Is this product suitable for sensitive, acne‑prone, or dry skin types?

The formula works well on normal to oily skin and can help reduce acne‑related discoloration, but the inclusion of triethanolamine and other preservatives may provoke irritation in highly sensitive skin, and the silicone content can feel heavy for very dry skin types.

What is the specific role and benefit of azelaic acid in this formula?

Azelaic acid acts as a multitasking active that gently exfoliates, inhibits melanin production, and possesses anti‑inflammatory properties, helping to fade dark spots, smooth texture, and calm mild acne.

How often should this serum be applied, and does it contain any controversial ingredients?

It is recommended for once‑daily use, preferably in the evening after cleansing, and while the product avoids harsh acids like glycolic, it does contain triethanolamine, phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin, which some consumers consider potential irritants or controversial preservatives.

The Ordinary • 30ml

www.THEORDINARY.COM

Direct Acids

Product Insights

Made in Canada, The Ordinary's 30 ml Multifunctional Brightening Formula blends azelaic acid with dimethicone, isodecyl neopentanoate, and supporting emollients to target uneven tone and surface hyperpigmentation. The water‑based base, enhanced with tocopherol and dimethyl isosorbide for improved penetration, delivers a lightweight, non‑sticky texture suitable for daily application. Nevertheless, the presence of triethanolamine, phenoxyethanol, chlorphenesin and a high level of silicones may irritate very sensitive skin, and the product’s vegan status has not been confirmed.

Comparative Analysis

Positioned as a budget‑friendly, acid‑centric brightening serum, this The Ordinary formulation differentiates itself by combining a notable concentration of azelaic acid with a silicone‑rich, fast‑absorbing base, offering clinical‑grade hyperpigmentation control at a drugstore price.

Ingredients

AQUA (WATER), ISODECYL NEOPENTANOATE, DIMETHICONE. AZELAIC ACID, DIMETHICONE/BIS-ISOBUTYL PPG-20 CROSSPOLYMER, DIMETHYL ISOSORBIDE, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, POLYSILICONE-11, ISOHEXADECANE, TOCOPHEROL, TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE, ISOCETETH-20, POLYSORBATE 60. TRIETHANOLAMINE. ETHOXYDIGLYCOL. PHENOXYETHANOL, CHLORPHENESIN.

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