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What is it?
Another antioxidant from The Ordinary I couldn’t resist to. They had me at ‘its antioxidant capacity is 40,000% stronger than networks of Vitamins C and E together’ as Deciem themselves like to address this acid.
This acid is not to be confused with direct acids like AHA, BHA or PHA that I elaborately described here. It is Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) a strong antioxidant that helps our skin to show the best of its appearance. Here is what Deciem says about it:
Alpha Lipoic Acid is a highly potent antioxidant and can restore a renewed skin appearance, improving visible skin texture and tone when applied topically. This formulation uses an exceptionally high 5% concentration of high-purity Alpha Lipoic Acid. /The Ordinary/
It is poured into standard The Ordinary 30 ml/1 fl.oz. bottle with the pipette. Slightly yellow, bright, viscous liquid with no scent. Very sensitive to sunlight and high temperatures.
How to use it?
Apply 1-2 drops over the entire face a maximum of 2-3 times per week. This treatment is highly concentrated and daily use is not recommended. Do not use on irritated or sensitive skin. If irritation occurs, cease use and consult a physician. Use only as directed on unbroken skin. Patch testing prior to use is advised. (…) Store in a cool place. /The Ordinary/
Exactly as recommended, I use it no more than 2 times per week. I apply it as the last step of my night skincare routine, when everything else on my face is set and absorbed. Then I add this last round of antioxidative kick. And yes, I use more than 2 drops. Actually 3-4 for the face and neck.
If your skin is too sensitive to this 5% concentration, dilute it in squalane or any oil of your choice. Add 2 drops of ALA and 2 drops (or as many you like) of squalane or oil and mix it and then apply this mixture to your face.
Ingredients
Propanediol, Thioctic Acid
Two ingredients of which Thioctic Acid is our Alpha Lipoic Acid. Propanediol is humectant (moisturizer) and helps other ingredients absorb better.
Rosacea safe?
Yes and no. Depends on how irritated your skin is. If it is sour and with open papules and pustules, rather wait a little until it gets better. Then knock yourself out with this great product. Or you can just dilute it as I described it in ‘How to use it?’ section. Patch test first.
Who is it for?
All skin types
Does it work?
Yes, yes it does. I definitely see the difference in my skin lustre and its texture. It is better overall. Imagine that vitamin c lustre you get, only more visible. Applied at night to get a brighter, smoother, better skin in the morning.
Why do I use it? I love that ‘renewed’ look of my skin in the morning, attempts to form the pimple neutralized, more lustre to my face overall, compliments I receive the day after… you get the picture.
I never had any side effects to ALA. No breakouts, no redness, no angry skin. Just the opposite. Nicer, calmer, brighter skin. A step closer to that ‘beautiful skin’ image.
Thumbs up?
Yes!
