The Ordinary: A Revolutionary Skincare Brand

By Your Beauty Plug
March 1, 2024

If you are looking for effective, affordable, and science-based skincare products, you may have heard of The Ordinary, a brand that has taken the beauty industry by storm. The Ordinary offers a range of minimalist and transparent formulas that target various skin concerns and needs. In this blog post, we will explore the background of the brand, its best-selling products, reviews, dupes, coupon codes, loyalty programs, FAQs, and more. Let’s get started!

Background of the brand

The Ordinary is one of the brands under DECIEM, a group of good beauty brands that offers quality skincare products at reasonable prices. The Ordinary was founded in 2016 by Brandon Truaxe, a visionary entrepreneur who wanted to disrupt the beauty industry with his unconventional approach. He believed that skincare should be simple, honest, and accessible, without any unnecessary ingredients, fillers, fragrances, or marketing hype. He also wanted to educate consumers about the science behind skincare and empower them to make informed choices.

The Ordinary’s philosophy is to offer clinical formulations with integrity, using pure and potent ingredients that are proven to work. The brand’s products are categorized by their active ingredients, such as acids, antioxidants, peptides, retinoids, and vitamins. Each product has a straightforward name that describes exactly what it is and what it does, without any fancy claims or misleading labels. The brand also provides detailed information about the concentration, pH, and compatibility of each product, as well as how to use them in a regimen.

The Ordinary’s products are free of fragrance, parabens, sulfates, and animal testing. They are also vegan and cruelty-free. The brand’s packaging is minimal and functional, with dropper bottles, tubes, and jars that are easy to use and store. The best part is that The Ordinary’s products are extremely affordable, with most of them costing less than $15. This makes them accessible to a wide range of consumers who want to try effective skincare without breaking the bank.

Best-selling products

The Ordinary has a huge portfolio of products that cater to different skin types and concerns. Some of the most popular and well-loved products are:

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: This is a serum that targets blemishes, congestion, oiliness, and enlarged pores. It contains niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 that has anti-inflammatory, anti-acne, and brightening effects. It also contains zinc, a mineral that helps regulate sebum production and soothe irritation. This serum is suitable for all skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin. It can be used morning and evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: This is a hydrating serum that plumps and smooths the skin. It contains hyaluronic acid, a molecule that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. It also contains vitamin B5, a humectant that attracts and retains moisture. This serum is suitable for all skin types, especially dry and dehydrated skin. It can be used morning and evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: This is an exfoliating toner that improves skin texture and clarity. It contains glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores. It also contains aloe vera, ginseng, and tasmanian pepperberry, which soothe and calm the skin. This toner is suitable for normal to oily skin types, except for sensitive and peeling skin. It can be used once a day, preferably in the evening, after cleansing and before serums.
“Buffet”: This is a multi-peptide serum that targets signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and dullness. It contains a complex of peptides, which are chains of amino acids that stimulate collagen and elastin production. It also contains hyaluronic acid, probiotics, and amino acids, which hydrate, balance, and nourish the skin. This serum is suitable for all skin types, especially mature and aging skin. It can be used morning and evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil: This is a facial oil that moisturizes and repairs the skin. It contains rose hip seed oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin A. It helps reduce scars, hyperpigmentation, inflammation, and signs of aging. It also has a light and non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin. This oil is suitable for all skin types, especially dry and damaged skin. It can be used morning and evening, after serums and before or mixed with moisturizers.

Reviews

The Ordinary has received rave reviews from both consumers and experts, who praise the brand’s effectiveness, transparency, and affordability. The brand has also won several awards and recognitions, such as the CEW Beauty Award, the Allure Best of Beauty Award, and the Cosmopolitan Beauty Award. Here are some of the reviews from satisfied customers:

“I love The Ordinary products! They are simple, effective, and affordable. I have oily and acne-prone skin, and the niacinamide serum has helped me a lot with reducing breakouts and oiliness. I also use the hyaluronic acid serum for hydration and the glycolic acid toner for exfoliation. My skin has never looked better!”
“The Ordinary is a game-changer for me. I have dry and sensitive skin, and the “Buffet” serum has made a huge difference in my skin’s appearance and feel. It is hydrating, soothing, and anti-aging. I also love the rose hip seed oil, which is moisturizing and healing. I can’t believe how affordable these products are for the quality and results they deliver.”
“I am a skincare junkie, and I have tried many expensive and high-end products. But nothing beats The Ordinary for me. The products are simple, but they work. They have everything I need for my skincare routine, from cleansers to moisturizers. I especially love the retinol products, which have improved my skin texture and tone. The Ordinary is the best skincare brand ever!”

Dupes

The Ordinary’s products are so affordable that you may not need to look for dupes, but if you are curious about other brands that offer similar products, here are some of the dupes that we have found:

If you like The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, you may also like Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster, which has a similar formula and function, but is more expensive at $44.
If you like The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, you may also like The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which has a similar formula and function, but is slightly cheaper at $7.99.
If you like The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, you may also like Pixi Glow Tonic, which has a similar formula and function, but is more expensive at $29.
If you like The Ordinary “Buffet”, you may also like Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream, which has a similar formula and function, but is more expensive at $68.
If you like The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil, you may also like Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil, which has a similar formula and function, but is more expensive at $29.

Coupon codes and loyalty programs

The Ordinary’s products are already very affordable, but if you want to save even more money, you can look for coupon codes and loyalty programs that offer discounts and rewards. Here are some of the coupon codes and loyalty programs that we have found:

The Ordinary Promo Code: You can get 10% off your first order at The Ordinary’s website by signing up for their email newsletter. You will receive a promo code in your inbox that you can use at checkout.
The Ordinary Loyalty Program: You can join The Ordinary’s loyalty program, called DECIEM+, by creating an account on their website. You will earn points for every purchase you make, and you can redeem them for discounts and free products. You will also get access to exclusive offers, events, and content.
The Ordinary Reseller Discount Codes: You can get up to 50% off The Ordinary products at your favorite stores, such as Sephora, Ulta, and Amazon, by using reseller discount codes. You can find these codes on websites like Wethrift, Dealspotr, and SimplyCodes.

FAQs

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about The Ordinary and their answers:

How do I use The Ordinary products?

The Ordinary products are designed to be used as part of a skincare regimen, which consists of cleansing, toning, treating, and moisturizing. You should use the products in the order of their consistency, from thinnest to thickest. For example, you should use water-based serums before oil-based serums, and oils before creams. You should also follow the instructions and recommendations on each product’s label, such as the frequency, amount, and time of use.

How do I use The Ordinary lactic acid?

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% is a mild AHA that gently exfoliates the skin and improves its texture and tone. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and plumps the skin. To use this product, apply a few drops to a cotton pad and swipe over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Use it once a day, preferably in the evening, after cleansing and before serums. You may experience some tingling or irritation, which is normal, but if it persists, reduce the frequency of use or discontinue the product. You should also wear sunscreen during the day, as AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Which The Ordinary products should not be used together?

The Ordinary products are designed to be mixed and matched, but there are some combinations that should be avoided, as they can cause irritation, reduce effectiveness, or cancel each other out. Here are some of the products that should not be used together:

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and Vitamin C products: These two ingredients can interact and cause flushing and redness. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Acids and Retinoids: These two ingredients are both exfoliating and can cause excessive peeling and sensitivity. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Acids and Peptides: These two ingredients can affect the pH and stability of each other. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Retinoids and Peptides: These two ingredients can compete for the same receptors on the skin and reduce each other’s efficacy. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Retinoids and Vitamin C products: These two ingredients can destabilize each other and cause irritation. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Oil-based products and Water-based products: These two types of products have different textures and can affect the absorption and penetration of each other. You should use water-based products before oil-based products, or wait for the first layer to dry before applying the second layer.

How do I use The Ordinary lactic acid?

Which The Ordinary products should not be used together?

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and Vitamin C products: These two ingredients can interact and cause flushing and redness. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Acids and Retinoids: These two ingredients are both exfoliating and can cause excessive peeling and sensitivity. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Acids and Peptides: These two ingredients can affect the pH and stability of each other. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Retinoids and Peptides: These two ingredients can compete for the same receptors on the skin and reduce each other’s efficacy. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Retinoids and Vitamin C products: These two ingredients can destabilize each other and cause irritation. You can use them separately, at different times of the day, or alternate between them.
Oil-based products and Water-based products: These two types of products have different textures and can affect the absorption and penetration of each other. You should use water-based products before oil-based products, or wait for the first layer to dry before applying the second layer.

Which The Ordinary retinol should I use?

The Ordinary offers a range of retinol and retinoid products that vary in strength and formulation. Retinol and retinoid are both forms of vitamin A that can improve the appearance of aging, acne, and sun damage. However, retinol is less potent and more stable than retinoid, which means it takes longer to see results, but also causes less irritation. Retinoid, on the other hand, is more potent and less stable than retinol, which means it delivers faster results, but also causes more irritation. You should choose the retinol or retinoid product that suits your skin type, concern, and tolerance. Here are some of the options:

Retinol 0.2% in Squalane: This is the lowest strength of retinol offered by The Ordinary. It is ideal for beginners who want to start using retinol without experiencing too much irritation. It is suitable for all skin types, except for sensitive and peeling skin. It can be used once a day, preferably in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Retinol 0.5% in Squalane: This is the medium strength of retinol offered by The Ordinary. It is ideal for intermediate users who have already used retinol 0.2% and want to increase the potency. It is suitable for all skin types, except for sensitive and peeling skin. It can be used once a day, preferably in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Retinol 1% in Squalane: This is the highest strength of retinol offered by The Ordinary. It is ideal for advanced users who have already used retinol 0.5% and want to achieve maximum results. It is suitable for all skin types, except for sensitive and peeling skin. It can be used once a day, preferably in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion: This is a mild retinoid product that uses a synthetic form of retinoic acid called hydroxypinacolone retinoate. It is ideal for users who want to try a retinoid product without experiencing too much irritation. It is suitable for all skin types, except for sensitive and peeling skin. It can be used once a day, preferably in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane: This is a mild retinoid product that uses a synthetic form of retinoic acid called hydroxypinacolone retinoate. It is similar to the emulsion version, but has a more lightweight and oil-based texture. It is ideal for users who want to try a retinoid product without experiencing too much irritation. It is suitable for all skin types, except for sensitive and peeling skin. It can be used once a day, preferably in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane: This is a high-strength retinoid product that uses a synthetic form of retinoic acid called hydroxypinacolone retinoate. It is ideal for users who have already used retinoid 2% and want to increase the potency. It is suitable for all skin types, except for sensitive and peeling skin. It can be used once a day, preferably in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.

Conclusion

The Ordinary is a revolutionary skincare brand that offers effective, affordable, and science-based products that target various skin concerns and needs. The brand’s products are categorized by their active ingredients, such as acids, antioxidants, peptides, retinoids, and vitamins. Each product has a straightforward name that describes exactly what it is and what it does, without any fancy claims or misleading labels. The brand also provides detailed information about the concentration, pH, and compatibility of each product, as well as how to use them in a regimen.