What I hate about The Ordinary
Ok, hate is probably too strong a word but the brand isn't without its downsides. A lot of the reasons I love it are also some of the reasons it annoys me.
The Ordinary is confusing.
The number of products and scientific language can be overwhelming for those who don't know their alpha-hydroxy to their Zinc. Even though they offer guides, it can be confusing figuring out all the chemicals, acids, powders and oils on offer. What do they all do? When should you use them? How should you use them? I've ended up doing personalised recommendations for a lot of friends as they find it so confusing knowing which products to get.
It can damage your skin.
I don't want to scare you but because the products use such active ingredients if they are used incorrectly or used with the wrong product it could cause a bad reaction and potentially damage your skin. The online support on the website is great for answer questions if you are not too sure about using some products
It can be time-consuming to use.
Because most of the products are just single ingredients you are using a lot more products than if you were using a single product that contained all the ingredients. So while you're saving money buying The Ordinary skincare you're not saving any time! Most of the time I love having a long skincare routine but for the days and nights, I just want to slap something on and forget about it. This doesn't really work with The Ordinary.
The Packaging
Another thing I love and hate about The Ordinary products is that they all look the same. I love the simplicity of the bottles but when you're trying to find the one you want, it can be very annoying having to pick each one up and see what it is. It can also be hard to remember which order to use them in. When I first started using the products I kept them in their boxes and wrote on the order it was to be used, which helped.
The Texture.
One thing a lot of people complain about is the texture. This doesn't bother me too much but I do notice a difference between some of the products eg the Hyaluronic acid and the Medik 8 version. The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid has more of a tacky feeling. This is because the time and money haven't been spent on refining the textures as some brands do. It doesn't make a difference to how well the products work.
My biggest issue… I now feel a little more than resentful paying more for other skincare brands!
For the results and the price, The Ordinary really is worth the hype. Before you purchase any of the ordinary, do your research! If you've any questions on what are the best The Ordinary products for your skin, or what skincare routine you should follow you should be using, know in the comments below and I'll be happy give you a personalised recommendation. honestly, it gives me so much joy recommending products! These are The Ordinary products I can't live without and here's a picture of my stuffed drawer.
The Ordinary products are available online at theordinary.com | lookfantastic.com | feelunique.com | cultbeauty.com | beautybay.com
Please note this post may contain affiliate links but is not affiliated driven
ps when your finished the bottles make pretty cute vases
139 Comments
I agree that skincare really comes at a price but when you get to know which chemicals suit your skin, you can start branching out and find a cheaper alternative. Hope your skin is absorbing the best of Ordinary!
It sure is! I love it!
Sarah,
I love the Ordinary products as well, and I’d love your advise. I am 48 and have combination skin – oily in the t zone! I have large pores and an uneven skin tone- not to mention a few wrinkles! Currently this is what I’m doing…
AM
Wash w/Dove soap
Buffet
Nianicide plus zinc
Moisturizer w/SPF
Make-up
PM
Miscellar water
Nutrigena foaming face wash
Buffet
Nianicide plus zinc
Rotate- retinol in granactive & Lactic Acid 10%
Rose hip oil
I do the peel one night a week with nothing else but rose hip oil after.
I’d like to add one if the Vit C products. I’ve also thought about the Azelaic acid, but I don’t usually do well with silicones.
I would love to hear what you think I should add or subtract from what I’m doing.
Many thanks!!
D
Hi Dee!
Thanks so much for your comment. You have a good routine going here already, the only thing I would suggest is replacing the dove soap and the foaming face wash. These can be very drying on the skin which can cause the skin to make more oil. You could try the squalane cleanser for The Ordinary as this is really gentle.
For the pores the Niacinamide will be helping but you could add in a toner/essence. I’ve heard amazing things about COSRX Two in One Poreless Power Liquid. You would use it twice a day after cleansing and before the Buffet.
For Vit C The Ordinary has many many options! If you don’t get on well with Silicones then it does narrow down the options. The Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% is a good choice as it should be irritating and it soaks into the skin quickly. Plus you can still use Niacinamide and Buffet after it, some strong Vit C products cancel the benefits of them.
I love the Azelaic Acid for treating redness caused by congestion and it’s not too expensive to try out.
Let me know if you have questions and how you get on!!
XOXO
Sarah
Thanks so much! I bought the vit C 23%+ HA sphere and the glycolic toner before I got your answer. Do you think it is okay for me to switch my cleanser to something more gentle, try the Vit C in the am and add in the glycolic toner at night? Is that too much?
Thanks so much for your help!!
Dee
Thanks so much for sharing this. I have been wanting to try this brand out..super helpful!
Your welcome. Hope you get to try the products they’re great but only start off with a few so you don’t overwhelm your skin.
Hello! How do I use these The Ordinary products in the right order? The products I have are:
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10%
100% Plant Derived Squalane
Plus I use Vitamin C but from a different brand which is
Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C
I have combination skin type and I have skin pigmentations and white heads and black heads around the nose area I only get one or two pimples when it’s that time of the month.
Please help, thank you very much!
Please
Hi Christina,
Thanks so much for your comment.
I don’t know the Klairs Vit C but i’m going to presume it’s a strong vit c which has contraindications for the Niacinamide. So the best routine in my opinion is
AM.
After cleansing
Alpha Arbutin on pigmentation areas.
Klair Vit C if it is a serum
Azlaic Acid
Squalane oil. You could add a few drops of this to your moisturiser instead if you wanted.
SPF
PM.
Alpha Arbutin
Niacinamide
Squalne Oil
Magnesium Ascobyl
The Niacinamide will help with the congestion as will the Azelaic acid but you could try introducing the Glycolic Toner
in the pm routine after cleansing. This help disolve the dead skin cells and helps prevent congestion in the pores. It’s best to start off using it once every second or third evening till your skin gets used to it and you must use spf the next day!
If the blackheads and whiteheads are still continuing you could try spot treating the areas with Salicylic Acid a few times a week. I generally don’t recommend using it every day as it can dry out the skin. It’s also great to use on areas the week before you get your period that you usually get spots as it helps to clear out the pore. The niacinamide will well also help a lot with this as it reduces sebum reduction which ramps up just before our period (yay!)
Hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Really appreciate you taking the time to comment.
XOXO
Sarah
Interesting… Never tried this product before.
They’re great! You should try them!
I want to try this but have no idea where to even start. Please help
Awesome. I would try these products. They seem to keep costs down in not having the extras.
And they really work! I hope you try them out!
Very honest review I appreciate that a lot especially if you are investing a lot of money into a product.
I just purchased my first foundation from them and I am amazed on how well it works for sooo cheap! Great read!
I love their foundations. I’ve got the serum and the coverage ones.
Hi Sara! So, I have combination skin but it is also really sensitive. My concerns are a brighter complexion, dark under eye, and smaller pores. Since I have sensitive skin, is there any products that would work for me? By the way i love your post! Thank you for being in depth and honest with your review!
Hi Lisa! I hear ya my skin is super sensitive as well as a combination.
Some products that would be great for you are Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10%.
It’s a vitamin c product (which is great for brightening the skin and evening tone) This has a smaller concentration so it shouldn’t cause any sensitivity like some of the other vitamin C products. It’s also a great hydrator without being too heavy and you can use it in place of your daytime moisteriser.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This is an amazing serum! It helps balance oil production, reduces blemishes and evens skintone.
If you want to start on retinol i’d recommend the Retinoid 2% in Emulsion
This is a great introduction to retinol products, particularly if you have sensitive skin. (see my post on retinol for the full list of the benefits of this holy grail product)
If you want to add an oil, the Borage Seed Oil is great for soothing irritated skin.
The Caffeine Solution 5% is super for dark circles and puffiness – and lasts for ages!
To use these products use
AM
1.Niacinamide – in areas of congestion
2.Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% all over face
3.Caffeine Solution
4.Your regular SPF
PM
1.Niacinamide – in areas of congestion
2. Retinoid 2% in Emulsion
3.Caffeine Solution
4.Borage Seed Oi
5. Regular night moisturiser
The trick is to introduce new products slowly.
Let me know what you think and if you have any questions!
Love seeing all your recommendations. I am lost trying to figure out which products to buy. I have been using Arbonne RE9 and am tired of paying the big bucks for that system and started replacing with various products but have been loving the price and results of some of The Ordinary Products. 46 years old; Botox treatments on forehead and light treatment around eyes I have combination skin but during winter months a little more dry. Current program is
AM
CeraVe Hydrating Facial cleanser
Ordinary Caffeine under eyes
Ordinary Hyaluronic on lips and forehead
RE9daytime moisturizer with SPF with Vit c suspension 30% in Silicone
PM
Clinique makeup remover
CeraVe Hydrating Face Cleanser
Glycolic cleansing pads
Ordinary Caffeine under eyes
Ordinary Hyaluronic on lips and forehead
Palmers therapy oil face(under eyes, crease between eyes, lips)
RE9 Night Moisturizer
*Some menstrual breakouts
*blackheads especially around nose
*some pigmentation under eyes
*would like overall improvement to texture and tone of skin and reduce overall effects of aging.
Thank you for any recommendations!!
Hi Kate,
Thanks so much for your comment! It looks like you have a pretty good routine already. I would recommend introducing The Ordinary Retinoid and building up to higher concentrations. You can read all about retinol here
You could add in Argireline Solution 10%, which is a peptide that mimics the effects of botox by slightly freezing the muscles. You would use the Argireline and retinoid in your pm routine, as Argireline counteracts with the Vit C and retinol / retinoid must always be used in the pm. Due to it’s light consistency you should use it after cleansing and toning but before the HA. Use the Argireline only areas where you would have dynamic lines, so across the forehead, around the eyes and around the lips. The retinoid you use all over the face.
I would also recommend The Ordinary Peeling Solution as a once a week treatment. This will really help with uneven skin tone and fine lines.
Let me know your thoughts!
XOXO
Sarah
Hi Sara! My primary skin concerns are early signs of aging (I’m 30 yo and want to prevent any major wrinkles etc) and uneven skin texture. I purchased buffet + copper peptides, peeling solution, and their HA cream last week and really like them so far. However, I really want to take it to the next level and have a more throurough regimen for day and night. I should mention that I am breastfeeding, so unfortunately retinols and retinoids are ourlt of the question for the time being. What do you recommend? Also, do you have any favorites for every day SPF (either within the ordinary or another band?). Thanks so much for this post! So helpful :).
Thank you so much for the comment Kelly! I love putting together recommendations! I’ve been using the Buffet and Copper peptides for awhile now and I love it! So a couple of things I would recommend are
AM
An antioxidant would help support and protect your skin. I currently use a few drops of The Ordinary’s EUK 134% mixed in with SPF. As it’s very strong it means you can’t use the Buffet with Copper peptides with it or Vitamin C which is annoying. But they have just released a new antioxidant called Pynogenol 5% which I’m going to switch to when I’m finished the EUK. I explain why antioxidants are so important in this post.
Argireline Solution is a serum which you use on your forehead and around your eyes to help prevent dynamic wrinkles forming. I love it!
If you are going to use a strong vitamin c product its best to alternate use.
SPF Shh don’t tell the Ordinary but I am currently loving Uriage Age Protect Multi Action SPF 30. It helps to protect against skin aging from blue light from our computers and phones (yup another thing to worry about!). If you use a few drops of the Pycnogenol mixed in with this nothing will get through to damage your skin!
PM
Rosehip oil. Great for anti aging and one my all time favourites!
Vitamin C. As you can’t introduce a retinol yet I’d recommend using a vitamin c product most nights. The problem is trying to figure out which one is best for your skin. The vitamin 30% in silicone is the one I use at the moment but some skin types not react well with silicones. The Vitamin C 23% dosen’t have any silicone but some people (me) don’t like how it feels sort of gritty. The there is the L-Asorbic Acid Powder which you can mix in to a night cream.
It’s hard to know which Vit C is the best one, you’ve just got to try them out. Nearly all of them will feel very tingly for a minute or two and you also can’t use the Buffet with Copper peptides with a Vitamin C
Routine wise I’d recommend
AM
Buffet with copper peptides all over face
Agrireline Solution around eyes and forehead
Your eye cream
HA all over the face
SPF with a few drops of Pycnogenol
PM
Agrireline
Eye Cream
On alternate nights Buffet with Copper Peptides
HA
Rosehip oil
Vitamin C product on alternate nights.
Just a note on the peeling solution. If you haven’t used it yet start off for 5 minutes, it dose sting like hell but it goes away after a minute or two. Then do it for 10 minutes the next time. It is one of the strongest acids you can get so I recommend only using it once a week especially during the winter as you don’t want to damage the skins protective barrier.
After using it, the rosehip oil and / or your regular cream is enough. Anything else could cause irritation. Also if you have a jade roller it feels amazing on your skin after using the peeling solution.
I think that’s it (I told you I love doing recommendations!)
Let me know if you have any questions!
Also sorry for any weird links to iherb, I have a plugin which keeps creating random links and I can’t seem to change it)
Hi Sara! Thanks for the interesting article. I just discovered The Ordinary but feel a little bit overwhelmed with all the information. Nevertheless, your article convinced me to try out some of their products 🙂 Would love to see what you recommend for my combination skin with an oily t-zone prone to break outs and somewhat enlarged pores on my nose. The rest of my face is sometimes dry in wintertimes. I can’t wait to try The Ordinary products in my skincare regimen. Again thank you for the article and review, it was really helpful!
Hi Eva,
Thanks for your comment, I’m delighted you enjoyed the post. So with combination skin, the most important thing is to keep the skin balanced. As I say in the post, one thing I love about The Ordinary is how easy it is to treat different areas of your skin, which is why it’s great for combination skin.
I’d recommend the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, it helps to reduce sebum production, so it helps prevent congestion from excess oil. It also helps with evening out skintone and protecting the skins barrier. You can use it 2x days if you want – it won’t dry out your skin but if you use a strong vit c product in your routine, i’d alternate use as it can make the vit c ineffective. The Glycolic Acid 7% toning solution is another great one for combination skin. It helps to exfoliate the skin by dissolving dead skin cells, which helps keep the pores clear.
It’s best to use in the pm as it can make the skin more sensitive to sun and start off using it every second or third day as it can take time for your skin to get used to it.
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% is a great all rounder which you can use as your daily moisturiser. It helps to brighten the skin and reduces blemishes. It also helps with any redness and inflammation. For hydration, it would be good to add in some oils. The 100% Plant-Derived Squalane is great for combination skin is similar to what is found in our own skin so by using it on oily parts your telling the skin it doesn’t to make so much oil and on the dryer parts it provides the hydration that the skin can’t produce in the area. You can also try the 100% Plant-Derived Hemi-Squalane which is even lighter. This can be used every day in the am and pm.
Then for the occasional breakout, Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is brilliant! I still can’t get over the price for that amount. You would usually be paying double for half the amount even for “drug store” brands!
Let me know if you have any questions on these and let me know how you get on!!
Sarah,
XOXO
Hi Sarah,
I have been using the products that you suggested for more than a month and my skin has never looked so good! I don’t have that many blemishes, my skin is already more even toned and it even looks more glowy and healthy. The routine became a calming ritual and it really gave me a confidence boost. I’m still amazed with the quality of the product for that kind of price! Thank you so much for your recommendations! I’m hooked on the Ordinary
I’m delighted to hear this Eva! Thank you so much for taking the time to let me know how your getting on x x x x
Hi Sarah,
Thanks so much for the info! My current PM routine is: Cleanser -> Niacinamide 10% -> Azelaic Acid 10% -> 100% Plant-Derived Squalane. I just incorporated Azelaic Acid yesterday and targeted it in areas with high concentrations of acne and blemishes. However, when I was done with Azelaic Acid and moved on to Squalane, white balls started to appear around the areas where I’d applied Azelaic earlier. Do you know how to avoid pilling?
Thank you so much!
xoxo
Hi Kris,
Unfortunately, the Azelaic acid can pill. Have you tried using the squalane before the Azelaic acid?
XOXO
Sarah
Hi Sarah! This is an amazing article! I have verrrry dry skin, am 40 and the wrinkles are coming on full force lol. What do I use???? I’ve been using the hylauronic acid, buffet and vitamin c bit really not sure when and how and which should go first and second and which shouldn’t be combine. It did feel tingly with vitamin c application. Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi Robin,
Thank you so much for your comment! I would recommend adding in an oil – The Rose Hip oil would be perfect as it’s really hydrating and anti aging. The Hyaluronic Acid is also great for dry skin, you can use this twice a day as your first serum on clean skin. If you are using one of the stronger Vitamin C products (the 23%, 30% or 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder) it’s best to alternate the of The Buffet ie use the Vitamin C Product in the morning and the Buffet in the evening. Vitmain C can cause the peptides in the Buffet to become ineffective. In general, it’s best to use the Vitamin C once a day. Don’t be afraid to add in a retinol or retinoid (See my retinol post for why you should be using them) To start off with the Retinoid 2% in emulsion is fantastic. I prefer the emulsion to the Retinoid 2% in squalane (They are just different textures – the emulsion is more of a watery serum and the squalane is oily).
So your routine should be
AM – cleansing
Hyaluronic Acid
Rose Hip oil if you feel you need it and have time for it to soak in.
Vitamin C
SPF
PM – after cleansing
Hyaluronic Acid – If you want the Buffet does contain HA but in a smaller %
Buffet
Retinoid 2% in Emulsion
Rose Hip Oil
A hydrating cream
Just a note on dry skin, your cleanser is really important. Make sure you are using an oil or balm type, so you don’t strip any essential oils. Cerave Hydrating Cleanser has been my life saver! Also make sure you have enough omega oils in your diet (ie fatty oils from fish and nuts) a deficiency can be a cause of really dry skin.
Let me know if you have any questions!
Sarah xoxo
I have been using deciem products for a while
I just received a order with products I haven’t used
Here are what I have
Buffet copper
Ha b5
Niod photo %8
Vc
Euk
Alpha lipoic
Pychology
Te
rtinol 5%
Nmf
B oil
I am thinking adding rose hip and if you would recommend a vitamin c product . Can you tell what routine you would suggest
Thank you
You’ve just reminded me that I have a bottle of photography fluid in my drawer – cant remember what % it is, think i tried it on my skin and thought thats too dark, saving that for summer – which is silly as I’m away in the sun at the moment…. anyhoo always start off with the buffet and copper peptides, do you mean the voicemail mask for Vc? And Te? i’m not sure what that is. The EUK and Pycnogenol 5% are pretty much the same, the EUK gives a slightly higher antioxidant protection but you can’t use it with vitamin c.
So routine I would recommend
AM – if not using a vitamin c
Buffet with Copper peptides
HA everywhere
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (I presume this is what you meant by Nmf) where you need it, usually the t zone.
Alpha Lipoic on areas on pigmentation
a couple of drop of EUK or Pycnogenol mixed in with the B oil or your moisteriser or your spf
PM
Buffet with Copper peptides
HA everywhere
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Alpha Lipoic on areas on pigmentation
Retinol 5% – because this is already in a squalene oil you prob wont need to use the b oil but if you skin is very dry and the squalene absorbs quickly you can add it on
Night time moisturiser if you use one.
I always recommend rosehip oil – it’s just great at everything. You could use it in the evening after the retinol a couple of times a week as an added boost.
Vitamin C is a tricky one the Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% is a good one to start off with as its not too strong and you can use all the above products with it. If you go for any of the other Vitamin C products you can’t use the Buffet with copper peptides or the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
I’m still playing around with their Vitamin C products. I’ve used the 23% and 30% and haven’t been wowed by either, both are a bit irritating on the skin and I don’t like the texture of the 23%. Like using retinol, starting off with a lower vitamin c is better but you really need to play around with them to see what you like. What I don’t like you may love. I would also recommend adding in Argireline Solution 10% it’s amazing! it helps to slightly freeze the muscles, thus reducing and preventing dynamic wrinkles.
let me know how you get on!
Sarah
XOXO
Hi
I’ve been recently diagnosed with Seborrheic Dermatitis on my face.
I’m very interested to try Niod products and more from The Ordinary. Before being diagnosed with SD i got Mandelic acid,Azelaic acid, Squalane oil,Seabuckthorn oil,Alpha arbutin+ha, all from TO. I also have lage patches of hyperpigmentation on my upper cheeks. I’m very confused with the SD, i thinks it s very very mild. I was also diagnosed with psoriasis on my scalp.
Hi Ina,
Thank you for your comment. I have Seborrheic Dermatitis so I feel your pain! Luckily it’s rare that I get flare-ups now, think my last one was about 6 months ago. If you are in the middle of a flare up I wouldn’t use any other products on the area except the ones you have been prescribed by the doctor and a moisturiser that doesn’t irritate and helps calm the itching. I have recently discovered Uriage DS Emuslion https://www.uriage.com/LB/en/products/d-s-emulsion which is amazing for SD!
If you feel that your skin is doing better you can start introducing TO products on the areas that you don’t have the SD, but you should wait till it’s fully cleared up before beginning a full routine. Because of the SD, your skin’s surface is out of whack so it’s really important to make sure the skin’s barrier is completely repaired before you start using stronger products. To help strengthen your skin’s barrier, I’d introduce a ceramide like Cerave Hydrating Cleanser and a probiotic serum or moisturiser Like Auralia or The Inkey List have just launced a new probiotic moisteriser on Cult Beauty
Let me know how your getting on with the SD and if you have any questions. Take lots of omega oils and probiotic supplements – and no sugar, not even fruit for a few days!
XOXO
Sarah
Ho 58 anni e ho cominciato a usare i prodotti the ordinary. Il mio problema principale è il contorno occhi molto secco, con rughe che non riesco a truccare perché dopo 2 minuti il correttore va nelle pieghe creando un effetto bruttissimo. La cosa mi rende vulnerabile perché lavoro e le relazioni diventano difficili. In pratica mi vergogno di farmi vedere. Hai qualcosa da suggerire?
Grazie mille per la risposta che gentilmente vorrai darmi
Hi Sarah, I am 42 and have oily skin. I have always (since teen years) been prone to breakouts, even cystic acne, but I’ve found that if I follow a routine (cleansing and using products) I can keep the breakouts at bay. But right now I’m spending a fortune to do this. 🙂 Have been using Rodan & Fields for about five years, and thought my skincare was better than ever. Then, I tried the Sunday Riley and Cuadalie (below) and BAM – my skin seems so much better!
My current routine is:
AM:
Clarisonic with dove beauty bar
Rodan & Fields lightening toner
Shiseido eye cream
Rodan & Fields Oil Free SPF 50
PM:
Wash with dove or charcoal soap
Tone (same toner as above)
Same eye cream as above
Sunday Riley Retinoid Serum
Cuadalie Vinoperfect night cream
Sunday Riley Food Oil
What I hope to ultimately achieve:
Use up the rest of the R&F and cancel that subscription.
Find the PERFECT eye cream (mainly to address dark circles)
Find the perfect toner
Start the double cleanse method PM
Possibly replace the Rinday Riley with serum(s) from TO
Find a new SPF daily moisturizer
Possibly replace my current night cream
Replace my oil to one from TO
Help! 🙂
THANKS, and XXOO
Hi Christy,
So a couple of The Ordinary products that would work well for you would be the
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% – this is an amazing product that seems to do everything! It
Helps to regulate and reduce the production sebum (ie oil on the skin), increases protein synthesis which boosts collagen and elastin production (so great for wrinkles) and also helps to even out skin tone.
You can use it twice a day before heavier oils and creams.
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
This could be your eventual replacement for the Sunday Riely Retinoid serum. The emulsion shouldn’t cause any breakouts. When you want to move up to a higher percentage be aware that the squlane oil that they are in could cause an initial breakout as the skin balances itself out.
Glycolic Acid 7% Toner
This dissolves dead skin cells which can block pores so its great for oil and combination skin. It also helps with skin radiance and evens skin tone.Best used in the pm, start of slowely using it once every 3 days, then once every 2 days until you feel your skin has gotten used to it. Too much acid use can damage the skins protective layer. While you are introducing it to your skin alternate it with the retinol, until you feel your skin can take the both of them.
Rose Hip Seed Oil
I think this would be the best oil for you to try as there has been a lot of great feedback from users who have acne and oil skin plus its just an all round great facial oil.
Buffet + Copper peptides 1%
This is a bit more expensive than some of the other Ordinary products but it is worth it. I’ve been using it for about 4/5 months now and its made my skin look so much better. I can’t quite put my finger on what it is but my skin just looks good, I’ve also had hardly any breakouts or sensitivity issues.
These would be the best products to get you started and you can introduce while you use up the rest of your other products.
With regards to a new spf moisteriser – trying to find one that isn’t heavy and doesn’t block pores is tough, im still looking for my perfect one. I haven’t tried them yet (as they’re not available in Ireland yet) but I have heard great things about SuperGoop spfs
I wish there existed an eye cream for getting rid of dark circles! If you find one let me know! The Ordinarys Caffeine Solution 5% is really good and I would definitely recommend trying it out, I would use it first, then add a nourishing eye cream on top. A good eye cream is worth shelling out the big bucks for!
With the saving you get with The Ordinary products I would recommend that you do invest in a good night cream, if the Caudalie is working for you, then it might be worth keeping it up. You only need to be using the tinest bit of cream, so it should last you a good while.
Delighted to hear you are going to start double cleansing! It’s so important and makes such a difference to your skin. Just be careful that you are not over cleansing it and stripping skins oil, which makes it product more and causes breakouts. I’d be concerned that using the clarisonic and dove bar in the morning may be too much for your skin everyday. A gentle cleanser like Cerave might work well?
Let me know how you get on and if you have any questions.
Sarah xoxo
You are BOMB!!!!! thank you so much for replying to me. It means a ton! XXXOO Will keep you posted.
I know this post is older at this point, but I would love your recommendation on The Ordinary. It is so overwhelming! I am 40 and have pretty much no skincare regime. I wash with Dessert Essence Thoroughly Clean Face Wash and moisturize with Image Prevention+ daily matte moisturizer. That’s it. But I am starting to feel my age and regret not caring for my skin. I am starting to see some fine lines around my eyes and mouth, have dark circles, hyperpigmentation, and large pores/congestion. I want to begin a regular regimine, but I don’t want it to be too complicated or time consuming so that I will stick with it. I also don’t want to overwhelm my skin with too much too soon. Great article! Thanks so much!
I definitely recommended introducing retinol or retinoid. Out of all skincare products this one dose the most for your skin. I go through the benefits on how to use it here
You should start off with the Granactive Retinoid Emulsion the emulsion is a light serum texture but it also comes in squalane which is a really light oil. They both work as well, its just a personal preference if you prefer a serum or oil. As I explain in my earlier post it’s best to start of slow using it every few days in the pm and increasing to every second day, then every evening once you feel your skin is tolerating it well.
The second product I’d recommend is the Buffet + Copper Peptides. I can’t get enough of this product! It does everything, helps to reduce fine lines, improves texture, reduces pigmentation.
For your eyes the Caffeine Solution 5% can help with dark circles but unfortunately when we get older the area around our eyes hollows which creates a darker shadow.
If you were wanted to try another product for large pores and pigmentation Niacinamide is my holy grail! It helps to reduce oil production and congestion, fine lines and pigmentation.
So your skincare routine could look like this.
AM
Cleanse
Buffet + Copper Peptides
Niacinamide
Caffeine 5% for the eyes
Moisturiser with SPF
PM
Cleanse
Buffet + Copper Peptides
Niacinamide
Retinoid
Caffeine 5% for the eyes
Moisturiser with no SPF
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions or want to try any other products.
XOXO Sarah
Hi Sarah I’m 50 and would like to try the ordinary products, I have wrinkles and lines on my forehead , and pigmentation on my cheeks, and some age spots, plz recommend some products for me , love reading how you helped others and put in a daily routine
Hi Roxy,
I’m so sorry, I somehow missed your comment. If you are still would like some advice I would love to recommend a routine for you. If you want to drop me a mail at sarah@awelltravelledbeauty.com with what products you use at the moment and what you would like your routine to look like ie do you like to take your time and don’t mind appling 5 different products or do you prefer it to be as quick as possible? The more information the better!
Again I’m so sorry for missing your comment 🙁
XOXO
Sarah
Hi Sara,
I really loved your article and love that you are helping out ordinary product virgins like me!!
I am 27yo and would like to get started with some Ordinary products. I get occasional hormonal breakouts before/during the shark week which leave behind marks. Also I get frequent break outs on this one area of my cheek (once a month). What would you recommend to get rid of the marks from the breakouts, avoid further breakouts, and to get started with anti-ageing products. I have a combination skin, cheeks are dry, nose skin slightly oily!
Thank you so much 🙂
Hi Gini,
Thank you so much for your comment!
I would definitely introduce the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, as you can see from the other comments, I recommend this product a lot! It helps to regulate and reduce sebum production in the skin, so it’s perfect oily and combination skin, It helps with hyperpigmentation (the marks left behind by breakouts) and also helps the skin protect itself, meaning less inflamed and sensitive skin! You can use this in the am and pm as your first serum after cleansing as long as your not using a vitamin c product. You should use this all of the face.
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% Is also great for reducing breakouts and evenning skintone. This can be used in the am and pm after lighter serums like Niacinamide in areas where you have current breakouts and pigmentation.
Rose Hip Seed Oil is perfect for combination skin as it helps balance oil production and it has anti-aging properties. It’s just a great all round oil, again you can use this in the am and pm, but most like to use it in the pm as it can take a bit to sink into the skin. Use all over the face and take some time to massage it in. Another oil that would be good for you is the Marula oil, it is a bit more hydrating than the rose hip oil.
Alpha Arbrutin 2%
Is a fantastic serum for reducing pigmentation, just pop a couple of drops on the areas of concern in the am and pm. (Best used before the Azlaic Acid)
For the occasional breakouts Salicylic Acid 2% is your secret weapon. If you have an idea when and wear your hormonal breakouts will happen, put a few drops of this on the area and if you have a breakout use it on them. It basically just clears everything out of the pore, it can be drying on the skin though so don’t go over board.
With regards to anti-aging you could introduce Argireline Solution 10% smooths out and helps prevent dynamic wrinkles forming. Its best applied as one of your first serums to the forehead, around the eyes and around your mouth. The Niacinamide also helps with aging by stimulating protein synthesis which boosts collagen and elastin production.
I would also recommend the glycolic 7% toner. It dissolves the dead skin cells on our skin, giving your skin a glow and evenning the skintone. It also helps to boost the skin cells turnover rate, which slows down as we get older. If you havent used a glycolic before, start off very slowly by using it once every few days always in the pm and increasing use eventually to every evening.
Let me know how you get on and if you have any questions.
xoxo
Sarah
Hi Sara
Thank you so so so much for your suggestions.
I was thinking for now I will start with Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% followed by the rose hip oil in the am and pm. And use the salicylic acid 2% before/during breakouts. and gradually add the other products. Is that ok??
In the mornings after the rose hip oil can apply my moisturiser and sunscreen after that?
I also use the kiehls midnight recovery at night, is it ok to use that after the rose hip oil?
Also do i need to use a toner before I apply the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%? If so, which one would you suggest? i was looking at the pixi glow toner…
And what eye cream would you suggest?
Sorry for so many queries. I am still a newbie and would love the help!
I just realised it shows my name as Arundhuti.
Gini is my nickname. Still the same person haha
Hi Sara,
Thank you so so much for the suggestions!
I wanted to ask if it is okay if i start with the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and rose hip oil followed by my moisturizer and sunscreen in the am. Is it okay if i follow the same and add the kiehls midnight recovery also.
Do you suggest using a toner before the products? which one would you suggest? Also, what night eye creams would you suggest ??
Hi Gini,
Send me all the queries! I love answering them!
Yep thats a good routine. Only use the tinyest bit of the Rose Hip oil in the am as it can take a few minutes to soak into the skin. Play around with it at see how your skin is reacting and if it suits your morning routine. In the pm, I would use the kiehls midnight recovery before the rose hip oil as it’s best to layer according to thickness. Also the oil gets pulled into the lower layers of the skin so any products that you have applied before will get brought to the lower skin layers with it. Meaning that your products are working on a deeper level of the skin and giving you more benefits!
As for a toner, the Pixi Glow Toner is a great one to start off as an introduction to glycolic acid. Iv’e gone through many bottles of the stuff! They also do a great rose toner. If your going to use the pixi glow toner, only use it in the evening after cleansing and before the Niacinamide. Start off using it every second day till your sure you don’t have any sensitivity. After you have used it for awhile you can use it in the morning, but YOU HAVE TO USE SPF with it! The rose tonic you can use anytime, it’s lovely and refreshing!
Eye cream wise, you need one that is nourishing and hydrating but not thick, using a heavy cream around the eyes can lead to puffiness. One that i’ve loved and recommended for a long time is ESPA 24 hours Replenishing Eye Cream It is a little bit expensive, but it last for AGES! You just need one pump for both eyes and you can use it on your lips as well. I used to work for ESPA and I know their products inside out, and I still love them!
Looking forward to hearing how you get on!! Let me know if you have any other questions.
XOXO
Sarah
Hi Sara,
wanted to give an update!!
So i have been using the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% in the am and pm after cleansing my face. I use the midnight recovery or sometimes rosehip oil at night after it. In the am, i put my moisturiser and sunscreen.
I also started using the Nip+Fab extreme pads with glycolic, salicylic n lactic acid 2 times a week.
So it has been 3 weeks and i have been picturing my face and the results are WOW.
Things i observed-
1. My uneven skin tone has improved SOOOOOO much. I am in LOVE <3
2. My face is so much less oilier.
3. I have just had one breakout since. Even the area on my right cheek which was so shit and I would get breakouts there every other week, *touchwood* I haven't had any breakout there any longer. The discoloration caused by it, has lightened so so much.
I am so HAPPPY with the results and thank you so so so much for getting me started nd helping me out. I will always remember you 🙂
Now I am thinking of adding the other ordinary products that you suggested. Could you recommend a daily use toner and a face wash for cleansing. I am currently using the Bioderma face wash gel.
Again thank you so much 😀
Oh i just remembered my collegue also said to me my skin looks real good lately. I told her about you and she is also getting interested in skincare now 😀
Hi Sarah,
I loved reading your article. And yes you’re right, it’s very confusing for the beginner to know which products to use.
I’ve just started using Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion. It’s only been a few days but so far so good. I realise it takes a while to see any real results. I’m trying to make my way up the Retinol path without causing too much irritation.
I’m 49, and wrinkles are starting to be a concern, along with dark circles around my eyes, redness and open pores around my nose and marionette lines going down at the corners of my mouth. If I could find a miracle product to combat this slight sagging I would be VERY happy!
I do get the odd spot but not very often really. I think my skin type is combination but probably on the drier side if anything.
I want to add more The Ordinary products to my regime (such as hyaluronic acid) but I’m worried about using the wrong mixture of products and causing a major reaction!
Which products would you recommend for my skin?
Thank you so much for any advice you can give.
Hi Mandy,
Thank you so much for your comment and i’m so sorry i’ve taken so long to get back to you.
Ok so starting with Granactive Retinoid is great, once you have finished that you can move up to the 5% Retinoid and then the 1% Retinol. It can take up to 12 weeks to see a difference as this is how long our skin cells take turn over.
Some products I would recommend are
Buffet + Copper Peptides a bit more expensive than other The Ordinary products, it worth it though. The Buffet has lots of peptides which help with slowing and reversing aging of the skin. The copper helps the skin cells communicate better with each other, which slows down as we age. I have been blown away by this product! I havent used it in the past few weeks as I ran out and im travelling and I really notice the difference in my skin. I can quite pin point what it is but my skin just looks better when I’m using it. It also helps your skin adapt to Retinol use.
Another peptide that I swear by is Argireline Solution 10% Known as botox in a bottle, it helps to relax the facial muscles, helping to lessen and prevent expression lines. SO perfect for the marionette lines, around your eyes and forehead. Don’t worry it doesn’t give a full frozen effect, just makes your skin look softer. Usually found in way way more expensive serums, this is one of the best value The Ordinary products.
For redness and pores around your nose you can try Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. This is a great product for reducing redness and helps to even your skin tone as well.
Rose Hip Oil.
We all should be using facial oil, and rose hip is great for helping with fine lines and preventing further wrinkles. It works really well with combination skin as its not too heavy and helps to balance the skin. Plus using an oil helps “pull” your other products deeper into your skin.
Glycolic Acid.
As we get older, our skin turnover slows down, glycolic helps to remove the dead skin cells, helping your products work better and giving your skin a renewed, refreshed appearance. It’s best to alternate with the retinoid use as using them both until your skin has gotten used to them can cause irritation. Also use in your pm routine as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Hyaluronic Acid – the Buffet + copper peptides, already has Hyaluronic acid but I love to soak my skin in the stuff so I always recommend having a bottle to hand.
Treatments.
Although it sounds scary the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a great product, you just have to start off using it SLOWLY! Do a patch test first, then try it on one part of your face, if after a few days there is no reaction, use it as a mask. Start off for 5 minutes then the recommended 10 the next time you use it. Use it once a week for the best results but don’t use the glycolic or retinoid afterwards, hyaluronic acid and the rose hip will work great with it. Like the glycolic it removes the dead skin cells but gives a deep clean. The next day your skin is glowing! and with continued use it helps to fade fine lines.
Alpha Lipoic 5%.
A potent antioxidant it helps to even skin tone and works to defend against wrinkles. Use once to twice a week but not with the glycolic (till your skin is used to it) and never with the retinoid or retinol. You can use the agrieline, Azelaic Acid, hyaluronic acid and rose hip oil with it.
I won’t confuse you with too many recommendations!
Let me know how you get on and if you have any questions!
XOXO
Sarah
Hi Sarah, First of all, thank you!!! I can’t believe you are taking the time to individualize a skin care regime! You are so kind!
I NEED HELP!!!
I am 42 and have struggles with melasma (dark spots) since kids. I have tried Obagi (which is a fortune), which was too harsh on my skin. I have been using Clinique for 7 months, better on the wallet, but not sure it’s really working, perhaps I need to give it more time.
Also, I have more of a combination skin, but tend to get oily in the summer months and very dry in the winter. And wrinkles are coming in quick (around the eye, mouth, forehead, etc.). I would love to hear your recommendations! THANK YOU!!!!
Hi Yani,
My apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
Melasma is pretty common after having kids – bloody hormones! Obagi products are some of the best professional products out there but they are super intense and super expensive. A couple of The Ordinary products that will help are
1. Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
This is a great serum for pigmentation, out of all the products, this is the one I would recommend the most for pigmentation! Plus it has Hydralouric Acid so it helps with dehydration and dry skin.
2. A vitamin C product.
The Ordinary has so many vit c products, its rather overwhelming! They do a vit c product with the Alpha Arbutin which I was SUPER excited about but after using it, I don’t like it, which is so disapointing. I find it takes ages to soak into my skin, which doesnt work for me as I use my vit c in the morning. It may just be me and could work well for you, as it has loads of great reviews.
If you want to go for a seperate Vit C product, I’d recommend Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F It has high potency of Vit C but isn’t irritating like some of the other vit c products.
Vit C is great for pigmentation and helping with skin aging.
3. Retinol
If you’re not using a retinol or retinoid you should be! It dose everything! If you havent used one yet start off with the Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion then work your way up the percentages.
This can also be used around the eyes.
4. Argireline Solution 10%
One of my favourite products of all time! It works like botox to “freeze” the muscles and helps to decrease and prevent expression lines. Now it dosent work as well botox, (nothing dose unfortunately) but you do see a real difference.
Recommendations for the eyes, I would suggest you invest in a good product, this is one area you can’t get skimp on. The Ordinary eye product Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG is good for helping with puffiness and dark circles but it dosen’t address the aging of the skin.
The FILORGA Time-Filler Eyes® Absolute Eye Correction Cream is probably the best out there and considering how long it lasts, it’s a good investment! (ps you can get 20% of with the code JULY4)
You could also add in The Rose Hip Oil as its great for helping to balance the skin while also hydrating. It has also been shown to reduce signs of photo-aging and many other skin conditions.
So for a routine
AM
after cleansing use
1. Alpha Albrutin on areas of pigmentation
2. Argireline on the forehead, eyes, nasal folds and lips.
3. Vit C product
4. Eye product – use around the lips as well
5. Moisteriser and SPF.
PM
1. Alpha Albrutin on areas of pigmentation
2. Argireline on the forehead, eyes, nasal folds and lips.
3. Retinol / Retinoid
4. Eye product – use around the lips as well
5. Rose Hip Oil
6. Night Moisteriser.
Note: The most important treatment of Melasma is protecting your skin from UV rays especially UVA, which your devices emit… so you need to make sure you are using an spf every day that has blue light protection!
Unfortunately, melasma is harder to fade than regular pigmentation as its produced deeper in the dermis, this means it can take longer before you see results. If you are really struggling with it, laser treatments have been proved to work well.
Let me know how you get on and if you have any questions!
Sarah
XOXO
Do you have any recommendations for cleanser, day & night moisturizer?
This is so helpful… THANK YOU!!!!
I’m so sorry for the late reply! Somehow missed this comment! The Ordinary has released “The Daily Set” which is a great set to start off with as it has the Squalane cleanser, Hyaluronic Acid serum and The daily moisturising factors. All 3 are perfect to us in the am and pm.
Hey! Can you help me? I have tiny pimples on my forehead that will NOT go away! I think my skin is dry, it is really hard to tell honestly. It looks oily but feels dry if that makes any sense. I have been using Tula face wash, serum, and moisturizer. They are not working like I would like them to. So I feel like I need to start over from scratch. Thank you so much!
Hi Becca,
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.
First of all congestion on the forehead can be a sign of stomach and digestive problems, do you take an pre-biotic, they can make a big difference to your skin.
Skincare wise. Make sure you are double cleansing every night. Sometimes the silicones that are in make up, spf and primers don’t get removed with the first cleanse and can then block the pores causing congestion.
I would recommend trying Glossier’s Solution which is a chemical exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and cleans out the pore. You could also try Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid which does a similar job.
It sounds like your skin is dehydrated and is making excess oil to try and balance itself. So you need moisture and hydration but nothing heavy thats going to sit on the skin and block your pores. Serums I would recommend is my good old Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, this product works for everyone! It helps to reduce sebum and evens skin tone.
Hydration wise, a hyaluronic acid serum would work great as it draws water into your skin and keeps it hydrated. The Ordinary’s Marine Hyaluronics is a lighter serum and soaks into the skin straight away. In the evenings you should use a facial oil, Rose Hip Oil is great as it helps to rebalance the skin, for a lighter oil you could try the Hemi Squalane, which technically isn’t oil but feels like one briefly before your skin soaks it up, plus at around $4 for a bottle you can’t go wrong!
Treatment wise, the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution used once a week will do wonders for your skin!
If you want to get a new cleanser and moisturiser you could go with the Squalane Cleanser and the Natural Moisterising Factors.
So skincare routine wise I would recommend
AM
1. Cleanse
2. Tone with Solution or BHA Blackhead power liquid (only on the t zone if the rest of your face is feeling dry)
3. Marine Hyaluronics
4. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
5. Moisteriser (You could mix in a few drops of the hemi squalane for extra hydration)
PM
1. Double Cleanse
2. Tone with Solution or BHA Blackhead power liquid (only on the t zone if the rest of your face is feeling dry)
3. Marine Hyaluronics
4. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
5. Rose Hip Oil
6. Moisteriser.
Once a week AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution in the pm on cleansed skin. leave on for 10 mins maximum – make sure do a patch test first, then use the marine hyalouronics followed by the hemi squalane or rose hip oil and then your moisteriser. Don’t the Solution or BHA as thats too much acid for your skin.
Note on the Solution and BHA power Liquid. Start off using on of these slowly, once every two days, then once a day (pm is better) and once you feel your skin has adpated to it you can increase it two twice daily. If you find your skin is becoming dry, go back to using once a day.
I hope this helps! Again sorry my reply took so long, as you can see, I like to do indepth recommendations and do they do take a while!
Hi Sarah!
I’m 27, combo skin with a few normal pimples around my cheeks/nose.
I have texture issues, acne scarring/discoloring, and HUGE pores.
Slightly sensitive skin but I can handle a bit. I cannot use retinol as I’m breastfeeding.
I am looking for a full lineup.
Cleanser, toner, acne treatment, serum, moisture, oil, etc.
Thank you!!’
Hi Jackie,
Thank you so much for your comment!
Ok lets break it down from the start.
Cleanser
The squalane cleanser is a great cleanser for every skin type, I’ve just started to use it and really like it so far. It disolves make up and doesn’t dry out the skin.
Toner
The 7% Glycolic toner is great for improving skin texture and pigmentation. It helps to remove the dead skin cells, meaning then your products work better and giving your skin a renewed, refreshed appearance.
Serums
I would definitely introduce the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, as you can see from the other comments, I recommend this product a lot! It helps to regulate and reduce sebum production in the skin, which helps the pores plus It helps with hyperpigmentation (the marks left behind by breakouts) and also helps the skin protect itself, meaning less inflamed and sensitive skin! . You should use this on all of the face and alternate with a Vit C serum. Ie use one of them in the morning and the other in pm.
Alpha Arbrutin 2%
Is a fantastic serum for reducing pigmentation, just pop a couple of drops on the areas of concern in the am and pm. The alpha-arbutin travels down to your melanocytes (the cells responsible for melanin production) and stops them working, which means pigmentation production will be inhibited. So it is great to use when pregnant and afterwards when hormones can cause extra melanin products.
Marine HyaluronicsEveryone should be using the a hyaluronic acid serum. It makes such a different to hydrate and plump you skin. The marine hyaluronic is a lighter less sticky serum and soaks in the skin really quickly.
Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution ( A Vitamin C serum )
There are so many different Vit C serums and it can take awhile to find the one you like. I’ve tried all of The Ordinarys Vit C products and this is the one I like the best. Vit C is perfect for helping even skintone and pigmentation.
Moisteriser
Natural Moisterising Factors. is a great light moisteriser to use in the am or pm.
Treatments
the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution used once a week will do wonders for your skin!
Niod Mastic Mud is an amazing mask for pores. You can literally see them getting smaller after using the mask.
If you wanted to add in another product to help with your pores Cosrx two in one poreless liquid is a cult product for a reason! Used daily it helps clear out the pores and tighten the skin without over drying it and minimizes the size.
AM
1. Cleanse
2. Tone with Cosrx poreless liquid (just pat the liquid into the skin)
3. Alpha arbutin on pigmentation areas
4. Marine hyaluronics all over the face
5. Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution (vit c)
6. Your eye cream
7. Natural Moisterising factors
8. SPF
PM
1. Double Cleanse
2. Using a cotton pad, wipe the Glycolic toner all over the face
3. Tone with Cosrx poreless liquid (just pat the liquid into the skin)
4. Alpha arbutin on pigmentation areas
5. Niacinamide all over the face
6. Marine hyaluronics all over the face
7. Eye cream
8. Natural Moisterising factors
Let me know how you get on and if you have any questions!
xoxo Sarah
Hi there I just purchased some ordinary products, but now I’m a little nervous about it! I’m not sure what order to use stuff. Can you help me make a routine? I’ve never used retinoids so I’m thinking of starting that just one day a week to start? Here are the products I have ordered. Retinoids 2% squalane. rosehip oil. Aha 30% + bha 2% peeling solution. Natural moisturizing factors + ha. Hyaluronuc acid 2% +b5. My skin is kind of combination, it can get very dry and flakey on my cheeks and chin but my forehead and nose stays pretty normal. Any help would be appreciated!
Hi Sam,
Thank you so much for your comment. How are you getting on with the retinoid? Good idea to start of using once a week then increasing. So for a skincare routine I would recommend.
AM
Cleanse
Hyaluronic Acid
Natural Moisterising factors (if your skin is feeling a dry you could add in a few drops of the rosehip oil.
SPF
PM
Double cleanse
Retinoid
Hyaluronic Acid
Rosehip oil
Natural Moisterising factors
Then once a week use the AHA peeling solution in the pm. Afterwards, don’t use a retinol but you can use the rest of your PM routine.
Let me know how you get on if you have any other questions
XOXO Sarah
Hi Sarah,
I love reading all your suggestions. You are right that it is super confusing. I am looking for a little guidance on what to use and when and have googled myself right out. Can you help ?
I am 41 and have sun damage on my forehead , uneven skin tone but would consider my skin normal ( a bit dry in winter) with a few blackheads on my nose. I do get occasional acne but no much. Also would like to prevent aging. I have some fine lines around my eyes already and on my forehead . Thank you so much !!
Hi Amy,
Thank you so much for commenting, I would love to recommend some products for you.
So since aging and prevention of aging is your main concern I’d definitely recommended introducing retinol or retinoid. This is the only skincare ingredient that is proven to make your skin cells act younger than they are and produce collagen. I go through the benefits on how to use it here
You should start off with the Granactive Retinoid Emulsion the emulsion is a light serum texture but it also comes in squalane which is a really light oil. They both work as well, its just a personal preference if you prefer a serum or oil. As I explain in my earlier post it’s best to start of slow using it every few days in the pm and increasing to every second day, then every evening once you feel your skin is tolerating it well.
The second product I’d recommend is the Buffet + Copper Peptides. I can’t get enough of this product! It does everything, helps to reduce fine lines, improves texture, reduces pigmentation.
A vitaminc C product can do amazing things for your skin. It really helps to bring back that glow to the skin that we lose as our skin gets older. I’ve tried nearly all of The Ordinary’s Vit C products and my favourite is the Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution. Your best using it in the morning and it can’t be used with the retinol or buffet + copper peptides.
If you were wanted to try another product for helping with acne and pigmentation Niacinamide is my holy grail! It helps to reduce oil production and congestion, fine lines and pigmentation.
So your skincare routine could look like this.
AM
Cleanse
Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution
Moisturiser with SPF
PM
Double Cleanse
Buffet + Copper Peptides
Niacinamide
Retinoid
Moisturiser with no SPF
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions or want to try any other products.
XOXO Sarah
Hi Sarah!!
First of all I want to thank you for sharing with us and I have to say I am amazed and grateful that you are taking the time to aswer each and every one of the questions..that span over months!!
I have recently learned about The Ordinary (I know, a bit late) and I have been investigating where ever and how ever I can to try to learn about what products I need and what would work for me.
So I would be super greatful if you could guid me a bit about the best for me and also tell me what routine to follow with what I have at the moment.
I’m 32 and I have combination skin and in the winter it gets quite dry..and I have to say since I live in Spain my skin takes a lot of sun..now in summer especially..even without sunbathing and using SPF 50 all year long.
The products I have now are:
Retinol 0.2% in Squalane
Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG
100% Plant-Derived Hemi-Squalane
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Natural Moisturising Factirs + HA
Thanks in advance!!
Hi Sari,
Thank you for your lovely comment! I love putting together skincare recommendations!
So for your skincare routine, I would recommend.
AM
Cleanse
Hyaluronic Acid
hemi squalane
Natural Moisterising factors (if you want to save time you can add in a few drops of the hemi squalane)
Caffeine 5%
SPF
PM
Double cleanse
Retinoid
Hyaluronic Acid
Natural Moisterising factors
If you wanted to add in some products I would recommend Alpha Arbutin, this helps stop pigmentation, which can be a problem when you are in the sun.
During the winter time you could change the hemi squalane for Marula oil to help increase your skins hydration levels.
I don’t want to overwhelm you with too many products but adding in a vit c product for the am routine would be great for your skin. The Ordinary has so many but I am currently loving the Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution it can take a few goes to find the ones. Another Vit C option is 100% L-Ascorbic Powder. This is fine powder you can add to the Natural Moisturising Factors. Depending on how sensitive your skin is you will experience a tingling sensation for the first week or two of using it till your skin becomes used to it.
Let me know how you get on and if you have any other questions
XOXO Sarah
Hi Sarah I loved reading your post and I am ready to try these products…BUT where to start? I am 34 and need to work on the fine lines starting to show and I have large pores along with some uneven skin from old acne scars and dark circles under the eyes. What do you recommend I start with?
Hi Danielle,
Thanks so much for your comment. So the two products for dealing with the first signs of aging, I always recommend are a Retinol and the Niacinamide. See my posts on why they are the best!
Retinol wise you should start off with the Granactive Retinoid Emulsion. the emulsion is a light serum texture but it also comes in squalane which is a really light oil. They both work as well, its just a personal preference if you prefer a serum or oil. As I explain in my earlier post it’s best to start of slow using it every few days in the pm and increasing to every second day, then every evening once you feel your skin is tolerating it well.
A vit C in the am. It’s great for helping with evening the skin tone and fine lines. Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% is a lighter vit c product that dosen’t interact with the Niacinamide.
So routine wise it would look like
AM
Cleanse
Niacinamide
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10%
SPF
You could also add in a hyaluronic acid serum, I love the marine hyaluronic one as its super light. You would use this before the Niacinamide.
PM
Cleanse
Niacinamide
Retinoid
Night Moisteriser
You could add in the rosehip oil for extra hydration after the Retinoid.
I don’t want to overwhelm you with recommendations but if you want add in some products let me know.
Sarah XOXO
Sorry forgot to add in the Caffeine Solution 5% +EGCG for the eyes. You should use this twice a day.
Hi Sarah
Very impressed with your knowledge. I am almost exclusively using The Ordinary products. Last year at this time I was using rich oil creams on my face and ended up with itchy scaly red spots at the sides of the bridge of my nose, and in the crevices on either side of my nostrils and itchy scaly patches on my forehead. After extensive research I have self diagnosed SD. Learning about the impact of carbon chain lengths, the Malassezia bacteria that feeds on Fatty acids with carbon lengths of 11-24 etc.. I surmised that caprylic/capric acid with a carbon chain length of 10 was my safest bet. I landed on TO Natural Moisturizing Factors+HA, Buffet + Copper Peptide, Hylamide Low-Molecular HA and The Body Shop Aloe Calming Cream Cleanser. My face has been amazing ever since….except I had a recent mild relapse (which I now attribute to a lazy week of not washing my face before bed) and discovering that our natural sebum is carbon chain lengths of 18. It has however led me to dig a bit deeper to find a slightly modified regime as the TO moisturizer and the BS cleanser both have ingredients that can feed the Malassezia bacteria and inflame SD. My question is regarding the Niacinamide and Zinc you recommend and the 100% Squalane Oil a