resveratrol and Ferulic Acid have been shown to protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and pollution. Ferulic Acid is particularly known for its ability to enhance the stability and efficacy of other antioxidants, making it a valuable ingredient in this formula. Therefore, the claim that the product protects the skin from environmental stressors is true.

Claim #3: The Product Helps Skin Look Brighter and Smoother

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% serum… helps it to look brighter and smoother.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: While Resveratrol and Ferulic Acid are known for their antioxidant properties, their ability to make the skin look brighter and smoother is not as well-established. Some studies suggest that Resveratrol can inhibit melanin production, which could potentially lead to a brighter complexion. Ferulic Acid, on the other hand, can improve skin texture and reduce wrinkles, contributing to a smoother appearance. However, more research is needed to conclusively prove these effects. Therefore, while it’s possible that this product could make the skin look brighter and smoother, it’s not a guaranteed outcome.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The Ordinary’s Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% serum makes three main claims: it protects skin from oxidative stress, it protects skin from environmental stressors, and it helps skin look brighter and smoother. Based on the available research, the first two claims are true. Both Resveratrol and Ferulic Acid are powerful antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and pollution. The third claim, however, is less certain. While some studies suggest that these ingredients could potentially brighten the complexion and improve skin texture, more research is needed to conclusively prove these effects.

Users should be mindful that skincare results can vary greatly from person to person. What works for one person may not work for another, and individual skin types, conditions, and sensitivities can all impact how a product performs. It’s also important to remember that this assessment assumes all ingredients are used in effective quantities. Skincare formulas often list ingredients in weight order, but this doesn’t tell us everything about their concentrations or effectiveness. A product might contain a high amount of an ingredient, but if it’s not in a form that can be easily absorbed by the skin, it may not provide the promised benefits.

Remember, when evaluating skincare products, it’s always a good idea to do your own research and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns. Be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true, and look for products that have been independently tested and verified. And finally, always listen to your skin. If a product doesn’t feel right or causes irritation, it’s probably not the right fit for you.

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.