NIOD – The Beginner’s Guide To NIOD

The Beginner’s Guide To NIOD.

What is NIOD? NIOD is The Ordinary’s big sister brand and was actually created before The Ordinary. The brand NIOD can be confusing with all the acronyms and long-winded explanations, but don’t worry; I have you covered. It’s easier to understand once you break it down than The Ordinary – I promise!

What’s in the Beginner’s Guide To NIOD?

• All the NIOD products are on 1 page
• NIOD tips
• All the NIOD products by category
• List of individual NIOD Products
• How to layer NIOD
• NIOD Routines
• Nicola Kilner’s Skincare Regimen
• Cheaper NIOD alternatives from The Ordinary
• NIOD conflicts

All the NIOD products listed on 1 page

Sometimes, it´s easier to see all the products on one page, and that´s exactly what I have created for you here. The NIOD brand has 24 products, and once you break each product down, it´s quite easy to understand. Click here to get our PDF guide to all the NIOD products.

NIOD Tips

NIOD is more expensive than The Ordinary; therefore, when buying NIOD, think very carefully about the products in your routine and read reviews on this website, in the Facebook Group, and on Instagram before buying.

When buying masks, I suggest buying the smaller sizes first, but for MMHC2 and CAIS3, go for the bigger sizes. I would advise not to store CAIS or any of the Copper products for too long, as we find the beautiful blue colour turns to a dark grey/black. NIOD has a PAO (period after opening) of 6 months, which is another reason not to buy too many products.

NIOD products by category

• Core Routine
• Masques
• Cleansers, Mists & Hydrators
• Lip Products
• Eye Products
• Vitamin C
• Acids (well, non-acid)
• Photography Fluids
• Survival | Sun Cream Range

NIOD Products

1. NIOD CAIL1% – CAIL Copper Amino Isolate Lipid

NIOD CAIL1% Copper Amino Isolate Lipid
CAIL1% is designed to be used on its own after cleansing. It targets overall healthy-looking skin with the additional benefits of building and enhancing skin barrier function & elasticity.
Directions: Use PM. Apply a very small amount to the face & neck in the evening.
NIOD CAIL Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
How to layer NIOD CAIL1% LVCE/SS + CAIL LVCE/SS + CAIL + MMHC2
Size: 15ml PAO 6M
Pro Tip: If you are looking for the most simple routine, this product is for you.
Read More about NIOD CAIL1%

2. NIOD CAIS3 Copper Amino Isolate Serum

NIOD CAIS 3 1:1 Copper Amino Isolate Serum
A highly focused effort to maintain healthy-looking skin, this pro-repair, pro-collagen serum offers a novel approach to target all signs of skin ageing.
Directions: Use AM & PM. Use as the first step after cleansing.
NIOD CAIS Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
How to layer NIOD CAIS3: LVCE/SS + CAIS3 + MMHC2
Size: 15ml & 30ml PAO 6M
Pro Tip! Don’t store this one for too long before opening.
Read More about NIOD CAIS

3. NIOD MMHC2 Multi Molecular Hyaluronic Complex

NIOD MMHC2 Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Complex
MMHC2 has 15 forms of hyaluronic compounds, helps the skin surface look plump, elastic, comfortable, and uniform.
Directions. Use AM & PM. If used separately, apply MMHC after cleansing before the application of other skin treatments.
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
How to layer NIOD MMHC2 LVCE/SS + CAIS + MMHC2
Size: 15ml & 30ml. PAO: 6M
Pro Tip: The 30ml is much better value than the 15ml!
Read More about NIOD MMHC2

4. NIOD MG Modulating Glucosides

NIOD MG Modulating Glucosides
A concentrated emulsion to target signs of skin sensitivity, discomfort & irritation. This serum reduces the look of redness, itching, and irritation while helping to target stinging sensations.
Directions: Use AM & PM after CAIS & before MMHC2 if using the Core Regimen. If not using CAIS, apply directly after cleansing.
NIOD MG Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
How to layer NIOD MG LVCE/SS + CAIS + MG + MMHC2
Size: 30ml PAO 6M
Read more about NIOD MG

NIOD MASQUES

1. Flavanone Mud
2. Mastic Must
3. Voicemail Masque
4. Sanskrit Saponins
5. Myrrh Clay Masque

1. NIOD FM Flavanone Mud Masque

NIOD FM Flavanone Mud Masque
Flavanone Mud masque is great for congested and dull skin.
Directions: Use once a week. Clean skin with LVCE and/or water. Apply a thin layer of Flavanone Mud to the dry face avoiding the lower & upper eyelids. Leave for 10 mins then rinse thoroughly with warm water. A strong temporary stinging sensation will occur especially after the product has been rinsed off.
NIOD FM Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 50ml & 100ml PAO: 6M
Pro Tip: Try the 5 day accelerated method to kick start using this product! If you use numerous masks, then I would suggest purchasing the smaller size.

2. NIOD MM Mastic Must Masque

NIOD MM Mastic Must
This Mastic Must masque is for use before the application of makeup to help the look of enlarged pores for a flawless finish.
Directions: Apply a generous amount to clean face in the AM. Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Do not use a cleaner after rinsing.
Order to use NIOD MM Cleanse + MM + Skincare Routine + Make Up
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 90ml & 180ml PAO: 6M
Pro Tip: Try using a hairdryer! After rinsing thoroughly, an unessential but beneficial step is to blowdry on a tolerable heat for about 15 seconds to dry the face. This step would enhance the visible results of MM immediately. I would suggest the smaller size unless you wear makeup a lot and you’re sure you will use it.

3. NIOD VM Voicemail Masque

NIOD VM Voicemail Masque
VM is a nighttime leave-on masque treatment that fights many of the signs associated with impaired cellular communication. VM is not recommended for very oily skin types
VM is a nighttime leave-on masque treatment that fights many of the signs associated with impaired cellular communication. VM is not recommended for very oily skin types.
How to layer NIOD VM LVCE/SS + CAIS + MMHC2 + VM
NIOD VM Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 50ml PAO: 6M
Read more about NIOD VM

4. NIOD SS Sanskrit Saponins Masque

NIOD SS Sanskrit Saponins – Cleanser & Mask
NIOD SS is a viscous and intense cleaning balm for the face formulated with highly-concentrated, very-unrefined Ayurvedic plant surfactants unsupported by any modern cleaning technology.
Directions: Apart from using NIOD SS as a cleanser, you can also use this as a 5-minute masque.
NIOD SS Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 90ml & 180ml PAO: 6M
Pro Tip: Use this as a cleanser or use as a 5-minute mask. Avoid eyes!

5. NIOD MC Myrrh Clay Masque

Myrrh Clay (MC)
A treatment masque that visibly firms the skin.
Directions: Use once a week on clean, dry skin. Apply a thin layer to the entire face. Leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
How to layer NIOD MC LVCE/SS + MC
Size: 50ml PAO 6M
Pro Tip: If you use numerous masks, buy the smaller size.

NIOD Cleansers, Mists & Hydration

1. Sanskrit Saponins
2. Hydration Vaccine
3. Superoxide Dismutase Mist
4. Low Viscosity Cleaning Ester

1. NIOD SS Sanskrit Saponins

NIOD SS Sanskrit Saponins – Cleanser & Mask
Sanskrit SS is a viscous and intense cleaning balm for the face formulated with highly-concentrated, very-unrefined Ayurvedic plant surfactants unsupported by any modern cleaning technology. (SS)
Directions: Use once every other day in the AM or the PM. SS can be used more frequently if desired. SS is not intended to remove makeup. Remove makeup first with LVCE or your usual makeup remover. Wet your face thoroughly and massage SS between your palms for a few seconds to form a paste-like lather. Massage gently, avoiding the eyes. Rinse thoroughly, keeping your eyes closed. Pat dry with a towel
Directions: Use once every other day in the AM or the PM. SS can be used more frequently if desired. SS is not intended to remove makeup. Remove makeup first with LVCE or your usual makeup remover. Wet your face thoroughly and massage SS between your palms for a few seconds to form a paste-like lather. Massage gently, avoiding the eyes. Rinse thoroughly, keeping your eyes closed. Pat dry with a towel.
Size: 90ml & 180ml | PAO 6M
Pro Tip! This can also be used as a 5-minute masque. Avoid eyes.

2. NIOD LVCE Low Viscosity Cleaning Ester

NIOD LVCE Low Viscosity Cleaning Ester
A skin cleaning system that respects dermal barriers while regulating visible sebum production, cleaning the skin thoroughly, and removing all traces of makeup in a single step.
Directions: Massage a generous amount onto a dry face. Rinse with warm water. It can also be applied to a facial pad and wipe the face thoroughly.
The order to use NIOD LVCE LVCE + SS + CAIS + MMHC2
Size: 240ml PAO 6M
Pro Tip: This is available in a gift set if you wanted to try a few NIOD products.

NIOD SDSM Superoxide Dismutase Saccharide Mist
A dermal treatment mist–not to be classified mistakenly as a “toner”–that acts as a fundamental daily force against oxidative stress, water loss, and the look of inflammation.
Directions: Apply morning and evening to face and neck after cleaning before the application of other treatments. If used as part of a NIOD regimen, apply after LVCE and/or SS, but before CAIS.
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
How to layer NIOD SDSM2 LVCE/SS + SDSM2 + CAIS/CAIL
Size: 240ml PAO 6M
Read more about NIOD SDSM

4. NIOD HV Hydration Vaccine

50% off until December 6th 2024

NIOD HV Hydration Vaccine
A hydration seal for the skin that helps protect against loss of Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF), and supplements the skin’s own moisturizing factors.
Directions: Apply a small amount all over the face in the AM & PM after serums (ideally CAIS and MMHC) but before the application of any other creams and/or sunscreen formulations.
How to layer NIOD HV Cleanse + CAIS + MMHC2 + HV
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 50ml & 100ml PAO 6M
Read More

NIOD LBLC Lip Bio Lipid Concentrate
A comprehensive treatment to improve the looks of lip colour, volume, texture, softness, and contour, combining a wide borrowing from peptide technology and biotechnology.
Directions: Shake well. Apply with your fingertips to both upper and lower lips twice daily for 30 days initially. Reduce application to once per day thereafter.
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Warnings: This product comes with a lot of warnings and must be patch tested and only used on the lip. Please read the instructions on the NIOD website.
Size: 15ml PAO 6M

NIOD Eye Products

NIOD FECC Fractionated Eye Contour Concentrate
Target visible ageing (both upper eyelids and lower eyelids) including the looks of dynamic lines, static lines, fine superficial under-eye lines loss of elasticity, dark circles, puffiness, and textural unevenness with positive visible results starting within 3 days and improving into 8 weeks with continued use.
Target visible ageing (both upper and lower eyelids), including the appearance of dynamic lines, static lines, fine superficial under-eye lines, loss of elasticity, dark circles, puffiness, and textural unevenness. With continued use, positive visible results will start within 3 days and improve into 8 weeks.
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 15ml PAO 6M

Neck Products

NIOD NEC Neck Elasticity Catalyst
With technologies that respect the elasticity protein—or elastin—and elastic fibres for a direct increase in the look of elasticity.
Directions: Use AM & PM to neck & lower face. If using HV, apply HV after NEC. If not using Core Regimen, apply after serums but before any heavier creams.
How to layer NIOD NEC Cleanse + CAIS + MMHC2 + NEC + HV + (heavy creams if using)
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 50ml & 100ml  PAO 6M
Pro Tip! This is available in 50ml & 100ml. 100ml is better value but be sure you will use it up in the recommended time once opened.

NIOD Vitamin C Products

NIOD ELAN Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid Network
This highly concentrated network complex combines a 30% concentration of highly-stable Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) in Superoxide Dismutase’s antioxidant network Selenium and Zinc to support a strong fight against oxidation.
Directions: Apply ELAN to face at night-time only, avoiding contact with eyes. ELAN contains a novel solvent for optimal penetration and, while it’s oil-free, may feel slightly oily for about 1 minute after application. This feeling will disappear quickly as there is no oil in the formulation.
NIOD ELAN Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 30ml PAO 6M

NIOD Acid (non-acid) Products

NIOD NAAP Non-Acid Acid Precursor 15%
Instead of using direct acids like AHA/BHA or retinoids that are common in skincare, NAAP uses fermentation bio-derivatives and amino isolates that act as precursors to skin-compatible acids, encouraging visible radiance and visible surface regularity without the redness and inflammation associated with acids.
Directions: Apply a few drops at bedtime to the face avoiding the immediate eye areas. If used as part of a NIOD regimen, apply after CAIS and MMHC but before HV. If used along with ELAN, apply after ELAN.
How to layer NIOD NAAP LVCE/SS + CAIS + MMHC2 + NAAP + HV
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 30ml PAO 6M

NIOD Pigmentation Products

NIOD RP Re: Pigment
This formula visibly counteracts both uneven pigmentation, such as spots, and overall pigmentation issues through several pathways.
Directions: Use AM & PM. Shake lightly. If used as part of a NIOD regimen, apply after CAIS but before MMHC.
How to layer NIOD RP Re:Pigment LVCE/SS + CAIS + RP + MMHC2
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 15ml & 30ml PAO 6M

Photography Fluids

1. NIOD PF8% Photography Fluid 8%

Photography Fluid 8%
Directions: Apply instead of or under a liquid foundation to balance out undesirable colour tones and skin imperfections. This formula can also be mixed with other products for subtle hue correction.
Directions: Apply instead of or under liquid foundation to balance out undesirable colour tones and skin imperfections. This formula can also be mixed with other products for subtle hue correction.
Size: 30ml PAO 6M
It is a novel approach to creating a foundation for skin that reflects even radiance in life specifically through the camera lens.  The 8% gives a lovely light, tan glow look. See all details here.

2. NIOD PF12% Photography Fluid 12%

Photography Fluid 12%
Directions: Apply this formula instead of liquid foundation for natural-looking radiance with a hint of translucent tan. It can also be used under, over, or mixed with liquid foundation if coverage is desired.
Directions: Apply this formula instead of liquid foundation for natural-looking radiance with a hint of translucent tan. It can also be used under, over, or mixed with liquid foundation if coverage is desired. You need to play around with these and find a way that works for you and your skin.
Size: 30ml PAO 6M

NIOD Survival Range

NIOD S0 Survival 0

Directions: Apply to the face liberally to help support the environmental defence in the absence of material UV exposure (in the evenings). Designed for all skin tones. This product does not offer protection against UVA or UVB rays.
Designed for nighttime use by all skin tones. Offers no UV Protection.
Directions: Apply to face liberally to help support the environmental defence in the absence of material UV exposure (in the evenings). Designed for all skin tones. This product does not offer protection against UVA or UVB rays.
Conflicts: Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 30ml PAO 6M

NIOD S10, S20, S30
S10 for darker skin tones S20 for medium to darker skin tones S30 for all skin tones.
Directions: Shake well before use. Apply to the face liberally 20 minutes before UV exposure. To maintain protection during continued UV exposure, reapply every 2 hours or after material water exposure, towel-drying, swimming, or extensive perspiration.
Conflicts:Check NIOD conflicts here.
Size: 30ml | PAO 6M

How to layer NIOD

This is just a guide to the order of application. So if you’re not using SDSM or one of the other products, just leave it out. Copper always goes directly after cleansing and before any other water-based product.

• LVCE/SS + SDSM2 + CAIS3 + MMHC2 + HV
• NIOD LVCE/SS + SDSM2 + CAIL + MMHC2
• LVCE/SS + SDSM2 + CAIS3 + MMHC2 + Moisturiser
• NIOD LVCE/SS + SDSM2 + CAIS3 + MG + MMHC2
• LVCE/SS + SDSM2 + CAIS3 + MMHC2 + NEC + HV
• NIOD LVCE/SS + SDSM2 + CAIS3 + MMHC2 + NAAP + HV

Nicola Kilner’s (CEO of Deciem) Skincare Routine

Nicola Kilner, CEO of Deciem, shared her At-Home routine, which is what she uses. You can watch Nicola Kilner talking about her skincare routine on YouTube. She looks fantastic, especially for a mum of a one-year-old and a one-month-old. The way she talks about the products really makes you want to try them all – go watch the video, and I bet you’ll be searching NIOD NAAP :).

• Hylamide Cleanser (discontinued)
• NIOD CAIS
• MMHC2 Multi Molecular Hyaluronic Complex
• NAAP Non-acid Acid Precursor 15%
• FECC Fractionated Eye Contour Concentrate
• The Ordinary Caffeine Solution
• NIOD S30*

You may find this page useful with alternatives The Ordinary Vs NIOD. If you wish to incorporate some NIOD products into your routine, consider doing it by maintaining your daily routine and slowly replacing one product at a time with a NIOD equivalent.

NIOD Conflicts & Targets

Here you can find all the products you should not use with NIOD products. The NIOD conflicts chart.

NIOD Discounts

You can always find discounts for NIOD at Skinstore US & Look Fantastic. Both are authorized stockists of Deciem.

NIOD PAO

You can find all the PAO (period after opening) here. NIOD generally has a period after opening of 6 months once a product is opened.

The Beginner’s Guide To NIOD

I hope you have found The Beginner´s Guide To NIOD useful. On that note, we invite you to share your personal experiences of NIOD and how the products you used as a beginner. Join the conversation and become a part of our community in The Deciem Chat Room.