Join the gym, eat less junk, save more and spend less: we all have goals that we like to set, but for the beauty-obsessed, there’s one that tops the list – achieving our best skin yet.
If you're on the hunt for the most sought-after skin care products, then look no further: The Ordinary is a skin care brand that has caused mass disruption in the beauty industry with its super effective, wallet-friendly formulas.
Being everything but ordinary, it’s the skin care wardrobe that boasts an extensive clinical range, strips back on unnecessary packaging and is upfront with its ingredients. But, while they may be straight-talking, their scientific product names and potency percentages are pretty hard to get your head around, especially if you're new to the brand.
To make things easier for you, we've put together a complete The Ordinary skincare guide so that you can kick start your skin SOS with a killer collection.
The Cleansers
Best for: all skin
What is it? Cleansers are the first step in your skin care routine and help to wash away dirt, makeup and impurities.
The benefits: Soft, clean skin that's hydrated and free from dirt build-up.
The Products
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
650.23 (24% off)It’s your one-stop-shop to squeaky-clean skin. The Squalane Cleanser is all you need to efficiently wash away dirt, oil and makeup. It starts with a balm-like texture before melting into a hydrating oil, making it a superstar for unclogging pores.
Vitamin C
Best for: dull skin
What is it? Vitamin C is the best and biggest antioxidant of them all.
The benefits: Brightening skin and protecting it from environmental aggressors.
The Products
The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
11,00 (22% off)This formula protects your skin against free radical damage, targeting the targets signs of aging and uneven skin texture. Not only does it add a dose of brightness to the skin, but also a boost of hydration.
The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%
18,45 (22% off)This is the powerhouse that visibly targets uneven skin tone, dullness, texture and signs of aging all at once. It contains a high vitamin C potency in a water-based formula, which feels lightweight on the skin.
The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder
380 (21% off)Want complete control over your dose of vitamin C? Look no further than the 100% L Ascorbic Acid Powder. This formula is perfect for mixing with other night-time treatments in order to give them extra antioxidant and anti-aging support. Simply mix the powder into your favorite products – staying away from direct acids, retinoids and formulas that utilize niacinamide or peptides – and voila, you can reap multiple skin benefits all at once.
The Retinoids
Best for: all skin
What is it? In simple terms, retinol is the derivative of vitamin A.
The benefits: Its benefits include speeding up cell turnover, boosting collagen and reducing the appearance of fine lines, pores and pigmentation.
The Products
The Ordinary Retinol 1% In Squalane
21,00Retinol in Squalane is a light, serum-like formula that's perfect to use at night after cleansing and before oils and creams. As retinol can often irritate sensitive skin, first-time users should work up through the percentages. This formula boasts a 1% concentration that's great for gently plumping and firming skin.
The Molecules
Best for: all skin
What is it? A pick and mix of products that help to target specific skin concerns.
The benefits: You can give your skin the care it needs by treating everything from fine lines and wrinkles to pigmentation and puffiness.
The Products
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
885 (2% off)This formula is a firm favorite within the Cosmetify office. Ideal for combination and oily skin types, it’s a beast when it comes to regulating sebum production, minimizing pores and targeting acne blemishes. Be sure to avoid using niacinamide with pure vitamin C products as they conflict with each other.
Not sure where to start and what to choose? Turn your attention to the buffet – a multi-purpose serum that is great for The Ordinary newbies. Dubbed as botox in a bottle, it works to boost collagen and elastin, ease skin conditions like rosacea and acne and hydrate skin.
So, there we have it – a breakdown to prevent future beauty breakouts. We've made sure that The Ordinary skincare guide covers everything from the basics to the complicated stuff so that you're fully equipped with all that you need to know.