Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by the endless array of skincare products on the market? You’re not alone.
Many people find themselves puzzled about which product to apply first, second, or last. Thankfully, “The Ordinary” skincare routine can simplify this for you. It’s designed to cater to your skin’s needs in a systematic and effective way. You’ll discover the perfect order to apply your products for optimal results.
Stick around to unlock the secrets of a glowing, healthy complexion that’s not only achievable but also simple to maintain. Your skin deserves the best, and with this guide, it’s within your reach.
Skin Types And Needs
Understanding your skin type and its needs is key to building an effective skincare routine. The Ordinary offers many products, but choosing the right order depends on what your skin requires. Knowing your skin type helps you select suitable products that work well together. This prevents irritation and improves skin health.
Identifying Your Skin Type
Skin types fall into several main categories. Each type has unique traits that affect product choice.
- Normal:Balanced, not too oily or dry, few imperfections.
- Oily:Shiny appearance, prone to acne and enlarged pores.
- Dry:Flaky, rough texture, feels tight after cleansing.
- Combination:Oily in some areas, dry or normal in others.
- Sensitive:Easily irritated, redness, and discomfort.
Test your skin by observing how it feels after cleansing without applying products. Note areas that feel oily, tight, or normal.
Common Skin Concerns
Skin concerns guide product selection beyond just skin type. The Ordinary targets many issues with specific formulations.
- Acne and Breakouts:Use products with salicylic acid or niacinamide.
- Hyperpigmentation:Ingredients like vitamin C or alpha arbutin can help.
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles:Retinoids and peptides support skin renewal.
- Dehydration:Hyaluronic acid boosts moisture levels effectively.
- Redness and Sensitivity:Look for soothing ingredients like azelaic acid.
Match your routine order to these concerns by layering lighter products first, followed by thicker ones.
Cleansing Essentials
Cleansing forms the foundation of any effective skincare routine. It removes dirt, oil, and makeup that accumulate on the skin daily. A clean face allows skincare products to work better and keeps the skin healthy. Choosing the right cleanser and understanding cleansing techniques ensures the skin feels fresh, not dry or irritated.
Choosing The Right Cleanser
Select a cleanser based on your skin type and concerns. Gentle formulas suit dry or sensitive skin. Oily skin benefits from foaming or gel cleansers that control shine. Combination skin needs balanced products that clean without stripping moisture. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration or salicylic acid for acne-prone skin. Avoid harsh soaps that disrupt the skin’s natural barrier.
Double Cleansing Benefits
Double cleansing means using two types of cleansers in sequence. Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and sunscreen. Follow with a water-based cleanser to remove sweat and dirt. This method deeply cleans the skin without causing dryness. It improves skin texture and helps prevent breakouts. Double cleansing prepares the skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers.
Toning And Balancing
Toning and balancing is a key step in The Ordinary skincare routine. It helps prepare the skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. This step also refreshes the skin and restores its natural pH balance.
Toners remove leftover dirt and impurities after cleansing. They soothe the skin and reduce redness or irritation. Proper toning can make your skin feel soft and hydrated.
Purpose Of Toners
Toners help tighten pores and remove excess oils. They balance the skin’s pH after cleansing. This step protects the skin barrier and prevents dryness.
Toners also create a smooth surface. This allows serums and creams to work more effectively. They support healthy skin by calming inflammation and boosting hydration.
Best Toners For Different Skin Types
| Skin Type | Recommended Toner | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Oily Skin | The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution | Removes excess oil, exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces shine |
| Dry Skin | The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics | Hydrates deeply, improves skin moisture, soothes dryness |
| Sensitive Skin | The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser (used as toner alternative) | Gentle cleansing, calms irritation, maintains skin barrier |
| Combination Skin | The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 | Balances hydration, refreshes skin, supports oil and dry areas |
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Serums And Treatments
Serums and treatments are key parts of The Ordinary skincare routine. They deliver strong ingredients directly to the skin. These products target specific concerns like acne, dryness, or wrinkles. Choosing and applying them correctly can improve your skin’s health and look.
Selecting Active Ingredients
Choose serums based on your skin needs. For dry skin, use hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. For oily or acne-prone skin, look for niacinamide or salicylic acid. Sensitive skin benefits from gentle ingredients like azelaic acid. Avoid mixing strong acids or retinoids with vitamin C. This prevents irritation and keeps your skin calm.
Layering Serums Effectively
Apply serums from the thinnest to thickest texture. Start with water-based serums before oils or creams. Let each serum absorb fully before adding the next one. Use only a few drops of each serum to avoid overload. Overlapping actives can cause redness or peeling. Keep your routine simple for best results.
Moisturizing Techniques
Moisturizing is a crucial step in your skincare routine, especially when using products from The Ordinary. It helps lock in hydration and protects your skin barrier. Knowing how to moisturize correctly can make all the difference in achieving healthy, glowing skin.
Types Of Moisturizers
The Ordinary offers a range of moisturizers suited for different skin types and concerns. Choosing the right type depends on your skin’s needs and the climate you live in.
- Lightweight gels:Perfect for oily or combination skin, these moisturizers provide hydration without heaviness. The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is a popular choice.
- Creams:Ideal for dry or sensitive skin, creams offer richer hydration. Look for products with ceramides or squalane for added barrier support.
- Oils:Great for very dry or mature skin, facial oils like The Ordinary’s 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil nourish deeply and help with skin texture.
Think about how your skin feels after applying a moisturizer. Does it absorb quickly or leave a residue? This reflection can guide your selection.
When And How To Apply
Applying moisturizer at the right time enhances its effectiveness. Always use it on clean, slightly damp skin to seal in moisture.
- After cleansing and applying any serums or treatments, gently pat your skin dry but keep it damp.
- Take a pea-sized amount of moisturizer and dot it evenly across your face—forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin.
- Use upward, outward strokes to spread the product, avoiding harsh rubbing that can irritate the skin.
- Don’t forget your neck and décolletage—they need hydration too.
Have you noticed that skipping moisturizer sometimes leads to dryness or flakiness? This simple step helps maintain balance and comfort throughout the day.
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Sun Protection Importance
Sun protection is an essential part of any skincare routine, especially when using products like those from The Ordinary. Even if your products target issues like acne or aging, without sunscreen, your skin remains vulnerable to damage from UV rays. Protecting your skin daily helps maintain the benefits you gain from your routine and prevents premature aging and dark spots.
Choosing Sunscreens
Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. A minimum SPF of 30 is ideal for daily use. If you spend extended time outdoors, consider SPF 50 for extra defense.
Sunscreens come in various formulas—creams, gels, and sprays. Pick one that suits your skin type: gel or water-based for oily skin, creams for dry skin. Check for ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for physical blockers, which are gentle and effective.
Are you aware that some skincare ingredients from The Ordinary, like Vitamin C or acids, can make your skin more sensitive to the sun? This makes sunscreen even more critical to prevent irritation and burns.
Application Tips For Maximum Coverage
Apply sunscreen as the last step in your morning skincare routine, right before makeup. Use enough product—about a nickel-sized amount for your face and neck. Don’t forget often-missed areas like ears, hairline, and under the chin.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours if you are outside, and immediately after swimming or sweating. Even the best sunscreen loses effectiveness over time and with exposure to water.
Try layering sunscreen over The Ordinary’s Niacinamide or Hyaluronic Acid serums. This combination can keep your skin hydrated and protected without feeling heavy. Have you checked if your sunscreen blends well with your current products?
Weekly Extras
Adding weekly extras to your Ordinary skincare routine can boost your skin’s health and give you that extra glow. These treatments go beyond daily care, targeting specific concerns and refreshing your skin deeply. Let’s look at how you can use exfoliation and masks effectively without overdoing it.
Exfoliation Methods
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, helping your skin absorb products better. The Ordinary offers gentle chemical exfoliants like AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, which can brighten and clear pores.
Use exfoliants once a week, especially if you have sensitive skin. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation and dryness. After applying, rinse thoroughly and follow with a soothing moisturizer.
Ask yourself: How does your skin feel after exfoliation? If it’s tight or red, reduce frequency or switch to a gentler option.
Masks For Targeted Care
Masks are perfect for addressing specific skin issues. The Ordinary’s Salicylic Acid 2% Masque helps with oily and blemish-prone skin by deeply cleansing pores.
If your skin is dry or tired, try the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution as a mask for a quick refresh. Use it no more than once a week to avoid irritation.
Consider your skin’s needs before choosing a mask. What problem do you want to solve this week? Targeted masks help you focus on that, giving your routine a powerful boost.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Using The Ordinary products can improve your skin. Mistakes in the routine can cause irritation or reduce benefits. Avoid common errors for the best results.
Overloading Products
Applying too many products causes skin stress. It blocks pores and leads to breakouts. Use only a few key products each day. Follow the correct order for layering. Less is often more in skincare.
Ignoring Patch Tests
Skipping patch tests risks bad reactions. Test new products on a small skin area first. Wait 24 hours to check for redness or itchiness. Patch tests help avoid allergies and irritation.
Customizing Your Routine
Customizing your Ordinary skincare routine means tuning it to your unique skin needs and lifestyle. It’s not just about following steps blindly but making thoughtful changes that reflect your skin’s current condition. This approach ensures you get the best results without overwhelming or irritating your skin.
Adjusting For Seasons
Skin behaves differently in summer versus winter. You might notice more oiliness and sweat in hot weather, while colder months can make your skin dry and flaky. Adjust your routine by switching to lighter formulations like The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA in summer, and richer creams during winter.
Adding a hydrating serum like Hyaluronic Acid during dry months can make a big difference. Think about dropping heavy acids temporarily if your skin feels extra sensitive from sun exposure. How often do you reassess your skincare based on the season?
Adapting To Skin Changes
Your skin isn’t static; it changes due to stress, diet, hormones, and even sleep patterns. If you notice breakouts, irritation, or dullness, tweak your routine accordingly. For example, introduce a gentle exfoliant like The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid to brighten up dull skin.
On the other hand, if you experience redness or sensitivity, pause strong actives like Retinol or Vitamin C and focus on soothing products. Listen to your skin’s signals closely—does it feel tight or oily? Adjusting your routine based on these changes keeps your skin balanced and healthy over time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Correct Order For The Ordinary Skincare Routine?
Start with cleansing, then apply toner if used. Follow with water-based serums, oils, and creams last. Always finish with sunscreen in the morning.
Can I Mix Acids And Retinoids In One Routine?
Avoid using acids and retinoids together to prevent irritation. Alternate them on different nights for best results and skin tolerance.
How Long Should I Wait Between The Ordinary Products?
Wait 1-2 minutes between each product to allow absorption. This helps products work effectively without pilling or mixing.
Should I Use The Ordinary Products Morning Or Night?
Use water-based serums and sunscreen in the morning. Apply heavier creams and retinoids at night for optimal skin repair.
Conclusion
Following the right skincare routine order helps your skin stay healthy. Cleanse first to remove dirt and oil. Use toner next to refresh and balance your skin. Apply serums or treatments that target your skin needs. Finish with moisturizer to lock in hydration.
Always apply sunscreen during the day to protect your skin. Keep your routine simple and consistent for the best results. Your skin will thank you with a natural, healthy glow. Small steps every day make a big difference.
