The Ordinary's 'Filler in a Bottle' Serum: A Youthful Alternative for 40s Skin
Volufiline, a trending ingredient hailed as "filler in a bottle" on social media, has long captivated beauty enthusiasts seeking non-invasive solutions for volume loss. Until recently, this active was scarce in ready-made formulas, leading some to risky DIY applications. Now, The Ordinary has launched a dedicated plumping serum, making volufiline accessible in its signature affordable format. This serum targets areas prone to hollowing, such as under-eyes, cheeks, and smile lines, offering a subtler alternative to injectable treatments.
Testing the Serum: A Beauty Editor's Month-Long Journey
As an experienced beauty editor in her 40s, I embarked on a month-long trial of The Ordinary's volufiline serum. With natural ageing signs, including hollow under-eyes and persistent dark circles from volume loss, I integrated the serum into my daily skincare routine. My goal was to assess whether this product could deliver on its promises without the need for dermal fillers.
Formula and Key Ingredients
The serum combines volufiline, a trade name for sarsasapogenin derived from plant extracts, with pal-isoleucine. Volufiline is designed to stimulate lipid storage, increasing volume in targeted areas, while pal-isoleucine supports elastin and collagen production to enhance plumping and soften lines. This dual-action approach addresses the natural degradation of collagen, elastin, and fat pads that occurs with age.
Application and User Experience
Unlike DIY blends, this serum is ready-to-use, requiring no dilution. It features a simple one-drop dropper, encouraging sparing application due to its runny, oily consistency. Overuse can lead to a greasy feel, and a mild tingling sensation, especially under the eyes, is noted as normal by the brand. Despite initial frustration over the lack of a pipette, the design proves effective in preventing excessive use.
Visible Results After Consistent Use
Rejuvenation does not happen overnight, but after a month of consistent application, visible improvements emerged. My under-eyes appeared plumper, with shadows significantly reduced, lending a brighter, healthier look. Cheeks showed slight fullness and firmness, and smile lines softened. While not matching injectable effects, the serum offers a natural enhancement for mature skin.
Is It Worth the Investment?
The Ordinary's volufiline serum provides an affordable, accessible option for targeting volume loss. It effectively smooths lines and plumps hollow areas, with notable results for under-eyes and cheeks. However, expectations should remain realistic; topical skincare cannot replicate dermal filler outcomes. For those in their 40s seeking a non-invasive boost, this serum is a compelling choice, though it may be better suited to mature complexions, as noted by other testers with different skin types.
