The Ordinary Step by Step. How to use The Ordinary is a common question in the Facebook Group, and it must seem complicated for anyone completely new to skincare. Where do you start with The Ordinary? How do I find out what skin type I have? Which Ordinary products do I use? How do I build a regimen? In which order do I apply the products? Are there any skincare routines I can buy?
Well, I have you covered! Here is a quick step-by-step how-to guide to The Ordinary with links directing you to all the pages you need. You can also take the Skin Questionaire on The Ordinary website and create your skincare routine.
Start Fresh with a Clean Face
Begin by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and prepare your skin for the upcoming products. You can find all THE ORDINARY & NIOD CLEANSERS here.
Know Your Skin Type and Concerns
Identify your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive) and specific concerns (acne, fine lines, uneven tone) to create your routine. You may find this page helpful to help decide your SKIN TYPE.
Masques
Apply masques as per the instructions to a clean, dry face. Avoid the eye area when applying and rinsing off. Always check conflicts.
Applying Your Serums & Creams
When applying The Ordinary serums, you need 2 or 3 drops. Put the drops in the palm of your hand and massage or pat into your skin. If you feel you need more, use more. You need a small, pea-sized amount of creams, but once again, if your skin needs more, apply more.
Waiting Time Before Apply The Next Serum
Once you have applied your serum, there´s no set time to wait. Just make sure it has been absorbed before you apply your next serum. If you find you have “bits” or “pilling”, this could be because you have used too much product. Read all about Skincare Pilling.
Targeted Treatments Serums and Acids
Introduce serums and acids based on your skin concerns. Apply them sparingly, focusing on specific areas or concerns. Acids will go directly after cleansing, followed by your other serums. The Ordinary recommends no more than 3 serums in a routine. You can find all the products listed by SKIN CONCERNS here. You may also find THE ORDINARY REGIMENS helpful too.
Which Order To Apply Ordinary Products?
The Ordinary products come in different solutions: water-based, anhydrous, oil, suspension, emulsion, and powder. These should be applied in a certain order, usually from the clearest/lightest to the thickest/opaque products. You can find a SKINCARE PRODUCT LAYER CHART here with a list of all the products and which solutions they are.
Special Care for Eyes and Spots
If using eye serums or spot treatments, some people apply directly after cleansing, some after one water-based product and some after all water-based products but before heavier solutions like anhydrous oils or creams. You can find all THE ORDINARY & NIOD EYE PRODUCTS here.
Hydration Boost with Moisturizers
Seal in the benefits with one of The Ordinary moisturizers. Please choose a product that suits your skin’s hydration needs, whether a lighter formula or something richer. There are 3 THE ORDINARY MOISTURIZERS to choose from. You could also look at NIOD HV.
Daily Sunscreen (Morning Routine)
In the morning, finish your routine with an SPF. Search #spf in the Facebook Group if you’re stuck for ideas.
Adapt your routine for Nighttime.
In the evening, adjust your routine by focusing on hydration and repair. You can use the products that are for PM use only, particularly ACIDS & RETINOIDS. You may use products that conflict with those you use in the morning. Pay attention to how your skin is. You may find conflicting products may be better on alternate days. You may find THE ORDINARY CONFLICTS CHART useful.
Consistency is Key
Stick to your routine consistently to allow the products to work together. Unless you are consistent, you will not know if a product is working. Try not to get too carried away when buying The Ordinary. I recommend purchasing a complete skincare regimen and slowly introducing other products later on. You can find lots of skincare REGIMENS here.
Listen to Your Skin and Adapt
Please pay attention to how your skin responds and be open to adapting your routine based on its evolving needs. You know your skin better than anyone, and if something isn´t working or is irritating, stop using it. We all have different skin, and what works for one person may not work for you. Don´t be surprised if something everyone loves breaks your skin out. Be open to changing your regimen.
Enjoy the Journey Skincare Journey
Remember that achieving great skin is a journey. Enjoy the process of learning and meeting other Skincare Addicts in The Ordinary & Deciem Chat Room.
The Ordinary Step-By-Step Guide
Here are some more pages you may find useful.
The Ordinary for Pigmentation & Melasma
Best Products for Acne Scarring
