The Ultimate Guide to The Ordinary Skincare Routine for Glowing Skin

Starting a skincare routine can feel overwhelming with so many products and brands available. The Ordinary offers a simple, effective, and affordable way to improve your skin’s health and appearance. This guide breaks down how to use The Ordinary products to build a routine that delivers glowing, healthy skin.

The Ordinary skincare products neatly arranged on a white background

Understanding The Ordinary Philosophy

The Ordinary focuses on straightforward skincare formulas with active ingredients backed by science. Instead of fancy packaging or marketing, the brand offers potent ingredients at affordable prices. This approach allows users to customize their skincare based on their skin type and concerns.

The key to success with The Ordinary is understanding what each product does and how to layer them properly. This prevents irritation and maximizes benefits.

Building Your Morning Routine

A morning routine should protect your skin and prepare it for the day. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide using The Ordinary products:

• Cleanser: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove overnight oils and impurities. The Ordinary’s Squalane Cleanser is hydrating and suitable for all skin types.

• Antioxidant Serum: Apply a vitamin C serum like Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% to brighten skin and protect against environmental damage.

• Moisturizer: Use Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA to hydrate and support the skin’s barrier.

• Sunscreen: Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Sunscreen is essential to prevent sun damage and premature aging.

  
  

This routine supports skin health without overwhelming it with too many products.

Evening Routine for Repair and Renewal

Evening is when your skin repairs itself, so your routine should focus on hydration and treatment.

• Cleanser: Use the Squalane Cleanser again to remove makeup, sunscreen, and dirt.

• Exfoliation: 2-3 times a week, apply a chemical exfoliant like Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution to remove dead skin cells and improve texture. Avoid using on the same nights as retinoids.

• Treatment Serum: Use a retinoid such as Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion to promote cell turnover and reduce fine lines. Start slowly to avoid irritation.

• Hydrating Serum: Apply Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 to boost moisture retention.

• Moisturizer: Finish with Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA to lock in hydration.

  
  

This routine encourages skin renewal and helps maintain a smooth, radiant complexion.

Tips for Combining The Ordinary Products Safely

Some active ingredients can cause irritation if used together. Here are important tips:

• Avoid using vitamin C serums and retinoids at the same time. Use vitamin C in the morning and retinoids at night.

• Do not combine strong acids like glycolic acid with retinoids on the same day.

• Introduce one new product at a time to monitor how your skin reacts.

• Always patch test new products before applying them to your face.

• Use sunscreen daily, especially when using exfoliants or retinoids, as your skin becomes more sensitive to the sun.

  
  

Customizing Your Routine Based on Skin Type

The Ordinary offers products suitable for different skin types. Here’s how to adjust your routine:

• Oily Skin: Use Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% to regulate sebum production and reduce shine.

• Dry Skin: Add The Ordinary’s 100% Plant-Derived Squalane for extra hydration.

• Sensitive Skin: Stick to gentle products like Squalane Cleanser and avoid strong acids or retinoids initially.

• Combination Skin: Use targeted treatments on different areas, such as niacinamide on oily zones and hydrating serums on dry patches.

  
  

Listening to your skin and adjusting products accordingly will improve results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make these errors when starting with The Ordinary:

• Using too many active ingredients at once, causing irritation.

• Skipping sunscreen, which can undo all the benefits of your routine.

• Not giving products enough time to work. Most active ingredients need at least 4-6 weeks to show results.

• Ignoring hydration. Even oily skin needs moisturizers to maintain balance.

  
  

Avoiding these mistakes helps you get the best from your skincare routine.

Why The Ordinary Works for So Many

The Ordinary’s success comes from transparency and simplicity. You know exactly what you’re putting on your skin, and you can build a routine that fits your needs without breaking the bank. Many users report clearer, brighter, and more even skin after consistent use.

The brand’s focus on single-ingredient products allows mixing and matching, which is rare in the skincare market. This flexibility makes it easier to address specific concerns like acne, dullness, or aging.

Final Thoughts on Achieving Glowing Skin

Building a skincare routine with The Ordinary is about consistency, patience, and understanding your skin. Start with a few basic products, follow the layering guidelines, and protect your skin with sunscreen daily. Over time, your skin will look healthier and more radiant.