Hyaluronic acid is an all-star ingredient in skincare products, providing hydration and plumping for your skin. Two of the most popular hyaluronic acid serums on the market are La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum.

I’ve purchased both hyaluronic acid serums and have been using them over the past several months. In this post, I will help you understand the key differences between La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Serum vs The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid.

My goal is to help you determine the hyaluronic acid serum that best fits your skincare routine and which will work better for your needs (I have a DEFINITE favorite!)

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Serum vs The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
At A Glance

La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

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Comparison Factor	La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Serum	The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Key Ingredients:	Two types of Hyaluronic Acid, Pro-Vitamin B5, Madecassoside, La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water	Hyaluronic Acid (3 weights), Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Pro-Vitamin B5
Texture and Formulation:	Water-based serum, slightly thicker consistency	Water-based serum, lightweight consistency, slightly tacky on skin
Benefits:	Hydration, anti-aging, repairing skin barrier, reducing fine lines and wrinkles	Hydration, plumping skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles
Best For:	All skin types, particularly beneficial for aging, dehydrated, or dry skin	All skin types, especially effective for dehydrated or dry skin
Unique Features:	Contains La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water and Madecassoside, which enhances skin repair and soothes irritation	Minimalist formulations, focuses primarily on hydration
Packaging:	Glass bottle with dropper	Glass bottle with dropper
Company Ethos:	Dermatologically tested, often recommended by dermatologists, focus on sensitive skin	Focus on straightforward, no-frills skincare with transparency
Availability:	Available in pharmacies and beauty stores, slightly more exclusive	Available in various retailers and beauty stores
Cruelty-free?	No	Yes
Price:	$39.99 for 1 oz.	$8.90 for 1 oz.

A few stand-out qualities:

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum offers:

• A higher-end formula
• More detailed performance statistics

Although La Roche-Posay is formulated to be suitable for a sensitive skin type, please note that it contains a noticeable fragrance, which may be an issue for some with sensitive skin.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid serum is:

• A much more affordable choice with comparable benefits
• Cruelty-free

My favorite? Easy: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid, because it is:

• Fragrance-free
• Vegan and cruelty-free
• Affordably priced
• Effective hydrating and plumping formula

Hyaluronic Acid Serum Ingredients Analysis

Ingredients	La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5	The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Hyaluronic Acid %	❌ Not disclosed	✅ 2% Hyaluronic Acid
Type of Hyaluronic Acid	Sodium Hyaluronate and Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid	Low-, Medium, High-Molecular Weight Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer
Pro-Vitamin B5	✅	✅
Glycerin	✅	✅
Madecassoside and La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water	✅	❌
Silicone-Free?	❌ Contains Dimethicone	✅ Silicone-free
Fragrance?	❌ Contains noticeable fragrance	✅ Fragrance-free

Hyaluronic Acid Concentration

While La Roche-Posay does not disclose the exact concentration of hyaluronic acid, The Ordinary’s formula contains 2% hyaluronic acid. Higher concentration levels of hyaluronic acid typically provide better hydration depending on the formula.

Similar Ingredients

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum both incorporate additional ingredients to boost their effectiveness:

• Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): Pro-Vitamin B5 helps improve skin elasticity and repair the skin barrier.
• Glycerin: Boosts moisture and hydration and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Different Ingredients

The serums contain different types of hyaluronic acid:

• La Roche-Posay: Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
• The Ordinary: Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

In addition to hyaluronic acid, La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum also contains:

• Madecassoside: A derivative of Centella Asiatica extract that soothes your skin.
• La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water: Contains minerals, trace elements, and a high concentration of selenium, a skin-protective antioxidant.

Potential Irritants

Both serums are formulated to minimize potential irritants. La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum offers soothing properties due to the presence of Madecassoside, making it suitable for sensitive skin types, although it does contain a somewhat strong added fragrance.

Though The Ordinary’s serum does not contain Madecassoside, it has a simplified ingredient list and contains fewer ingredients overall, reducing the risk of potential irritants.

It’s always wise to patch test any new skincare product on a small area of your skin before incorporating it into your daily routine.

You can see from the image above that The Ordinary has slightly runnier texture. The Ordinary also feels a bit lighter on my skin, although slightly more tacky. Both wear well under makeup.

Product Availability and Packaging

Where To Buy

The accessibility of both products varies depending on your location. La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum can be found on their official website and at retailers like Amazon, Ulta, and Target, while The Ordinary is available through their website and retailers such as Target, Sephora, and Ulta.

Packaging

• La Roche-Posay’s packaging embodies a more sophisticated, premium look with a sleek blue bottle.
• The Ordinary’s packaging is minimalistic, featuring a brown bottle with simple labeling that reflects their budget-friendly price points.

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The Bottom Line

The choice between La Roche-Posay Hyalu and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 largely depends on your budget and personal preferences. Both hyaluronic acid serums offer unique benefits and have garnered positive reviews from users, making them strong contenders for your purchase of a hyaluronic acid serum.

On a budget? The Ordinary is the better choice. Want additional soothing ingredients and prefer fragrance in your skincare? Choose La Roche-Posay.

Thanks for reading!

Read Next: La Roche-Posay vs CeraVe Products

Yes, copper peptides sound like they came straight from the periodic table, but don’t let the name deter you.

Adding a copper peptide serum to your skincare routine can help improve the overall appearance of your skin. From reducing fine lines and wrinkles to boosting collagen production and improving skin texture, collagen peptides are perfect for aging and mature skin.

And the best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune on luxury products to reap these anti-aging benefits.

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

Copper Peptides in Skincare

Copper peptides are naturally occurring amino acid chains that help promote collagen and elastin production in your skin.

When applied topically, copper peptides can help rejuvenate aging skin by targeting oxidative damage from environmental factors like UV exposure and pollution. Collagen peptides also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

So, what do copper peptides do for your skin?

Copper peptides help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve overall texture and tone. They can help plump your skin and improve the look of skin firmness, precisely what we need as our skin ages!

So, let’s get into the 3 anti-aging copper peptide serums that are actually quite affordable and can make a noticeable difference in the appearance of your skin.

1. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

• Key Ingredients: 1% Copper Peptides, 5 Peptide Complexes, Amino Acids, Hyaluronic Acid
• Price: $30.90 for 1 oz.

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I am a huge fan of The Ordinary and their budget-friendly yet effective skincare products. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum takes their best-selling Multi-Peptide + HA Serum to the next level by adding a 1% concentration of copper peptides.

This peptide serum targets multiple signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity and firmness, and dullness.

The serum contains 5 five peptide complexes, moisturizing amino acids, and multiple hyaluronic acids.

The cool-looking blue shade of the serum is thanks to the copper peptides. Don’t worry, it won’t have you looking like a Smurf! The blue shade disappears upon application.

At just $30.90, this is a very impressive anti-aging serum for the price.

2. Naturium Multi-Peptide Advanced Serum

• Key Ingredients: Copper Peptides, Argireline Amplified Peptide, Encapsulated Ferulic Acid, Hydrolyzed Vegan Collagen
• Price: $25.00 for 1 oz.

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Naturium Multi-Peptide Advanced Serum is a unique formula that blends encapsulated copper peptides with Argireline Amplified peptide, a newer version of Argireline peptide that targets expression wrinkles.

These actives work together to reduce the look of wrinkles and fine lines, firm and plump your skin, and improve skin texture.

Additional ingredients include encapsulated ferulic acid, a potent antioxidant that helps repair free radical damage. Hydrolyzed vegan collagen gives your skin a more lifted look.

What makes this serum stand out is the encapsulation of ingredients, particularly the copper peptides, which reduces irritation and allows you to use the serum with other anti-aging actives, like vitamin C and retinol!

And you can’t beat the price! Love!

Related Post: Naturium Skincare Review

3. Peach & Lily Copper Peptide Pro Firming Serum

• Key Ingredients: 0.2% Copper Peptide, 12 Peptides, 4 Amino Acids, Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, Chicory Root and Shiitake Mushroom
• Price: $49.00 for 1 oz.

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Peach & Lily Copper Peptide Pro Firming Serum targets multiple signs of aging with 0.2% Copper Peptide, 12 peptides, and 4 amino acids.

This concentrated Korean serum supports healthy fibroblasts, which produce collagen and elastin to improve skin elasticity and firmness.

Hydrating hyaluronic acid joins moisturizing squalane, antioxidants, and Korean herbs (chicory root and shiitake mushroom) to support the skin Matrix, where fibroblasts attach to collagen to create additional collagen.

With continued use, the result is smoother skin and a reduction in the look of fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet around the eyes, deep-set wrinkles, and firmer, bouncier skin.

At $49, this bright blue serum is definitely at a higher price point than the other serums, but it’s worth every penny for the advanced formula and powerful ingredients.

Copper Peptides For Skin Aging: Tips To Get The Best Results

• Make sure to patch test and introduce copper peptide serums gradually into your routine to avoid any potential irritation.
• Remember, consistency is key in skincare, and regular use will yield the best results.
• These copper peptide serums are most effective within the first few months after opening.
• Incorporate a high SPF sunscreen (at least SPF 30) into your routine to protect your skin from further sun damage, which can accelerate skin aging.
• Be patient and give copper peptides time to work. Results may not be immediate, but with continued use, you’ll see the benefits of copper peptides on your skin.

Read Next: The Ordinary “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% Review

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

Peptides in Skincare

A quick primer on peptides. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that make up proteins in our bodies. They are critical in many biological processes, including cell signaling, tissue repair, and immunity.

Why use peptides? Peptides offer a wide range of benefits for the skin:

• Boost collagen to firm skin and reduce wrinkles.
• Hydrate and plump your complexion.
• Improve skin texture and tone.
• Specific peptides, like copper-derived peptides, help reduce skin inflammation.
• Peptides enhance ingredient absorption, maximizing skincare benefits.

For a quick overview of each The Ordinary peptide product, I note what skin concerns it targets, who it’s for, other ingredients it conflicts with (see my complete The Ordinary Conflicts Guide here), and the current product price.

The Ordinary Peptide Prices

Let’s start with the most well-known The Ordinary peptide serum: Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (and its supercharged version with copper peptides):

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (“Buffet”)

• Targets: Signs of Aging, Dryness, Crow’s Feet
• Who’s It For? All skin types, especially those that want to prevent and reduce the signs of aging
• Serum Conflicts: Direct Acids, Direct Vitamin C, Resveratrol, Ferulic Acid, and Salicylic Acid
• Price: $17.50 for 1 oz., or $30.80 for 2 oz.

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The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum, formerly known as “Buffet”, is The Ordinary’s best-selling peptide serum.

The water-based serum contains four peptide complexes, moisturizing amino acids, and multiple hydrating hyaluronic acid complexes to target the signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s feet, and loss of firmness and skin elasticity.

• SYN-AKE: SYN-AKE is a peptide that mimics the effects of snake venom, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by relaxing facial muscles.
• Matrixyl 3000: Matrixyl 3000 is a peptide complex that helps to stimulate collagen production, resulting in firmer and more youthful-looking skin. The complex contains two peptides: palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 and palmitoyl tripeptide-1.
• Matrixyl Synthe’6: Also known as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, works by stimulating the production of six major skin components: collagen I, III, IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin 5. These components play a crucial role in maintaining skin’s youthful appearance.
• ARGIRELOX peptide: Also known as Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, works by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters responsible for muscle contractions. By doing so, it helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by repetitive facial movements.

Pros

• The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum addresses the signs of aging with a low-irritation formula, unlike other anti-aging ingredients like retinol and acids.
• I especially like this serum for younger skin looking to ward off the signs of aging. It can help prevent fine lines and wrinkles from forming in the first place by stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity.

Cons

• You won’t see results overnight, and it could take several months before you notice a significant difference in the appearance of your skin.
• This gradual approach benefits those with sensitive skin or those who can’t tolerate stronger retinol or retinoid products.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

• Targets: Signs of Aging, Crow’s Feet, Dryness
• Who’s It For? All skin types, especially those with aging and mature skin looking to reduce the signs of aging
• Serum Conflicts: Direct Acids, Direct Vitamin C, Resveratrol and Ferulic Acid, Salicylic Acid, EUK, Retinoids, and Strong Antioxidants
• Price: $30.90 for 1 oz.

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The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum (previously called “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1%) contains the same ingredients as The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum PLUS 1% copper peptides.

Copper peptides are powerful anti-aging ingredients shown in clinical studies to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation, smooth roughness, and even help with wound healing.

The addition of copper peptides in Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum serum makes it even more effective at fighting the signs of aging. Copper peptides are also what give the serum its signature blue shade.

Pros

• This is one of the best The Ordinary serums for wrinkles and aging/mature skin.
• It helps support the healing of damaged skin.

Cons

• You won’t see overnight results with this serum, so you must be consistent and have patience to get the results you’re looking for.
• One important note is price. The serum is almost twice the price of Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum and the most expensive The Ordinary product, so only you can decide if the investment is worth it for your skin concerns.
• Shelf life tends to be shorter (under 6 months) than Multi-Peptide + HA Serum due to copper peptides in the serum.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Eye Serum

• Targets: Signs of Aging Around The Eyes, Dark Circles, Puffiness
• Who’s It For? Those who want to prevent and reduce the signs of aging around the eyes
• Serum Conflicts: Direct Acids, Direct Vitamin C, Resveratrol, Ferulic Acid, and Salicylic Acid
• Price: $25.00 for 0.5 oz

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Considering the eyes are one of the first areas to show signs of aging, it’s important to give them special attention.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Eye Serum is specifically designed for the delicate eye area and targets fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, and dryness.

The formula contains a unique blend of peptides, brightening niacinamide, caffeine, and Fraxinus Excelsior Bark Extract to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture and elasticity, reduce the look of puffiness, eye bags, and dark circles, and increase circulation.

The eye serum also contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump your skin, making it look smoother and more youthful.

Pros

• This eye serum is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it suitable for both day and night use.
• It is less irritating than retinol eye creams.

Cons

• One note from my own experience with the serum is that it doesn’t feel super hydrating after it absorbs, so I often need to add in a lightweight eye cream to seal in moisture.
• It’s not the cheapest eye product out there. (I think it’s still a great value due to its impressive ingredient list.)

The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10%

• Targets: Signs of Aging, Crow’s Feet, “Eleven Eye”, Smile Lines
• Who’s It For? All skin types, especially those with aging and mature skin looking to reduce the visible signs of aging, like smile lines and forehead wrinkles
• Serum Conflicts: Direct Acids, Direct Vitamin C, Resveratrol, Ferulic Acid, and Salicylic Acid
• Price: $9.40 for 1 oz.

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If you’re looking to target specific areas of the face, such as forehead wrinkles or smile lines, this The Ordinary specifically targets those anti-aging concerns.

The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10% is a lightweight serum designed to help reduce the appearance of dynamic facial lines and wrinkles, like the wrinkles you get from repetitive facial movements, i.e., smiling or squinting.

The watery serum contains a high 10% concentration of Argireline, a trademarked peptide (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) that works by disrupting the signals between nerves and muscles, resulting in a smoother, more relaxed appearance.

Pros

• The serum is super thin and feels weightless on the skin.
• This serum is ideal for those with deep-set expression lines or looking for a non-invasive alternative to botox injections. For the low price, it’s so much cheaper!

Cons

• Don’t expect similar results as Botox. This serum is not a replacement for professional treatments and may not work as well on deeper lines.
• Continuous use is necessary to maintain results, and it could take months to see visible improvements.

NOTE: You may get better results by combining Argireline Solution 10% with Matrixyl 10% + HA. See my The Ordinary Argireline Review post for more details on using these two serums together.

The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA

• Targets: Signs of Aging, Wrinkles and Fine Lines, Loss of Elasticity
• Who’s It For? All skin types, especially those with aging and mature skin looking to reduce the visible signs of aging
• Serum Conflicts: Direct Acids, Direct Vitamin C, Resveratrol, Ferulic Acid, and Salicylic Acid
• Price: $10.50 for 1 oz.

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The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA contains a high 10% concentration of two generations of Matrixyl (Matrixyl 3000 and Matrixyl Synthe’6), which are peptides known for their anti-aging properties.

These Matrixyl peptide complexes work by stimulating collagen production and improving the production of six main skin components. The serum helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging, like loss of firmness and elasticity.

The serum also contains hyaluronic acid for added hydration and plumping effects.

Pros

• This water-based serum is lightweight and non-greasy and does not irritate as retinoids and retinol does.
• Another benefit is that it’s much less expensive than Multi-Peptide + HA Serum.

Cons

• Like with other peptide serums, results may take months to appear.
• Matrixyl 10% + HA may work better when combined with Argireline Solution 10%, increasing the cost to see results.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum

• Targets: Thinning brows and lashes
• Who’s It For? All skin types and anyone looking to strengthen and lengthen their lashes and brows
• Serum Conflicts: Direct Acids, Direct Vitamin C, Resveratrol, Ferulic Acid, and Salicylic Acid
• Price: $14.50 for 0.17 oz.

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The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum contains a blend of 4 peptide complexes, natural extracts, caffeine, and antioxidants to help promote thicker, fuller, and longer lashes and brows.

It’s simple to use: Apply the provided brush onto clean lashes and brows morning and night. With continued use, you may see a significant improvement in the appearance of your lashes and brows.

Pros

• The lash and brow serum is very affordable compared to some other lash and brow products.
• It can be used on lashes and/or brows, so you don’t need two separate products.

Cons

• You need to use the serum twice a day, unlike some other lash and brow products that are used once a day.
• Users have mixed results. I have had great results, but others haven’t been so lucky.

Related Post: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum Review

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

• Targets: Thinning Hair
• Who’s It For? All hair types and anyone looking for fuller, denser, healthier hair
• Serum Conflicts: Direct Acids, Direct Vitamin C, Resveratrol and Ferulic Acid, Salicylic Acid
• Price: $21.70 for 2 oz.

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The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is a scalp formulated with multiple peptide complexes and high-solubility caffeine to help promote thicker, fuller, and healthier-looking hair.

The serum contains:

• Redensyl Complex: Targets hair loss and promotes growth.
• Procapil Peptide: Fights premature hair loss and strengthens your hair.
• Capixyl Peptide: Delivers a combination of a biomimetic peptide and red clover for thicker locks.
• Baicapil Complex: Uses a plant-based trio of ingredients to reduce hair loss and improve the hair follicle condition.
• AnaGain: Uses organic pea sprouts to boost hair growth.
• 1% High-Solubility Caffeine: Caffeine has been shown to be as effective as a 5% minoxidil solution for male pattern baldness.

Like with other The Ordinary peptide serums, you won’t see results overnight. I’ve been using this hair serum for months, and have seen in improvement of growth around my temples and forehead.

Pros

• Lightweight, non-sticky serum consistency.
• Impressive ingredient list of ingredients that target hair growth.
• Affordable price.

Cons

• It may take several months to see results. The serum may not work for everyone.
• You may need to wash your hair more often than usual if you use the serum daily.

The Ordinary Matrixyl vs Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (Buffet)

One of the most common questions regarding The Ordinary peptide products is the difference between Matrixyl 10% + HA and Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (Buffet). Both are multi-peptide serums, but here is the main difference in their formulations:

• The Ordinary Matrixyl serum contains a high concentration (10%) of Matrixyl peptides, while the Multi-Peptide + HA Serum contains a combination of different peptides, including Matrixyl.
• Multi-Peptide + HA Serum also includes additional ingredients such as hyaluronic acid complexes and amino acids for added benefits.
• Matrixyl is much more affordable than Multi-Peptide + HA Serum.

The Ordinary Argireline vs Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (Buffet)

Another popular debate is the difference between The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10% and Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (Buffet).

• Multi-Peptide + HA Serum contains both Argireline and Matrixyl, making it a more comprehensive anti-aging serum.
• If you are looking to target expression lines or want a less expensive serum, The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10% is the better choice.
• The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10% is more affordable than Multi-Peptide + HA Serum.

The Ordinary Peptides

The Ordinary peptide products have gained a cult following for their affordable yet effective formulations. While you certainly don’t need all of their peptide products, incorporating one into your skincare routine can benefit your skin.

My pick is Multi-Peptide + HA Serum for its impressive ingredient list and anti-aging and hydrating benefits.

Whether you’re looking to fight wrinkles and fine lines, enhance skin hydration, or simply give your skin a healthy glow, The Ordinary’s peptide-based products can provide an effective and economical solution to addressing the signs of aging.

Thanks for reading!

Read Next: Affordable Copper Peptide Serums

You’ll be glad to know that The Ordinary has a range of affordable products from which you can create a simple and effective skincare routine to address these skin concerns.

So in this post, we’ll be discussing The Ordinary skincare routine for over 50 based on skin type and best The Ordinary products for aging skin in case you want to incorporate a few into your current skincare routine.

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

The Ordinary Skincare Routine For Over 50

Let’s start with the routines. Here are some sample morning and evening The Ordinary routines for aging and mature skin over 50.

Use them as a guide to help you build your perfect routine based on your skin’s needs.

AM Skincare Routine:

PM Skincare Routine:

The Ordinary Products For Over 50

Here are several The Ordinary products that you can use to create a skincare routine if you are over 50. You can pick and choose the products that work best for your skin and needs.

The Ordinary Cleansers

The Ordinary offers three cleansers that are geared for different skin types:

• For Normal Skin: The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
• For Dry Skin: Glycolipid Cream Cleanser (non-foaming)
• For Combination/Oily Skin: Glucoside Foaming Cleanser

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

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The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is a soap-free cleanser that contains squalane, a moisturizing ingredient that helps maintain your skin’s natural barrier.

Ideal for all skin types, Squalane Cleanser effortlessly dissolves dirt, makeup, oil and grime without stripping your skin’s natural oils, making it the perfect first step in any skincare routine.

The Ordinary Glycolipid Cream Cleanser

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The Ordinary Glycolipid Cream Cleanser is a cream cleanser that removes makeup, dirt and oil without stripping your skin or leaving it feeling tight or dry.

Perfect for dehydrated and dry skin types.

The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser

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The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser is a foaming cleansing gel that gently removes impurities and excess oil while respecting your skin barrier.

It’s so gentle that it is even suitable for the most sensitive skin, including babies.

A Note On Double Cleansing

If you like to double cleanse at the end of the day, you can use The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser to remove your makeup.

After removing your makeup, you can follow with Glycolipid Cream Cleanser if you have dry skin, Glucoside Foaming Cleanser if you have combination skin or oily skin, and The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser (again) if you have normal skin.

The Ordinary Hydrators

Regardless of your skin type, as we age, our skin becomes drier as it doesn’t retain moisture as well, so it is important to replenish your skin’s moisture levels with hydration.

The Ordinary offers multiple hydrators. Here are my picks by skin types:

• For Normal, Dry or Dehydrated Skin: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
• For Combination and Oily Skin: Marine Hyaluronics

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a water-based serum that contains 2% hyaluronic acid, a hero ingredient for hydrating and plumping your skin.

This serum also contains Vitamin B5 to enhance surface hydration, making it perfect for normal, dry, or dehydrated skin. It provides both short-term and long-term hydration with continued use.

The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics

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The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics is another water-based serum that contains marine-derived hydrators to replenish your skin’s moisture levels.

The serum is filled with skin-loving hydrators: exopolysaccharides from skin-friendly marine bacteria, Hawaiian red algae, glycoproteins from Antarctic marine sources, micro-filtered blue-green algae, and several amino acids.

The most noticeable difference between Marine Hyaluronics and Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is that Marine Hyaluronics has a MUCH LIGHTER CONSISTENCY. It has a watery texture and doesn’t feel as heavy on your skin.

This lightweight serum is ideal for combination and oily skin types, as it provides hydration without the weight or stickiness.

If you aren’t sure of your skin type, take The Ordinary Skincare Quiz now!

The Ordinary Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an all-star ingredient for anti-aging, and The Ordinary has several options to choose from.

• For Normal Skin: Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%.
• For Dry Skin: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F
• For Combination/Oily Skin: Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%.

The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

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I’ve included the most popular The Ordinary pure vitamin C product in the routines for normal, combination, and oily skin types: Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%.

This serum contains a high 23% concentration of pure l-ascorbic acid (ascorbic acid), which is known for its brightening and anti-aging properties. The water-free and silicone-free formula also contain hyaluronic acid to provide an extra boost of hydration.

NOTE: The is a potent vitamin C product, so choose the vitamin C product that works best for your skin. If this 23% concentration is too strong, The Ordinary also offers The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%, which is excellent for brightening your complexion.

The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F

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If you have dry skin, consider adding The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F to your routine.

The oil contains a vitamin C derivative that coverts to pure vitamin C in your skin. It’s more stable than pure vitamin C and less irritating. The lightweight oil-based formula nourishes dehydrated and dry skin.

This Vitamin C serum helps brighten and improve your skin’s texture and moisturizes with vitamin F (omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids) to support a healthy skin barrier.

The Ordinary Peptides

For All Skin Types

Peptides are essentially small chains of amino acids that are building blocks for proteins like collagen and elastin. These are the proteins that we want to support since they help keep your skin smooth, firm, and elastic.

Think bouncy and plump!

What I love about the following peptide serums is that they are generally less irritating than other anti-aging actives like retinoids or acids.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum

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The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (formerly known as “Buffet”) is a peptide serum that targets multiple signs of aging.

It contains several peptide complexes, multiple hyaluronic acid complexes, and moisturizing amino acids that help reduce the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness and skin elasticity.

It comes in a comfortable water-based formula that doesn’t leave your skin greasy.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

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The Ordinary also offers a supercharged version of Multi-Peptide + HA Serum: Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum. This serum was previously called “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% (shown above).

This copper peptide serum contains the same ingredients as Multi-Peptide + HA Serum, plus 1% copper peptides for additional antioxidant support.

Direct copper peptides work to reduce the signs of aging that come with oxidative stress.

NOTE: Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum is one of the most expensive products (if not the most expensive product) from The Ordinary, so if it’s not in your budget, The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum is still an excellent choice.

Related Post: Affordable Copper Peptide Serums

The Ordinary Retinoids

Retinoids are known for their anti-aging benefits and are the gold standard in over-the-counter skincare for targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.

If you are over 50, you should seriously consider incorporating retinoids into your skincare routine.

Retinoids (retinol is a type of retinoid) work by increasing cell turnover, which helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and texture, fine lines and wrinkles, and can even help with acne.

Retinoids also stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness.

Granactive Retinoid is a newer form of retinoid that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is typically gentler on the skin and has been shown to produce similar results to retinol with less irritation.

The Ordinary offers three Granactive Retinoid products. Here are my picks for mature skin by skin type:

• For Combination/Oily Skin: Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
• For Dry/Sensitive Skin: Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane
• For Normal Skin: Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane

It is important to start slow when incorporating retinoids into your skincare routine, as they can cause sensitivity and irritation if used too frequently. Start slow and gradually increase usage as tolerated.

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion

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The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion has a cream-like consistency and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving your skin greasy, making it a great choice for those with combination or oily skin.

It contains 2% Granactive Retinoid and is boosted by a small amout of retinol.

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane

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The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane is a lightweight oil-based serum that is ideal for dry or sensitive skin types.

The serum helps to hydrate and nourish the skin with squalane while also targeting fine lines and wrinkles with 2% Granactive Retinoid.

If you are a retinoid beginner or have sensitive skin, this is the most gentle The Ordinary retinoid.

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane

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The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane is the strongest Granactive Retinoid serum from The Ordinary and is recommended for those who are looking for a more potent formula.

The serum helps to improve skin texture, firmness, and overall radiance.

Please note that retinoids can make your skin slightly more sensitive to the sun, so it’s important to use sunscreen while using these products.

You can read more about The Ordinary retinol serums and their complete line of retinoids in my The Ordinary retinol and retinoid guide. For more drugstore retinoid options, see my complete guide to drugstore retinol.

NOTE: I’ve included The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoids in these routines, but if you prefer a The Ordinary retinol serum, by all means, use it instead!

The Ordinary Eye Treatment

The Ordinary currently only offers eye serums, and the following eye treatment is formulated to address the signs of aging around the eye area.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Eye Serum

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The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Eye Serum contains an impressive list of active ingredients to address the signs of aging around the eyes (one of the first areas of your skin to show the signs of aging!)

The serum helps reduce the look of fine lines, crow’s feet, puffiness, eye bags, and dark circles. It helps brighten and smooth the delicate eye area.

NOTE: If this eye serum doesn’t provide enough moisture for your eye area, you can always follow with a lightweight eye cream.

The Ordinary Moisturizers

Regardless of your skin type, you need to moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated and support your skin’s moisture barrier.

While none of The Ordinary moisturizers are specifically formulated for aging skin, The Ordinary offers three moisturizer options that are suitable for different skin types:

• For Normal/Combination Skin: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
• For Dry Skin: Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides
• For Combination/Oily Skin: Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan

All three moisturizers are fragrance-free, like all The Ordinary products, and can be used in the morning and evening as part of your skincare routine.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

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Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and aging skin.

The cream contains natural moisturizing factors (NMF) like amino acids and hyaluronic acid to hydrate your skin and improve its moisture retention.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides

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The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides is a rich moisturizer that contains natural plant-based ceramides to help improve your skin’s moisture barrier, making it perfect for dry skin.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan

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The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan is a lightweight moisturizer that contains beta-glucan to soothe and hydrate your skin without feeling heavy or greasy. This makes it ideal for those with combination or oily skin types.

Face Oil (Optional)

Not everyone needs to use a facial oil, but if you find that your skin responds well to them, The Ordinary has a great option for aging skin:

The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

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The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil is perfect for those with aging and dehydrated skin.

Rosehip oil helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots while providing nourishing hydration.

The Ordinary Sunscreen

The Ordinary only offers two sunscreens: Mineral UV Filters SPF 15 with Antioxidants and Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants.

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I always advocate for using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, so Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants would be my choice if you want to add The Ordinary sunscreen into your skincare routine.

If mineral sunscreens aren’t your favorite, or if you prefer another brand of sunscreen, then by all means, use what works best for your skin.

Just don’t forget to use sunscreen every day, whether the sun is shining or not since the sun is the main culprit when it comes to accelerating the visible signs of skin aging.

More The Ordinary Products For Aging Skin

These are relatively simple The Ordinary routines for skin over 50. The Ordinary offers several more products to target the signs of aging, such as:

• Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: This toner helps to exfoliate and brighten the skin with glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture and tone. It also contains aloe vera and ginseng to soothe and hydrate your skin.
• Lactic Acid 10% + HA or Lactic Acid 5% + HA: Lactic acid is an AHA with a larger molecule size compared to glycolic acid, making it a gentler exfoliant. It helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of age spots and fine lines.
• Argireline Solution 10%: This anti-aging serum contains a peptide (also found in Multi-Peptide + HA Serum) that helps to reduce the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles.
• Matrixyl 10% + HA: This anti-aging serum contains Matrixyl synthe’6 and Matrixyl 3000 (also found in Multi-Peptide + HA Serum), as well as hyaluronic acid for hydration.

Why Choose The Ordinary For Skincare Over 50?

With so many skincare brands and products on the market, it can be overwhelming to navigate which ones are best for your skin needs. However, The Ordinary stands out for its simple yet effective approach to skincare.

Their products are formulated with high-quality ingredients that have been scientifically proven to benefit the skin.

But why specifically choose The Ordinary products for mature skin over 50? Here are a few reasons:

• Anti-Aging Benefits: The most obvious benefit: The Ordinary’s products contain powerful anti-aging ingredients such as retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants that can help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
• Affordable Pricing: As we age, our skin may require more specialized and (typically) expensive skincare products. The Ordinary offers high-quality ingredients at an affordable price point, making it easier to incorporate into a daily routine without stretching your budget.
• Customizable Routine: The Ordinary’s range of products allows you to create a personalized skincare routine based on your specific skin concerns. This is especially helpful for mature skin, which may have multiple concerns such as dryness, wrinkles, and age spots.

Looking for an anti-aging skincare gift? Check out this post on the best anti-aging skincare gift sets!

The Bottom Line

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to skincare, The Ordinary’s products can be an excellent option for mature skin over 50.

With their effective and affordable range of products, you can create a personalized routine that works best for your unique skin needs. With consistency and patience, you should see noticeable improvements in the overall appearance and health of your skin.

If you decide to try a few new The Ordinary products, remember to always patch test new products before incorporating them into your skincare routine.

Thanks for reading!

Read Next: The Best Skincare Books

It’s time for one of the most exciting times of the year for The Ordinary fans – Black Friday!

As the holiday season approaches, many customers (including myself) eagerly await The Ordinary Black Friday Sale.

Yet the brand has taken an unconventional approach to tackling the typical shopping frenzy of the season, embracing a concept called “Slowvember” instead.

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

The Ordinary Slowvember Sale

For the past few years, Deciem, the parent company of The Ordinary, decided to take somewhat of a stand against hyperconsumerism and impulse buying that is often associated with Black Friday.

Instead of participating in the typical Black Friday sales, Deciem closed all its stores and their website on Black Friday. I know, it’s hard to believe!

But… The Ordinary offered a 23% discount on their products throughout the rest of the month of November. This approach aimed to encourage people to be more mindful about their purchases and not in a crazy rush to snag a deal.

The idea behind “Slowvember” was to promote sustainable shopping habits, allowing customers to shop at their own pace and make more conscious buying decisions.

By not having a typical Black Friday or Cyber Monday sale, The Ordinary has made a conscious effort to impact the environment positively and encourage responsible consumer behavior.

What To Buy in The Ordinary Black Friday Sale

If you’re new to The Ordinary or looking to expand your skincare routine, The Ordinary Slowvember sale is the time to explore their wide range of over 50 products.

You’ll be smart to get your list ready early.

Remember, the Slowvember Sale only lasts for the month of November, and in the past, out-of-stock items were not restocked during the sale, so it’s best to act fast and take advantage of the discounts.

Note that in addition to The Ordinary’s skincare products, this 23% off sale also extended to other Deciem brands. This is where the real savings come into play.

NIOD, a Deciem brand, is a much pricier skincare line than The Ordinary. So, during the Slowvember sale, you can grab products like their best-selling NIOD Fractionated Eye-Contour Concentrate for a “fraction” 😉 of its original price.

As a bonus, you can take 50% off NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 3 1:1 (CAIS 3 1:1) and NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Lipid 1 % (CAIL 1%).

Here are some of my picks to stock up on or to try for the first time if The Ordinary launches their Slowvember sale this year:

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

TARGETS: Signs of Congestion, Textural Irregularities, Dryness, Dullness, Visible Shine

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The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum is a popular choice for skin concerns like oily skin and inflammation.

The combination of high-strength niacinamide (10%) and zinc (1%) improves your skin’s appearance by regulating sebum production and reducing the look of blemishes.

Excellent for acne-prone and oily skin.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

TARGETS: Dullness, Signs of Aging, Textural Irregularities, Uneven Skin Tone

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The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is an exfoliating acid toner that removes dead skin cells, brightens your complexion, and improves skin texture.

Its effectiveness makes it a favorite of those looking to address concerns like dullness, uneven skin tone, and fine lines.

It is important to note that this glycolic acid toner may cause some initial stinging or irritation, especially if you’re new to using chemical exfoliants.

Also, be sure to use sunscreen when using exfoliating acids since they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

TARGETS: Dryness

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You can keep your skin hydrated and supple with The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum.

This best-selling formula combines low, medium, and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid plus a next-generation hyaluronic acid crosspolymer to penetrate your skin at multiple layers, providing sustained hydration.

The addition of Vitamin B5 helps to enhance surface hydration, leaving your skin feeling soft, refreshed, and plump.

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

TARGETS: Dirt, Makeup Oil, Dryness

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Effective yet gentle, The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is a favorite among many for its ability to remove makeup and impurities without stripping your skin’s natural oils.

The cleanser is formulated with squalane, a hydrating ingredient that mimics your skin’s natural oils yet is non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

TARGETS: Dryness

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For a no-frills moisturizer that combines the benefits of multiple ingredients, check out The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA.

This lightweight cream is formulated with natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) such as amino acids, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to provide hydration and nourishment to your skin.

This moisturizer is suitable for all skin types and helps keep your skin soft, smooth, and protected.

The moisturizer also comes in a smaller 1 oz. size for travel or if you want to test it before buying the full size.

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

TARGETS: Blemishes, Textural Irregularities, Dullness, Uneven Skin Tone

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If you want to improve uneven skin tone and texture, The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution could be your go-to product IF your skin can tolerate it.

This rinse-off exfoliating facial treatment combines alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) in the form of glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid, and a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) in the form of salicylic acid to help you reveal smoother, brighter skin with fewer visible imperfections.

Just make sure you are an experienced user of acid exfoliation, and you don’t have sensitive skin because this peel is no joke (i.e., it’s really strong)!

The World of The Ordinary

Known for its transparency in ingredients and minimalistic packaging, The Ordinary offers high-quality yet budget-friendly products that cater to a wide range of skin concerns.

The Ordinary is a brand under Deciem, a company committed to revolutionizing the skincare industry by providing transparency and high-quality products at an affordable price point.

By focusing on simple formulations with key active ingredients, they have gained a loyal following among skincare enthusiasts (including me!).

With an extensive range of products, you’ll find everything from cleansers and serums to moisturizers and sunscreens.

Each product in their lineup targets specific skin issues, such as acne, dullness, or dehydration.

So whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned expert, The Ordinary’s products allow you to create a personalized routine to meet your unique needs.

Want a The Ordinary skincare routine tailored to your unique skin type and concerns? Take my exclusive The Ordinary Skincare Quiz now!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When does the Deciem Black Friday Sale start?

The Deciem Black Friday Sale, also known as Slowvember, typically starts on November 1st at 12 AM (EST). Keep an eye on The Ordinary’s social media pages and website for any updates or changes.

What products are included in the Deciem Black Friday Sale?

Typically, all products from The Ordinary are included in the Deciem Black Friday Sale, which, in years past, has run the entire month of November.

Is there a specific promo code for the sale?

In years past, no specific promo code was required for The Ordinary Black Friday sale. The 23% discount was available all month and applied automatically to your purchase during checkout.

Will Sephora also offer discounts on The Ordinary products?

Although Sephora may have their own Black Friday deals and promotions, it’s important to note that the 23% off discount for The Ordinary products was available on The Ordinary’s website only.

It’s always a good idea to check both Sephora and The Ordinary’s websites for the most up-to-date information on promotions and discounts.

The Ordinary Black Friday 2023: The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a Black Friday deal from The Ordinary, mark your calendars for the beginning of November and add your favorite products to your cart now.

Keep an eye out for any updates from The Ordinary on their social media platforms as well.

What’s your favorite The Ordinary skincare product? Will you be shopping The Ordinary Black Friday sale this year? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks for reading!

While the official name is not quite as fun as calling it the “pink serum”, it’s still a true multi-benefit serum that addresses a weakened skin barrier, skin irritation, and redness. So, all you sensitive-skinned folks, this serum is for you!

I recently received my order and put it to the test, so I will share my first impressions of this unique serum in this The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum review.

This The Ordinary barrier serum review post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum

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The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum is a bright pink water-based serum that helps reduce the look of irritated skin while smoothing uneven skin texture.

What does The Ordinary pink serum do?

This pink serum provides soothing hydration while strengthening your skin barrier.

Unlike many of The Ordinary’s other serums that focus on a single hero ingredient, this serum contains multiple active ingredients, starting with one of my favorite ingredients, niacinamide.

The Ordinary’s clinical testing shows that Soothing & Barrier Support serum provides an 86% increase in hydration (that lasts all day).

The serum also reduces the look of redness and uneven skin texture while repairing and strengthening your skin barrier in just 2 hours.

Sounds great, but why so expensive (compared to other The Ordinary serums)?

At the time of writing this post, the serum is priced at $17, which is about twice as much as you might expect to pay for a The Ordinary serum. This higher price is due to the more complex ingredient list.

Let’s take a look at what’s contributing to the higher price:

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum: Key Ingredients

2% Niacinamide: The highest concentration of any active ingredient. In theory, you could call the serum the Niacinamide Soothing & Barrier Support Serum.

Niacinamide has so many incredible skin benefits, including its ability to calm redness and strengthen your skin barrier. But it doesn’t stop there: niacinamide helps reduce pore size, improves oil regulation, and smoothes wrinkles.

Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, and Xylitol: These sugar-based ingredients help your skin retain moisture and strengthen your skin barrier.

Centella Asiatica Phytotechnologies: Beneficial compounds of the Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) plant, including asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid, soothe, calm, and heal irritated and sensitized skin.

Vitamin B12: This nourishing vitamin (a fermentation-derived cyanocobalamin) helps reduce redness and gives the serum its signature pink shade.

4-T-Butylcyclohexanol: Known under the brand name SymSitive, this active helps reduce stinging and burning, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid: Known under the brand name of SymCalmin, this active reduces itchiness and skin irritation.

Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide: A compound that is similar to ceramides. It helps strengthen your skin barrier and retain moisture.

Bisabolol: A chamomile-derived ingredient that soothes and calms your skin, helping to reduce redness and irritation.

Plant-Derived Ceramides (Sphingolipids and Phospholipids): These ingredients help your skin retain moisture and strengthen its barrier function.

Gallic Acid Derivatives (Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside (EGCG), Gallyl Glucoside, and Propyl Gallate): These activated forms of gallic acid are skin-protective antioxidants with soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits that can help with redness caused by skin irritants.

The serum is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and vegan, like all The Ordinary products.

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum Review

Although I can’t help thinking of Pepto Bismol when I look at The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum, once I remind myself that it’s not Pepto and actually a cute Barbie pink shade, I shift my focus to the texture.

I love the way this serum feels upon application.

The texture is light and creamy, and it absorbs quickly.

While some The Ordinary serums don’t have a very elegant skin feel, this calming serum is not one of them. It doesn’t leave my skin tacky or sticky (yay!).

The serum is also non-greasy, so I can wear it under makeup without worrying about pilling or having a greasy residue.

The fact that the serum contains 2% niacinamide is a big plus for me. I LOVE niacinamide.

While 2% isn’t a very high niacinamide concentration, the serum isn’t meant to replicate The Ordinary’s other niacinamide serum (The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc PCA).

Yet a 2% niacinamide concentration still provides skincare benefits.

Case in point: This clinical study showed that a 2% niacinamide concentration was effective in controlling sebum (oil) production.

The serum goes on bright pink, but the shade doesn’t linger once it absorbs (see photo above). It leaves my skin feeling super soft and comfortable.

I can layer it with serums like The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum or The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion without worrying about pilling or greasiness.

My skin often gets sensitive from direct acids, retinol, and retinoids, so this will be the perfect serum to reach for when my skin is dehydrated, tight, and flaky (which is all too often since I am constantly testing products).

Do you need this serum?

If you struggle with a compromised skin barrier or are dealing with damaged skin that needs some TLC, this soothing serum could be a great choice for you.

If you have sensitive skin, this pink serum could become a staple in your skincare routine thanks to its calming formula.

Even if you don’t have sensitive skin, this is still a great serum to have on hand for when your skin needs some extra care and hydration. (Or if you love the bright pink shade, 😜!)

If it’s not in your budget or doesn’t address your skin concerns, consider one of the alternatives discussed below to support your skin barrier.

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum Drawbacks

The price. The Ordinary barrier serum is not the cheapest The Ordinary serum.

Why is Soothing & Barrier Support Serum so much more expensive than other The Ordinary serums?

Soothing & Barrier Support Serum is a multi-active serum, so you get a more complex product with a higher concentration of active ingredients. This makes it more expensive to produce, hence the higher price.

Another potential drawback is that although the pink shade simply comes from vitamin B12, the bright color might be a turn-off for some.

For more on the best The Ordinary products for sensitive skin, read my The Ordinary Guide For Sensitive Skin.

How To Use The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum can be used in both your morning and evening skincare routines.

Apply it after other water-based serums (like The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5) and before your moisturizer (like The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA) or other creams and oils.

You’ll only need about 2-4 drops for your face and neck.

The shelf life of the serum is 12 months after opening.

As with any new skincare product, be sure to patch test before using this serum for the first time to avoid an unwanted initial adverse reaction.

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum Conflicts

The Ordinary notes that you should not use Soothing & Barrier Support Serum in the same skincare routine as pure vitamin C products or vitamin C derivatives.

Alternatives to The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum

An alternative and cheaper The Ordinary serum that contains niacinamide is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, which also contains added zinc for extra oil control.

But keep in mind that the higher niacinamide concentration may be too potent for sensitive skin, and the serum is not specifically formulated for soothing and calming benefits.

So, if you have sensitive skin, the lower niacinamide concentration of Soothing & Barrier Support Serum is probably the better choice.

Here are a few other The Ordinary serum alternatives to consider:

Want To Target Hyperpigmentation, Acne Scars, and Redness?

Try: The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution:

(Targets Textural Irregularities, Uneven Skin Tone, and The Look of Redness)

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The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution offers similar benefits as Soothing & Barrier Support Serum but uses different ingredients to calm irritation and redness and is formulated for blemish-prone skin.

The calming serum contains aloe barbadensis leaf juice powder for hydration.

N-acetyl glucosamine targets hyperpigmentations, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. Palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 helps reduce textural irregularities.

Plus, the serum is also a few dollars cheaper than Soothing & Barrier Support Serum. See my complete Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution review here.

Just Need Some Hydration?

Try: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

(For Hydration)

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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 offers lightweight hydration with a 2% hyaluronic acid (HA) concentration.

The serum contains three different types of hyaluronic acid plus a HA crosspolymer to provide hydration at multiple skin levels.

The serum also contains pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol), which has soothing benefits and helps enhance your skin’s surface hydration.

This serum is suitable for all skin types and is especially beneficial for dehydrated or dry skin.

While the formula isn’t as targeted to sensitive skin and isn’t as advanced as Soothing & Barrier Support Serum, it’s much less expensive.

Read more about this HA serum in my The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid review post.

Prefer An Ultra-Lightweight Texture?

Try: The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5

(For Skin Barrier Support)

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The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5 (read my review here) is all about supporting and rebuilding your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

The serum contains 17 amino acids and amino acid derivatives to hydrate and support your skin barrier.

It has a super thin texture that absorbs quickly, making it perfect for layering under makeup or other skincare products.

The formula is also enriched with 5% pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol) for added hydration and soothing benefits.

This serum is great for all skin types, especially those with sensitive or compromised skin barriers and dry skin.

Want a The Ordinary skincare routine that is tailored to your unique skin type and concerns? Take my exclusive The Ordinary Skincare Quiz now!

The Bottom Line

While the Barbie pink color (that could pass for a fun nail polish shade) may be the first thing that draws you in, the silky feel and nourishing benefits of The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum have me hooked.

If your skin doesn’t get easily irritated or if you don’t want additional skin barrier support, then you probably don’t need this serum.

However, if you’re looking for a hydrating and soothing serum that calms irritation and is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types, then this is definitely one to consider.

Thanks for reading!

Since The Ordinary has over 50 products, it can get confusing when trying to pick the right products for your skin type and goals.

To make it easier, I’ve created a The Ordinary skincare quiz to help you find the perfect skincare routine and products from The Ordinary for your needs and skin concerns.

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

Take The Ordinary Skincare Routine For Your Skin Type Quiz

Answer a few simple questions about your skin type, concerns, and preferences to get The Ordinary product recommendations tailored just for your skin type.

The Ordinary Skincare quiz will generate a customized skin care routine with The Ordinary products that address your specific needs.

Easy to follow and packed with expert tips, the results will send you on your way to achieving your skincare goals in no time.

Whether you’re looking to tackle acne, even skin tone, or boost hydration, this The Ordinary skincare quiz will guide you to your best The Ordinary skincare routine.

The Ordinary Skincare Routines For Different Skin Types

Identifying your skin type is essential in choosing the right skincare products. There are four main skin types:

• Normal skin: Balanced and even in texture, neither too oily nor too dry.
• Oily skin: Characterized by excess oil production, causing a shiny appearance and clogged pores.
• Dry skin: Lacks sufficient moisture, often feeling tight and appearing flaky or dull.
• Combination skin: A mix of oily and dry areas, usually an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) with dryer cheeks.

Additional Skin Issues…

Sensitive skin is easily irritated and inflamed, often prone to redness, itching, and burning sensations.

Unfortunately, you may have sensitive skin that is dry, oily, combination, or prone to acne, which makes building your skin care routine a bit more complicated. 

If you have sensitive skin, have no fear because there is a The Ordinary skincare routine for sensitive skin in this quiz.

Some people are prone to acne and breakouts, and it can be their primary focus when building their skincare routine.

Acne-prone skin can be dry, oily, sensitive, or combination, and requires specific ingredients to tackle the inflammation that causes acne.

So, if you have acne-prone skin, you’ll see a The Ordinary skincare routine for acne-prone skin in this quiz, too.

Determining Your Skin Type

To determine your skin type, start with a freshly cleansed face and wait a few hours without applying any products.

This allows your skin to reach its natural balance.

Next, observe how your skin feels and looks. If it appears even and balanced, you have normal skin. If it’s shiny and has visible pores, it’s oily.

Dry patches and tightness indicate dry skin, while a mix of oily and dry areas suggests combination skin.

You likely have sensitive skin if your skin gets irritated or red.

No matter your skin type, the Ordinary offers powerful ingredients and formulations to help you achieve optimal skin health.

Matching Your Skin Type and Skin Issues with The Ordinary Products

The Ordinary Skincare Quiz can help customize a skincare routine tailored to your specific needs.

Below are some general guidelines for matching skin types with products:

Normal skin

Focus on maintaining your skin’s natural balance with gentle, hydrating products.

Look for ingredients like vitamin C to brighten, retinoids to target wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging, and hyaluronic acid for extra hydration.

Oily skin

Look for lightweight, oil-free products with mattifying and pore-refining ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide to help reduce sebum production and balance your skin’s natural oils.

Other actives like AHAs (i.e., glycolic acid, lactic acid, or mandelic acid), BHAs (i.e., salicylic acid), or retinoids like retinol help remove excess oils and reduce the appearance of blemishes while targeting the signs of aging.

Dry skin

If you have dry skin, use rich, moisturizing creams and serums to restore hydration and prevent moisture loss. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to lock in hydration.

Avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils and opt for gentle, non-irritating cleansers.

Combination skin

Balance the needs of both your oily and dry areas with lightweight moisturizers and humectants that won’t clog your pores while still nourishing dry areas.

Look for ingredients like niacinamide, which helps regulate oil production while supporting a healthy skin barrier, as well as hyaluronic acid, vitamins C and E to protect against environmental aggressors.

Sensitive skin

Look for products with gentle ingredients like hyaluronic acid or Centella asiatica that won’t irritate your skin.

Avoid harsh acids and fragrances, and opt for calming ingredients that soothe irritation and hydrate the skin.

Also, opt for fragrance-free, gentle formulas that soothe and protect your skin barrier.

Always remember to patch test new products and consult a dermatologist if you have concerns about your skin’s health.

Related Post: The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum Review

Acne-Prone skin

If you have acne-prone skin, focus on ingredients that can help manage acne and prevent future breakouts while avoiding those that may worsen acne.

Look for products that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide or soothing ingredients like aloe and zinc to reduce inflammation and clear up blemishes.

The Ordinary Quiz Questions

How would you describe your skin?

Understanding your skin type is essential for determining the right products to use in your skincare routine.

The Ordinary skincare quiz will ask you questions about your skin’s appearance and how it feels so you can better understand whether your skin is oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or prone to acne.

How does your skin feel after cleansing?

This subsection of The Ordinary skincare quiz aims to understand how your skin reacts to cleansing.

Your skin’s response after cleansing can help indicate if it is easily irritated, unbalanced, too oily, or needs more hydration.

Pay attention to whether your skin feels tight, comfortable, or oily after cleansing. This information is key to finding the right products for your skin.

How often do you experience breakouts?

Breakouts and acne can be a common concern for many people. Knowing how frequently you experience breakouts can help determine the best The Ordinary products to address them.

The quiz will ask for information regarding the frequency and severity of your breakouts so it can recommend products tailored to manage and prevent them.

How does your skin react to new products?

New skincare products can sometimes cause reactions, even if they are designed for sensitive skin.

The Ordinary skincare quiz will ask about your skin’s reaction to new products, such as redness, irritation, or breakouts.

This information will help in recommending The Ordinary products that are gentle on your skin and less likely to trigger adverse reactions.

How do your pores look?

Open or enlarged pores can be a common issue for people, and skincare products can help address them.

The Ordinary skincare quiz will ask about your pores’ appearance so it can recommend the best products to minimize their visibility and reduce the risk of clogged pores.

It is important to note that some of these products may need to be used in conjunction with others for optimal results.

What is your primary goal for your skincare routine with The Ordinary products?

Establishing a primary goal for your skincare routine can help The Ordinary skincare quiz recommend a personalized product selection.

Primary goals could include reducing breakouts, controlling oiliness, or soothing sensitivity.

Answering this question will ensure that the quiz tailors its recommendations to your unique skincare needs, providing a more effective skincare routine with The Ordinary products.

Interpreting The Ordinary Skincare Quiz Results

What Your Results Indicate

Upon completing The Ordinary skincare quiz, you’ll receive results that provide valuable insights into your specific skin type and concerns.

These results, tailored to your answers, will list products designed to improve your skin’s overall health and appearance.

Here are a few key points to keep in mind when interpreting your quiz results:

• Skin type: Based on your answers, the quiz will determine your skin type—such as oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. This is crucial information as it is the foundation for product recommendations and a proper skincare regimen.
• Primary concerns: The quiz will also identify your top skin concerns, like acne or dryness, so you can focus on effective solutions for those specific issues.
• Skincare priorities: Make note of the skincare priorities stated in your quiz results. Knowing what to concentrate on first will help you achieve a balanced regimen and make the most out of the products recommended to you.

Recommended Skincare Routines Based on Quiz Results

After interpreting your results, you’re ready to explore product recommendations specifically designed for your skin type and concerns.

The Ordinary Cleansers

A cleanser that matches your skin type will be suggested to gently remove impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils. You’ll also get a second cleanser option to double cleanse with if desired.

The Ordinary offers three cleansers for different skin types:

• The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser (excellent for a first cleanse in a double cleanse)
• The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser (great for oily skin)
• The Ordinary Glycolipid Cream Cleanser (great for dry skin)

The Ordinary Treatment Serums and Products

It can be argued that The Ordinary serums, acids, and other treatment products targeting specific skin concerns give you the most bang for your buck.

The Ordinary has over 30 serums, so this The Ordinary quiz can help you pick the right ones for your skin type.

The Ordinary Moisturizers

Based on your skin type, select a moisturizer that provides the necessary hydration without feeling heavy or greasy.

The Ordinary offers three Natural Moisturizing Factors moisturizers that work for different skin types:

• The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
• The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta-Glucan (great for dry skin)
• The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides (great for oily skin)

Don’t Forget Sunscreen

No matter your skincare routine, be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 every day.

Whether you choose The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants or another sunscreen, apply it daily regardless of the weather and reapply throughout the day if you’re going to be outside for an extended period.

The Ordinary Products For Aging Skin

Aging skin is a concern for many of us regardless of skin type, so consider adding some of The Ordinary anti-aging products to your routine, such as one of my favorites, The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion.

Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is a milky emulsion that helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while also helping to improve skin texture and tone.

Another fantastic The Ordinary anti-aging serum is The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (“Buffet”) (a supercharged version with copper peptides is also available), which is formulated to target multiple signs of aging, like wrinkles and loss of firmness.

Read more about these products in my post on the best The Ordinary products for wrinkles.

The Ordinary Products for Hyperpigmentation

Regardless of your skin type, you may deal with dark spots, sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone.

A few of my favorite The Ordinary products for hyperpigmentation include The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution and The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution.

Read more in my post on the best The Ordinary products for hyperpigmentation.

The Ordinary Skincare Quiz: The Bottom Line

Taking The Ordinary skincare routine builder quiz is a helpful way to discover which products from the brand can address your specific skincare concerns.

By examining your skin type, the quiz can provide recommendations to help you reach your skincare goals.

By investing a little time, you can receive thoughtful, science-based suggestions tailored to your unique needs.

For additional suggestions, you can also try The Ordinary Regimen Builder on The Ordinary’s official website. Note that the recommendations tend to be limited to only a few products.

Are you just starting out with The Ordinary? See my post on The Ordinary for beginners.

Remember, any skin care product may come with adjustments, so listening to your skin and being patient with new products is essential.

Consistency and dedication to your personalized routine will help create the foundation for better skincare habits and happier skin in the long run.

You can also read these skincare books to learn more about taking care of your skin.

Thanks for reading!

Each skincare brand brings an impressive selection of skincare products to the table that are formulated with science-backed ingredients.

While they share a similar philosophy, the question in regard to Good Molecules vs The Ordinary is: which brand is better for your skin?

In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of some of the best-selling products from each brand.

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information. Some Good Molecules products are noted as “(gifted)” below.

Good Molecules vs The Ordinary: The Basics

Both Good Molecules and The Ordinary offer several hero ingredient products, which focus mainly on a single active ingredient to target specific skin concerns.

Both brands emphasize transparency, so you know exactly what is in their products and can make an informed decision about which product should work better for your skin.

It can be argued that Good Molecules goes even further by listing concentrations of not just their hero ingredients but EVERY. SINGLE. INGREDIENT. in many of their products.

While Good Molecules has over 30 products, The Ordinary offers nearly 60 products, so there is more variety with The Ordinary.

One thing is for sure: you won’t be confusing the packaging of each brand. Good Molecules’ packaging is colorful, while The Ordinary is the opposite: black, white, or beige.

All Good Molecules and The Ordinary products are vegan and cruelty-free, which is great!

When it comes to effectiveness and price, there’s no denying that both brands offer quality products at low prices. So, how do some of their best-sellers compare?

Read more about these products in my Good Molecules review and The Ordinary review posts.

Let’s start with two of their very best-selling products:

Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum vs The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

	Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum	The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Targets	Hyperpigmentation, blemish scars, sunspots	Textural irregularities, dryness, dullness, visible shine, signs of congestion
Key Ingredients	3% Cetyl Tranexamate Mesylate, 4% Niacinamide	10% niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA
Size	1 oz.	1 oz.
Price	$12.00	$6.00

Since The Ordinary doesn’t have a tranexamic acid serum at the time I am writing this post, we’ll compare Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum with The Ordinary Niacinamide serum since both contain niacinamide to brighten your skin and improve discoloration.

Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum

Price: $12.00 for 1 oz., or $25 for 2.5 oz.

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Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum (gifted) is one of Good Molecules’ best-sellers for a reason: it helps brighten the look of discoloration and reduce uneven skin tone.

The serum contains 4% brightening niacinamide to target hyperpigmentation, acne scars, age spots, sun damage, and other discoloration.

The serum also contains a 3% concentration of the skin-brightening tranexamic acid derivative cetyl tranexamate mesylate.

The lightweight water-based serum absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving behind a soft and smooth complexion.

You have to be consistent, but after several weeks, you should start seeing an improvement in the look of skin discoloration.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Price: $6.00 for 1 oz, $10.80 for 2 oz, and $19.90 for 4 oz.

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The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is one of the brand’s best-sellers, thanks to the high 10% concentration of niacinamide plus 1% Zinc PCA to help reduce the look of blemishes and balance visible sebum activity.

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that is a true multi-tasker. It helps to soothe skin, strengthen your skin barrier, smooth fine lines, improve texture, and help with oiliness.

Niacinamide is well-loved by those with acne-prone skin for its ability to reduce the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion. It’s also known for its skin-brightening properties.

As for zinc, it helps regulate sebum production so your skin won’t look greasy or shiny.

Hyperpigmentation Serum Comparison

While The Ordinary has a higher concentration of niacinamide, which is excellent for balancing oil and helping with acne, my pick for discoloration is Good Molecules since it is specifically formulated to target hyperpigmentation and uses two actives to do so.

As a result, Good Molecules is twice the price of The Ordinary niacinamide. But if you are on a budget, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% might be the better alternative, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin.

NOTE: The Ordinary offers other products that target discoloration, including The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA and The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%. So, if one of these niacinamide products doesn’t work for you, there are other options that might work better for your skin.

Good Molecules Glycolic Exfoliating Toner vs The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

	Good Molecules Glycolic Exfoliating Toner	The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Targets	Texture, dullness, uneven skin tone, dehydration	Signs of aging, dullness, textural irregularities, uneven skin tone
Key Ingredients	3.5% glycolic acid, 0.9% galactomyces ferment filtrate	7% glycolic acid
Size	4 oz.	8.1 oz.
Price	$14.00	$13.00

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It uses chemical exfoliation to break down the bonds holding skin cells together, revealing fresher skin underneath.

Glycolic acid smooths fine lines and helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and acne scars while improving skin texture.

Since glycolic acid has the smallest molecule size of all the AHAs, it penetrates deeper into the skin than other AHAs.

While glycolic acid is very effective at exfoliating and brightening skin tone, it may also cause redness, irritation, and dryness in sensitive skin since it has the smallest molecular weight of all AHAs.

Good Molecules Glycolic Exfoliating Toner

Price: $14.00 for 4 oz.

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Good Molecules Glycolic Exfoliating Toner (gifted) contains 3.5% glycolic acid to help exfoliate your skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation while smoothing skin texture.

The toner also contains 0.9% galactomyces ferment filtrate, the yeast-derived active that is the star ingredient in SK-II’s Facial Treatment Essence, to brighten and smooth your complexion.

The toner also contains 0.2% salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that helps unclog pores and treat acne, plus 0.1% niacinamide to brighten skin tone. Aloe extract helps soothe your skin.

Please note that glycolic acid and all exfoliating acids can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so make sure you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

Price: $13.00 for 8.1 oz.

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The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution exfoliates and resurfaces your skin.

The toner contains 7% glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid that helps to chemically exfoliate your skin by sweeping away dead skin cells.

The solution also contains aloe leaf water for hydration and Tasmanian pepperberry extract to reduce irritation associated with chemical exfoliation.

Panax ginseng root extract is a skin-protective antioxidant that improves blood circulation.

The toner improves uneven skin tone, clarity, and texture over time when used consistently, thanks to the exfoliating properties of glycolic acid.

Glycolic Acid Comparison

When it comes to potency, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid is the better choice since it contains twice as much glycolic acid as Good Molecules.

I have somewhat sensitive skin, though, and The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid can be a little too strong when used frequently, so I tend to reach for Good Molecules Glycolic Exfoliating Toner more often.

So, in this comparison:

• for a more potent exfoliating → The Ordinary
• for a gentler exfoliation → Good Molecules

The Ordinary is $1 less than Good Molecules for twice the amount of product, so if price is a concern, The Ordinary is the better choice.

Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum vs The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

	Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum	The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Targets	Dehydration, loss of firmness	Dryness
Key Ingredients	1% hyaluronic acid (2 forms), 3% glycerin	2% hyaluronic acid (4 forms), panthenol
Size	1 oz.	1 oz.
Price	$6.00	$8.90

Hyaluronic acid (HA)is a naturally occurring polysaccharide that helps attract moisture to the skin and improves skin elasticity.

HA is an all-star ingredient for dehydrated and dry skin types that need extra hydration, but is suitable for most skin types since all complexions need hydration and moisture.

Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Pirce: $6.00 for 1 oz. or $12.00 for 2.5 oz.

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Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum (gifted) is a hydrating serum that contains 1% sodium hyaluronate, the salt form of hyaluronic acid.

The simple formula also contains 3% glycerin to moisturize and protect skin.

The serum is lightweight yet provides long-lasting hydration.

This hyaluronic acid serum is great for all skin types since we all need hydration, and it helps restore moisture levels in the skin.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Price: $8.90 for 1 oz., $15.70 for 2 oz, or $28.30 for 4 oz.

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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a hydrating serum containing 2% hyaluronic acid in low-, medium- and high-molecular-weight molecule sizes.

These HA molecules pair with a next-generation HA crosspolymer to improve skin hydration in multiple layers of your skin.

The serum also contains glycerin and panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, which helps to moisturize and soothe your skin.

Hyaluronic Acid Serum Comparison

While I think Good Molecules hyaluronic acid has a more elegant texture and isn’t as tacky as The Ordinary, The Ordinary contains twice the hyaluronic acid at multiple molecular weights plus pro-vitamin B5.

The Ordinary is a few dollars more, though, so if price is a factor, you might prefer Good Molecules.

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum vs The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

	Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum	The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Targets	Breakouts, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, texture	Textural irregularities, dryness, dullness, visible shine, signs of congestion
Key Ingredients	10% niacinamide, 2% glycerin, 1% betaine	10% niacinamide, 1% zinc PCA
Size	1 oz.	1 oz.
Price	$6.00	$6.00

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum

Price: $6.00 for 1 oz, or $12.00 for 2.5 oz.

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Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum contains 10% niacinamide to help reduce the appearance of blemishes, pores, and skin discolorations.

This serum helps improve skin texture, smooths fine lines, and evens your skin tone while supporting a healthy skin barrier.

The niacinamide serum also contains 2% moisturizing glycerin and 1% betaine, a natural humectant that helps your skin maintain a healthy moisture balance.

It is suitable for all skin types but is excellent for a combination or oily skin type and acne-prone skin.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Price: $6.00 for 1 oz., $10.80 for 2 oz, or $19.90 for 4 oz.

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The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a serum for blemish-prone skin that contains 10% niacinamide, which helps reduce the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion.

The serum also contains 1% zinc PCA, which helps regulate sebum production on the surface of your skin.

Tamarindus indica seed gum is a polysaccharide that helps reduce water loss and keep your skin looking smooth.

This serum is suitable for all skin types, but like Good Molecules, it is ideal for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin types looking to control oil and reduce breakouts and redness.

Niacinamide Serum Comparison

Both serums contain 10% niacinamide and are priced the same for 1 oz, although The Ordinary offers a slight discount when purchased in larger sizes.

Each contains additional moisturizers, but The Ordinary niacinamide also contains 1% zinc PCA, which helps target excess oil and may be beneficial for oily skin types.

Something in The Ordinary’s niacinamide serum doesn’t agree with my skin, but it is one of their best-sellers, so I’m sure I’m in the small minority of those for whom this serum doesn’t work.

If you have sensitive skin, you might consider Good Molecules. Otherwise, The Ordinary is the ideal choice.

Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm vs The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser (Oil-Based Cleansers)

	Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm	The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
Targets	Congestion, impurities, makeup removal	Cleansing, Dryness
Key Ingredients	sea buckthorn oil, camellia oil, and shea butter	squalane
Size	2.6 oz	5 oz.
Price	$15.00	$19.90

Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm

Price: $15 for 2.6 oz, or $7.00 for 0.8 oz.

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Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm (gifted) is formulated with nourishing oils and emollients to gently remove makeup, dirt, and impurities while hydrating your skin.

The balm is made with sea buckthorn oil, camellia oil, and shea butter (concentrations not disclosed), which are all nourishing, antioxidant-rich ingredients that help protect and hydrate your skin.

Solid at room temperature, this balm cleanser has a smooth texture that melts and turns into an oil when it comes in contact with your skin. It transforms into a milky texture when you add water, allowing it to rinse away easily.

This cleansing balm effectively removes makeup and other impurities without leaving your face feeling tight or dry or leaving a residue. It isn’t super greasy, either.

Suitable for all skin types, this fragrance-free cleansing balm is the ideal oil-based first-step cleanser in a two-step double cleanse.

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

Price: $19.90 for 5 oz. or $9.00 for 1.7 oz.

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The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is a squalane-based cleanser formulated to gently remove makeup, dirt, and oil while leaving your skin feeling hydrated.

The cleanser is made with plant-derived squalane, an oily substance similar to squalene, which is naturally found in our skin’s sebum. It helps keep the skin hydrated and moisturized.

Squalane is non-comedogenic, so it shouldn’t clog your pores and has a lightweight texture that doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy.

The soap-free cleanser is suitable for all skin types, including normal, combination, dry, oily, or sensitive skin.

This is another cleanser that can be used as the first step of a double cleanse to remove your makeup before following with a water-based cleanser to clean your skin.

Oil-Based Cleanser Comparison

While both cleansers work as a first oil-based cleanse, they have different textures and ingredients.

If you want a traditional cleansing balm that is solid at room temperature and melts into a milky oil-based cleanser, Good Molecules is the best choice.

If you dislike using cleansing balms or prefer a lightweight squalane-based emulsifying cleanser, The Ordinary is the better choice.

I think The Ordinary is a little more versatile than Good Molecules because since it is oil-free, you can use it as your only cleanser without needing to follow up with a water-based cleanse.

Good Molecules Rosewater Daily Cleansing Gel vs The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser (Water-Based Cleansers)

	Good Molecules Rosewater Daily Cleansing Gel	The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser
Targets	Dullness, impurities, dehydration	Cleansing, impurities
Key Ingredients	5% glycerin, 1% rosewater, 0.1% pineapple extract	decyl glucoside, coco-glucoside
Size	4 oz.	5.07 oz.
Price	$12.00	$12.50

Good Molecules Rosewater Daily Cleansing Gel

Price: $12 for 4 oz.

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Good Molecules Rosewater Daily Cleansing Gel is a gentle yet effective gel cleanser formulated to remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities from your skin.

This face wash contains 1% rosewater, an antioxidant-rich ingredient that helps soothe and balance your skin. A 5% concentration of glycerin helps keep moisture locked in and supports a healthy skin barrier.

A 0.1% concentration of Pineapple extract purifies and clarifies.

The gel cleanser creates a light foam and uses gentle surfactants to remove dirt and oil, so it won’t leave your skin feeling dry or tight.

The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser

Price $12.50 for 5.07 oz.

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The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser is a water-based foaming cleanser with a gel-like texture that gently cleanses your skin without stripping away its natural oils.

The cleanser supports a healthy skin barrier and improves skin clarity, texture, and radiance with continued use.

The cleanser has a running gel texture and contains gentle plant-based surfactants on your skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.

The face wash also contains vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your skin from environmental stressors.

Water-Based Cleanser Comparison

Both Good Molecules and The Ordinary offer mild, effective cleansers for those looking to maintain their skin’s natural balance. They both create a light lather that rinses cleanly.

Both cleansers are super gentle, priced similarly, and are ideal for normal, combination, and oily skin types.

I think Good Molecules has the edge because it has a more elegant texture and feel on my skin, and the pump bottle is easier to use.

Good Molecules Vitamin C Booster Powder vs The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder

	Good Molecules Vitamin C Booster Powder	The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder
Targets	Dark spots, hyperpigmentation, uneven tone, signs of aging	Dullness, signs of aging, antioxidant support, uneven skin tone
Key Ingredients	100% pure l-ascorbic acid	100% pure l-ascorbic acid
Size	0.7 oz. (20 g)	0.7 oz. (20 g)
Price	$8.00	$6.40

One of the main benefits of using a vitamin C powder instead of a serum is that the powder won’t oxidize in the same way as water-based vitamin C serums or products.

The vitamin C powder doesn’t actually activate until it is mixed with a liquid or cream like your serum or moisturizer.

Another benefit of vitamin C powders is that you can completely customize the concentration to your specific skin type/needs.

Of course, you should always follow product directions so you don’t overdo it, but vitamin C powders really give you the control to dose your skin with precisely the concentration it needs.

Good Molecules Vitamin C Booster Powder

Price: $8.00 for 0.7 oz. (20 g)

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Good Molecules Vitamin C Booster Powder is a vitamin C powder that contains 100% pure l-ascorbic acid, the pure form of vitamin C.

Vitamin C reduces the look of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven tone while minimizing the appearance of the signs of aging and providing antioxidant protection.

This powder is designed to be mixed with serums, moisturizers, or creams to boost their vitamin C content and antioxidant benefits.

This powder is water-soluble, so it should be used with water-based products only.

The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder

Price: $6.40 for 0.7 oz. (20 g)

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The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder is a powder form of 100% direct (pure) vitamin C that brightens your skin and helps reduce the look of uneven skin tone.

You get the benefits of pure vitamin C, including its potent antioxidant benefits that protect your skin from free radical damage.

It also helps to smooth the look of wrinkles and fine lines while targeting excess pigmentation and discoloration.

Mix with water-based serums, creams, or moisturizers to create your own customized vitamin C treatment.

Vitamin C Powder Comparison

Even though The Ordinary looks twice the size of Good Molecules, they are exactly the same size.

Both are fine powders that dissolve easily, but The Ordinary has a finer texture that dissolves slightly quicker than Good Molecules.

The Ordinary costs slightly less, too.

Good Molecules Super Peptide Serum vs The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (“Buffet”)

	Good Molecules Super Peptide Serum	The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (“Buffet”)
Targets	Premature aging, fine lines, wrinkles, dehydration, firmness	Signs of aging, crow’s feet, dryness
Key Ingredients	Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, acetyl hexapeptide-8, acetyl octapeptide-3, copper tripeptide-1	Lactococcus ferment lysate, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, pentapeptide-18, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, palmitoyl tripeptide-38, dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate, acetylarginyltryptophyl diphenylglycine, sodium hyaluronate
Size	1 oz.	1 oz.
Price	$12.00	$17.50

Good Molecules Super Peptide Serum

Price: $12.00 for 1 oz.

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Good Molecules Super Peptide Serum is an anti-aging peptide serum formulated to target signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of skin elasticity.

The water-based serum contains a blend of peptides and copper tripeptides (concentrations not disclosed) to visibly reduce the signs of aging, hydrate, and nourish your skin.

Copper peptides help improve skin firmness, while acetyl hexapeptide-8 and acetyl octapeptide-3 minimize the look of fine lines caused by repeated facial expressions.

Sodium hyaluronate, the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, and glycerin work together to help your skin stay hydrated and moisturized.

The lightweight, non-sticky texture leaves your skin feeling smooth and soft and doesn’t interfere with makeup either.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (“Buffet”)

Price: $17.50 for 1 oz. or $30.80 for 2 oz.

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Previously known as The Ordinary “Buffet”, The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum combines multiple actives and complexes to address the signs of skin aging, skin dehydration, and dryness.

The serum contains four peptide technologies: SYN-AKE, Matrixyl synthe’6, Matrixyl 3000, and Argirelox peptide.

These peptides target wrinkles and fine lines, crow’s feet, uneven skin texture, and loss of skin elasticity and firmness.

Multiple hyaluronic acid complexes hydrate your skin at different levels for extended hydration, and several amino acids moisturize your skin.

The water-based serum is lightweight and non-sticky. It absorbs quickly into your skin without any greasy residue. The serum is suitable for all skin types.

Peptide Serum Comparison

Both serums are formulated with peptides to address the signs of aging.

While The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum is much pricier than Good Molecules, the higher price is due to the impressive list of active ingredients in the serum.

My pick is the more advanced formula: The Ordinary Multi-Peptpide + HA serum, but if you want the more affordable option, go with Good Molecules.

Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment vs The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

	Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment	The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Targets	Texture, congestion, clogged pores, enlarged pores, dullness	Textural irregularities, dullness, uneven skin tone
Key Ingredients	8.1% glycolic, 1% lactic acid, and 0.10% salicylic acid	Glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, salicylic acid, sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, Tasmannia lanceolata fruit/leaf extract
Size	1 oz.	1 oz.
Price	$6.00	$9.50

Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment

Price: $6.00 for 1 oz.

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Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment combines 8.1% glycolic, 1% lactic acid, and 0.10% salicylic acid to help exfoliate your skin and improve the overall texture, tone, and clarity.

The lactic and glycolic acids help brighten your complexion by exfoliating dead skin cells from your skin’s surface.

Salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to clear them of oil and debris, minimize breakouts, and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.

Good Molecules notes that while it’s suitable for all skin types, Overnight Exfoliating Treatment is particularly good for combination skin.

If you have extra sensitive skin, Good Molecules recommends using it once a week and building from there. Avoid using it more than three times a week.

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Price: $9.50 for 1 oz.

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The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a potent rinse-off exfoliating treatment that contains a 30% concentration of alpha hydroxy acids in the form of glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid.

The peel also contains 2% beta hydroxy acid in the form of salicylic acid.

This The Ordinary acid peel helps improve the signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, textural irregularities, and skin dullness while targeting irregular skin texture.

A Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative is included in the formula to reduce the irritation that often comes with acid use. Vitamin B5 aids in healing your skin, while aloe vera soothes and calms your skin.

There are also hydrating ingredients in the solutions: hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer) binds up to five times the amount of water as regular hyaluronic acid.

Black carrot provides skin-protective antioxidant benefits.

Excellent for oily and acne-prone skin, it is only suitable for experienced users of acid exfoliation due to the potent formula.

The treatment has a deep red shade that can look a little strange on your skin, but you only need a small amount to get effective results.

It is important to note that even though it has a serum texture, this is a rinse-off peeling masque, not a leave-on serum.

AHA/BHA Treatment Comparison

Both treatments contain glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. The Ordinary contains additional AHAs, and all The Ordinary key ingredients are at much higher concentrations than Good Molecules.

Good Molecules is formulated to be left on your skin overnight, while The Ordinary is a rinse-off peel that shouldn’t be left on your skin for more than 10 minutes.

The Ordinary is a really potent peel, and I much prefer Good Molecules since it isn’t as harsh on your skin. Only you can decide which one will work best for your skin type and skin concerns.

Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil vs The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane

	Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil	The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane
Targets	Fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, uneven skin tone	Signs of aging, dryness, textural irregularities, uneven skin tone
Key Ingredients	73.9% plum oil, 14% rosehip seed oil, 5% jojoba oil, 1% retinol, 0.5% vitamin E	Squalane, jojoba seed oil, 1% retinol, Tomato fruit extract, Rosemary leaf extract
Size	0.4 oz.	1 oz.
Price	$12.00	$8.90

Retinol is an anti-aging superstar, but note that it can cause redness and irritation if used in high concentrations like in these two retinol oils.

So be sure to build up your tolerance by starting with lower retinol concentrations and gradually increasing your frequency as your skin adjusts.

Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil

Price: $12.00 for 0.4. oz.

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Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil is a 1% retinol oil that also contains 73.9% plum oil, which is filled with omega fatty acids and antioxidant polyphenols.

This high 1% retinol concentration helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines, promote cell turnover, and minimize acne scars and marks and uneven skin tone. It also increases collagen production and boosts skin elasticity and firmness.

The oil also contains 14% rosehip seed oil, which has a high concentration of nourishing fatty acids, including linoleic acid.

Clinical studies have shown that acne sufferers have lower levels of linoleic acid in their skin, so rosehip seed oil may be helpful if you deal with acne.

A 5% concentration of jojoba oil is also included, which prevents moisture loss and helps keep your skin barrier healthy.

A 0.5% concentration of tocopherol (pure vitamin E) offers softening and antioxidant benefits.

The addition of these plant oils to retinol strengthens the skin barrier to help your skin retain moisture without feeling greasy or heavy. The ingredients work together to create healthier, brighter, smoother, and younger-looking skin.

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane

Price: $8.90 for 1 oz.

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The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane is formulated with a potent 1% retinol concentration, the highest retinol concentration of any The Ordinary product.

Retinol is the gold standard in over-the-counter anti-aging treatments. It reduces wrinkles and lines and improves skin texture, clarity, and tone while stimulating collagen production and cell renewal for firmer skin with improved elasticity.

Retinol is paired with squalane, a lightweight, hydrating oily liquid that helps nourish and soften your skin while still being fast-absorbing.

Squalane is a moisturizer that has a similar structure to your own sebum, so it helps lock in moisture and keeps your skin hydrated without feeling greasy.

Squalane is suitable for all skin types, including those with oily and acne-prone skin, as it is non-comedogenic and shouldn’t clog your pores.

The serum also contains jojoba seed oil, a wax ester similar to your skin’s sebum, that is lightweight and doesn’t clog your pores.

Tomato fruit extract and Rosemary leaf extract are added to help protect your skin from environmental stressors and provide antioxidant benefits.

Retinol Comparison

When it comes to choosing between Good Molecules and The Ordinary retinol serums, you really can’t go wrong as long as your skin can tolerate a higher retinol concentration.

The Ordinary does have a lighter feel on your skin due to the high concentration of squalane.

The glaring difference between the two is the size and price. Good Molecules is more expensive at $12 for 0.4 oz. vs. The Ordinary’s $8.90 for 1 oz.

Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel vs The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG

	Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel	The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG
Targets	Under eye puffiness, dark circles, tired eyes	Dark circles, puffiness
Key Ingredients	0.4% Yerba mate extract, 0.01% caffeine, 0.01% acetyle tetrapeptide-5, 3 forms of hyaluronic acid	5% caffeine, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate)
Size	0.5 oz	1 oz.
Price	$6.00	$8.90

Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel

Price: $6.00 for 0.50 oz.

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Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel (gifted) is a lightweight gel eye cream formulated to reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.

It contains 0.4% sustainably grown yerba mate extract that contains antioxidants and polyphenols that protect your skin from environmental damage.

Other ingredients in lower concentrations include three kinds of hyaluronic acid hydrate that smooth the look of fine lines, while caffeine & acetyl tetrapeptide-5 target puffiness and fluid accumulation.

The thick texture feels very hydrating and absorbs quickly into my skin without feeling sticky.

The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG

Price: $8.90 for 1 oz.

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The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG is a lightweight eye serum formulated to reduce the look of eye contour pigmentation, dark circles, and puffiness.

The water-based serum contains 5% caffeine, a potent antioxidant that stimulates blood flow, and EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which contains antioxidants that protect your skin against environmental damage.

The serum also contains hydrating hyaluronic acid to smooth the look of eye bags, wrinkles, and fine lines, and lactic acid, an exfoliating alpha hydroxy acid that can help brighten the look of dark circles.

The watery texture feels lightweight and soothing. If you have dry skin, you may need to follow with an eye cream for added moisture.

Caffeine Eye Serum/Gel Comparison

Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel and The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG are both lightweight eye products that contain caffeine as a key ingredient, although The Ordinary contains a much higher caffeine concentration.

Both eye products aim to reduce puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles around the eyes. Both are boosted by skin-protective antioxidants.

The textures are different, so that may be one deciding factor. Good Molecules is a gel texture, while The Ordinary is a serum.

Ounce for ounce, The Ordinary is slightly more affordable.

Good Molecules Lightweight Daily Moisturizer vs The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

	Good Molecules Lightweight Daily Moisturizer	The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Targets	Dryness, dehydration	Dryness
Key Ingredients	3% shea butter, 3% naturally derived silicone alternative, and 1.5% macadamia seed oil	11 amino acids, hyaluronic acid, phospholipids, alpha/beta/gamma fatty acids, triglycerides, sterols and sterol esters, glycerin, ceramide precursors, urea, saccharides, and sodium PCA
Size	3.4 oz.	1 oz.
Price	$12.00	$6.50

Good Molecules Lightweight Daily Moisturizer

Price: $12.00 for 3.4 oz.*

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Good Molecules Lightweight Daily Moisturizer is a lightweight cream moisturizer that preps your skin for makeup application with its hydrating and smoothing properties.

Previously known as Good Molecules Silicone-Free Priming Moisturizer, this Good Molecules moisturizer contains 3% shea butter, a naturally derived silicone alternative (3% neopentyl glycol diheptanoate), and 1.5% macadamia seed oil to create a hydrated and smooth canvas that’s ready for makeup.

If you don’t like the feel or the heavier, occlusive properties of silicone but like the smooth texture it creates, this creamy moisturizer is the perfect alternative.

This lightweight moisturizer leaves a beautiful finish on the skin and is the ideal daytime moisturizer to help keep makeup in place. You can just skip the primer and use this instead!

*NOTE: The rebrand of this Good Molecules moisturizer changes not only the name but also the size. You now get 3.4 oz. instead of 1.7 oz. for the SAME PRICE! That equates to $3.53/oz.!

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Price: $6.50 for 1 oz, or $13.50 for 3.4 oz.

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The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that contains Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) plus hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate) to help hydrate the skin and improve skin barrier function.

Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs) are natural emollients found in the skin to help keep it hydrated and supple.

Natural Moisturizing Factors and active ingredients in the moisturizer include hydrating hyaluronic acid, 11 amino acids, phospholipids, alpha/beta/gamma fatty acids, triglycerides, sterols and sterol esters, glycerin, ceramide precursors, urea, saccharides, and sodium PCA.

This is The Ordinary’s original moisturizer and a The Ordinary best seller, which isn’t surprising since it is formulated to provide non-greasy and immediate hydration that strengthens your skin barrier with continued use.

Moisturizer Comparison

While suitable for all skin types, I think both moisturizers would be ideal for normal to combination skin.

I prefer the slip, texture, and feel of Good Molecules Lightweight Daily Moisturizer, but The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA contains a more impressive ingredient list for hydration and moisture.

Note that Good Molecules contains oil while The Ordinary is oil-free.

Although Good Molecules is available in only one size (3.4 oz) for $12.00, you can’t beat Good Molecules’ price per ounce.

NOTE: The Ordinary has introduced two more moisturizers to appeal to more skin types. The Ordinary offers the richer Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides (best for dry skin) and the gel formula of Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan (best for combination and oily skin).

The Bottom Line: Good Molecules vs The Ordinary

If you’ve made it this far, thanks for sticking with me. This was not a short post!

So which brand should you choose? It really depends on your skin type and needs.

Both brands are super affordable and offer excellent targeted formulas. I would say The Ordinary products tend to be a little more potent than Good Molecules, but Good Molecules may appeal to some because they are less potent.

I like to mix and match Good Moleluces and The Ordinary products. (For a primer on mixing The Ordinary products, see my post on The Ordinary Conflicts.)

Since both brands are priced so low, you can try several products from both brands for the price of one luxury product.

Thanks for reading (this looong post)!

Whether you’re looking for a gentle exfoliator or something more intense, The Ordinary has a variety of acids that can target different skin concerns.

In this complete guide to The Ordinary acids, we’ll cover everything you need to know about these powerful exfoliating products, from which acid is best for your skin type to the best acids for different skin concerns.

Remember, you don’t have to be a skincare expert to benefit from The Ordinary’s acid range, but understanding the differences between their acid products will help determine which ones best suit your specific needs and preferences.

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

Acids in Skincare

When it comes to skincare, exfoliating acids play a crucial role in addressing various skin concerns. Acids work by removing dead skin cells on the surface of your skin.

Exfoliating acids help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and oiliness in your skin.

The most common acids used in skincare are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs):

• There are several types of AHAs, including glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid, that exfoliate your skin’s surface for brighter, smoother skin.
• BHAs include salicylic acid, which is highly effective for treating blackheads, breakouts, and acne-prone skin.

Other acids like azelaic acid have a milder exfoliating action and can help to reduce the appearance of redness, rosacea, and dark spots.

A Few Notes About Acid Use

As with any new skincare product, remember to patch test new acid products and gradually introduce acids into your skincare routine to avoid irritation and ease your way into enjoying their benefits.

It is important to note that acids can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when using them as part of your skincare routine.

The Ordinary Acids

The Ordinary’s direct acids, which also can be considered exfoliating acids, address several skin concerns. There are multiple types of exfoliating acids in The Ordinary’s range, each with their own unique properties:

AHAs: Alpha Hydroxy Acids

AHAs, or alpha-hydroxy acids, are water-soluble and help exfoliate the surface layer of your skin for a brighter and more even complexion.

AHAs can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture and tone.

The Ordinary offers several AHA formulas:

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

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The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is one of The Ordinary’s best-selling products.

Formulated with 7% glycolic acid, this toner helps exfoliate the skin, reducing the appearance of blemishes and brightening the complexion.

It also contains amino acids, aloe vera, and Tasmanian pepperberry extract to soothe and offset some of the irritation that can come along with exfoliating acids.

Glycolic acid is the smallest of all the AHAs. It works by exfoliating the skin and encouraging cell turnover, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Due to its small molecule size, glycolic acid has the potential to penetrate deeper into your skin, making it ideal for targeting a variety of skin concerns.

Of course, with the benefits come drawbacks. Due to its smaller molecule size, glycolic acid can be more irritating and drying than other AHAs, so it’s important to start with a lower concentration and work your way up.

For more details on this customer-favorite glycolic acid, be sure to check out my guide on How To Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid.

You can also read my full The Ordinary Glycolic acid review here.

The Ordinary Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is another AHA that helps to exfoliate the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and improve overall skin texture.

Lactic acid has a larger molecule size than glycolic acid, meaning that it cannot penetrate as deeply into the skin. This makes lower concentrations of lactic acid an excellent option for more sensitive skin, as it’s less likely to cause irritation and inflammation.

Lactic acid is also known for its moisturizing properties, making it a great option for those with dehydrated or dry skin.

The Ordinary offers two concentrations of lactic acid: 5% Lactic Acid + HA 2%, and 10% Lactic Acid + HA.

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA

The 5% lactic acid concentration of The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA is ideal for those just starting out with lactic acid or exfoliating acids, as it provides gentle yet effective exfoliation.

The serum also contains Tasmannia lanceolata fruit/leaf extract, which has anti-inflammatory benefits to offset potential irritation.

Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, a form of hyaluronic acid, helps moisturize and provide hydration with its unique cross-linked molecular structure that forms a protective mesh barrier on the skin.

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA

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The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA is a more intensive option for those with resilient skin who are looking for a deeper lactic acid exfoliation.

The serum exfoliates the surface of your skin with 10% lactic acid and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines, making your complexion look brighter, smoother, and fresher.

The serum also contains Tasmanian pepperberry extract, which has anti-inflammatory benefits, as well as sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, which has 5x the water-binding capacity of regular hyaluronic acid.

The 10% concentration can be used for more intense exfoliating action and should only be used if your skin has become accustomed to the lower 5% lactic acid concentration.

Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid is AHA that’s even more gentle than glycolic and lactic acid. Mandelic acid is perfect if you’re looking to target dullness, uneven skin tone, and even mild acne and breakouts.

Mandelic acid’s benefits for acne are due to its antibacterial properties, so it’s great for congested skin types.

It also shows promise for brightening post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), so mandelic acid could be a great choice if you have PIH-based acne scars.

The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA

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The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA has a gentle exfoliating action that helps brighten and even skin tone and improve skin clarity and skin texture with 10% mandelic acid.

Like many of The Ordinary’s other direct acids, the serum also contains Tasmanian pepperberry extract to reduce any potential irritation caused by acid use and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer for extended hydration.

Formulated for all skin types, this is an excellent starter exfoliating acid since its larger molecular size means a slower, more even penetration into your skin.

Related Post: The Ordinary Lactic Acid vs Mandelic Acid

BHA: Beta Hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid)

Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is a fantastic option if you struggle with blemishes or acne-prone skin.

This oil-soluble exfoliating acid penetrates and unclogs pores by breaking down the excess oil, dead skin cells, and debris that can cause breakouts.

Salicylic acid clarifies, smooths, and brightens, improving the look of textural irregularities and dullness.

It’s also known for its ability to fight inflammation and soothe irritated skin, another reason why it’s such a great option if you have acne-prone skin.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

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The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution helps unclog pores, minimize breakouts, targets visible redness and comedones, and evens out your skin tone.

The 2% concentration of salicylic acid is in a water-based formula, so it’s ideal for oily skin and acne. It’s ideal for improving skin clarity for a more refined complexion and reducing the appearance of pores.

This serum is even suitable for teenagers with mild to moderate acne.

See my Salicylic Acid 2% Solution review for more details on this The Ordinary product.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution

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As a gentle alternative to The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution above, The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution is a water-free formula that contains squalane as the base.

This serum exfoliates with 2% salicylic acid while calming redness and reducing the appearance of uneven skin tone and textural irregularities.

Thanks to squalane in the formula, the serum is moisturizing and contains hydrating polyglycerides to offset any potential dryness from exfoliation.

Squalane is also super lightweight and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores.

Excellent for dry skin types that struggle with acne and pore congestion, this serum releases salicylic acid over time for a more balanced distribution of the active, which helps to reduce the potential for irritation.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

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The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque is a charcoal and clay clarifying mask that helps unclog pores, reduce blemishes, and improve overall skin clarity.

The rinse-off mask contains 2% salicylic acid that exfoliates the skin to reduce excess oil, unclog pores, and reduce blemishes.

Charcoal powder and Kaolin clay help absorb excess sebum and other pore-clogging impurities for a clearer, more radiant complexion. Also, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, known by its tradename of SymSitive, helps reduce irritation.

This mask is an ideal weekly or bi-weekly treatment for blemish-prone skin. You leave it on for no more than 10 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

For Advanced Users: Multiple Exfoliating Acids in a Serum

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

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For those experienced with exfoliating acids and without sensitive skin, The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a potent blend of AHAs and BHAs that helps exfoliate your skin, reduce blemishes, refine pores, and improve overall skin texture.

This solution contains 30% alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic/lactic/tartaric/citric) and 2% beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid).

This is a very high concentration of direct acids, so it bears repeating: only use this peeling solution if your skin can tolerate high concentrations of acids. (My skin can’t tolerate it.)

The peel contains a Tasmanian pepperberry extract that helps reduce irritation associated with acid use.

Hyaluronic acid crosspolymer helps hydrate and plump your skin. Black carrot extract is filled with antioxidants to help protect your skin from environmental stress.

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution should be used no more than once or twice a week and left on for no longer than 10 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.

Be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 when using this treatment (and all direct acids) since it can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sun exposure.

Azelaic Acid

Neither an AHA nor BHA, azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid that helps reduce redness, inflammation, and pigmentation issues, such as dark spots.

It’s effective in combating acne and rosacea, making it a go-to choice for many dealing with these common skin concerns.

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

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If you deal with redness and uneven skin tone, The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% is a cream-like formulation that helps reduce dullness, textural irregularities, and patchy uneven skin tone.

This suspension contains 10% azelaic acid, a naturally occurring acid found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. It works to reduce redness, unclog pores, and exfoliate your skin.

One of the main benefits of azelaic acid is that it tends to be less irritating than other direct acids like glycolic and lactic acid. So, it’s great for sensitive skin that can’t tolerate more potent acids.

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% is formulated to be gentle enough to use twice a day in our skincare routine. See my The Ordinary azeliac acid review here.

The Ordinary Hydrating Acid: Hyaluronic Acid

If you are new to acids, you may not know that not all acids are exfoliating. Hyaluronic acid (HA) does not exfoliate; instead, it helps hydrate and plump your skin.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in our skin that binds to water, attracting and holding up to 1,000 times its own weight in water.

HA acts like a sponge and helps replenish your skin’s hydration levels while smoothing the look of wrinkles and fine lines.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a lightweight serum that contains multiple forms of hyaluronic acid plus vitamin B5 to help hydrate and retain moisture in the skin.

Low-, medium- and high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid combined with a next-generation HA crosspolymer work together to target different layers of the skin to replenish your skin with long-lasting moisture.

Vitamin B5 (panthenol) helps bind moisture and soothe your skin.

Clinical tests show that this serum boosts hydration after a week, strengthens your skin barrier, and smoothes the look of wrinkles and fine lines after four weeks.

So, the moral of the story is that you’ll see results, but you must be consistent!

Just remember, hyaluronic acid is NOT AN EXFOLIATING ACID, so most skin types, including sensitive skin, can use it.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is gentle enough for use every day, either in the morning and/or at night.

The Ordinary Acid Conflicts

There are some products with which all The Ordinary direct acids should not be mixed.

Since exfoliating acids are formulated at a low pH, they can react with other products with a higher pH, compromising the effectiveness of both products.

Some actives (like pure vitamin C) are also formulated at a low pH and can cause irritation and redness when mixed with exfoliating acids.

Retinoids should not be used alongside exfoliating acids either, as they can further irritate the skin.

The Ordinary suggests avoiding using the following actives with direct acids:

• Copper Peptides
• The Ordinary EUK 134 0.1%
• Peptides
• Niacinamide Powder
• Other Direct Acids
• Pure/Ethylated Vitamin C
• Retinoids including Retinol

For more on mixing and matching The Ordinary products, check out my post on The Ordinary conflicts, which includes a handy PDF download that outlines all of the The Ordinary product conflicts.

Want a The Ordinary skincare routine that is tailored to your unique skin type and concerns? Take my exclusive The Ordinary Skincare Quiz now!

Using The Ordinary Acids To Address Specific Skin Concerns

It’s essential to choose the right Ordinary acids to address your unique skin concerns effectively. Luckily The Ordinary offers a variety of acids to help you tackle issues like redness, breakouts, and enlarged pores.

Redness and Rosacea

If you’re dealing with redness and rosacea, azelaic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated skin.

Incorporating azelaic acid into your routine can lessen redness and improve your overall skin tone.

Try It: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

Breakouts and Acne

Breakouts and acne can be a major source of frustration. The Ordinary has several options to combat acne-prone skin. One such ingredient is salicylic acid, which is ideal for reducing breakouts as it exfoliates the skin and unclogs pores.

Plus, salicylic acid works wonders on blackheads, dissolving debris trapped inside your pores.

Acne Scars

For those struggling with acne scars, consider incorporating an exfoliating acid into your skincare regimen.

AHAs, such as glycolic acid, help accelerate cell turnover and promote collagen production, leading to a smoother, more even skin texture.

Dullness and Textural Irregularities

When it comes to dull skin and textural irregularities, AHAs or BHAs will both work to help brighten and smooth your complexion. AHAs, like lactic and glycolic acids, can reduce dullness by gently exfoliating the top layers of skin.

BHAs, such as salicylic acid, also effectively exfoliate but tend to be better for oily skin types because they penetrate more deeply into the pores.

Wrinkles & Fine Lines

Wrinkles and fine lines are a natural part of the aging process. Thankfully, AHAs like lactic acid can help soften the look of these skin concerns.

These exfoliants encourage cell turnover while also stimulating collagen production for more youthful-looking and brighter skin.

Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots

When it comes to hyperpigmentation and dark spots, exfoliating acids do an excellent job of lightening these tough spots.

Choose an acid based on your skin type and tolerance. For sensitive skin, go with something gentler, like mandelic acid.

Dehydration and Dryness

The best The Ordinary serum for dry skin and dehydration is The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, since hyaluronic acid is an effective humectant that draws moisture to your skin.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How do I choose the right The Ordinary acid for my skin?

To choose the proper acid for your skin, first determine your skin concerns and skin type.

For instance, if you have dry or sensitive skin, a milder acid, like lactic acid, may be more suitable.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you might want to use an oil-soluble acid like salicylic acid.

Can I mix The Ordinary acids with other skincare ingredients?

While some ingredients can be safely combined, following The Ordinary’s Regimen Guide is crucial to ensure the effectiveness and safety of your skincare routine.

Some combinations might cause irritation or reduce the effectiveness of the products. Always patch test and monitor your skin’s response.

How often should I use The Ordinary peeling solution?

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution should be used no more than twice a week, preferably in the evening. Overusing the peeling solution can lead to skin irritation and sensitivity, so it’s essential to follow the product instructions and listen to your skin’s needs.

How does hyaluronic acid differ from direct acids?

While it has the word “acid” in its name, it doesn’t function in the same way as exfoliating acids do. The Ordinary’s hyaluronic acid serum focuses on providing hydration to the skin.

Hyaluronic acid is different from direct acids (exfoliating acids) because it’s a humectant rather than an exfoliating ingredient. It works by attracting and retaining moisture in the skin, helping to keep your skin hydrated and plump.

What not to mix with hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid can be combined with most other skincare ingredients since it’s a hydrating ingredient and doesn’t exfoliate the skin.

Can I use The Ordinary glycolic acid and lactic acid together?

Using glycolic acid and lactic acid together is not recommended as this combination could be too strong for your skin. Only use them at the same time if they are present in the same product.

How does The Ordinary’s Salicylic Acid 2% Masque differ from its Salicylic Acid 2% Solution?

While both products contain the BHA salicylic acid, the masque is designed to be used 1-2 times a week as a rinse-off treatment. The masque also contains charcoal and clays for deep cleansing. The solution is a daily treatment that targets blemishes and unclogs pores.

What is a The Ordinary beginner acid?

The best The Ordinary beginner acid depends on your skin type. For dry skin, lactic acid (5% concentration) is a good option, as it’s gentle and hydrating. Mandelic acid is a great beginner acid for oily skin, as it can help with breakouts and unclog pores.

Related Post: The Ordinary Skincare Routine For Beginners

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re seeking to combat acne, lighten hyperpigmentation, or smooth fine lines, there’s an acid to fit your needs.

Start slowly, patch test new products, and carefully monitor your skin’s reaction. You may also want to use a gentle cleanser (like The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser) and a nourishing moisturizer to maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance.

And don’t forget the sunscreen!

Lastly, remember that the key to successful skincare is patience and consistency.

Thanks for reading!

Read Next: The Ordinary Black Friday Sale

As an affordable and effective glycolic acid product, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution exfoliates your skin. It helps improve skin clarity, balance uneven skin tone, and correct skin texture over time.

But if you think the only use for The Ordinary Glycolic Acid is your face, think again! You can use it on other areas of your body too.

It’s actually quite a steal for its low price and multiple uses!

So this guide on how to use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is designed to help you get the most out of this The Ordinary product while helping you minimize the risk of skin irritation.

This post contains affiliate links, and any purchases made through these links will result in a commission for me at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure for additional information.

Before You Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid

Before you use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, it’s essential to know that glycolic acid and other exfoliating acids can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.

So always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher while using this product and for seven days after.

Also, take a few minutes to patch test The Ordinary Glycolic Acid toner before using it on your face or body to avoid potential adverse reactions.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

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The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a popular acid toner due to its effective exfoliating properties and super affordable price point.

The toner contains 7% glycolic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane and used in skincare for its multiple benefits.

AHAs help to exfoliate the top layer of your skin, encouraging new skin cell growth, reducing wrinkles and fine lines, improving texture, fading sun spots and acne scars, and making pores appear smaller and more refined.

In addition to glycolic acid, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution also contains a Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with AHA use, as well as aloe vera and cornflower flower water to soothe your skin.

Antioxidant ginseng root extract protects the skin from environmental stressors. Multiple amino acids and sugars help hydrate and moisturize your skin.

For more on my experience with this toner, please see my The Ordinary Glycolic Acid review post.

How To Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

It is recommended that you start slowly by using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid toner once or twice weekly, gradually increasing the frequency as your skin becomes used to it, up to once daily if tolerated.

Do not use the acid toner on sensitive, peeling, compromised, or broken skin.

To get started, follow these simple steps to incorporate it into your skincare routine:

1. Cleanse Your Skin: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup. This step prepares your skin to absorb glycolic acid more effectively.
2. Apply The Ordinary Glycolic Acid: After cleansing, dampen a cotton pad with The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. Gently sweep it across your face (and neck if tolerated), making sure to avoid the eye area. It is important to note that glycolic acid is a potent exfoliant and should be used sparingly, especially if you have sensitive skin.
3. Apply Serums and/or Treatments: Once the glycolic acid solution has been absorbed, apply any additional serums or treatments to enhance your skincare regimen. Be cautious when combining glycolic acid with other active ingredients, as it can cause irritation for certain skin types.
4. Apply Moisturizer: After applying your serums, it’s essential to moisturize your skin. Look for a product containing nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin to deliver intense hydration to your skin.
5. Apply Sunscreen (AM): Glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s best to use it in your evening skincare routine. Whether you use it in the AM or PM, it is important to incorporate a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen into your AM routine. Choose a product with at least SPF 30 to protect against harmful UV rays.

If you don’t want to use it on your entire face, you can also use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution as a spot treatment for hyperpigmentation or acne. It helps to reduce the appearance of active breakouts and prevent future ones from forming.

Remember to be patient and consistent in your application, as positive results may take time to appear.

More Ways To Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution On Your Body

In addition to its primary use as a toner in your skincare routine, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution has other versatile uses.

Here are some alternative ways to incorporate this effective glycolic acid toner into your beauty routine.

As A Deodorant

You can use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid as a natural deodorant. It helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria and exfoliate dead skin cells.

How does it work? Glycolic acid works by reducing the pH level of your skin, which helps neutralize odor-causing bacteria.

But as the temperature increases on your underarm skin, it may compromise your skin barrier, and the water from your sweat may reduce the effectiveness of glycolic acid. Also, glycolic acid doesn’t stop sweating, so it won’t keep you dry.

Glycolic acid may help underarm pigmentation, but if you use it too often, it may cause irritation, making hyperpigmentation worse.

If you still want to use glycolic acid as a deodorant, you can apply it with a cotton pad to clean dry underarm skin. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on areas exposed to sunlight since glycolic acid can make your skin sensitive to UV rays.

To Prevent Ingrown Hairs

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid is an effective treatment for preventing ingrown hairs by gently exfoliating the skin.

After cleansing the area, apply the toning solution to a cotton pad and delicately swipe over the area prone to ingrown hairs.

To Improve Dandruff

If you deal with dandruff, glycolic acid can help improve your scalp health. The tapered nozzle of the bottle is particularly useful for targeting the scalp.

Apply The Ordinary Glycolic Acid directly onto your scalp and massage it in gently. This helps to exfoliate the skin cells, reducing crustiness and flakes.

Be cautious and avoid contact with your eyes since the toner is a runny liquid.

Allow the toner to sit for about 30 minutes or so before washing and conditioning your hair. You can apply this treatment once or twice a week.

After a few weeks, you should see fewer flakes and dandruff.

To Reduce Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris, a skin condition characterized by small, rough white bumps typically found on the back of the arms and thighs, can also be treated with The Ordinary Glycolic Acid.

Gently apply the solution to a cotton pad and sweep over affected areas to boost cell turnover, which helps reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris.

For Dry Feet

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution can also be used to soften dry, cracked feet.

Apply the solution to a cotton pad and swipe over clean, damp feet until they are fully coated with the toner.

Follow with a gentle moisturizer and socks, and after a few hours, you may be surprised at how much softer your feet are.

For Strawberry Legs

Strawberry legs are dark pores or hair follicles on the legs that appear when hair follicle oxidation occurs due to trapped oil, bacteria, and other debris.

Glycolic acid can help reduce the appearance of strawberry legs by exfoliating dead skin cells and unclogging pores.

Apply The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution with a cotton pad to clean damp skin and massage in a circular motion until fully absorbed.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Alternatives and Complementary Products

If The Ordinary Glycolic Acid isn’t the right concentration for you or you’d prefer a different product, there are several alternatives to consider:

Glycolic Acid Toners

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Good Molecules Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner is formulated with 3.5% glycolic acid plus 0.9% galactomyces ferment filtrate to exfoliate your skin’s surface while brightening and even out skin tone.

This glycolic toner is a great choice for beginners due to the low glycolic acid concentration.

Read more about Good Molecules and how they compare to The Ordinary products in this Good Molecules/The Ordinary comparison post.

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Another glycolic acid toner that offers similar benefits is Pixi Glow Tonic.

You can read about the similarities and differences between Pixi and The Ordinary in this post on The Ordinary Glycolic Acid vs Pixi Glow Tonic.

Lactic Acid

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• The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA
• The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA

Another option is lactic acid, a type of AHA that works well for dry or sensitive skin. It helps lighten dark spots, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and gently exfoliate the skin surface.

Lactic acid is known for its moisturizing properties and for treating dry, sensitive skin or those new to chemical exfoliants.

Mandelic Acid

TRY IT: The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA

If you have sensitive skin, you might prefer mandelic acid, an AHA derived from bitter almonds.

Mandelic acid has a larger molecular size than glycolic acid and lactic acid, making it less irritating and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Salicylic Acid

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• The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
• The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution
• The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
• The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Another option is salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) ideal for targeting sebum, blackheads, and acne. This oil-soluble acid penetrates deep into your pores and works especially well for oily or acne-prone skin types.

The Ordinary offers two salicylic acid 2% serums and a 2% salicylic acid rinse-off face masque that target blemishes and unclog pores.

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, and salicylic acid. It is a potent rinse-off peel for experienced users of acid exfoliation.

Azelaic Acid

TRY IT: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

Another alternative is azelaic acid, an anti-inflammatory agent that helps reduce redness from acne and rosacea while also improving skin texture and tone.

Azelaic acid tends to be less irritating than glycolic acid, making it a better choice for sensitive skin.

Other Active Ingredients

You may also benefit from using other products in your skincare routine that complement glycolic acid.

Vitamin C

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• The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
• The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%
• The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone
• The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to brighten your skin tone and can help decrease the appearance of acne scars and uneven skin tone.

It also offers protection against environmental stressors and free radical damage.

The Ordinary offers four pure vitamin C products at various strengths. If you want a completely customizable vitamin C product, try their pure vitamin C powder.

Please note that since pure vitamin C and glycolic acid are both acidic, depending on the concentration and your skin type, using them in the same skincare routine may cause irritation, so take it slow and be mindful of how your skin reacts.

See my guide to The Ordinary Vitamin C for more details on these vitamin C products.

Don’t Forget To Hydrate And Moisturize Your Skin

While this clinical study demonstrated that low levels (between 2% and 5%) of glycolic acid don’t compromise the skin barrier, using hydrating products with glycolic acid can help minimize irritation and strengthen your delicate skin barrier.

A hydrating serum helps balance out the exfoliating effects of glycolic acid and nourishes the skin after use.

TRY IT: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Incorporating hyaluronic acid into your routine can help to boost your skin’s hydration levels. This ingredient is perfect for use alongside glycolic acid as it can soothe potential irritation caused by acid exfoliation.

And don’t forget to moisturize.

The Ordinary also has multiple moisturizers to lock in moisture and help keep your skin feeling hydrated post-exfoliation.

TRY IT:

• The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA (best for Normal to Combination Skin)
• The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan (best for Normal to Oily Skin)
• The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides (best for Normal to Dry Skin)

Finally, don’t forget to use sunscreen every day to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Sun exposure can further irritate sensitive skin or worsen glycolic acid side effects, so make sure you wear adequate protection when outdoors.

You can read about my picks for the best drugstore mineral sunscreens here.

The Benefits of Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), is a water-soluble acid derived from sugar cane and a versatile and powerful ingredient that can greatly benefit your skin.

Here are some of the main benefits of glycolic acid for your skin:

• Brightens Dull Skin: Glycolic acid helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, revealing a brighter complexion.
• Reduces The Look Of Hyperpigmentation, Dark Spots, and Uneven Skin Tone: With regular use, glycolic acid can help reduce the appearance of sunspots, age spots, and other types of hyperpigmentation. By gently exfoliating the outer layer of your skin, glycolic acid allows for a more even distribution of melanin (pigment), resulting in a brighter and more uniform complexion.
• Improves Texture: Glycolic acid can help smooth out rough patches and improve overall skin texture.
• Reduces The Appearance Of Wrinkles: By promoting collagen production and increasing cell turnover, glycolic acid can help reduce wrinkles and fine lines over time.
• Reduces Acne: The exfoliating properties of glycolic acid help clear clogged pores, which can help reduce acne and blemishes.
• Treats Dry Skin: By removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, glycolic acid helps moisturizers penetrate more deeply, providing long-lasting hydration.

Potential Side Effects of Glycolic Acid

Since glycolic acid is the smallest AHA, glycolic acid penetrates more deeply into the skin than other AHAs, which can cause side effects.

It is crucial to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase as your skin becomes more accustomed to the acid.

One of the most common side effects is redness and/or irritation. When using glycolic acid for the first time, your skin may feel a bit tingly or uncomfortable, but this sensation should decrease as your skin adjusts to the product.

In some cases, glycolic acid may cause sensitivity and/ or burning sensations. This issue is more likely to arise when using products with higher concentrations of glycolic acid or if the skin is already irritated or sensitive.

If you experience any of these side effects, discontinue its use and consult your physician.

Who Should Use Glycolic Acid?

It’s important to understand if glycolic acid is suitable for your skin type and needs before incorporating it into your skin care routine.

If you have oily skin, glycolic acid is a great choice due to its exfoliating properties, as it helps unclog pores and reduce oiliness. Its ability to refine skin texture and reduce the look of enlarged pores makes it an excellent option if you’re seeking a clearer complexion.

Glycolic acid is also an excellent choice for acne-prone skin since it improves dead skin cell turnover and unclogs pores, preventing acne-causing bacteria buildup.

Hyperpigmentation and sun damage can be addressed by incorporating glycolic acid into your routine. It helps lighten dark spots and even out your skin tone, making it suitable for skin discoloration concerns.

If you have dry skin, glycolic acid can be beneficial. It helps increase cell turnover and slough away dead skin cells, revealing a smoother, more hydrated complexion. However, make sure to follow up with a good moisturizer to prevent over-drying.

If you have sensitive skin should tread carefully when using glycolic acid. Glycolic acid can cause redness, itching, and discomfort if your skin is particularly reactive.

Start with a lower concentration product, 5% or less, and gradually increase the strength as your skin tolerates. (My somewhat sensitive skin can’t tolerate higher concentrations of glycolic acid.)

You should be cautious when using glycolic acid if you have a compromised skin barrier. It may cause irritation and potentially worsen your skin’s condition.

Lastly, glycolic acid is beneficial in combating visible signs of aging. It helps stimulate collagen production (over long-term use), which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful and radiant complexion.

Always listen to your skin’s needs and adjust your usage as necessary. When in doubt, consult a professional to ensure you use glycolic acid effectively and safely.

The Bottom Line

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is an effective and affordable product that can be used to improve many skin conditions, including wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, sun spots, enlarged pores, keratosis pilaris, and dandruff.

While it has many applications, it may not be suitable for everyone, as it can irritate certain skin types.

Start slowly and gradually increase your usage frequency as your skin adjusts to the glycolic acid. Above all else, always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen when using any exfoliant or acid toner.

Before you know it, you’ll be seeing the positive impact of this affordable and effective AHA product on your skin!

Thanks for reading!