Shoppers say this $11 The Ordinary cream is a 'miracle worker' for sensitive skin
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For proof that effective skincare doesn't need to break the bank, look no further than The Ordinary. The Canadian brand made it a mission to provide clinical results at a fraction of the cost of other products — and it's safe to say the strategy is paying off.
Their products have become editor favourites, with everything from face serums and lotions to haircare topping our lists of beauty must-haves. The latest trending product from the brand? The Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension Brightening Cream (shop here in Canada, here in the U.S.).
This lightweight moisturizer is formulated to target dullness, uneven texture, acne and blemishes, making it a top choice as we update our fall beauty routines. And starting at just $11 CAD/$10 USD, it's also a super affordable find.
Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension Brightening Cream (shop in Canada)
Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension Brightening Cream (shop in the U.S.)
Shop in Canada: The Ordinary, from $11 CAD Shop in the U.S.: Sephora, from $10 USD
The details
Like most products from The Ordinary, this affordable moisturizer has a fairly scientific-sounding name — but don't let that intimidate you. To brighten skin, it uses azelaic acid, which is a natural and effective antioxidant found in grains. It's also a gentler acid than many others on the market, making it ideal for daily use.
The cream is recommended for AM and PM use, and is safe to use on all skin types, including sensitive skin. You can try it in the 30mL size for just $11 CAD/$10 USD, or in the larger 100mL tube for $27 CAD/$25 USD.
'This product is a miracle worker'
This moisturizer has been winning over shoppers online, having earned a 4.1-star average rating at Sephora, and a 4.4-star average rating on The Ordinary's site.
Reviewers have praised its formula, saying that it "helps with redness from acne" and evens out skin texture.
"Best product in my skincare regimen for my sensitive skin! I have rosacea and this product is a miracle worker. It can heal even the craziest flare ups," one Sephora shopper wrote.
Shop in Canada: The Ordinary, from $11 CAD Shop in the U.S.: Sephora, from $10 USD
'10/10 recommend'
In addition to helping with acne scars and uneven skin texture, reviewers have shared that this serum also works well to lighten dark spots over time.
"I’ve used this product for over month now and most of my dark spots have significantly lightened up," shared one reviewer. "This also helps my skin look brighter. 10/10 recommend."
In spite of the hundreds of five-star reviews, some shoppers found that this moisturizer didn't sit well underneath makeup or sunscreen, noting that it was prone to "pilling." However, one Sephora reviewer shared a trick to prevent it from happening:
"Give this a good 5-10 minutes to absorb into the skin before applying your next product — it prevents pilling and makes for a better overall experience," they wrote.
Given that all skincare requires a bit of trial and error to find what works, this cream from The Ordinary may not be a fit for everyone. That said, it may be worth adding this moisturizer to your collection if you're looking to target redness, acne, or hyperpigmentation without spending a fortune this fall.
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