The Ordinary Routine Guide Build Your Perfect Skincare 2025

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. The Ordinary, a brand celebrated for its science-backed formulations and transparency, has revolutionized the beauty industry by offering potent, single-ingredient-focused products that cater to every skin type and concern. Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will walk you through building a tailored routine using The Ordinary’s products. We’ll cover everything from understanding your skin type to layering actives correctly—no price tags, just pure skincare wisdom.

Step 1: Know Your Skin Type and Concerns

Before diving into products, identify your skin type and primary concerns. The Ordinary’s lineup is vast, but it’s designed to address specific issues like dryness, oiliness, acne, hyperpigmentation, or aging. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Dry Skin: Needs hydration and barrier support.
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Requires oil control and exfoliation.
Combination Skin: Balances hydration and oil management.
Sensitive Skin: Demands gentle, non-irritating formulas.
Aging Skin: Benefits from collagen support and antioxidants.

Step 2: The Core Steps of a Skincare Routine

Every effective skincare routine follows four pillars: cleanse, treat, moisturize, and protect (SPF). Let’s break down how The Ordinary fits into each step.

1. Cleansing: Start Fresh

Cleansing removes impurities, excess oil, and preps skin for subsequent products. The Ordinary offers two standout cleansers:

Squalane Cleanser: A gentle, oil-based cleanser that melts makeup and sunscreen without stripping the skin. Ideal for dry or sensitive types.
Salicylic Acid 2% Masque: A weekly exfoliating treatment for oily or acne-prone skin. Contains salicylic acid (BHA) to unclog pores.

Pro Tip: Double cleanse at night (oil-based cleanser first, followed by a water-based one) if you wear makeup or SPF.

2. Exfoliation: Polish and Renew

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and boosts radiance. The Ordinary’s exfoliators fall into two categories:

Chemical Exfoliants
Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: A daily-use AHA (glycolic acid) toner for gentle exfoliation. Best for normal to oily skin.
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution: A weekly 10-minute mask for advanced users. Combines AHAs (glycolic, lactic, citric acids) and BHA (salicylic acid) to resurface skin.
Physical Exfoliants
Avoid harsh scrubs. The Ordinary focuses on chemical exfoliants, which are gentler and more effective.

Pro Tip: Start with 1–2 exfoliation sessions per week to avoid irritation. Never mix exfoliants with retinoids or vitamin C in the same routine.

3. Treatment: Target Specific Concerns

This is where The Ordinary shines. Layer serums and treatments based on your goals:

A. Hydration and Barrier Repair

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Attracts moisture to the skin’s surface. Works for all skin types.
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: A lightweight moisturizer that mimics the skin’s natural lipids.

B. Acne and Congestion

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Reduces sebum production and calms inflammation.
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: A spot treatment for active breakouts.

C. Hyperpigmentation and Brightening

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA: Fades dark spots without irritation.
Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%: A vitamin C serum for brightening and antioxidant protection.

D. Anti-Aging and Fine Lines

Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion: A gentle retinoid to boost collagen and cell turnover.
Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%: A peptide-rich serum for firmness and texture improvement.

E. Redness and Sensitivity

Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%: Soothes redness and smooths texture.
100% Plant-Derived Squalane: A lightweight oil to strengthen the skin barrier.

Pro Tip: Apply water-based treatments first (e.g., hyaluronic acid), followed by thicker formulas (e.g., oils or creams).

4. Moisturize: Lock in Hydration

Even oily skin needs moisture! The Ordinary’s moisturizers are minimalist yet effective:

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: A no-frills cream for daily use.
100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil: A nourishing oil rich in antioxidants.

Pro Tip: Oily skin? Skip heavy creams and opt for lighter layers of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

5. Sun Protection: Non-Negotiable

While The Ordinary doesn’t offer sunscreen, never skip this step! UV exposure undoes all your skincare efforts. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and apply it as the final morning step.

Step 3: Customize Your Routine

Now, let’s build routines for common skin types using The Ordinary’s products.

Routine for Dry/Sensitive Skin

AM:

Squalane Cleanser
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Sunscreen

PM:

Squalane Cleanser
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% (3x/week)
100% Plant-Derived Squalane
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Routine for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin

AM:

Salicylic Acid 2% Masque (1x/week)
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Sunscreen

PM:

Squalane Cleanser
Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution (2x/week)
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (spot treatment)
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Routine for Aging/Combination Skin

AM:

Squalane Cleanser
Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%
Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Sunscreen

PM:

Squalane Cleanser
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion (3x/week)
100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Step 4: Avoid Common Mistakes

Over-Exfoliating: Using AHAs/BHAs daily can damage your barrier. Stick to 2–3x/week.
Mixing Incompatible Actives: Don’t pair vitamin C with niacinamide or retinoids with direct acids.
Skipping Patch Tests: Always test new products on your jawline for 48 hours.
Ignoring pH Levels: Apply low-pH products (vitamin C, direct acids) first, followed by higher-pH formulas.

Step 5: Tips for Maximizing Results

Consistency is Key: Most actives (retinoids, vitamin C) take 4–8 weeks to show results.
Layer Light to Heavy: Start with watery textures, finish with oils/creams.
Adjust Seasonally: Use richer moisturizers in winter, lighter layers in summer.
Listen to Your Skin: If a product stings or causes redness, reduce frequency.

Final Thoughts

The Ordinary proves that effective skincare doesn’t require a luxury budget—just smart choices. By understanding your skin’s needs and layering products strategically, you can build a routine that delivers visible results. Start simple, introduce one new product at a time, and remember: skincare is a journey, not a sprint.