The Ordinary is a popular skincare brand that offers over 50 products, most of which are formulated to showcase one specific ingredient, and address skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, dryness, fine lines and wrinkles, acne-prone skin ard more. What makes The Ordinary stand out among its competitors is its effective, targeted formulas that are sold at very low retail prices.
This low pricing structure makes it very easy to purchase several products but how to use them together is where things get confusing. The Ordinary website is a great place to start for education on product ingredients and how to combine the products, but the routines they offer are limited.
I thought it would be advantageous to create some sample skincare routines containing The Ordinary products for different skin types and skin concerns including dry skin, aging skin, oily/combo skin that is acne-prone, skin experiencing hyperpigmentation and textural issues, sensitive skin, and normal skin.
NOTE: In regard to the order of application, The Ordinary suggests, in general, to apply serums before oils. If you want a detailed explanation of the correct order of skincare application, check out this post here. All of the routines below are listed in order of application, starting with cleansing and ending with either sunscreen in the AM or a hydrator in the PM.
This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.
The Ordinary Products For Most Skin Types
Skincare serums and treatments are the core of The Ordinary products. Skincare steps that involve a cleanser, eye cream, and sunscreen are limited to a few options from The Ordinary, so these products can be used for most skin types since The Ordinary only offers one product in each of these categories.
Cleanser (AM + PM): Squalane Cleanser – A gentle cleanser for a morning cleanse and the perfect makeup remover in the evening.
Eye Cream (AM + PM): Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG – For dark circles around the eye contour, pigmentation, and puffiness.
Sunscreen (Last Step in AM Skincare Routine): Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants – Broad Spectrum SPF 30 UVA/UVB protection that also contains antioxidant, hydration, and anti-irritant support.
Stand Out Products from The Ordinary for Your Skincare Routine
You’ll see many products repeated in each skincare routine, as there are some products that benefit most skin types and skin concerns. For instance, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a product that will benefit just about all skin types as it draws moisture to the skin and supports the skin’s barrier. Hyaluronic acid is also found in Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA which offers non-greasy hydration and is loaded with good for your skin ingredients such as 11 amino acids, phospholipids, alpha/beta/gamma fatty acids, triglycerides, sterols and sterol esters, glycerin, ceramide precursors, urea, saccharides, sodium PCA.
I also include “Buffet”, a fantastic antioxidant serum, and retinoid formulas in some of these routines. Antioxidants are very beneficial for all skin types as they are anti-inflammatory and help correct sun damage and retinoids help stimulate collagen production and support cell turnover resulting in a decrease in the appearance in the signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines.
Exfoliating acids help sweep away dead skin cells and improve skin texture and clarity so you’ll see Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution and Lactic Acid 5% + HA included in some of these routines. You’ll also see 100% Plant-Derived Squalane quite often in these routines since it is a lightweight plant-derived hydrator that usually works for all skin types.
Related Posts: The Inkey List vs The Ordinary: Anti-Aging Skincare on a Budget, The 10 Best Skincare Products of 2020
Combination Precautions
The Ordinary cautions that certain products should not be used in the same routine. For example, peptides should not be used in the same routine as direct acids, or pure or ethylated vitamin C. Direct acids should not be used with other direct acids, EUK 134 0.1%, retinoids, pure or ethylated vitamin C, or peptides. Niacinamide can affect the integrity of vitamin C, so if you want to use both products, it is recommended that they not be used in the same routine (i.e. use one in the morning and one at night). Retinoids should not be used with other retinoids, direct acids, pure or ethylated vitamin C, or copper peptides.
The Ordinary also recommends patch tests to avoid a negative initial reaction to a new product. This is helpful for everyone but especially helpful to those with sensitive skin. For complete information on patch testing, combining products, and how to use The Ordinary products, see The Ordinary’s website.
NOTE: Retinoids and direct acids will make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and limit sun exposure while using these products and for a week after.
Multiple The Ordinary Product Options for Each Skin Type
There are several product options included for each routine below. Please keep in mind that you don’t have to use all of the products in these example skincare routines. You can start with a few products and build from there or alternate products on different days of the week. If you are satisfied with the results from just a few The Ordinary products, stick with what works for your skin. Skincare is so individual, and everyone’s needs will be different.
If you choose to use more than one serum or treatment product in the same routine, you may consider using less of each product than you would if you were using each product alone. This will reduce the chances of the products getting sticky and balling up on your skin.
Related Post: The Ordinary Anti-Aging Skincare Review
Example The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, your skin will benefit from products that draw moisture to your skin and protect your skin barrier function. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + HA is the perfect product for this and can be used twice daily. The Ordinary has some fantastic oils that will help to seal in the active ingredients underneath, so feel free to try some options like their Squalane, Marula or Argan Oils.
Morning:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- “Buffet”
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
- Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
Evening:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Optional: Lactic Acid 5% + HA if your dry skin can tolerate direct acids (on alternate nights replace with Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane if your dry skin can tolerate retinoids)
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- 100% Plant-Derived Squalane*
For Extra Moisture: Marine Hyaluronics
*May substitute or alternate with 100% Cold Pressed Virgin Marula Oil or 100% Organic Cold Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil
Related Post: The Best The Ordinary Products for Dry Skin
Example The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Aging Skin
The Ordinary offers an extensive selection of products for aging skin. Their retinoids are the star of the show, so if you want to start out with a single product for anti-aging, The Ordinary offers Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane, Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane and Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion to increase cell turnover for younger-looking skin.
100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil is another product that addresses the signs of aging. It is rich in linoleic acid, linolenic, and pro-vitamin A that will help with dehydration, dullness, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Morning:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- “Buffet”
- Optional: Ascorbic Glucoside Solution 12%
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
- Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
Evening:
- Squalane Cleanser
- “Buffet”
- Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane*
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- 100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil or Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Weekly: AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, a 10-minute exfoliating facial which is only suitable for experienced users of acid exfoliation. Use once a week in the PM after cleansing and follow with only Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA. This masque is not intended for sensitive, peeling, or otherwise compromised skin. If this product is too strong for your skin, Lactic Acid 5% + HA is an alternative.
*If unavailable, may substitute with Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane or Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion.
Example The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Oily/Combo and Acne-Prone Skin
Oily/combo skin that is prone to acne and breakouts can benefit from The Ordinary’s best-selling Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% to regulate sebum and minimize pores. 100% Plant-Derived Squalane offers lightweight hydration.
Morning:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
- Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
Evening:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Optional: Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
- ”Buffet”
- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
Weekly:
- Salicylic Acid 2% Masque, to remove dead skin cells and other impurities that clog pores. Use once a week in the PM after cleansing and follow with Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA only. This masque is not intended for sensitive, peeling, or otherwise compromised skin.
- AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, a 10-minute exfoliating facial which is only suitable for experienced users of acid exfoliation. Use once a week in the PM after cleansing and follow with Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA only. Avoid using this treatment on the same day as the Salicylic Acid 2% Masque. This masque is not intended for sensitive, peeling, or otherwise compromised skin.
Related Post: The Best The Ordinary Skincare Products for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin
Example The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Hyperpigmentation and Texture Issues
Skin that is dealing with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and texture issues will benefit from exfoliating acids to sweep away dead skin cells and retinoids to promote cell turnover. Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA will work to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% is a water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C that will brighten and hydrate the skin.
Morning:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
- Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% or Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
- Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
Evening:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Weekly:
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, a 10-minute exfoliating facial which is only suitable for experienced users of acid exfoliation. Use once a week in the PM after cleansing and follow with Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA only. This masque is not intended for sensitive, peeling, or otherwise compromised skin.
Example The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin, be sure to incorporate products that support your skin barrier into your skincare routine. Sensitive skin should patch test to ensure compatibility for all products from The Ordinary.
I love both Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% (vitamin C derivative) and Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion for their gentle formulas. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA will hydrate and repair the skin, while 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Borage Seed Oil helps with redness, sensitivity, and inflammation.
Morning:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- “Buffet”
- Optional: Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
- Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
Evening:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Optional: Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion if your sensitive skin can tolerate retinoids (on alternate nights replace with Lactic Acid 5% + HA if your sensitive skin can tolerate direct acids)
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- 100% Plant-Derived Squalane or 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Borage Seed Oil
Example The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Normal Skin
If your skin is normal, congratulations! Be sure to use products that provide hydration and protect your skin’s barrier. In regard to actives in your skincare routine, try adding vitamin C in the morning and a retinoid in the evening.
Morning:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
- Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
Evening:
- Squalane Cleanser
- Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
- “Buffet”
- Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (for eye contour pigmentation and puffiness)
- 100% Plant-Derived Squalane or Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Related Post: Pacifica Clean Shot Serums: Better Than The Ordinary?
Concluding Thoughts on Building A Skincare Routine with The Ordinary Products
The Ordinary offers several products that can be combined to create a complete skincare routine. Remember that you don’t have to use 10 products in your skincare routine. You can alternate products depending on how your skin is behaving or limit your routine to a few tried and true favorites from The Ordinary.
I love “Buffet” for its antioxidant protection, The Ordinary retinoids for anti-aging, and 100% Plant-Derived Squalane for lightweight hydration. There are so many effective products from The Ordinary!
Thanks for reading and until next time…
Like This Post? Pin It!
Iola Farirayi says
Wow! This is very informative. It has helped realise the products I have to consider for my skin type. Thank you so much for that elaborate article.
Sarah says
Thanks for the kind words. The Ordinary has so many products and it can get confusing so hopefully this post helps. Thank you for reaching out!!
Faria Nazrul says
Hello!
I would like to start with saying that I love your detailed reviews. I am new to skincare and until recently I didn’t have any issues with my skin. I am turning 40 this December and I have been noticing lots of hormonal acne on my chin and side of face. Many are cystic and leave marks on my face. I am one of those with Combo/Normal skin (not dry, nor oily) and little bit on the sensitive side. No issues with wrinkles or sun damage. Anytime I use vitamin C, I get rashers or more pimples. Hence, I avoid vitamin C for brightening my skin or help with dark spot. I started with the Niacinamide and rosehip from The Ordinary, but the Rosehip tends to break my skin out more. I also use Sunday Riley UFO during the day (bu it’s too expensive).
Since both Ordinary and Inkey List are affordable and offer so many good serums, I am trying to build a skin care routine that would help me balance skin, help with acne, and help with acne scars. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Sarah says
Hello! Have you read my post on The Ordinary for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin? Even though your skin isn’t oily, you may want to give it read since it offers some product options from The Ordinary that are good for acne-prone skin. I see that you’ve already tried Niacinamide from The Ordinary. Niacinamide is a great balancing serum that also regulates oil production. (The Ordinary’s niacinamide irritates my skin so I use The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum). Instead of rosehip oil, consider using squalane. It’s very lightweight and won’t clog pores. Both The Ordinary and The Inkey List have squalane products. The Inkey List also offers a Salicylic Acid Cleanser and a Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum, both of which are good for acne and breakouts. For a treatment product, The Inkey List has an Apple Cider Vinegar Acid Peel that contains 10% glycolic acid which will help resurface the skin. (Please be sure to patch test before using these products if you are sensitive). I understand that it can be frustrating trying to address multiple skin concerns at once. You may want to introduce one product at a time to see how your skin reacts. Hopefully this will give you some ideas!
Faria Nazrul says
Thank you! I just read the other article and that one is also very helpful. Is it okay to use the lactic acid, Hyaluronic and buffet together or should I alternate?
Sarah says
Since hyaluronic acid is not an exfoliating acid and has hydrating properties, it can be used in conjunction with lactic acid. Direct acids like lactic acid can cause peptides to break down and oxidize, which compromises their effectiveness and may cause negative side effects, so it is not recommended to use “Buffet” at the same time as lactic acid. Thanks!
Carla Hahn says
Great article, super informative. I have pretty normal skin and I was wondering for my evening routine I usually end with a moisturizer however in the normal skin routine above for the evening routine it ends with the 100% Plant-Derived Squalane. Can I apply the Natural Moisturizer instead of the 100% Plant-Derived Squalane?
Sarah says
Absolutely! 100% Plant-Derived Squalane provides a few more benefits than Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA thanks to its antioxidant and anti-aging properties, but you can end your evening routine with Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, as it’s an effective hydrating and protective face moisturizer. Thanks so much!
Simone Phillips says
Wow!! That’s my comment on this article. I have searched high and low for a proper guide to using these powerful products and this, this, this is gold!!!! Thank you so very much!!!! I have oily acne prone skin and will be 45 next year. I have purchased the following The Ordinary products:
The Daily Set
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling solution
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Retinol 1%
I haven’t used them yet but I very anxious however I want to use them right and your daily routine is very helpful. Any additional tips, dos or don’ts for the use of the products I have? Thanks in advance!!
Sarah says
Thanks so much! The products in The Daily Set are nicely hydrating and will help protect the skin barrier. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% will help regulate oil production. The Ordinary notes that AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is suitable only for experienced users of acid exfoliation. It’s a really strong product, so The Ordinary recommends using it once a week in the PM after cleansing. After rinsing the solution, they recommend applying Hyaluronic Acid 2% + HA and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA only. Please see The Ordinary’s website for more details on how to use this product. I haven’t tried Retinol 1% (I use their Granactive retinoids since they are less irritating) but it’s the strongest (and most irritating) retinol that The Ordinary offers so, again, please visit The Ordinary’s website for details on how to apply it and how to use all of these products. And don’t forget to use sunscreen! Thanks again!
Simone Phillips says
Thanks you so much for your further guidance; I will refer to the website and commence using the Daily Set as of tonight!!! I am excitedly looking forward to improving my skin!!
Becky Gonales says
Hi, my name is Becky am 58 years old. I have never use any makeup i can say that I have normal skin, now that i have more time for myself i want to start a daily anti-aging skincare routine with The Ordinary product. Please help me with a list of products that i can use for my skincare routine and proper guide me in using these products.
Thank you
Becky
Sarah says
Hi Becky! That’s great that you are looking to start an anti-aging skincare routine! Since everyone’s skin is different and will respond differently to each product from The Ordinary, you may want to start slowly and incorporate a product or two at a time into your current skincare routine. Patch testing is very helpful when you are introducing new products to your skin. I think one of the most important products that you can use every day when it comes to treating the signs of aging is a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Also, “Buffet” is a multi-peptide serum that addresses the signs of aging and can be used in both the morning and the evening. If you want to start out with a basic anti-aging routine, The Ordinary offers a sample regimen here for the signs of aging. Thanks for your comment!
Jenny says
Hello! Is there a drug store anti aging facial cream I can use daily that is compatible with the Ordinary’s Buffet and Hyaluronic acid 2%? I alternate those day/night. I would love to find a anti-aging facial cream I can use with either. I like the Ordinary’s moisturizer but its so small. Thank you!
Sarah says
Hi! If you want a moisturizer that can be used both morning and evening, Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream contains anti-aging ingredients like amino-peptides, niacinamide, and antioxidants. For a lighter option, Olay Regenerist Whip Face Moisturizer offers the same benefits with a more matte finish. These appear to be compatible with The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and “Buffet”, but it’s always a good idea to patch test to ensure compatibility with your skin. The drugstore has so many great moisturizers in addition to these from Olay, but these are a few of my favorites for anti-aging that can be used both morning and evening. Thanks!
Anna says
Hi!
I’m going to take on your anti aging routine and I’m excited! I do however deal with hormonal acne and was wondering if there was a product in the acne regime you wrote about that would work with the anti aging regime and what order would it fall in?
Thanks!
Sarah says
The Ordinary has a Salicylic Acid 2% Masque that is formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin. It helps to remove dead skin cells and other impurities that clog pores. Please note that the masque is not intended for sensitive, peeling, or otherwise compromised skin. It can be used once a week in the PM after cleansing. I would avoid applying any other potent actives after using the masque. Please see The Ordinary’s Regimen Guide for complete usage instructions. The Ordinary also suggests patch testing prior to using this and other products for the first time. (Please keep in mind that I am not a dermatologist or skincare professional, so I am not sure what will work best for your specific skin issues.) Thank you for reaching out!
claudia says
please help me, can I use Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion and
”Buffet” in the night together kisses
Sarah says
Hello! “Buffet” followed by Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion can be used together, and is actually part of an example skincare routine for the signs of aging in The Ordinary’s Regimen Guide. Please note that while “Buffet” can be used with Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, The Ordinary “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% conflicts with Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion. Thanks!
Bonnie says
Thanks for the article! It’s so informative. What will be your recommendations for anti-aging and hyperpigmentation?
Sarah says
For hyperpigmentation and anti-aging, The Ordinary has many products that contain multitasking ingredients such as brightening niacinamide, antioxidant vitamin C, and collagen-stimulating retinoids. You may consider trying one of their vitamin C serums (such as Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%) plus Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA in the morning and then for the evening Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and/or one of their retinoids. The Ordinary will create a customized regimen for you if you reach out to them via their chat function on their website. Thanks!