How to Layer The Ordinary Serums for Maximum Results

The world of skincare can be overwhelming, especially when faced with a brand like The Ordinary that offers so many targeted solutions in simple, clinical packaging. While The Ordinary has revolutionized skincare with its transparent formulations and science-based approach, figuring out how to combine and layer these potent serums can feel like you need a chemistry degree. Fear not—this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about layering The Ordinary products to achieve maximum results for your specific skin concerns.

Understanding The Basics of Skincare Layering

Before diving into specific product combinations, it’s important to understand the fundamental principles behind effective skincare layering:

The Golden Rule: Thinnest to Thickest

The most basic guideline for layering skincare products is to apply them from thinnest to thickest consistency. This allows each product to penetrate the skin properly and deliver its active ingredients effectively. With The Ordinary products, this typically means:

Water-based serums
Oil-based serums
Emulsions and suspensions
Creams and oils

pH Matters

Products with lower pH levels (more acidic) should generally be applied before products with higher pH levels. This is particularly important with acid exfoliants and vitamin C serums, which work best at specific pH levels to maintain their efficacy.

Active Ingredient Compatibility

Not all active ingredients play well together. Some combinations can decrease effectiveness, while others might cause irritation or even damage to your skin barrier. Understanding which ingredients complement each other and which conflict is essential for creating an effective routine.

Morning vs. Evening Routines

Your morning and evening skincare routines should serve different purposes:

Morning Routine Goals:

Protection from environmental stressors
Hydration
Antioxidant defense
Preparation for makeup application

Evening Routine Goals:

Repair and restoration
Deep hydration
Treatment of specific concerns
Supporting skin’s natural renewal process

With these goals in mind, let’s explore how to effectively incorporate The Ordinary products into your daily skincare regimen.

Morning Routine: Layer by Layer

Step 1: Cleanse

Start with a gentle cleanser appropriate for your skin type. The Ordinary’s Squalane Cleanser is an excellent option for most skin types as it effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin.

Step 2: Water-Based Treatments

Apply water-based serums first, as they have the lightest consistency and can penetrate deeply into clean skin.

For Hydration:

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: This lightweight serum draws moisture into multiple layers of the skin. Apply 2-3 drops to damp skin for maximum hydration benefits.

For Brightening and Antioxidant Protection:

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA: Helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Regulates sebum production and minimizes the appearance of pores. This versatile serum also helps with texture and uneven skin tone.

Step 3: Vitamin C (Morning Star Player)

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radical damage and brightens the skin. The Ordinary offers several vitamin C formulations:

Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%: The most potent option, but can feel gritty and may cause tingling.
Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%: A water-soluble derivative that’s more stable and gentle.
Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution: Offers excellent stability and absorption.

For morning use, the Ascorbyl Glucoside or Ethylated Ascorbic Acid solutions are typically preferred as they’re less likely to cause irritation and layer well under sunscreen.

Step 4: Peptides and Other Treatments

« Buffet »: A multi-peptide serum that targets multiple signs of aging.
Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG: Ideal for reducing puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.

Step 5: Moisturizer

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: A non-greasy formulation that provides immediate hydration and helps strengthen the skin barrier.

Step 6: Sunscreen (Non-Negotiable)

The Ordinary doesn’t offer many sunscreen options, but this step is absolutely essential, especially when using products containing acids, retinoids, or vitamin C, which can increase photosensitivity.

Evening Routine: Layer by Layer

Step 1: Double Cleanse

Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser to purify the skin.

Step 2: Exfoliating Treatments (2-3 times per week)

The Ordinary offers several excellent exfoliants, but these should not be used daily:

Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: A stronger AHA that promotes cellular turnover.
Lactic Acid 5% or 10% + HA: A gentler AHA option, ideal for sensitive skin.
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: A BHA that penetrates pores to clear congestion.

Important note: Never combine multiple acid exfoliants in a single routine. Choose one based on your skin’s needs and tolerance.

Step 3: Water-Based Treatments

On non-exfoliation evenings, you can start with these water-based serums:

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: For deep hydration.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: For balancing oil production and improving texture.
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA: For addressing hyperpigmentation.

Step 4: Targeted Treatments

This is where you can incorporate The Ordinary’s more potent treatments:

For Anti-Aging:

Retinol 0.2%, 0.5%, or 1% in Squalane: Start with the lowest concentration and gradually work your way up as your skin builds tolerance.
Granactive Retinoid 2% or 5% in Squalane: A gentler alternative to retinol with similar benefits.

For Texture and Pigmentation:

Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%: Helps with uneven texture, redness, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

For Hydration and Barrier Support:

Amino Acids + B5: Supports hydration and skin barrier function.

Step 5: Oil-Based Serums

« B » Oil: A blend of nourishing oils rich in essential fatty acids.
100% Plant-Derived Squalane: A lightweight oil suitable for all skin types.
Rose Hip Seed Oil: Rich in linoleic acid and pro-vitamin A, ideal for mature or dehydrated skin.

Step 6: Occlusive Moisturizer

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Locks in all the previous treatments and supports overnight skin barrier repair.

Creating Effective Combinations for Specific Concerns

For Acne-Prone Skin

Morning:

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Sunscreen

Evening:

Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (2-3 times weekly)
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Granactive Retinoid (start with 2%, on nights when not using Salicylic Acid)
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

For Hyperpigmentation

Morning:

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Sunscreen

Evening:

Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution (2-3 times weekly)
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Retinol or Granactive Retinoid (on nights when not using Glycolic Acid)
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

For Aging Concerns

Morning:

« Buffet »
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Sunscreen

Evening:

Lactic Acid 5% or 10% (2-3 times weekly)
« Buffet »
Granactive Retinoid or Retinol (on nights when not using Lactic Acid)
Rose Hip Seed Oil
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

For Dehydrated Skin

Morning:

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (on damp skin)
Amino Acids + B5
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Sunscreen

Evening:

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (on damp skin)
Amino Acids + B5
100% Plant-Derived Squalane or « B » Oil
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Ingredients That Don’t Play Well Together

To avoid irritation, reduced efficacy, or skin barrier damage, avoid using these combinations together:

Vitamin C + Niacinamide: Traditionally advised against, though newer research suggests they can be used together cautiously.
Vitamin C + Retinol/Retinoids: Can cause excessive irritation and potentially reduce the efficacy of both.
Multiple Acid Exfoliants: Using AHAs, BHAs, or other acids together can over-exfoliate the skin.
Retinol + Acid Exfoliants: This combination is often too irritating for most skin types.
Peptides + Acids: Acids can destabilize and reduce the efficacy of peptides.

Tips for Successful Layering

Wait Time Matters: Allow each product 30-60 seconds to absorb before applying the next layer.
Start Slow: Introduce new products one at a time, spacing them out by at least a week.
Less Is More: You don’t need to use every product every day. Listen to your skin’s needs.
Patch Test: Always patch test new products, especially those with active ingredients.
Consistency Is Key: Results come from consistent application over time, not from using everything at once.

Building Your Routine Gradually

If you’re new to The Ordinary or to advanced skincare in general, don’t rush to create a 10-step routine. Instead, build gradually:

Start with the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
Add a hydrating serum like Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5.
Introduce a targeted treatment for your primary concern (e.g., Niacinamide for pores, Vitamin C for brightness).
Slowly incorporate more advanced treatments (acids, retinoids) once your skin has adjusted.

Conclusion

The Ordinary’s approach to skincare—focused on single active ingredients at effective concentrations—allows for incredible customization. By understanding how to properly layer these powerful formulations, you can create a skincare routine that specifically targets your unique concerns while maintaining a healthy skin barrier.

Remember that skincare is personal, and what works for someone else might not work for you. Pay attention to how your skin responds, adjust accordingly, and give products adequate time (typically 4-6 weeks) to show results. With consistent application and proper layering techniques, The Ordinary’s affordable yet effective formulations can help you achieve your skincare goals without breaking the bank.

The most important thing is to listen to your skin. If it feels irritated or overwhelmed, simplify your routine and focus on gentle hydration and barrier support before gradually reintroducing active ingredients. Your skin will thank you for the thoughtful, science-based approach.