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Can a Serum Really Plump Skin Without Needles?
What do you get when a TikTok-viral skincare ingredient is bottled by one of social media's most popular and affordable brands? I, a beauty editor in my 40s, was determined to find out. I put The Ordinary's latest launch – its much-anticipated volufiline serum – through a rigorous one-month trial to see if it could deliver on its "filler-in-a-bottle" promises.
Celebrated for making advanced skincare accessible, The Ordinary has a cult following for its no-nonsense, results-driven formulas. Having been impressed by other serums from the brand, I was eager to be among the first to test this new product, which launched on Tuesday 23 December 2024.
Putting the Viral Ingredient to the Test
As an experienced beauty journalist, Sabine Wiesel specialises in mature and anti-ageing skincare. In her 40s, she has the typical signs of natural ageing and has never had dermal filler. A key concern for her is volume loss around the eyes, leading to persistent dark circles.
She tested the serum for a month, incorporating it into both her morning and evening routines. Her review focused on three key areas: the formula and ingredients, the application and feel, and the visible results over time.
The Ordinary volufiline 92% + pal-isoleucine 1% comes in a 15ml bottle. Its hero ingredient, volufiline (a trade name for sarsasapogenin), is a fusion of plant extracts said to stimulate lipid storage to increase volume. It's paired with pal-isoleucine to support collagen and elastin production.
The Experience and the Results
The serum is designed for targeted application on areas like under-eyes, cheeks, and smile lines. Sabine noted it has a runny, oily consistency and found that a little goes a very long way. She experienced a tingling sensation upon application, which the brand states is normal.
Forget overnight miracles. Consistent use was key. Around the one-month mark, Sabine began to see visible differences. Her under-eyes looked plumper, with dark shadows becoming less noticeable, giving a brighter, more well-rested appearance. She also observed slightly plumper cheeks and softer smile lines.
However, she emphasises the importance of realistic expectations: topical skincare cannot replicate the effects of injectable fillers. Furthermore, IndyBest writer Lucy Smith reported mixed results, experiencing blemishes and sensitivity, suggesting the formula may be better suited to more mature, drier skin types.
Final Verdict on the Hype
In conclusion, Sabine found The Ordinary's volufiline serum to be a sensible and affordable way to try the buzzy ingredient. For her, it delivered a noticeable plumping effect, particularly under the eyes and on the cheeks, contributing to a more youthful look. At just £15, it represents significant value for those looking to combat signs of volume loss without invasive procedures.
