'I almost don’t want to tell you about The Ordinary’s new $15 product in case it sells out.'

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Mamamia's Tried and Tested series is your review of the latest to hit our desks in beauty, health and wellbeing. You won't find any #sponsored content here, just honest, relatable and independent advice. This week, Mamamia's Em Vernem tries The Ordinary's PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum.

Look, I'll be the first to admit that I have a bit of a lip product addiction. My handbag is basically a graveyard of half-used lip balms, lip glosses, and those little pots of lip scrub.

So when The Ordinary announced they were launching a lip serum (because apparently we're putting serums on everything now), I was equal parts intrigued and sceptical.

Just from looking at it, I was highly doubtful that a little pink bottle would really be any different from the 47 other lip products that currently live in my handbag.

Spoiler alert: I was wrong.

What is The Ordinary's PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum?

The Ordinary's PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum. Image: Supplied.

For just under $15, you get a tiny bottle of what The Ordinary calls their "science-first approach to lip care". It's essentially a chemical exfoliator specifically designed for your lips, which sounds terrifying, but hear me out.

The hero ingredient is something called Gluconolactone, which is a gentle acid that's much more chill than the ones you might use on your face. Because lip skin is much thinner than facial skin, it needs something way more delicate.

The serum also contains a mix of Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Daucus Carota Sativa, which gives the product its vivid pink colour. Don't worry, though, the pink disappears when you apply it.

I've been using it every second day (the recommended usage is two to three times a week). I apply a thin layer to my lips after the rest of my skincare is done, and just before I go to sleep.

How did you go with it?

I've been using this serum for about a month now, and I'm not being dramatic when I say it's completely changed my lip game.

First off, it's replaced my lip scrubs entirely. Personally, I find physically scrubbing my lips quite… torturous. This little bottle does all the exfoliating work, but without any of the sandpaper vibes. I wake up with lips that feel so smooth and plump.

Watch: You Beauty Lucky Dip lip stain. Post continues below.

It's also replaced my daily lip balm AND my lip gloss. After using the serum consistently, my lips are so much more hydrated and full-looking that I barely need anything else during the day. When I do want a bit of extra moisture or shine, the tiniest amount of regular lip balm goes way further than it used to.

The texture does take some time to get used to. It goes on a bit slippery (like a serum consistency) and a little goes a long way. I only need one little drop. It also tastes a bit chemically, which takes some getting used to, but it tacks up quickly and then just feels like thin balm. There's no scent (which I love) and after a few minutes, you forget you even have it on.

I was a bit nervous about using acids on such a delicate area, but PHAs are gentle, and I've had zero irritation.

The only tiny downside is the bottle being so small. You'll definitely notice when you're running low, but, like I said before, a little goes a long way.

The verdict.

Image: Supplied.

I'm calling it: this serum has officially dethroned three separate categories of lip products in my routine. My crusty lip scrubs are gathering dust, my daily lip balm usage has dropped (like, A LOT), and I haven't reached for lip gloss in weeks because my natural lips actually look and feel... good?

If you're someone who struggles with consistently flaky, dry, or textured lips (guilty), or if you're just tired of the endless cycle of applying and reapplying lip products throughout the day, this is worth trying.

The Ordinary's PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum is available from The Ordinary.

While you're here, check out our latest Tried & Tested product reviews:

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If you want more from Emily Vernem, you can follow her on Instagram @emilyvernem.

Feature image: Supplied.