The Ordinary revolutionized skincare by offering clinical-grade ingredients at transparent, affordable prices. But the scientific naming convention can be confusing for newcomers. This guide decodes their best sellers and shows you how to build a complete routine.

Understanding The Ordinary's Naming

Each product name tells you exactly what's inside: [Active Ingredient] [Concentration]. For example, "Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%" means 10% niacinamide and 1% zinc. Simple once you know the system.

Top 10 Best Products (And What They Do)

1️⃣
#1 Best Seller

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

The Ordinary

Best for: Oily skin, enlarged pores, blemishes. Niacinamide controls oil production and reduces inflammation. Zinc helps heal blemishes. Use AM and PM.

$6.20
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2️⃣
#2 Best Seller

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

The Ordinary

Best for: Dehydrated skin, all skin types. Multi-weight HA pulls moisture into skin at different depths. Apply to DAMP skin for best results.

$8.70
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3️⃣
#3 Best Seller

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

The Ordinary

Best for: Dull skin, texture, uneven tone. A 10-minute exfoliating mask that transforms skin instantly. Use once per week MAX. The "blood mask" from TikTok.

$8.70
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Sample Routines by Skin Type

Oily/Acne-Prone Skin

AM: Squalane Cleanser → Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% → Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA → SPF

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PM: Squalane Cleanser → Salicylic Acid 2% Solution → Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Dry/Dehydrated Skin

AM: Squalane Cleanser → Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 → Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA → SPF

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PM: Squalane Cleanser → Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion → 100% Plant-Derived Squalane

Anti-Aging

AM: Squalane Cleanser → Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA 2% → Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA → SPF

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PM: Squalane Cleanser → Granactive Retinoid 2% → Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Ingredients That DON'T Mix

  • Vitamin C + Niacinamide — can reduce efficacy (use one AM, one PM)
  • AHAs/BHAs + Retinoids — too much exfoliation, risk of irritation
  • Vitamin C + AHAs/BHAs — pH conflicts, potential irritation
  • Multiple exfoliants together — pick one type per routine

💡 Pro Tip

Use The Ordinary's free online regimen builder (on their website) to get a personalized routine recommendation. Input your skin concerns and they'll tell you which products to use, in what order, and what to avoid combining.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure.

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NxtLifestyle Beauty Team

Research-backed recommendations for smarter beauty choices.