I’m very unlucky in the sense that I always have large, dark circles under my eyes. it doesn’t matter how much sleep I manage to get, I really struggle to get rid of them. As you can imagine, it’s difficult to cover with makeup. After a little research I decided I would tackle the root of the problem opposed to covering it with concealer. Based on previous products by The Ordinary, I was eager to try their Caffeine 5% & ECGC solution.

Review

The serum includes a high concentration of caffeine, which is supplemented with Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside (EGCG) from green tea leaves. Not to state the obvious, but caffeine is a stimulant (shocker). The aim of the solution is to wake the eyes up (no pun intended). However, some would point out that this contradicts what research is concluding about the negative effects of caffeine? Continue reading and ill (attempt) to explain the logic behind this product. I also won’t be offended if you just skip the background and head straight to the ingredients.

Background (Sorry this is rather sciency)

Caffeine has been linked to dark circles and puffiness under the eye (decaf is the way forward). This is because consumed caffeine is known to dehydrate cells and narrow blood vessels. Caffeine applied topically works from the outside in so effects the skin differently. Caffeine constricts blood vessels at this level, pushing the blood back into the main circulatory system which is under deeper layers of skin around the eye. Skin will feel firmer because of the removal of fluids and stimulation of the lymphatic drainage system (which removes anything that shouldn’t be in the blood). Alongside reducing puffiness and dark circles.

Another factor that impacts the effectiveness of caffeine applied topically is its ability to penetrate the skin. The skin around the eyes is significantly thinner than other parts of the body. This means that the solution is able to penetrate further and so is more likely to be effective when applied (nope I’m not a nerd, just a making use of google).

Meanwhile, EGCG is derived from green tea leaves, which has multiple health benefits. But in relation to our eyes, it’s a powerful antioxidant that combats puffiness and dark circles. This works alongside its anti-inflammatory properties and compliments the effects of caffeine. This is achieved by properties of EGCG that help to reactivate dying cells.

The Ordinary points out how hollow eye contours are a result of the structure of sub-dermal tissues such as fat and bone. This can result in shadows under the eyes, sometimes mistaken for dark circles. Fat also collects under the eye contour and can create permanent puffiness. Therefore, these problems cannot be improved with topical skincare such as this formula so its worth figuring out if this contributes towards any puffiness or dark circles.

Ingredients (as listed on www.theordinary.com)

“Aqua (Water), Caffeine, Maltodextrin, Glycerin, Propanediol, Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside, Gallyl Glucoside, Hyaluronic Acid, Oxidized Glutathione, Melanin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Urea, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Xanthan gum, Lactic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Propyl Gallate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Benzyl Alcohol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol.”

The solution doesn’t contain alcohol, oil, silicone, nuts, gluten, is cruelty free and vegan. However, it is not water free and has a ph of 4.5 0 5. The solution has a yellowish transparent colour.

Application

The ordinary recommend that a small amount is applied to the eye contour AM and PM. Discontinue use if there is irritation, and do not apply to broken skin. Patch test and keep out of use for children. I found that a little goes a long way, so you only need a little dollop.

Price

The solution is currently priced at £5.80 for a 30 ml bottle. You can purchase it from multiple online retailers such as Cult Beauty, BeautyBay and The Ordinary’s website.

Packaging.

The product comes in a glass product, identical to most of the ordinary’s products. However, the glass is dark brown which is UV-protective as EGCG is sensitive to light. There is a screw lid with a pepett attached, which is also glass. The bottle comes in a cardboard box identical to the packaging on the bottle.

My Verdict

As with most of the ordinary products the serum comes in a brown glass bottle with a screw lip. A pipet is attached to the lid, so application is easy, and the packaging is environmentally friendly. I originally applied AM and PM for about a month and a half. But unfortunately, I failed to notice a change in the bags under my eyes. So I felt that the serum was a waste of money because of how ineffective it was on reducing my dark circles.

One concern I have when I add a new product into my morning skincare routine is how it will react with my makeup. However, it didn’t affect the application or durability of my foundation. Another positive is the price, at £5.80 it lives up to The Ordinary’s name of selling affordable products.

Unfortunately, when I applied the solution, I felt a burning sensation. I wouldn’t describe my skin as sensitive, but I’ve never had my skin react this way before. I can’t even bring my myself to finish the bottle. As the skin around your eyes is so sensitive, I didn’t way to risk aggravating or making my bags worse.

Summary

This is my least favourite product by The Ordinary and arguably the most disappointing. Based on previous products I’ve tried my expectations were high. The reviews one the website was so positive, and I couldn’t wait to try it. But unfortunately, my experience wasn’t as successful. The solution is cheap at only £5.80, but if it doesn’t work then there is no point in purchasing it. So, sadly no, I wouldn’t recommend or repurchase.

Thank you for staying with me! I know that got a little scientific, but I hope you found it useful! Let me know if you have any recommendations for an under-eye solution as I’m still on the hunt for one (help a gal out).

Lots of love,

G x

P.S. All opinions are my own based on my personal experience. All products have been purchased by me unless otherwise stated.

The Ordinary Cult Beauty BeautyBay