If you are new to skincare, building a The Ordinary routine is a great place to start. With affordable and straightforward formulas, The Ordinary makes it easy to create a skincare plan that fits your needs and budget. To get a better idea of how subtle changes can enhance your appearance, take a look at this Lip Flip Before and After guide, which highlights how small improvements can make a visible difference over time.
The secret to getting the best results is simple. Follow the Prep, Treat, and Seal method. This structure keeps your routine balanced, effective, and easy to maintain. Whether your goal is to tackle dryness, dullness, acne, or signs of ageing, understanding how to layer The Ordinary products will help you get visible results without confusion. For a more personalized approach, try this quick Skincare Quiz to discover which products best match your individual skin type and concerns.
Why The Ordinary is the Perfect Starting Point
The Ordinary focuses on science and honesty. Every product lists the key ingredients clearly, without unnecessary marketing terms. The brand keeps things simple and transparent, which makes it ideal for beginners and skincare enthusiasts alike.
If you’re based in Sri Lanka and looking to explore the full collection of authentic The Ordinary skincare essentials, you can easily find them through trusted local retailers. Platforms like The Ordinary products in Sri Lanka feature a wide range of serums, cleansers, exfoliators, and moisturisers suitable for every skin type. Shopping locally not only guarantees genuine products but also faster delivery and better after-sales support, helping you start or expand your The Ordinary routine with complete confidence.
Each formula is designed with a specific purpose such as brightening, exfoliating, hydrating, or repairing. You can mix and match them based on your skin’s individual needs. This flexibility allows you to build a routine that grows with your skin, giving you full control over what works best.
For those who want to take their skincare a step further, consider exploring SkinPres-T, an advanced technology that supports long-term skin health and pairs beautifully with The Ordinary’s ingredient-focused philosophy.
The Core Structure: Prep, Treat, and Seal
Every effective The Ordinary routine follows three stages. This method ensures that products layer correctly and absorb fully into the skin.
- Prep means cleansing and balancing your skin before applying any active ingredients.
- Treat means using targeted serums that address your main concerns.
- Seal means finishing with moisturisers and protective layers to lock everything in.
Think of it like building a meal. You start with a base, add the main ingredients, and finish with something that ties it all together. The same logic applies here.
Step 1: Prep – Creating a Clean and Balanced Base
The first step is all about preparing your skin so that it can absorb nutrients properly.
1. Cleanser
Cleansing removes oil, dirt, makeup, and sunscreen from your skin. Without this step, active ingredients cannot perform effectively.
Start with The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser, which suits all skin types. It begins as a soft balm and transforms into an oil as you massage it in. This texture gently dissolves makeup and impurities without drying your face. Massage onto dry skin, add a little water to emulsify, and rinse with lukewarm water.
If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, try double cleansing at night. After using the Squalane Cleanser, follow with The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser. This ensures every trace of dirt and oil is gone while keeping your skin barrier healthy.
2. Tone or Exfoliate
Toning helps remove leftover impurities and smooth the skin’s texture. Exfoliating helps clear away dead cells, leaving skin bright and ready for serums.
If you have sensitive or normal skin, use The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30 Percent Milky Toner. It gently brightens and smooths while adding hydration.
For those who want deeper exfoliation, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7 Percent Toning Solution is a great choice. It helps with uneven tone and dullness. Use it only a few nights each week, and always follow with sunscreen during the day.
Step 2: Treat – Targeting Skin Concerns with Serums
This stage is where The Ordinary truly stands out. Treatment serums are the heart of your skincare routine. They are concentrated, effective, and easy to customise.
Apply them from the lightest to the thickest consistency. Wait a few seconds between each serum to allow proper absorption. Try to limit yourself to three serums per routine so your skin is not overwhelmed.
1. Hydrating Serum
Hydration is the foundation of healthy skin. Every skin type benefits from added moisture.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2 Percent plus B5 is the go-to option. It attracts and retains water, giving your skin a plump and fresh look. Apply a few drops to damp skin after cleansing and gently pat it in.
2. Treatment Serums for Specific Needs
- For Dull or Uneven Skin
Use The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12 Percent. This vitamin C serum brightens the skin, evens tone, and supports collagen. Perfect for morning routines to protect against environmental stress.
- For Oily or Blemish-Prone Skin
Apply The Ordinary Niacinamide 10 Percent plus Zinc 1 Percent. It helps control oil, reduce blemishes, and refine pores.
- For Redness or Sensitivity
Choose The Ordinary Soothing and Barrier Support Serum. It calms irritation and strengthens your skin barrier, restoring comfort and balance.
- For Pigmentation and Dark Spots
Use The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2 Percent plus HA. This serum fades marks and brightens the complexion with consistent use.
- For Fine Lines and Ageing
At night, apply The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2 Percent Emulsion or Retinol 0.2 Percent in Squalane. These promote cell renewal and improve texture. Begin with two or three nights per week to build tolerance.
3. Eye Serum
The area around your eyes needs special care. It is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face.
Use The Ordinary Multi Peptide Eye Serum morning and evening. It reduces puffiness, smooths lines, and brightens dark circles. Apply a small drop and tap gently with your ring finger.
Step 3: Seal – Locking in Moisture and Protection
The final step ensures all your serums stay sealed in so your skin remains hydrated and protected throughout the day or night.
1. Moisturiser
A good moisturiser supports your skin barrier and prevents water loss. Even oily skin needs this step.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors plus HA is suitable for almost everyone. It provides long lasting hydration without feeling heavy.
If you prefer a lighter texture, try The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors plus Beta Glucan. It absorbs quickly and works perfectly under makeup or SPF.
2. SPF for Daytime
Sun protection is essential. Without it, your skincare efforts are wasted. UV rays cause ageing, dark spots, and damage.
Although The Ordinary does not offer SPF at the moment, finish your morning routine with a high quality sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Choose a broad spectrum one to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Example Morning Routine
Here is a simple morning routine to follow:
- Cleanse with The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
- Tone with The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30 Percent Milky Toner
- Apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2 Percent plus B5
- Apply The Ordinary Niacinamide 10 Percent plus Zinc 1 Percent
- Use The Ordinary Multi Peptide Eye Serum
- Moisturise with The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors plus HA
- Finish with your preferred SPF
This routine supports hydration, oil control, and daily protection for most skin types.
Example Evening Routine
Your nighttime skincare focuses on renewal and recovery. The process remains similar but uses slightly richer and more restorative products.
- Double cleanse with The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser followed by Glucoside Foaming Cleanser
- Exfoliate two or three nights each week using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7 Percent Toning Solution
- Apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2 Percent plus B5
- Apply a treatment serum such as Lactic Acid 10 Percent for texture, Alpha Arbutin 2 Percent plus HA for dark spots, or Retinoid for fine lines
- Use The Ordinary Multi Peptide Eye Serum
- Add a few drops of The Ordinary 100 Percent Plant Derived Squalane for extra nourishment
- Finish with The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors plus HA
This evening plan helps your skin repair itself while you sleep, leaving it soft and refreshed by morning.
Customising Your Routine for Skin Type
Every skin type benefits from The Ordinary’s simple structure, but choosing the right formulas makes a big difference.
- For Dry Skin – Focus on hydration and barrier support. Use the Squalane Cleanser, Hyaluronic Acid 2 Percent plus B5, Soothing and Barrier Support Serum, and Natural Moisturising Factors plus HA. Add a drop of Plant Derived Squalane at night for extra nourishment.
- For Oily or Acne Prone Skin – Include Niacinamide 10 Percent plus Zinc 1 Percent and the Glycolic Acid 7 Percent Toner a few nights per week. Choose the lighter Beta Glucan Moisturiser for daily use.
- For Combination Skin – Use hydrating serums on dry areas and oil balancing formulas on your T zone. Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide together create the perfect balance.
- For Mature Skin – Incorporate antioxidant and renewal ingredients such as vitamin C and retinoids. Use a hydrating moisturiser and face oil at night for a smooth, glowing finish.
- For Sensitive Skin – Avoid strong acids and high strength activities. Stick with gentle options like the Milky Toner, Soothing and Barrier Support Serum, and mild hydration. Always patch test new products before full application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When creating your The Ordinary skincare routine, simplicity is key. Here are a few things to watch out for.
- Using too many activities at once can cause irritation.
- Skipping SPF can undo progress made by your treatments.
- Switching products too quickly prevents your skin from adjusting.
- Starting with high strength acids or retinol without experience can lead to redness or peeling.
Introduce new items slowly, one at a time. Consistency always brings better results than overload.
How Long It Takes to See Results
Skin improvements do not happen overnight. Most products take around four to six weeks to show visible changes. Hydration and glow may appear earlier, but issues like acne or pigmentation need patience.
If you experience irritation, simplify your routine and focus on hydration until your skin calms down. Then slowly reintroduce one product at a time. The goal is healthy skin that looks and feels balanced, not instant transformation.
Final Thoughts
Building your The Ordinary skincare routine does not have to be complicated. Begin with cleansing and moisturising, then add activities step by step. Once you understand how your skin reacts, you can adjust products easily.
The beauty of The Ordinary lies in its simplicity and transparency. You know exactly what you are putting on your skin and why it works. With time, consistency, and the right layering order, you will notice your skin becoming smoother, clearer, and more radiant.
I’m Emma Rose, the founder of tryhardguides.co.uk, and a content creator with a passion for writing across multiple niches—including health, lifestyle, tech, career, and personal development. I love turning complex ideas into relatable, easy-to-digest content that helps people learn, grow, and stay inspired. Whether I’m sharing practical tips or diving into thought-provoking topics, my goal is always to add real value and connect with readers on a deeper level.
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