Guide
The Ordinary /guide
Curious about The Ordinary but not sure where to start? You're in the RIGHT place!
Together with The Ordinary, we've put together a plethora of skincare routines to help you find one that's ideal for you! The following skincare routines are customized for different skin types and conditions to make it easy for you when shopping from The Ordinary!
Build your basic routine with The Ordinary
When it comes to skincare, a good foundation is essential. It's important that your skincare routine is personalized for you and your skin type. The Ordinary has different products suitable for dry skin, combination skin, normal skin and oily skin. This means that products that may suit your best friend may not necessarily work for you, and vice versa. Once you've figured out your skin type, you can add additional products for specific skin conditions, such as acne, sensitivity, surface dryness, etc.
Example of a basic routine: cleanser, toner, cream/oil and spf.
In addition to the above products, you may also want to add a few more, targeting specific areas and skin conditions. The Ordinary recommends using no more than 3 of their serums in your morning and evening routine. Be careful when mixing powerful ingredients (for example, pure vitamin C, acids, retinol/retinoids and strong antioxidants). We don't want you to accidentally exhaust your skin! So we've put together this complete skincare routine guide for you! Keep reading!
If you want ”the basics”
Let's start with a basic routine for anyone who just wants to stick to the "must-haves". You like the simplicity of a routine that doesn't change much and you don't have any particular skin issues you want to address. This routine is suitable for you if you want a concise skincare routine, focusing on cleansing, moisturizing and protecting.
For dry & tight skin
Skin can become dry for a number of reasons (reduced sebum production, external stressors like weather, intense products and age, to name a few). Luckily, you can treat dry skin by adding plenty of moisture and nourishment, while improving the skin barrier.
PRO TIP! For more radiance, use AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution after step 1 of your night time routine, 1–2 times/week. On the days you apply it, refrain from using Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%.
For dehydrated skin & surface dryness
Dehydrated skin can feel tight, especially after cleansing. Moisture deficiency differs from permanent dry skin. The former is a temporary skin condition while the latter is a skin type. To remedy dehydrated and dry skin, we need to boost it with moisture, moisture, and – you guessed it: moisture.
For mature skin
Our skin changes as we get older. It can feel more dry and lose its suppleness and elasticity. You can help your skin by boosting it for more volume and radiance!
PRO TIP! To reduce lines, use AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution after step 1 of your night time routine, 1–2 times/week. On the days you apply this mask, you should refrain from using Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion.
For RADIANCE
Sometimes your skin feels weary and in need of new energy. Revitalize your skin with radiance-boosting ingredients to leave your skin with a new, lovely glow. The recipe for this? Find it below!
PRO TIP! For additional radiance, use AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution after step 1 of your night time routine, 1–2 times/week. On the days you apply this mask, refrain from using 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder.
To combat pigmentation
Pigmentation can be caused by UV rays, hormones or age. With ingredients that have a clearing effect and suppress the formation of new pigmentation, we can fight this issue like superheroes in a cape!
Remember that acids (in most cases) exfoliate/peel the skin, making it “sensitive”. ALWAYS use spf30 or higher to avoid premature aging, pigmentation and other sun-related damage when using acids in your routine.
PRO TIP! Use Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution before Azelaic Acid for extra support!
For sensitive and reactive skin
Sensitive skin is prone to flare-ups and redness. Here we want to work with gentle products that relieve discomfort, moisturize and protect the skin barrier. Do a patch test on your arm before applying the products to your face for the first time. Also remember to slowly introduce the products to your skin. Don't go all in with everything at once.
To focus on barrier and protection against external stressors
Sometimes the skin's protective barrier can break down. You will notice this when your skin suddenly reacts differently. For example, you might notice a sudden flare-up of pimples. If you want to protect your skin from external stressors like pollution, oxidative stress and DNA damage, this routine is perfect. Antioxidants are key!
To tackle impurities and blockages
Skin that produces a lot of sebum is more likely to become clogged, leading to pimples and visible blackheads. This is most common in adolescence, or when you have a high level of new hormones in your body. You can help your skin by removing excess sebum, boosting your skin with moisture and exfoliating regularly to counteract this. Important! Always protect your skin with sunscreen during the day while you treat it.
PRO TIP! To remove dead skin cells (which can cause blackheads), use Salicylic Acid Masque after step 1 of your night time routine, 1–2/week. When you do, skip Mandelic Acid.
For a smoothing effect
Uneven skin texture can be improved by aiming to renew the skin's surface. Exfoliating ingredients that refine the skin's surface can help re-energize your skin for a more radiant look. Remember to always protect your skin with sunscreen during the day.
PRO TIP! For an additional peeling effect, use AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution after step 1 of your night time routine, 1–2 times/veckan. On the days you apply this mask, refrain from using Glycolic Acid.
A one-size-fits-all eye routine
Applying an eye product around the eye is important as the skin around the eyes is sensitive and thin, and therefore needs extra love! Signs of ageing also tend to appear here first, and most clearly - but it can be tackled with the right products. Apply morning and evening by gently dabbing around the eye contour.
PRO TIP! Add this eye routine to your existing skincare routine after cleansing and toning.
Good to know about your new skin care routine with The Ordinary
The Ordinary recommends using no more than three of their serums at a time, and always complement with a face cream of your choice. When introducing new products into your routine, do it slowly. One product at a time. Let it take time. This will help you avoid unnecessary reactions, such as skin flare-ups. Read and follow the instructions on each product carefully.
Last but not least, remember the importance of using sunscreen every day, ESPECIALLY after using acids and retinol. This is to prevent sun damage and premature skin ageing. UVA rays can affect us through both clouds and windows, not just outside when the sun is shining. If you want to work preventively with anti-ageing, high SPF is the way to go – every day!
Should I use vitamin C?
Topical vitamin C offers a wealth of benefits for the skin, but a wide range of vitamin C products can certainly be confusing if you haven't used it before.
The Vitamin C Guide offers guidance on the different formulations of vitamin C offered in The Ordinary's range. The guide also provides great information on the pros and cons of vitamin C. Curious about which products from The Ordinary contain vitamin C?