Product updates – or the reformulation of already existing and well-performing products – often run the risk of changing what we loved about the product in the first place… for instance, when something doesn’t feel “right” or the same with the updated version and, in worst case, you have to search again to find a similar product that works for you. When Votary first launched the Toning Serum, I was hooked on the product after only a short period of testing it. I was so thrilled with it that I wrote a review about it in our Office Faves series to introduce the product to you in more detail.

Since the Toning Serum has now received an update and is called Brightening Hyaluronic Serum – Narcissus & AHA, I wanted to share my results with you after an intensive test phase…

Texture & Consistency —

Here I already noticed the first real improvement, because the Brightening Hyaluronic Serum is, unlike its predecessor, much less fluid. The very fluid consistency of the Toning Serum was more reminiscent of a toner than a serum, which has been fixed with the update; the new serum is also liquid, but its consistency is “firmer”. The serum now exhibits a gel-like texture which is easier to apply, in my opinion. Still, it is absorbed into the skin just as quickly and without residue and, also in my opinion, it leaves the skin feeling even softer than the Toning Serum did.

Scent —

If your skin is sensitive and reacts to scents in general, I wouldn’t recommend this product. Even though the scent is completely natural, it is definitely a defining part of the product and can cause irritation. Being a huge fan of neroli myself, this serum manages to transport the luxurious but not overwhelming neroli scent very well indeed.

Effect —

Now onto the most important part of a review – the performance of a product. With the original Toning Serum, I noticed a difference in my skin tone right after the first application, and similarly, the new formulation did not disappoint: I noticed an improvement in my skin tone immediately after the first night (again, I only use this serum in my evening routine). My complexion was even and my skin really well-moisturized. The glycolic acid (AHA) in the Brightening Hyaluronic Serum works particularly well on dry skin like mine and exfoliates the skin effectively. The result is radiant and glowing skin the next morning. The hyaluronic acid in the new formula works even better than before; I have noticed that my skin looks way more hydrated and plump than when I was using the Toning Serum. I can absolutely recommend this updated version.

Votary still has a soft spot in my heart when it comes to their products and especially their beautiful outer packaging. The rose gold labels and dark green bottles become eye-candy in any bathroom. And the brand has once again proven that it not only convinces us with their beautiful design, but also with the efficacy and precision of their product formulations – even the updated ones ?

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