So I’ve had made some changes to my skincare routine over the past few weeks and the only products that I am using now are from the brand Deciem. In case you’ve not heard of Deciem, it is a Toronto-based company with a rather unusual tagline – “The Abnormal Beauty Company“. Deciem has a number of brands under its umbrella but the one brand that is proving to be a game changer in the skincare arena is The Ordinary. Deciem The Ordinary provides a range of treatments centered around pure skin-friendly ingredients like vitamins, retinoids, acids, hydrators and oils and the best thing about the brand is the pocket-friendly prices. The packaging is also fuss-free and minimalist.
Couple of months back when I was in London, I visited the Deciem store in Covent Garden and asked the SA to suggest some products. She checked my skin, asked about my skincare concerns and I said that I wanted products to get rid of pigmentation, brighten and even out the skin tone, prevent fine lines and aging and in general, improve the appearance and health of my skin. Since I have combination type sensitive skin, I did not want to try anything too harsh so she suggested the below products.
Please note that while all of Deciem The Ordinary products are safe and I’ve not experienced any adverse reaction on my skin, it is always best to consult the specialists before adopting a new skin care regime. I know it is tough when the products are not available in your country but do read up about the brand/products/ingredients before buying anything. Also, all of these clinical formulas make the skin very sensitive towards UV rays so it is absolutely a must to wear a sunscreen with a high SPF once you start using the products.
My Skincare Routine with Deciem The Ordinary Products
The Ordinary Buffet
Description – Buffet is a water based “multi-tasking age-defying treatment”. According to Deciem, “this multi-peptide serum features a comprehensive array of advanced anti-ageing technologies, including Matrixyl 3000 to stimulate collagen synthesis and hyaluronic acid to plump fine lines and wrinkles”.
Price – £12.70 (30 ml)
Usage – Even though I do not have visible lines and wrinkles, there’s no harm in being safe right? And that is where Buffet comes into the picture. I use it in the morning after cleansing.
The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
Description – Squalane, a hydrocarbon found naturally in the skin is supposed to be an excellent hydrator. “To give skin a super-charged boost of this natural wonder, The Ordinary’s 100% Plant-Derived Squalane softens and smooths even the driest complexions – it’s suitable for all skin types. As an added bonus, drops can be applied to hair to offer heat protection, enhance shine and reduce breakage”.
Price – £5.50 (30 ml)
Usage – I use Squalane as a moisturizer and apply it after the serum. An alternative to Squalane is The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil priced at £5.50. While Squalane is suitable for all skin tones, Rose Hip Seed Oil will be better suited for those with dry to very dry skin but the results of both are quite good. I am switching to the Rose Oil in winter.
The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%
Description – “This potent formula combines two of the most powerful brightening agents in skin care: pure vitamin C and alpha arbutin, both solubilised in a completely water-free formula for perfect stability. Brightening skin tone and reducing signs of ageing, this formula is particularly adept at reducing the look of dark spots and uneven skin tone”.
Price – £10.00 (30 ml)
Usage – I was recommended this product to treat pigmentation, even out and brighten my skin. There are higher concentrations of acids available in The Ordinary lineup but if you have sensitive skin, you can start off with this mild product. It feels slightly oily after application and there is a warm tingling sensation but that goes away after a few uses. The product can be used both day and night but I use it primarily at night and follow up with Squalane.
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA
Description – “Offering gentle exfoliation, uneven skin tone and textual irregularities are top of the target list for this lightweight serum. Formulated with lactic acid and Tasmanian pepperberry , this trusty treatment stimulates cell regeneration to reduce pigmentation and improve overall skin texture”.
Price – £5.80 (30 ml)
Usage – This is again a serum and I was recommended to use it only once a week to exfoliate, reduce pigmentation, diminish acne scars and age spots and improve overall skin texture. Again, this is a ‘light’ acid and suitable for sensitive skin. It works as a chemical peel and there is a slight tingling sensation on application. If this is the only acid you are using, you can use it everyday but only at night. If not, then once a week is prescribed.
Overall Experience
So far so good! In fact, great actually. I’ve been using all these products together and have noticed my skin clearing up and looking a lot fresh and healthy. I am guilty of skipping the routine some days because of travelling and my inherent laziness but overall, the products have done my skin a lot of good. The pigmentation has reduced and the skin appears brighter. The products are all 30 ml but you need only a few drops so they are going to last me for at least another 2-3 months. I will do a health check after they finish and then might switch over to higher doses of acids and retinols. Will obviously keep you posted.
Where to shop for Deciem?
- Deciem website offers worldwide shipping
- Cult Beauty – free worldwide shipping over £40
- Beauty Bay
- Look Fantastic
Have you tried Deciem products? How is your experience? Do share in the comments below.
Aishwarya Krishnammachary says
Have heard a lot abt this brand
never tried
will give it a go after asking my doctor