The Ordinary Routine for Beginners: What to Actually Buy
Updated June 17, 2026
“I'm new to skincare and The Ordinary has a hundred products — which do I actually need?”
The Ordinary makes genuinely good products at unbeatable prices — but the catalog is huge, the names are chemistry labels, and some actives shouldn't be layered together. No wonder beginners freeze.
You don't need ten bottles. Here's a simple starter routine that covers the basics, plus the few combinations to avoid.
Our top picks
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Pulls water into the skin for that plump, hydrated look.
Check price on Amazon →Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Calms oil and visibly tightens pores. A gentle daytime workhorse.
Check price on Amazon →Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Multitasker for redness, marks, and breakouts — gentle enough daily.
Check price on Amazon →Relief Sun SPF50+
Beloved lightweight daily sunscreen with zero white cast.
Check price on Amazon →We may earn a commission from links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Don't buy ten things at once
The fastest way to irritate your skin (and waste money) is grabbing five actives because a video said to. Start with a small, non-conflicting set and add slowly.
Pick by your actual goal — hydration, oil/pores, or fading marks — not by what's trending.
The starter set
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 for lightweight hydration (AM and PM, on damp skin). Niacinamide 10% + Zinc for oil and pores in the morning. Azelaic Acid 10% at night for texture, redness, and fading marks.
That trio covers most beginners without clashing.
How to layer (thin to thick)
Apply water-based, thinnest products first, then thicker ones, then seal with moisturizer. So: hyaluronic acid → niacinamide (AM) or azelaic (PM) → moisturizer.
Always finish the morning with sunscreen — The Ordinary doesn't make one, so that's your one other-brand essential.
What NOT to mix
Don't pile multiple strong actives in the same routine when you're starting — e.g., avoid layering several acids, or vitamin C with niacinamide at the exact same time if it irritates you. Alternate them across AM/PM or different days.
Want a foolproof, no-guesswork routine? Take the quiz and we'll sequence it for you.
Not sure what fits your skin?
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Build my routine →Frequently asked
- Which The Ordinary product should I buy first?
- If you're unsure, start with Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (hydration, suits everyone) and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc (oil and pores). Add a targeted active like Azelaic Acid once your skin is comfortable.
- Can I use The Ordinary products together?
- Many yes, but not all at full strength in one routine. Layer thin-to-thick, introduce one at a time, and split strong actives between morning and night to avoid irritation.
- Do I still need other brands?
- Yes — at minimum a sunscreen, since The Ordinary doesn't make one. A good lightweight SPF every morning is non-negotiable.
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This site is for general informational purposes and is not medical advice. For persistent acne, reactions, or any skin condition, see a board-certified dermatologist.