Are you tired of endlessly searching for the perfect skincare routine that fits both your morning and evening needs? You’re not alone.
With so many products and routines flooding the market, it can be overwhelming to choose what’s right for your skin. But what if I told you that achieving clear, radiant skin doesn’t have to be complicated? Welcome to your guide on The Ordinary skincare routine for both AM and PM.
This article will break down each step, helping you simplify your regimen while maximizing results. So, if you’re ready to transform your skincare routine into something both effective and manageable, keep reading. Your future self will thank you.

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Morning Skincare Steps
Starting your day with the right skincare routine sets the tone for healthy, glowing skin. The Ordinary offers simple yet effective products that fit perfectly into your morning ritual. Let’s explore how to get the most out of these products from cleansing to sun protection.
Cleansing For Fresh Start
Washing your face first thing removes overnight oils and impurities. Choose a gentle cleanser from The Ordinary that won’t strip your skin’s natural moisture. This fresh canvas helps other products absorb better and work more effectively.
Toning Benefits
Using a toner balances your skin’s pH and tightens pores. The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid toner can exfoliate gently, revealing brighter skin. Have you noticed how a toner can instantly refresh your face and prep it for serums?
Serum Application Tips
Serums deliver active ingredients deep into your skin. Apply a few drops onto your fingertips and gently press it into your face. Layer lightweight serums like Hyaluronic Acid before heavier ones to maximize absorption and hydration.
Moisturizing Essentials
Lock in all the goodness with a moisturizer suitable for your skin type. The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA provides lasting hydration without feeling heavy. Don’t rush—massage the moisturizer in upward motions to boost circulation and absorption.
Sun Protection Importance
Never skip sunscreen—it’s your skin’s best defense against damage and premature aging. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher on top of your moisturizer every morning. Think about this: no matter how good your routine is, sun protection is the key to maintaining results.
Evening Skincare Steps
The evening skincare routine is essential for skin repair and hydration. At night, the skin renews itself, so using the right products is key. A good routine removes dirt, treats skin concerns, and locks in moisture. It prepares the skin for a fresh start the next day.
Makeup Removal Techniques
Removing makeup is the first step in the evening routine. Use gentle makeup removers or cleansing oils. These dissolve makeup without harsh rubbing. Micellar water is also effective for sensitive skin. Always cleanse until no traces of makeup remain.
Deep Cleansing Methods
Deep cleansing clears out pores and removes excess oil. Double cleansing is popular with The Ordinary products. Start with an oil-based cleanser, then follow with a water-based one. This method ensures clean, fresh skin without dryness.
Night Serums And Treatments
Night serums target specific skin concerns like acne, wrinkles, or dullness. The Ordinary offers serums with ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid. Apply these after cleansing and before moisturizing. Let the serum absorb fully for best results.
Rich Moisturizers And Oils
Nighttime needs richer hydration than the morning. Use a thick moisturizer or facial oil to lock in moisture. These products help repair the skin barrier overnight. Choose formulas that match your skin type for comfort and nourishment.
Eye Cream Usage
The skin around the eyes is delicate and needs special care. Apply a small amount of eye cream gently with your ring finger. Eye creams reduce puffiness and fine lines. Use them as the last step in your evening routine.
Choosing The Right Products
Choosing the right products for your skincare routine is crucial. It helps your skin stay healthy and look its best. The Ordinary offers a wide range of products. Picking the right ones depends on your skin type and needs. Understanding ingredients and avoiding irritants ensures better results.
Identifying Your Skin Type
Knowing your skin type guides product choice. Skin types include dry, oily, combination, sensitive, and normal. Each type needs different care. Dry skin needs more hydration. Oily skin requires oil control. Combination skin needs balance. Sensitive skin needs gentle products. Normal skin can use a variety of products.
Key Ingredients To Look For
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps skin.
- Niacinamide: Reduces redness and controls oil.
- Retinol: Helps with aging and texture.
- Vitamin C: Brightens and protects skin.
- AHA/BHA: Exfoliates and clears pores.
Choose ingredients that match your skin concerns. Start with low concentrations. Increase slowly to avoid irritation.
Avoiding Common Irritants
- Fragrances: Can cause allergies and irritation.
- Alcohol: Dries out and damages skin barrier.
- Harsh soaps: Strip natural oils and cause dryness.
- Sulfates: Can irritate and inflame skin.
Read product labels carefully. Choose gentle, non-comedogenic formulas. Patch test new products to prevent reactions.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Using The Ordinary skincare products can transform your skin, but there are common mistakes that many people make which can reduce their effectiveness or even cause harm. Paying attention to these pitfalls helps you get the best results without setbacks.
Over-exfoliating Risks
It’s tempting to exfoliate often to speed up glowing skin, but too much can damage your skin barrier. The Ordinary offers potent acids like AHA and BHA, which should be used carefully.
If you exfoliate daily or combine multiple exfoliating products, you may experience redness, irritation, or peeling. Your skin needs time to recover, so limit exfoliation to 2-3 times a week.
Ask yourself: How does my skin feel after exfoliating? If it’s tight or sore, dial back the frequency immediately.
Skipping Sunscreen
No matter how effective your nighttime routine is, skipping sunscreen in the morning can undo all your hard work. Many active ingredients in The Ordinary’s range, like retinoids and vitamin C, make your skin more sensitive to UV damage.
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning protects your skin and enhances the benefits of your products. Don’t rely on makeup or moisturizers with SPF alone—use a dedicated sunscreen for real protection.
Could skipping sunscreen be why your skin feels uneven or breaks out despite your routine?
Mixing Incompatible Products
The Ordinary has an impressive lineup, but not all products play well together. Some combinations can cause irritation or reduce effectiveness.
Avoid pairing vitamin C with niacinamide, or retinol with strong acids. These mixes can cause flushing or cancel out each other’s benefits. Instead, use these actives at different times or days.
Think about your current routine: Are you layering too many strong ingredients at once? Simplify and observe how your skin responds.
Tips For Radiant Skin
Achieving radiant skin requires more than just applying skincare products. It involves a balanced approach that includes hydration, diet, routine consistency, and seasonal adjustments. These tips support your skin’s natural glow and health, complementing The Ordinary skincare routine for both morning and night.
Hydration And Diet
Water keeps skin plump and fresh. Drink plenty daily to flush out toxins and maintain moisture. Eating fruits and vegetables adds vitamins that promote skin repair and brightness. Avoid too much sugar and processed foods, which can cause breakouts and dullness.
Consistent Routine Benefits
Sticking to The Ordinary skincare routine every day improves skin texture and tone over time. Using products as directed helps active ingredients work effectively. Consistency reduces irritation and supports better absorption of serums and moisturizers.
Adjusting Routine Seasonally
Skin needs change with weather and climate shifts. Use lighter products in summer to avoid excess oil. Switch to richer creams in winter for extra moisture. Adjusting your routine prevents dryness and keeps skin balanced year-round.

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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Basic Ordinary Skincare Routine For Am?
The AM routine includes cleansing, hydrating with a toner, applying Vitamin C serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. This protects and brightens skin daily.
How To Use The Ordinary Products In Pm Routine?
In PM, cleanse, apply targeted treatments like retinol or acids, then moisturize. Avoid sunscreen and focus on repair and hydration.
Can I Mix The Ordinary Serums In One Routine?
Yes, but avoid combining strong acids and retinol. Layer light to heavy textures for best absorption and skin tolerance.
How Often Should I Use Exfoliating Acids From The Ordinary?
Use exfoliating acids 2-3 times weekly at night. Overuse can cause irritation and sensitivity.
Conclusion
A simple skincare routine helps keep your skin healthy and fresh. Use gentle products like The Ordinary to avoid irritation. Cleanse your face in the morning and night. Apply serums and moisturizers that suit your skin type. Consistency matters more than using many products.
Your skin will thank you with time and care. Stick to these steps daily for better skin. Easy habits lead to clear, glowing skin. Give your skin the attention it deserves every day.