# Understanding The Ordinary Skincare Routine Basics
Navigating the world of skincare can feel overwhelming, especially with so many products available. The Ordinary, known for its budget-friendly yet effective products, offers a wide array of options, which can make it even more daunting to establish a routine. However, understanding the basics of The Ordinary skincare routine can simplify the process, helping you achieve healthier skin without breaking the bank.
Why Choose The Ordinary?
by Miska Sage (https://unsplash.com/@miskasage)
The Ordinary has gained popularity for several reasons. Their products are affordable, transparent about their ingredients, and focus on delivering results. This brand offers a variety of serums and solutions that target specific skin concerns, allowing you to customize your routine based on your individual needs.
Skincare Routine Order
One of the most crucial aspects of an effective skincare regimen is the order in which you apply products. Using products in the correct order ensures that each one can penetrate your skin effectively, maximizing their benefits.
Step 1: Cleansing
Start your routine with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin. Cleansing prepares your skin to absorb the active ingredients in the products you’ll apply next. The Ordinary offers the Squalane Cleanser, which is suitable for all skin types and effectively removes impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils.
Step 2: Toning
by Trisha Downing (https://unsplash.com/@tgdwinos)
Following cleansing, apply a toner to balance your skin’s pH levels and further prepare it for serums and treatments. The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a popular choice that gently exfoliates to improve skin texture and clarity.
Step 3: Targeted Treatments
This step involves applying serums or treatments that address specific skin concerns. The Ordinary offers a range of serums, each focused on different skin issues such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or aging.
- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Ideal for reducing blemishes and congestion.
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Excellent for boosting hydration and plumping the skin.
- Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA: Targets hyperpigmentation and evens out skin tone.
Apply these treatments from the thinnest to the thickest consistency, allowing each product to fully absorb before moving on to the next.
Step 4: Moisturizing
Moisturizing is a critical step to lock in hydration and create a barrier on your skin to protect it throughout the day. The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is a lightweight yet effective option that provides immediate and long-lasting hydration.
Step 5: Sun Protection
by Joshua Rawson-Harris (https://unsplash.com/@joshrh19)
The final step in your morning skincare routine should always be sunscreen. Sun protection is vital to prevent sun damage and premature aging. While The Ordinary doesn’t offer a sunscreen, it’s essential to choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
Evening Routine Adjustments
In the evening, you can make slight adjustments to your routine. Skip the sunscreen step and consider incorporating a retinol or other active treatment if your skin can tolerate it. The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is a great starter retinoid that helps reduce signs of aging without causing irritation.
Simple Skincare Routine Tips
Creating a routine with The Ordinary products doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some additional tips to keep your skincare regimen simple and effective:
- Patch Test New Products: Before fully incorporating a new product into your routine, do a patch test to ensure it doesn’t cause irritation.
- Introduce Products Gradually: To avoid overwhelming your skin, introduce one new product at a time and give your skin a chance to adjust.
- Listen to Your Skin: Everyone’s skin is different. If a product causes irritation or doesn’t seem to work for you, it’s okay to stop using it and try something else.
- Stay Consistent: Consistency is key in skincare. Stick to your routine and give products time to show results, typically around 4-6 weeks.
Customizing Your Routine
One of the benefits of The Ordinary is the ability to tailor your routine to your specific skin concerns. Whether you’re dealing with acne, dryness, or signs of aging, there are products designed to target these issues.
For Acne-Prone Skin
- AM Routine: Squalane Cleanser, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Sunscreen
- PM Routine: Squalane Cleanser, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
For Dry Skin
- AM Routine: Squalane Cleanser, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Sunscreen
- PM Routine: Squalane Cleanser, Lactic Acid 5% + HA, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
For Anti-Aging
- AM Routine: Squalane Cleanser, Buffet, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Sunscreen
- PM Routine: Squalane Cleanser, Buffet, Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Conclusion
Establishing a skincare routine with The Ordinary doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the correct order and purpose of each product, you can create an effective regimen tailored to your skin’s needs. Remember to be patient, as skincare is a journey, and achieving glowing, healthy skin takes time and dedication.