The Ultimate Guide to The Ordinary: Decoding Clinical Skincare for Everyone

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If you've ever stood in front of The Ordinary display feeling completely overwhelmed by the clinical names, percentage signs, and seemingly endless options, you're not alone. The brand's no-nonsense approach to skincare is brilliant—offering high-quality active ingredients at affordable prices—but it can feel like you need a chemistry degree to figure out what to buy.

Consider this your comprehensive translation guide. We're breaking down The Ordinary's most popular products, what they do, who they're for, and most importantly, how to use them together without turning your face into a science experiment gone wrong.

What Makes The Ordinary Different?

Before we dive into specific products, let's talk about why The Ordinary has revolutionized the skincare industry.

Radical Transparency: Every product clearly lists its active ingredients and concentrations right on the label. No proprietary blends, no mysterious "complexes"—just straightforward formulations.

Affordable Efficacy: Clinical-grade ingredients at prices that make luxury brands nervous. Most products cost less than a fancy coffee drink.

Targeted Solutions: Instead of multi-step systems, you buy individual actives and create a custom routine for your specific concerns.

No Fluff: Minimal preservatives, no fragrance, no unnecessary additives. Just the good stuff.

The challenge? You need to understand what you're buying. That's where this guide comes in.

Understanding Your Skin Concerns First

Before shopping, identify your primary skin concerns. The Ordinary's approach works best when you target specific issues:

Anti-Aging/Fine Lines: Retinoids, Vitamin C, Peptides, Matrixyl
Hyperpigmentation/Dark Spots: Vitamin C, Alpha Arbutin, Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid
Acne/Breakouts: Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid
Texture/Dullness: AHAs, BHAs, Retinoids
Hydration/Dryness: Hyaluronic Acid, Natural Moisturizing Factors, Amino Acids
Redness/Sensitivity: Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid, Marine Hyaluronics

Most people have multiple concerns, which means combining products—but patience, we'll get to the rules for that.

The Ordinary Product Breakdown: Your Ingredient Glossary

THE HYDRATORS

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
What it is: A hydration hero that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
What it does: Plumps skin, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and creates a dewy, hydrated complexion.
Who it's for: Literally everyone. All skin types, all ages, all concerns.
How to use: Apply to damp skin (this is crucial!) morning and/or night before oils and creams. The dampness gives the HA something to bind to.
Pro tip: In very dry climates, make sure to lock this in with a moisturizer, or it can actually draw moisture from your skin.

Marine Hyaluronics
What it is: A lighter alternative to traditional HA, derived from marine sources.
What it does: Hydrates without the heaviness, works well in humid climates.
Who it's for: Those who find regular HA too heavy, oily skin types, humid environments.
How to use: Same as Hyaluronic Acid—apply to damp skin before heavier products.

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
What it is: A surface-level hydrator that mimics your skin's natural moisturizing components.
What it does: Provides immediate, lightweight hydration and improves skin texture.
Who it's for: Anyone needing basic hydration, great for oily skin that doesn't want heavy creams.
How to use: Use as your final step or under sunscreen in the morning.

THE BRIGHTENERS

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
What it is: Vitamin B3 with added zinc to control oil production.
What it does: Reduces appearance of pores, evens skin tone, controls sebum, reduces blemishes, and strengthens skin barrier.
Who it's for: Oily, acne-prone, enlarged pores, uneven texture. One of the most versatile ingredients.
How to use: Apply after water-based serums, before oils and creams. Morning or night, or both.
Warning: Some people experience flushing or irritation at this high concentration. If you're sensitive, try every other day first.
Pro tip: This is often the first The Ordinary product people try, and it's a great starting point.

Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
What it is: A direct, water-free vitamin C formula at a high concentration.
What it does: Brightens skin, fades dark spots, boosts collagen, provides antioxidant protection.
Who it's for: Those targeting hyperpigmentation and dullness who can handle a grainy texture.
How to use: Apply to dry skin in the evening. This one has a gritty, slightly uncomfortable texture that some people hate.
Warning: Can be irritating. Start slowly—once or twice a week. Not for sensitive skin.

Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone
What it is: The most concentrated vitamin C from The Ordinary, suspended in silicone for a smoother feel.
What it does: Maximum brightening and antioxidant benefits.
Who it's for: Vitamin C veterans who've built tolerance.
How to use: Evening only, on dry skin. Less gritty than the 23% version but still textured.
Pro tip: Many people find this too strong. Consider starting with gentler vitamin C options.

Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%
What it is: A gentler, water-soluble form of vitamin C.
What it does: Brightens and evens skin tone without the irritation of pure ascorbic acid.
Who it's for: Vitamin C beginners, sensitive skin, those who couldn't tolerate the suspensions.
How to use: Morning or evening, after cleansing, before heavier serums.
Pro tip: This is the vitamin C to start with if you're new or sensitive.

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
What it is: A gentle brightening agent that inhibits melanin production.
What it does: Fades dark spots, evens skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation.
Who it's for: Anyone dealing with dark spots, sun damage, or post-acne marks.
How to use: Twice daily, can be combined with other brightening ingredients.
Pro tip: This is a slow burn—results take weeks, but it's gentle and effective. Great for combining with vitamin C.

Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
What it is: A cream formula with azelaic acid, a multitasking ingredient.
What it does: Brightens, reduces redness, fights acne, evens texture. Triple threat.
Who it's for: Acne-prone skin, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone.
How to use: Evening only, as the last serum before moisturizer. Has a silicone-like texture.
Warning: Can pill under makeup or other products. Use at night.
Pro tip: One of the most underrated products in the line. Incredibly versatile.

THE EXFOLIANTS

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
What it is: The famous "blood mask"—a powerful chemical exfoliant combining glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid.
What it does: Deep exfoliation, unclogs pores, brightens, smooths texture, reduces fine lines.
Who it's for: Experienced users with dull, textured, or congested skin. NOT for beginners or sensitive skin.
How to use: Once a week maximum, on clean, dry skin for no more than 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
Warning: This is strong. Do not exceed 10 minutes. Do not use if you're new to acids. Stop all other actives on the day you use this. Always use sunscreen the next day.
Pro tip: Your skin will likely be red during use—this is normal. If it burns intensely or hurts, rinse immediately.

Lactic Acid 10% + HA
What it is: A gentler AHA that exfoliates while hydrating.
What it does: Improves texture, brightens, provides mild exfoliation.
Who it's for: Beginners to chemical exfoliation, sensitive skin, dry skin.
How to use: Evening only, 2-3 times per week to start. Can build to nightly use.
Pro tip: Start here before moving to stronger acids. Also available in 5% for extra sensitivity.

Lactic Acid 5% + HA
What it is: The gentlest AHA option from The Ordinary.
What it does: Very mild exfoliation and brightening.
Who it's for: First-time acid users, very sensitive skin, those testing their tolerance.
How to use: Evening only, can be used more frequently than 10% version.

Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
What it is: A liquid toner with glycolic acid for daily exfoliation.
What it does: Exfoliates surface dead skin cells, brightens, improves texture.
Who it's for: Those comfortable with acids who want daily exfoliation.
How to use: After cleansing, before serums. Evening only to start, can build to twice daily.
Warning: Can be drying. Always follow with hydrating products.

Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
What it is: A BHA that penetrates into pores.
What it does: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, fights acne, controls oil.
Who it's for: Oily, acne-prone, congested skin.
How to use: Apply directly to problem areas or all over after cleansing. Can use morning or night.
Pro tip: This is oil-soluble, meaning it cuts through sebum to clean out pores—perfect for blackheads.

Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
What it is: A 10-minute treatment mask with BHA and clays.
What it does: Clears congestion, reduces visible pores, absorbs excess oil.
Who it's for: Oily, acne-prone skin needing a deeper treatment.
How to use: 1-2 times per week, apply to clean skin for 10 minutes, rinse.

THE ANTI-AGERS

Retinol 1% in Squalane
What it is: Pure retinol in a nourishing squalane base.
What it does: Reduces fine lines, improves texture, boosts collagen, fights acne.
Who it's for: Those ready for a strong retinol (experienced users).
How to use: Evening only, after water-based products. Start 2x per week, build tolerance.
Warning: Expect some dryness, flaking, and potential purging. This is strong.

Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
What it is: Mid-strength retinol for building tolerance.
What it does: Same benefits as 1% but gentler.
Who it's for: Intermediate retinol users, those stepping up from 0.2%.
How to use: Evening only, 2-3 times per week initially.

Retinol 0.2% in Squalane
What it is: Gentle introduction to retinol.
What it does: All retinol benefits at beginner-friendly strength.
Who it's for: First-time retinol users, sensitive skin.
How to use: Evening only, start once or twice a week.
Pro tip: This is where everyone should start with retinol. Build up slowly.

Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
What it is: A newer-generation retinoid (hydroxypinacolone retinoate) that's less irritating.
What it does: Anti-aging benefits with less irritation than traditional retinol.
Who it's for: Those who can't tolerate regular retinol, sensitive skin, retinoid beginners.
How to use: Evening only, can often be used more frequently than retinol.
Pro tip: Many consider this the best retinoid option for sensitive skin.

Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane
What it is: Higher concentration of the gentler retinoid.
What it does: Stronger anti-aging effects while remaining relatively gentle.
Who it's for: Those who've built tolerance or want stronger results without harsh retinol.

Matrixyl 10% + HA
What it is: A peptide serum (specifically Matrixyl 3000 and Matrixyl synthe'6).
What it does: Stimulates collagen production, reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Who it's for: Anyone concerned with aging, particularly good for sensitive skin that can't use retinoids.
How to use: Morning and/or evening, after water-based serums, before oils.
Pro tip: Peptides work differently than retinol—they're gentler but also slower to show results.

"Buffet"
What it is: A multi-peptide serum with multiple technologies.
What it does: Comprehensive anti-aging, improves multiple signs of aging simultaneously.
Who it's for: Those wanting an all-in-one anti-aging approach.
How to use: Morning and/or evening, after cleansing, before heavier serums.
Pro tip: Great as a base layer for other treatments or as a standalone anti-aging product.

"Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1%
What it is: Buffet formula enhanced with copper peptides.
What it does: Additional wound healing and anti-aging benefits.
Who it's for: Those wanting maximum peptide benefits.
Warning: Do NOT use with vitamin C or direct acids—copper peptides can react with these.

THE OILS

100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
What it is: Pure rosehip oil, high in essential fatty acids and vitamin A.
What it does: Hydrates, reduces appearance of scars and stretch marks, gentle anti-aging.
Who it's for: Dry skin, scarring, those wanting natural retinoid-like benefits.
How to use: As last step in evening routine, or mix with moisturizer.
Pro tip: Despite being an oil, this is relatively lightweight and absorbs well.

100% Plant-Derived Squalane
What it is: A lightweight oil that mimics your skin's natural sebum.
What it does: Deeply hydrates without clogging pores, improves skin texture.
Who it's for: All skin types, even oily (counterintuitive but true).
How to use: Last step in routine, or mix with other products.
Pro tip: This is the most universally tolerated oil—great for oil-phobic people.

100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil
What it is: A bright orange oil high in omega-7 fatty acids.
What it does: Deeply nourishing, anti-inflammatory, supports skin regeneration.
Who it's for: Very dry, damaged, or mature skin.
Warning: Will temporarily tint your skin orange. Use at night only.

The Golden Rules of Layering The Ordinary Products

Now that you know what everything does, here's how to use them together without causing a chemical reaction on your face.

The Basic Order:

1. Cleanse (not The Ordinary—use your regular cleanser)

2. Water-Based Treatments (thinnest to thickest consistency)

3. Oils

4. Creams/Moisturizers

5. Sunscreen (morning only)

Specific Layering Rules:

Water-Based Serums Go First:
Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Alpha Arbutin, Buffet, Marine Hyaluronics

Oils and Creams Go Last:
Retinols (in squalane), Rose Hip Oil, Pure Squalane, Azelaic Acid Suspension, Natural Moisturizing Factors

One Active at a Time (When Starting):
Don't start multiple new actives simultaneously. Introduce one product for 1-2 weeks, ensure your skin tolerates it, then add another.

What NOT to Mix:

❌ Vitamin C + Retinol – Use vitamin C in morning, retinol at night
❌ Vitamin C + Niacinamide – Actually controversial. Many say it's fine now, but if you experience flushing, separate them
❌ Vitamin C + AHA/BHA – Can be irritating; if you must, use acids at night, vitamin C in morning
❌ Retinol + AHA/BHA – Too much at once. Alternate nights or use acids in morning
❌ Copper Peptides + Vitamin C or Direct Acids – Chemical reaction; use on different days
❌ Multiple Strong Actives – Don't use the Peeling Solution the same night as retinol or other acids

What WORKS WELL Together:

✅ Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid – Power couple
✅ Alpha Arbutin + Vitamin C – Brightening dream team
✅ Hyaluronic Acid + Anything – Universal layering partner
✅ Buffet + Hyaluronic Acid – Anti-aging and hydration
✅ Niacinamide + Azelaic Acid – Great for acne and texture
✅ Retinol + Hyaluronic Acid – Counteracts dryness

Sample Routines for Different Skin Concerns

ROUTINE FOR BEGINNERS (Start Here!)

Morning:

• Cleanser (your choice)

• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (on damp skin)

• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

• Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

• Sunscreen (not The Ordinary)

Evening:

• Cleanser

• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (on damp skin)

• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

• Moisturizer (your choice)

Start with this simple routine for 2-4 weeks before adding treatments.

ROUTINE FOR ANTI-AGING

Morning:

• Cleanser

• Buffet

• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

• Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%

• Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

• Sunscreen

Evening:

• Cleanser

• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

• Matrixyl 10% + HA

• Retinol 0.5% in Squalane (3-4x per week)

• Rose Hip Seed Oil or moisturizer

ROUTINE FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN

Morning:

• Cleanser

• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

• Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

• Sunscreen

Evening:

• Cleanser

• Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

• Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

• Squalane Oil (if neede