skincare
Best budget single-ingredient serums
The Ordinary (Deciem) emphasizes single-ingredient, minimal formulations at accessible price points.
Their 10% azelaic acid suspension for $11 has earned a permanent spot in my bathroom. Calmer skin for me over a couple months. Yeah it's gritty, yeah the packaging is clinical. Still worth it.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc. Works for me when I'm oily. A little pillingy if I layer it wrong. For the price can't complain.
Vitamin C suspension 23% was too gritty on my skin, and the peeling solution made me irritated. Their lineup rewards knowing what you're doing, otherwise you can really mess yourself up.
The hyaluronic acid + B5 serum is basic but dependable. My flaking calmed down within about 10 days after swapping my old one out.
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