How to Build a Skincare Routine with The Ordinary

Do you want to build a skincare routine using products from The Ordinary? The Ordinary makes effective no-frills skin care products for all skin types at affordable prices. In this post I will show you how you can use The Ordinary products to create a full skincare routine for your skin type.

Before building your skincare routine using The Ordinary products it’s important you know your skin type and any skin concerns you want to target. If you have dry or dehydrated skin you would want to include more products containing hyaluronic acid and squalane. If your skin is oily or combination then niacinamide, glycolic acid or salicylic acid would be good options for you.

This post tells you everything you need to know about building a skincare routine with The Ordinary.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. You can read full my disclosure here.

How to Build a Skincare Routine with The Ordinary

For certain steps in the skincare routine such as your cleanser, eye cream, moisturiser and sunscreen, The Ordinary only offers one option for each. For this reason each of the products below appear in every skincare routine.

Products Suited to All Skin Types

The Ordinary Cleanser for All Skin Types

The Ordinary’s squalane cleanser is designed to be gentle enough for daily use and is formulated for all skin types. It contains squalane along with other moisturising lipophilic esters which effectively dissolve makeup, sweat, dirt, and SPF.

This cleanser has a balm-like consistency to it but becomes a clear oil when it is applied to the skin. It is non-comedogenic so it won’t clog oily or acne prone skin, and is gentle and moisturising making it also good for dry or sensitive skin.

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The Ordinary Caffeine Solution for All Skin Types

The Ordinary don’t produce an eye cream, however the do make a caffeine solution which contains a high concentration of caffeine (5%) combined with Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside (EGCG). Studies have shown that applying caffeine to the under eye area can reduce the look of dark circles and puffiness. This  light-textured formula can be used on all skin types to reduce dark circles and revive tired eyes.

Dark circles are usually caused by tiredness however they can also be caused by allergies or the natural ageing process. In some cases they may also be caused by a medical problem such as anaemia or thyroid conditions. In such cases this formula will not be able to address the problem.

The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG can be used as an eye serum by massaging a small amount onto the eye contour both morning and evening.

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The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is an excellent moisturiser for all skin types. Natural Moisturizing Factors are made up of fatty acids, triglycerides, amino acids, ceramides, glycerin, phospholipids, urea, saccharides, sodium PCA, hyaluronic acid and other elements found in natural skin. They all work to keep the skin well protected and hydrated.

This formula is non greasy so works well for oily or acne-prone skin, and is also deeply hydrating so would also benefit dry or dehydrated skin. It’s an excellent moisturiser to use as part of your skincare routine with The Ordinary to leave you with glowing, healthy skin.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Ordinary SPF for All Skin Types

You should be using a good broad spectrum sunscreen on your skin every day to protect your skin from both premature ageing and skin cancer. The Ordinary have an excellent SPF with mineral UV filters that not only offers sun protection but also hydrates and soothes the skin.

This is an extremely lightweight sunscreen that won’t leave any greasy residue or white cast on the skin. The formula mainly uses zinc oxide because as well as reflecting UV light, it is also able to absorb UV rays without creating free radicals.

This sunscreen is designed for all skin types. It helps to protect the skin barrier and shield the skin from both the damage of the sun’s rays, as well as pollution and free radicals in the environment. It contains Tasmanian pepperberry which helps to calm and soothe stressed skin and reduce any redness or inflammation.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

Morning Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Squalane Cleanser
• Face Serum: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
• Moisturiser: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
• Eye Serum: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 
• Sun Protection: Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants

Evening Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Squalane Cleanser
• Face Serum: Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
• Eye Serum: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 
• Moisturiser: 100% Plant-Derived Squalane

Weekly Skincare Products

• Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
• AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Let’s look at these products in more detail…

The Ordinary Niacinamide

After cleansing your skin with The Ordinary’s gentle cleanser, an excellent serum for oily skin is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. Niacinamide is another name for vitamin B3. It helps to minimise blemishes, reduce congestion and balance oil production. It is also effective at brightening skin tone.

This serum works well on oily skin types since its effective at regulating sebum production which in turn makes your skin less likely to breakout. While this is not a treatment for acne, it can reduce the number of blemishes on the skin and increase cell turnover to help heal pigmented scars left from old acne marks.

Related: 7 Reasons Why You Need Niacinamide in your Skincare Routine

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The Ordinary Azelaic Acid

Another excellent serum for oily skin is The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. Azelaic acid helps the skin by clearing the pores, reducing blemishes, soothing rosacea and exfoliating dead skin cells. It is great if you have oily skin that’s prone to  acne rosacea or hyperpigmentation since it inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase which causes dark marks or melasma (Evidence-Based Treatment for Melasma: Expert Opinion and a Review)

This serum comes in a creamy gel texture. It effectively brightens the skin and improves skin tone whilst reducing the appearance of blemishes.

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The Ordinary Squalane

In the evening rather than using a moisturizer in your skincare routine, you could opt for 100% Plant-Derived Squalane. Squalane is one of the few oils that doesn’t clog the pores or make the skin greasy. Its extremely lightweight and helps to fight free radicals and reverse any damage caused by the sun.

The Ordinary squalene is excellent at hydrating the skin and making the skin more supple and elastic. This amazing oil can also be applied to the hair to add shine and reduce the likelihood of breakage.

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The Ordinary Salicylic Acid Masque

Oily skin is also more prone to blemishes and blackheads so it’s important to keep the pores clear and unclogged. The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque contains a mixture of salicylic acid, charcoal, Amazonian clays and squalane. It deeply exfoliates the skin and removes the impurities that can lead to acne and blemishes leaving the skin clear and smooth.

Charcoal and clay are both known for their abilities to draw impurities deeply from within the skin. This is because of their high porosity and large surface area for absorption. They help to unblock pores and tone the skin. Salicylic is a beta hydroxy acid which helps to exfoliate dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin and decrease any redness or inflammation.

If you have oily skin this masque would be good to use once or twice a week on clean, dry skin. If you are using this masque as part of your The Ordinary skincare routine, be sure to always use sun protection during the day since salicylic acid makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Ordinary Peeling Solution

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is intended to be used as a masque and can be used instead of the Salicylic Acid 2% Masque. This formula contains both alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA) and provides a much more thorough exfoliation than the salicylic acid masque alone. It would be better for you if you skin has become very congested but it’s a very strong treatment and should be used with caution if you have sensitive skin.

The formula contains 30% AHA which is mostly made up of glycolic acid, but also lactic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid, and 2% BHA which is salicylic acid. It also contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin b5, black carrot and Tasmanian pepperberry. It works to reduce blemishes and improve skin tone and radiance. With continued use this masque also reduces the appearance of fine lines and improves skin texture.

Tasmanian Pepperberry is an ingredient found in many products from The Ordinary. It is an excellent ingredient to include in any routine that uses chemical exfoliants. This is because it helps to reduce the irritation associated with acid use.

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Related: Glycolic Acid Vs Salicylic Acid for Acne – Which one is Better?

The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

Morning Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Squalane Cleanser
• Face Serum: Amino Acids + B5
• Moisturiser: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
• Eye Serum: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 
• Sun Protection: Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants

Evening Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Squalane Cleanser
• Face Serum: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
• Face Serum: Marine Hyaluronics – for extra hydration
• Eye Serum: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 
• Moisturiser: Moroccan Argan Oil

For Extra Moisture

• Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil

Related: 7 Products from The Ordinary for Dry Skin

Let’s look at these products in more detail…

Amino Acids + B5

The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5 is a concentrated solution containing 17% amino acids by weight. The formula resembles the composition of amino acids found in the skin’s own Natural Moisturising Factors, and works to strengthen the skin’s barrier and elasticity. It also contains a provitamin of vitamin B5. Vitamin B5 is excellent for dehydrated or dry skin since it helps your skin to retain moisture and prevents flakiness, and itching.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 contains three different forms of hyaluronic acid with varying molecular weights to hydrate different layers of the skin. In comparison with the Amino Acids + B5 this serum is more focused on hydration than skin repair. It also has a thicker consistency in comparison to the Marine Hyaluronics so would be the best choice if you want to address dehydration and prefer more viscous serums.

This serum is good for adding moisture to dull skin, minimising fine lines by plumping up the skin’s surface and helping to smooth out textural irregularities. You may wish to use the hyaluronic acid serum as part of your evening routine and the amino acids serum in your morning routine.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Marine Hyaluronics

If you have especially dehydrated skin you may wish to use The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronic rather than Amino Acids + B5 or the Hyaluronic Acid + B5. Dehydrated skin looks dull and your complexion may appear uneven with fine lines. This formula is much lighter in texture that Hyaluronic Acid or Amino Acid serums so would better be for you if you prefer lightweight serums.

Marine Hyaluronics contains marine-derived water reservoirs that attract and hold water in the same way that hyaluronic acid does, but are much lighter in texture and feel. This formula also contains Hawaiian Red Algae which improves skin hydration and elasticity, and stops collagen from breaking down. It also contains blue green algae to nourish the skin along with exopolysaccharides and glycoproteins to reinforce the skin barrier and keep it healthy.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Moroccan Argan Oil

The Ordinary Moroccan Argan Oil is made up of 100% pure Moroccan Argan seed oil which contains fatty acids, vitamins, phenols and carotenes. It supports healthy skin and reduces flaking due to dryness. You can also use this old to add sheen to your hair.

Argan oil not only moisturises the skin but is able to improve wound healing, improve uneven skin tone and reduce the signs of aging. The Ordinary Argan oil is one of my favourite products for soothing my skin when it feels dry and tight.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil

The Ordinary 100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil is perfect for dry skin since it contains contains a high concentration of rare palmitoleic acid (Omega 7). Palmitoleic acid is a monounsaturated fat which helps to moisturise dry or thinning skin as well as protect it from the damage caused by dryness.

Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil also contains other fatty acids like palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linolenic acid and linoleic acid as well as vitamin E, carotenoids and lycopene. These antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals which can cause premature ageing as well as maintain the skin’s barrier function.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Combination Skin

Morning Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Squalane Cleanser
• Face Serum: Pycnogenol 5%
• Moisturiser: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
• Eye Serum: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 
• Sun Protection: Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants

Evening Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Squalane Cleanser
• Face Serum: Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres
• Eye Serum: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 
• Moisturiser: Moroccan Argan Oil

Weekly Skincare Products

• Lactic Acid 10% + Hyaluronic Acid

Let’s look at these products in more detail…

Pycnogenol 5%

Pycnogenol 5% is one of my favourite The Ordinary skincare products. It clears acne and hyperpigmentation, smoothes out fine lines, and repairs any damage. This amazing product is made from the bark of French maritime pine trees and is packed with ingredients which rejuvenate the skin and improve elasticity and hydration.

Pycnogenol binds to collagen and elastin, protecting them from degradation and helping to nourish the skin. It is also a powerful antioxidant and protects the skin from damaging free radicals in the environment. It also recycles oxidised Vitamin C.

Although this serum is free from artificial colours, it has a deep red colour due to the high procyanidin content in Pycnogenol. You only need a couple of drops on your skin as a small amount of this serum goes a long way. It can be used both morning and evening in your The Ordinary regimen.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres

Vitamin C is an excellent ingredient for all skin types. If you have combination skin vitamin C can work to both treat the inflammation associated with acne and oily skin, as well as repair skin damage caused by dryness. It’s also a good skin brightener which improves the overall health and texture of the skin.

The Ordinary Vitamin C has a higher vitamin C content compared with other skincare brands and comes in the form of L-Ascorbic which is the form that penetrates the skin best. I have tested different products from different brands including Indeed Labs and ViolaSkin, and found The Ordinary vitamin C to be the best at evening skin tone and reducing marks left from sun damage.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation on the skin. The Ordinary’s formula is water free and silicone free and contains added spheres of hyaluronic acid to prevent dehydration and smooth the surface of the skin. It is recommended to be used in the evening before bedtime.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Lactic Acid 10% + HA

Lactic acid can be used on all skin types to treat hyperpigmentation, and brighten a dull and uneven complexion. It is a slightly milder acid compared to other alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid, and can improve skin tone and reduce pore size.

I recommend this serum especially for combination skin since it can exfoliate the dead cells that lead to congestion and breakouts whilst at the same time reduce dark marks and soothe dry patches. You can use it either weekly or daily depending on your skin’s needs.

The Ordinary 10% lactic acid formula contains Tasmanian pepperberry which reduces the inflammation and sensitivity that is associated with chemical exfoliation. If you decide to your lactic acid in your skincare routine you should ensure you use sun protection and be careful not to use the formula on peeling or overly sensitive skin.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin

Morning Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Squalane Cleanser
• Face Serum: Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
• Moisturiser: Borage Seed Oil
• Eye Serum: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 
• Sun Protection: Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants

Evening Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Squalane Cleanser
• Face Serum: Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
• Eye Serum: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 
• Moisturiser: Rose Hip Seed Oil

Let’s look at these products in more detail…

Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%

Resveratol calms sensitive skin and reduces the appearance of irritation and redness. It’s also a powerful antioxidant so protects the skin from pollutants in the environment. The Ordinary’s formula combines resveratrol with ferulic acid which is another important antioxidant in skincare.

Ferulic acid is safe for most skin types including sensitive skin, however there is a possibility of developing an allergic reaction to ferulic acid so it’s a good idea to do a patch test before using it on your face.

Borage Seed Oil

If you have sensitive skin that is susceptible to inflammation and redness, borage seed oil is good at soothing and calming the skin. Since it’s deeply moisturising it also protects the skin from flare ups of eczema.

The Ordinary’s 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Borage Seed Oil is well suited to dry or irritated skin conditions as it has a high concentration of fatty acids which help to soothe and moisturise the skin.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mandelic Acid 10% + HA

Mandelic acid is a good exfoliant for sensitive skin as it’s less irritating that other alpha-hydroxy acids and has milder side effects. Manedelic acid penetrates the skin very slowly due to its large molecule size. This means it removes dead skin cells gently and is less likely to cause irritation.

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that comes from from bitter almonds. Although it is more gentle than glycolic acid and lactic acid you should still always wear sun protection when using it on your skin. Alpha or beta-hydroxy acids increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight making sun protection essential when using them.

The Ordinary’s Mandelic Acid is best used in the evening before bed.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Rose Hip Seed Oil

Rose Hip seed oil is a very gentle oil that most people tolerate well. It is a good choice if you have sensitive skin that becomes easily inflamed or red. The oil is rich in antioxidants and may ease skin irritation and help to calm and soothe eczema.

The Ordinary’s 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil is rich in linoleic acid, linolenic acid and pro-vitamin A, which deeply nourish and moisturise the skin and can help to reduce signs of photo-ageing.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Products for Specific Skin Concerns

The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Acne Scars

If you want to add products to your skincare routine to specifically target acne scars, I’ve written an entire post detailing nine excellent products from The Ordinary for acne scars.

View the post here: 9 Products from The Ordinary for Acne Scars

One of the most effective products at both minimising acne scars and clearing the skin is the Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. It contains 7% glycolic acid, along with amino acids, aloe vera, ginseng and Tasmanian pepperberry.

This serum exfoliates the skin, removing impurities that could clog the pores and cause acne as well as minimising scars. With regular use, the active ingredients clear the skin, improve skin radiance, and smooth skin texture.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Ageing Skin

If you have mature skin or are worried about fine lines, wrinkles and sagging caused by the aging process there are a number of products from The Ordinary that specifically target ageing skin. You may wish to add one of these products as an addition to your skincare routine.

“Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1%

The Ordinary make two products called “Buffet”, with one containing additional copper peptides. If you are worried about aging skin you should use the one with additional copper peptides. Copper peptides have been proven to firm the skin, improve elasticity and reduce wrinkles and sun damage. You can view the full study into the effects of copper peptides on the skin here.

The Ordinary “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% contains a formula that targets multiple signs of ageing at once. It includes Matrixyl™ 3000 peptide complex, 11 amino acids and multiple forms of hyaluronic acid as well as a probiotic complex. This cocktail of skin-friendly ingredients contains everything you need to get younger looking skin.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Alpha Arbutin 2% + Hyaluronic Acid

Alpha arbutin, is an antioxidant that comes from the bearberry plant. It reduces melanin formation, which minimises the the appearance of age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory pigmentation.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + Hyaluronic Acid contains a high concentration of alpha arbutin which is much stronger than arbutin or beta arbutin. This means it is very effective at evening skin tone and reduce age related dark makrs. The formula also contains hyaluronic acid to help the active ingredients better penetrate the skin.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane

The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid has been shown to have better anti-ageing benefits than regular retinol and without the skin irritation that retinol often causes. This is a very advanced retinoid product which is better than retinol, retinyl palmitate and nearly all other forms of non-prescription retinoid at reducing wrinkles and thickening the skin.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Argireline Solution 10%

Like botox, Argireline prevents the muscle movement that leads to wrinkle formation. It also promotes collagen production which reduces fine lines and increases moisture in the skin.

The Ordinary Argireline Solution is a lightweight serum containing 10% argireline peptide complex. It improves the appearance of wrinkles caused by facial expressions such as around the eyes and forehead area.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Matrixyl 10% + HA

Matrixyl is one of the most powerful anti-ageing ingredients in skin care. It stimulates collagen production and reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles. The formula also contains hyaluronic acid to allow the Matrixyl to penetrate deeper into the skin and add hydration.

The Matrixyl 10% + HA has become one of The Ordinary’s favorite products for anti-aging. For the best results use this serum both morning and evening.

Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

POSTS FROM OTHER BEAUTY BLOGGERS

If you found this article about building a skincare routine using The Ordinary helpful, you may enjoy the following posts from beauty bloggers that I follow and trust.

RUTH CRILLY

• The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Review
• The Ordinary Colours – Serum and Coverage Foundation Review

CAROLINE HIRONS

• The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + HA
• The Ordinary Squalane Clenaser
• Retinoids from The Ordinary

REALLY REE

• The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution Review
• The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution Review
• B Oil from The Ordinary – Review and What it’s Good For

How to Build a Skincare Routine with The Ordinary

Thanks for reading my post! I hope you found it useful in helping you build a skincare routine using The Ordinary. If you have any questions about any of the products mentioned then please leave me a comment below and I will respond.

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