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Can You Restore Lost Facial Volume Without Needles? This Beauty Editor Put The Ordinary's New Serum to the Test
In the ever-evolving world of skincare, a new trend has emerged from social media platforms like TikTok, where it's been dubbed "filler in a bottle." This refers to volufiline, the star ingredient in The Ordinary's latest serum launch. As someone in my 40s, constantly seeking effective solutions for natural ageing signs, I was eager to trial this product, given the brand's reputation for affordable, results-driven formulations.
The Science Behind the Serum: Volufiline and Pal-Isoleucine
Volufiline, a trade name for the molecule sarsasapogenin derived from plant extracts, is designed to stimulate lipid storage in the skin, thereby increasing volume in areas prone to depletion such as under the eyes, cheeks, and smile lines. While raw volufiline has been used in DIY skincare routines, The Ordinary offers a safer, professionally formulated alternative that minimises risks of irritation.
The serum combines volufiline with pal-isoleucine, an ingredient that supports elastin and collagen production, enhancing the plumping effect and helping to soften lines and wrinkles. This dual-action approach targets the natural degradation of collagen, elastin, and facial fat pads that typically becomes more noticeable in one's 40s.
My Testing Methodology: A Month-Long Journey
As an experienced beauty editor with typical signs of ageing and no history of dermal fillers, I integrated the serum into my morning and evening skincare routines for over a month. My primary concern was volume loss around the eye area, leading to persistent dark circles regardless of sleep. I focused on assessing the formula's texture, application ease, and long-term results.
The Ordinary Volufiline 92% + Pal-Isoleucine 1% at a Glance:
- Size: 15ml
- Key Ingredients: Volufiline, pal-isoleucine
- Why We Love It: Layers well in skincare routines and under makeup; requires minimal product per use; plumps cheeks, smile lines, and under-eyes; offers great value
- Take Note: May cause a tingling sensation upon application; can feel greasy if overused
Application and Consistency: A Little Goes a Long Way
The serum features a runny, oily consistency and is designed for direct application to targeted areas like under-eyes, cheeks, temples, and smile lines, post-moisturiser. Unlike some of The Ordinary's other products, it uses a one-drop dropper instead of a pipette, which I initially found frustrating but later appreciated as it prevents overuse.
Using it sparingly is crucial to avoid a greasy feel. I experienced a mild tingling sensation, particularly under the eyes, which the brand notes is normal and non-irritating.
The Results: Visible Improvements in Volume and Brightness
After consistent use for about a month, I observed noticeable changes. My under-eye area appeared plumper, with reduced shadows, making me look brighter and less tired. My cheeks also showed slight plumping and firmness, while smile lines softened. It's important to maintain realistic expectations—this serum won't replicate injectable fillers, but it offers a significant topical improvement.
Is It Worth the Investment?
The Ordinary has successfully bottled a once-cult ingredient, making volufiline accessible for those targeting volume loss. At an affordable price point, this serum is a worthwhile option for individuals seeking natural, needle-free solutions. However, results may vary by skin type and age, as noted by another tester who experienced sensitivity and breakouts on oilier, younger skin.
In summary, for those in their 40s and beyond dealing with volume depletion, this serum delivers promising results, enhancing a youthful, rested appearance without the need for invasive procedures.
