Blog sidebar
The Ordinary: Your Ultimate Guide to Building a Skincare Routine ✨
In Latest Articles & Buying Guides

The Ordinary: Your Ultimate Guide to Building a Skincare Routine ✨

Contents

Feeling totally lost in the world of skincare science? We see you. Staring at a shelf of The Ordinary products can feel like a chemistry test you didn't study for. Niacinamide? Retinoids? Alpha Arbutin? It's a lot! You want that #GlowUp, but you’re stuck, worried about choosing the wrong serum or layering your products in the wrong order. The confusion stops now! 🔥

Get ready to go from confused to confident! This is your ultimate, easy-to-follow guide to building the perfect, budget-friendly skincare routine. We’re cutting through the noise to give you a simple shopping list, a step-by-step layering guide for morning and night, and the power to finally achieve your skin goals. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to radiant, healthy skin that doesn't break the bank. Let’s get started! ✨🛍️

Key Takeaways

  • Master the 'Core Four' steps! Build your perfect base routine for amazing skin, fast. ✨
  • Never guess again! Get the simple, must-know rules for layering products like a total pro.
  • Level up your results! Discover how to add targeted treatments for issues like acne, dryness, or aging.
  • Stop skin irritation now! Uncover the crucial ingredient combos you must avoid when using the ordinary for maximum effect. 🔥

Why All the Hype? Decoding The Ordinary's Philosophy

Ever felt like you needed a chemistry degree to understand your skincare? Get ready to meet the brand that changed everything! ✨ The Ordinary crashed into the beauty scene with a revolutionary mission: to deliver cutting-edge clinical skincare without the confusing jargon or luxury price tag. This isn't just another product line; it's a total skincare revolution!

Their core philosophy is simple but powerful: "Clinical formulations with integrity." This game-changing approach comes from its parent company, DECIEM, also known as 'The Abnormal Beauty Company.' The vision of its late founder Brandon Truaxe was to strip away the unnecessary fluff and focus on what truly matters-the active ingredients. This means transparent, effective formulas that deliver real results.

Want to see this philosophy in action? Check out this beginner's guide to building your perfect routine!

Science, Not Marketing

Forget mystery "miracle" creams! The Ordinary focuses on potent, single-ingredient formulas like Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. This puts YOU in the driver's seat. Instead of buying a pricey, pre-mixed cocktail, you can build a custom routine that targets your exact skin concerns. It’s like being your own skincare chemist, creating the perfect, high-performance regimen. Total control, zero guesswork. 🔥

Is It Too Good to Be True?

How can something so effective be so affordable? It's the question everyone asks! The secret is simple: the ordinary invests in science, not expensive marketing campaigns or fancy packaging. By cutting out the fluff, they pass the incredible savings directly to you. The millions of glowing reviews and viral social media fame prove it-this is high-quality skincare made accessible for everyone. Get ready to believe the hype! 🛍️

The Core Four: Building Your Basic Skincare Routine

Ready to unlock your best skin ever? ✨ Getting started with a skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Forget the 10-step regimens you see online; you only need a few powerhouse products to build a solid foundation. Building a better skin care routine starts with mastering four simple, non-negotiable steps: Cleanse, Treat, Hydrate, and Protect (with SPF!).

This simple framework is the core of any effective health & beauty strategy. Once you nail these basics, you can add more targeted treatments later. Let's build your starter routine with some of the hottest products from The Ordinary!

Step 1: Cleanse Your Canvas

Great skin starts with a clean base. Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and makeup, allowing your other products to absorb properly and work their magic. For a gentle yet effective start, grab The Ordinary’s Squalane Cleanser. This balm-to-oil formula melts away impurities without stripping your skin, making it a perfect first step for every single skin type. Your face will feel clean, soft, and ready for what's next.

Step 2: Treat Your Concern

This is the power step! Serums are lightweight, concentrated formulas designed to target specific skin concerns. A must-have for any beginner is the iconic Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. This universal serum is a true workhorse that helps to:

  • Reduce the appearance of blemishes and congestion
  • Visibly brighten skin tone
  • Regulate sebum production and minimise pores

It's the ultimate multi-tasker for clearer, smoother skin. Get ready for results!

Step 3: Hydrate and Moisturise

Don't skip this step-ever! Every skin type, including oily, needs hydration to maintain a healthy, resilient barrier. A fantastic, no-fuss option is the Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA. This lightweight, non-greasy cream delivers instant and lasting hydration by mimicking the skin's own natural moisturising compounds. It supports your skin barrier, locks in your serum, and leaves your skin feeling comfortable and plump. It's the perfect final touch for your routine (before SPF in the morning, of course!).

Level Up: Targeting Your Specific Skin Concerns

Got your 'Core Four' down? Amazing! Now it's time to supercharge your routine and target your unique skin goals. ✨ The secret to a major glow-up is adding targeted treatments. But remember the golden rule: introduce only one new product at a time! This is the best way to track what really works and avoid overwhelming your skin. Keep it simple, stay consistent, and get ready for incredible results.

For Blemishes & Oily Skin 🔥

Tired of breakouts? Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is your new best friend. This powerhouse BHA exfoliates deep inside your pores to clear out congestion and fight blemishes before they even start. It’s a total game-changer for clearer, smoother skin.

  • How to Use: Apply a small dot directly onto spots as a treatment, or use a thin layer over larger breakout-prone areas before your moisturiser.

For Dry & Dehydrated Skin 💧

Quench thirsty skin with the legendary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. This formula is like a huge drink of water for your face, drawing moisture deep into the skin for a plump, dewy look that lasts all day. Say goodbye to tightness and hello to next-level hydration!

  • Pro Tip: Always apply to damp skin right after cleansing and before your other serums or moisturisers to lock in all that goodness.

For Fine Lines & Anti-Aging ✨

Ready to turn back the clock? Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is a brilliant, beginner-friendly retinoid. It works to visibly improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and give you a more youthful look without the typical irritation. It's a must-have from the ordinary for age-defying results.

  • Crucial Rules: Use this product only at night (PM) and always, always wear a high-SPF sunscreen during the day!

Remember, consistency is everything. Finding the right combination of these targeted treatments is the key to unlocking your best skin ever on your personal bath & beauty journey. Get exploring!

How to Layer The Ordinary Products Like a Pro

Stepping into the world of The Ordinary is a game-changer, but one question always pops up: what goes on when? Don't worry, we've got you. Mastering the art of layering is the secret to unlocking maximum absorption and seeing those incredible results. Get ready to build your routine like a pro!

The Golden Rules of Layering

To get the most out of every single drop, follow these three simple, non-negotiable rules. This is your foundation for a flawless routine that delivers powerhouse results.

  • Rule #1: Thinnest to Thickest. Always apply products with a watery, thin consistency first, followed by heavier serums, creams, and oils. This allows for the best possible absorption.
  • Rule #2: Water-Based Before Oil-Based. Water and oil don't mix! Apply your water-based serums before any oils or oil-based creams to ensure they can fully penetrate the skin.
  • Rule #3: Give It a Minute. Allow each layer to absorb for about 60 seconds before applying the next. This prevents pilling and ensures each product does its job effectively without interference.

Example Morning Routine (AM)

Kickstart your day with a routine designed for protection and hydration. Here’s a simple, powerful AM lineup to get you glowing.

Step 1: Cleanse. Start with the Squalane Cleanser to gently remove impurities without stripping your skin.

Step 2: Hydrate. While your skin is still damp, apply Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 to pull in and lock down moisture.

Step 3: Treat. Follow up with Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% to tackle blemishes and control shine.

Step 4: Moisturize & Protect. Finish with Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA and, most importantly, your favourite high-factor SPF!

Example Evening Routine (PM)

Your nighttime routine is all about repair and treatment. This is where you bring in the cutting-edge actives from the ordinary to transform your skin while you sleep.

Step 1: Cleanse. Wash the day away with the Squalane Cleanser to melt makeup and grime.

Step 2: Exfoliate. 2-3 times a week, use the Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution for a radiant glow. (Skip on other nights).

Step 3: Target. Apply the Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion to address signs of aging.

Step 4: Seal. Lock everything in with a few drops of 100% Plant-Derived Squalane for ultimate overnight nourishment.

Ready to build your ultimate routine? Explore the full collection now! 🔥

Skincare Conflicts: What NOT to Mix!

You've got your powerhouse products, and you're ready to build a game-changing routine. Let's go! 🔥 But hold on-to truly unlock incredible results, you need to know the rules of the game. Mixing the wrong active ingredients can lead to irritation or even make your favourite serums totally useless. Don't worry, we've got you covered with this need-to-know guide.

Think of it as your ultimate cheat sheet for skincare success. Avoid these common conflicts to keep your skin happy and your routine working at maximum power!

Retinoids + Vitamin C / AHAs / BHAs

This is the big one! ⚠️ Layering retinoids with other strong exfoliants like Vitamin C, Glycolic Acid (AHA), or Salicylic Acid (BHA) in the same routine is a fast track to redness and sensitivity. It's simply too much for your skin barrier to handle at once.

  • The Pro Move: Use Vitamin C in your morning routine to protect your skin, and save your retinoids or acids for your PM routine.
  • Top Tip: Alternate nights for retinoids and other acids to give your skin a break. Simple is powerful!

Niacinamide + Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)

This is a classic "skincare myth" with a hint of truth. In the past, mixing these two could potentially reduce their effectiveness. While modern formulas are far more stable, it's still best practice to separate them to ensure you get 100% of the benefits from each amazing ingredient.

  • The Pro Move: Use your Vitamin C in the AM for its antioxidant power and Niacinamide in the PM to repair and soothe. Easy! ✨

Too Many Actives at Once

We get it-it's exciting to try all the hottest new ingredients! But a "more is more" approach can backfire, leading to a compromised skin barrier and breakouts. A simple, consistent routine with hero products from the ordinary is always more effective. Focus on 2-3 targeted treatments and let them work their magic.

Feeling overwhelmed? Don't guess! If you need help building your perfect, conflict-free routine, you can always get in touch with STOMART online for expert advice. We're here to help you glow!

Your Glow-Up Awaits: Final Thoughts! ✨

You’ve officially cracked the code! Building a powerful, effective skincare routine is no longer a mystery. From mastering the essential 'Core Four' to layering your serums like a pro, you now have the ultimate blueprint for building your perfect routine with the ordinary. You know what your skin needs, how to give it, and what to avoid for a flawless finish.

Ready to stop dreaming about radiant skin and start seeing it in the mirror? Your transformation is just a click away. As the UK's Top Store for Trendy Lifestyle Goods, we've got everything you need. Shop with total confidence and enjoy Free UK Delivery and a 30-Day Return Policy on your order!

Shop The Ordinary Collection Now and Start Your Glow-Up! 🔥

Go on, get the glow you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Ordinary ✨

Is The Ordinary good for sensitive skin?

Absolutely! The Ordinary has amazing options for sensitive skin. Focus on gentle hydrators like Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or the 100% Plant-Derived Squalane for incredible moisture without irritation. Always patch test a new product first to ensure it's a perfect match for your skin. Start slow and build your routine for that flawless, comfortable glow. Get ready for your skin to feel amazing!

How long does it take to see results from The Ordinary products?

Get ready for your glow-up! 🔥 While some hydrating products give an instant plumping effect, most results appear with consistent use. You'll typically notice visible changes in skin texture and tone within 4 to 6 weeks. Stick with your new routine to see the incredible, long-term benefits. Your best skin is just weeks away-shop now and start your journey to radiance!

Can I use The Ordinary products every day?

Yes, you can! Many core products from the ordinary, like their cleansers and moisturisers, are designed for daily use. However, powerful actives like the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution should only be used once or twice a week. Always check the product directions to create the perfect daily and weekly routine for stunning results. Build your ultimate skincare arsenal today!

Why are The Ordinary products so cheap if they work so well?

It's simple: they deliver cutting-edge science without the luxury price tag! The Ordinary focuses on high-quality, effective ingredients and skips the expensive packaging and massive marketing campaigns. This smart approach means you get powerful, results-driven skincare for less. It's all about incredible value and amazing results. Get the best deals on top-tier skincare right here! 🛍️

Where can I buy The Ordinary products in the UK?

You're in the right place! Get the hottest products from the ordinary right here, your top UK destination for trending beauty! We offer an unbeatable selection with fast, convenient delivery. You can also find the brand in major department stores and online beauty retailers. But for the best deals and a curated collection, shop our must-have selection now and transform your skin!

Do The Ordinary products expire?

Yes, they do! Keep your routine fresh and effective for the best results. Check the packaging for a Period After Opening (PAO) symbol-it looks like a tiny open jar with a number like "6M" or "12M". This tells you how many months the product is good for after you've opened it. Tossing old products ensures you're always getting maximum power from your routine!

the ordinary

Comments have to be approved before showing up

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE