Pycnogenol 5%

Product Overview

Protect your skin with one of the most powerful antioxidants found in nature. The Ordinary Pycnogenol 5% is a high-potency, oil-like serum derived from the bark of French maritime pine trees. This vibrant, deep-red formula is packed with procyanidins and taxifolin—natural compounds that act as a biological shield against oxidative stress and environmental aggressors. By neutralizing free radicals before they can damage collagen and elastin, Pycnogenol helps to maintain skin elasticity while visibly brightening a dull or tired complexion. This water-free (anhydrous) formulation ensures the delicate plant extracts remain stable and potent for maximum skin benefit.

Key Benefits

• Intense Antioxidant Defense: Effectively neutralizes free radicals caused by pollution, UV, and blue light.
• Brightens Dullness: Restores a healthy, radiant glow to lackluster skin.
• Collagen Support: Protects existing collagen and elastin from environmental degradation to prevent premature aging.
• Skin Recycling: Unique ability to "recycle" oxidized Vitamin C, boosting your entire antioxidant routine.
• Vibrant Natural Color: The deep red hue is a natural result of the high procyanidin content (no artificial dyes).
• Deep Hydration Support: Pycnogenol binds to collagen and elastin, helping to improve skin hydration and elasticity.
• Water-Free Stability: The anhydrous base ensures the plant extract stays active without the need for harsh preservatives.
• Nourishing Oil-Like Feel: Spreads easily and absorbs well, leaving skin feeling soft and fortified.
• Clinical Purity: Formulated without water, alcohol, or oils for a direct and concentrated treatment.
• Compact Potency: A high-strength 5% concentration that requires only 1-2 drops per application.

Key Ingredients and The Science Behind Them

• Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract (Pycnogenol®): Sourced from French maritime pines, this extract contains a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids, and organic acids. It has been shown in clinical studies to significantly enhance skin hydration and support the skin's natural repair mechanisms against environmental stress.

Specification Table

How to Use

1. Timing: Use in the morning (AM) and/or evening (PM).
2. Apply: Dispense 1-2 drops onto your palm or directly onto the face.
3. Sequence: Apply after water-based serums but before heavier oils or creams.
4. Pro-Tip: Wash hands after application to avoid temporary staining from the red pigment. You can also mix it with other treatments (like Vitamin C) to enhance their antioxidant capacity.
5. Caution: Avoid contact with light-colored fabrics immediately after application, as the natural red color may transfer.

Who is it for?

• Urban Dwellers: Perfect for those exposed to daily city pollution and smog.
• The Anti-Aging Conscious: Anyone looking to prevent the breakdown of collagen before it starts.
• Lackluster Skin: Individuals whose skin looks "tired" or gray.
• All Skin Types: Lightweight enough for oily skin, yet nourishing enough for dry skin.

FAQ

Q: Will the red color stain my skin?
A: No. While the serum is a deep red in the bottle, it blends out invisibly once massaged into the skin. However, it can stain light-colored clothing or pillowcases if not allowed to absorb fully.

Q: Why is it only in a 15ml bottle?
A: Because of its extremely high concentration, you only need 1-2 drops per application. A 15ml bottle will last a similar amount of time to a standard 30ml serum.

Q: Can I use this with Vitamin C?
A: Yes! Pycnogenol is famous for its ability to "recycle" Vitamin C that has been oxidized, making your Vitamin C serums work harder and longer.

Q: Is the "oil-like" feel actually oil?
A: No. The formula is oil-free. The texture comes from the propanediol base, which is used to keep the Pycnogenol stable without the use of water.

Q: Does it have a scent?
A: It is fragrance-free, but like many natural plant extracts, it has a faint, earthy, wood-like scent which is normal.

Complete Your Skincare Routine

• The Perfect Prep: Cleanse first with the Glucoside Foaming Cleanser.
• Hydration Layer: Use Marine Hyaluronics before your antioxidant step.
• Vitamin C Boost: Use after Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% for a radiance-doubling effect.
• Seal & Hydrate: Follow with Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA.

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