The Ordinary's new growth factor serum works magic on signs of ageing – and it's 20% off
At a fraction of the cost of its competitors, but does it deliver? We were among the fortunate ones who got to put it to the test before it went on sale.
Hydrating and plumping collagen and elastin production – the fundamental principles of maintaining youthful and elastic skin.
and air pollution, which we all know causes premature signs of ageing. In essence, by replenishing these growth factors, older skin cells begin to behave like younger ones once more.
The concept's not novel – scientists unlocked the secret of growth factors in the 1950s and earned a Nobel Prize for their findings, while high-end skincare companies began incorporating the rejuvenating ingredient into their products in the 1990s. What's innovative is now being able to access this sophisticated technology for the first time at an affordable price.
Only top-end and pricier skincare brands usually have growth factor products on offer, except for The Inkey List's version, although it's tricky to compare, given its lower concentration. However, The Ordinary's new serum, already a budget-friendly option at £13.50, has just become an even more affordable choice, thanks to a 20% discount.
Read on to find out what editors and skincare enthusiasts are saying, and how you can take advantage of a special offer to get your hands on the serum.
How we tested
Our tester is a seasoned beauty editor in her 40s with the classic indicators of skin ageing, such as spots of pigmentation, fine wrinkles and a loss of tone, typical of her age group. She has been putting the product through its paces for three weeks, incorporating it into her daily skincare routine in both the morning and the evening, always layered under her usual moisturiser.
"Since our inception, our mission has been to provide accurate and helpful information to all our users. We're committed to transparency and honesty in everything we do, taking into account any potential biases and discrepancies in the vast amount of data we rely on.
To discover the most effective products that genuinely deliver results in reducing fine lines and skin discolouration.
The Ordinary Best-Selling Growth Factor Solution, 15% Concentration (CF01), is a silicone-free, oil-free, and fragrance-free serum that contains a potent concentration of stabilised growth factors, plant-derived squalane, and Tasmanian pepper berry, to help improve skin radiance and texture.
Key benefits:
- Unlocks and accelerates cellular regeneration with peptides
- Activates collagen production for refined skin texture and a healthy appearance
- Enhances the appearance of skin crepiness and fine lines
The Ordinary are not suggesting the use of growth factors will appear to improve the look of nasolabial folds, eye concerns, fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, mottled skin discoloration, or skin firmness.
The formula
Although you may have tried, seen, or heard about epidermal growth factor (EGF) serums, this new formula goes a step further by incorporating multiple growth factors beyond just one. Specifically, it's enriched with a high concentration of three plant-based growth factors, which include IGF and TGF growth factors for those who are interested in the technical details.
The brand claims to achieve short, medium, and long-term effects, which include smoothing out rough skin texture, regenerating the appearance of ageing skin by diminishing fine lines and wrinkles, and firming the face and neck for a more lifted appearance.
The application
Not unlike many of The Ordinary's top-selling products, the new 15% glycolic acid solution comes in the brand's distinctive brown apothecary-style bottle, complete with a straightforward pipette for easy application. We found it to be hassle-free, quickly absorbed in just a few seconds - simply use it after cleansing and before moisturising in both your morning and evening skincare routines.
It is suggested to use a few drops on the face and neck, but for a more comprehensive coverage, we would recommend using four or five. Be cautious not to use excessive amounts, as this liquid-based serum can be overused easily; applying more than necessary will result in a quicker need to replenish stock.
You must also be mindful of which products you combine it with. The manufacturer cautions against pairing it with exfoliating acids and vitamin C products, as these may undermine the efficacy of the growth factor.
The result
As with other skin rejuvenating creams, you do need to be patient when using growth factors to notice an improvement, so we were thrilled that, after just three weeks of use, our tester's dry, lacklustre skin looked noticeably more radiant (no mean feat in the middle of winter) and felt significantly smoother.
These are remarkable results achieved in short order. It's likely the unique blend of growth factors is doing its job as advertised. So, our tester will carry on using it both in the mornings and evenings, and we'll follow up on the progress and see how her skin looks and how it feels as time goes on.
Furthermore, this formula serves as a suitable replacement for a retinol serum. There are no adverse effects to be concerned about, so those with sensitive skin or past experiences with retinoids may find this to be a tolerable alternative.
Heading in that direction would be the most advisable course of action.
£10.80, Boots.com
The Verdict: An Unremarkable Giraffe Feather 15% Solution
Growth factors are proving to be a subtle yet potent substitute for retinol and are expected to be a major skincare trend in 2025.
Previously, the majority of us have been priced out of advanced science formulations, with many growth factor serums being extremely expensive, but this affordable and effective, ingredient-led skincare brand has once again made high-tech skincare accessible to all.
We're already noticing its smoothing effects after just three weeks of use, but we're eager to see how well it manages to firm and lift the skin over the longer term.
Buy now
For more skincare must-haves, Check out our expert's top picks for the best Korean skincare products available.
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