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Best TheOrdinary Facial Serums

Explore The Ordinary's affordable, potent facial serums formulated with high-concentration actives for targeted skin concerns like hydration, acne, brightening, and anti-aging.

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The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% Vitamin C Serum - Evens Skin Tone, Fights Dullness, Antioxidant Protection 1oz

The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% is a water-based vitamin C serum that targets uneven skin tone and provides antioxidant protection. It's suited for all skin types and should be bought by those seeking a gentle, stable Vitamin C option.

  • Evens out uneven skin tone for brighter complexion
  • Delivers powerful antioxidant protection against daily damage
  • Reduces dullness and dryness for radiant skin
  • Gentle formula suited to all skin types
  • Alcohol-free and oil-free for non-irritating use

Stable Vitamin C derivative minimizes oxidation. Silicone-free and lightweight serum texture. Targets multiple concerns like redness and dullness.

Results may require consistent daily use. Less potent than pure ascorbic acid forms. Potential for initial mild sensitivity in rare cases.

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% - Brightens Uneven Tone & Clears Blemish-Prone Skin

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% is a targeted formula for uneven and blemish-prone skin. Its standout 4.5-star rating highlights its effectiveness for clearer, brighter complexions—ideal for those battling texture and discoloration.

  • Brightens uneven skin tone for a radiant glow
  • Reduces blemishes and redness on prone skin
  • Gently exfoliates to smooth texture
  • Targets hyperpigmentation effectively
  • Lightweight suspension absorbs quickly

Highly effective for blemish-prone skin. Improves uneven tone and texture. Creamy formula layers well under makeup.

May feel thick or pill on some skin types. Potential for initial irritation on sensitive skin. Requires consistent use for best results.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: Exfoliating Acne Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, Pore-Clearing Treatment

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is a targeted serum that exfoliates and fights acne on blemish-prone skin. Its high 4.7 rating highlights its effectiveness for clear, smoother skin, ideal for those battling breakouts.

  • Penetrates pores to dissolve oil and debris for clearer skin
  • Reduces acne and blemishes with 2% salicylic acid exfoliation
  • Minimizes blackheads and whiteheads effectively
  • Suits blemish-prone skin for daily targeted treatment
  • Lightweight serum formula absorbs quickly without residue

Highly effective for acne control. Gentle exfoliation for regular use. Fast-absorbing and non-greasy.

May cause initial dryness or irritation. Not ideal for very sensitive skin. Requires consistent use for results.

The Ordinary Serum Favorites Set: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Caffeine 5% for Hydrated, Bright, Pore-Free Skin

This set bundles The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 for deep hydration, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% for brightening and pore minimization, and Caffeine Solution 5% for eye depuffing. Its concentrated formulas suit skincare enthusiasts seeking targeted, multi-benefit treatment.

  • Delivers intense, multi-level hydration to plump and smooth skin
  • Brightens complexion while minimizing pores and oiliness
  • Quickly reduces under-eye puffiness and dark circles
  • Lightweight serums absorb fast without residue
  • Potent concentrations for visible results in daily routines

High-strength actives target hydration, brightening, and depuffing. Convenient trio set for comprehensive serum routine. Fast-acting formulas praised in thousands of reviews.

Requires learning proper layering order for best results. Niacinamide may cause initial purging in some users. High concentrations best for non-sensitive skin types.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum: Minimize Pores, Control Oil, Smooth Blemish-Prone Skin

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a water-based serum that addresses enlarged pores, excess sebum, and blemishes while improving skin plumpness and radiance. Buy it if you have blemish-prone skin seeking smoother texture in one week and visible anti-aging benefits with continued use.

  • Minimizes enlarged pores for smoother skin texture
  • Regulates excess sebum to prevent blemishes
  • Targets wrinkles and fine lines for youthful appearance
  • Boosts plumpness and suppleness in just 15 minutes
  • Enhances overall skin radiance with daily use

Visible plumpness and radiance after 15 minutes. Smoother texture in one week of twice-daily use. Balances sebum without clogging pores.

Not recommended to combine with vitamin C products. Full pore and aging benefits require continued use. May cause temporary adjustment for sensitive skin.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum with Ceramides: Multi-Depth Hydration for Plumper, Smoother, Dry Skin

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum with Ceramides delivers intense multi-depth hydration to improve skin's surface and barrier for plumper, smoother results. Dry and sensitive skin types should buy it for AM/PM use after cleansing.

  • Provides multi-depth hydration to plump and smooth dry skin
  • Strengthens skin barrier with hyaluronic acid, B5, and ceramides
  • Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive with patch test
  • Compatible with actives like niacinamide, peptides, and acids
  • Supports sustained hydration results in 1-4 weeks

Intense hydration penetrates surface layers effectively. Versatile in routines with other skincare actives. Gentle formula suits sensitive skin.

Requires patch test even for sensitive skin. Best results need pairing with heavier creams. Full benefits may take up to 4 weeks.

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum: Redness-Reducing, Hydrating Emulsion for Skin Barrier Repair - All Skin Types

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum is an alcohol-free, oil-free emulsion that reduces redness and supports skin barrier recovery. Ideal for all skin types experiencing irritation or dryness, it can be used day and night.

  • Visibly reduces redness for calmer skin
  • Repairs and strengthens the skin barrier
  • Delivers hydration without oils or silicones
  • Gentle formula suited to all skin types
  • Versatile for day and night use

Targets redness effectively in an emulsion format. Hydrates while being oil-free and silicone-free. Compatible with all skin types for broad appeal.

Emulsion texture may feel heavier than water-based serums. Results on redness may vary by skin condition. Limited to barrier support, not a multi-tasker.

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane Serum - High-Strength Anti-Aging Retinol for Fine Lines & Uneven Texture

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane is a high-strength, oil-like serum formulated to target signs of aging like fine lines and uneven skin texture. Advanced retinoid users should apply it at night in the PM routine after serums for optimal results.

  • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles for smoother, younger-looking skin
  • Improves uneven texture and signs of aging with high-strength retinol
  • Oil-like formula absorbs quickly without greasiness
  • Ideal for advanced users in nighttime skincare routines
  • Water-free, alcohol-free, vegan, and silicone-free for broad compatibility

Potent 1% retinol concentration for noticeable anti-aging results. Lightweight squalane base enhances hydration and absorption. Free from water, alcohol, silicones, and gluten for sensitive compatibility.

May irritate sensitive skin; patch test recommended. Increases sun sensitivity, requiring nightly use and SPF. Not compatible with other retinoids, acids, or vitamin C.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner - Brightens, Smooths & Evens Skin Tone for Radiant Complexion

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner is a water-based AHA solution that removes dead skin cells to brighten and even skin tone while improving texture and reducing fine lines. It's ideal for non-sensitive skin types building tolerance for nightly PM use.

  • Removes dead skin cells for brighter, more radiant complexion
  • Improves skin texture and reduces appearance of fine lines
  • Promotes even-looking skin tone with daily exfoliation
  • Alcohol-free, oil-free, silicone-free formula suits most routines
  • Vegan and cruelty-free for ethical skincare choices

Powerful 7% glycolic acid for effective exfoliation. Enhances skin brightness and smoothness quickly. Compatible with many routines when alternated properly.

Not suitable for sensitive, peeling or compromised skin. Increases sun sensitivity requiring daily sunscreen. Cannot be used with other direct acids or strong retinoids same routine.

Step into the world of effective, no-nonsense skincare with The Ordinary facial serums. This category features nine powerhouse products designed to tackle everything from hydration and acne to fine lines and uneven tone, all at accessible prices backed by transparent formulations and clinical-strength actives. Whether you're new to serums or building a routine, these options deliver visible results without the hype.

What Makes The Ordinary Facial Serums Stand Out?

The Ordinary has earned a stellar reputation for democratizing high-performance skincare. Known for using pure, potent ingredients like niacinamide, retinol, and hyaluronic acid at concentrations typically found in pricier brands, their serums cut through marketing fluff to focus on science. Each formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and free from unnecessary additives, making them ideal for all skin types. Shoppers love the brand's educational approach, with clear usage guides to prevent irritation and maximize benefits.

Part of our expansive Skin Care collection, these serums fit seamlessly into routines within Facial Serums and broader Beauty & Personal Care categories.

Key Serums by Skin Concern

The Ordinary excels in targeted treatments. Here's a breakdown to help you choose based on your needs:

Hydration and Barrier Repair

  • Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides): Delivers multi-depth hydration for plumper, smoother skin. Multi-molecular weights penetrate deeply, while ceramides strengthen the barrier.
  • Soothing & Barrier Support Serum: Calms redness and supports recovery, perfect post-retinol or for sensitive skin.

Acne and Blemish Control

  • Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: Penetrates pores to fight acne and blackheads without drying.
  • Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Regulates oil, minimizes pores, and smooths texture for blemish-prone skin.
  • Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%: Targets uneven tone, redness, and congestion gently.

Brightening and Exfoliation

  • Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%: Stable vitamin C for even tone and antioxidant defense.
  • Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner: Smooths and brightens with gentle AHA exfoliation (apply like a serum).

Anti-Aging

  • Retinol 1% in Squalane: High-strength for wrinkles and texture, buffered in squalane for tolerability.

Multi-Benefit Starter

  • Serum Favorites Set: Includes Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Caffeine Solution for eyes—great for beginners sampling hydration, brightening, and de-puffing.

Comparing within the lineup: For acne, start with Niacinamide for daily use over Salicylic if you're sensitive; Azelaic shines for rosacea-like redness. Retinol users might pair it with Hyaluronic Acid to combat dryness.

How to Choose and Use The Ordinary Facial Serums

Select based on your primary concern, skin type, and tolerance. Dry or sensitive? Prioritize Hyaluronic or Soothing serums. Oily/acne-prone? Opt for Salicylic or Niacinamide. Introduce actives slowly—patch test and use 2-3 times weekly at night. Layer from thinnest to thickest: water-based first (like Niacinamide), then oils (Retinol in Squalane). Always follow with moisturizer and sunscreen.

Key features to consider: High active concentrations, minimal ingredients for low irritation, and pH-balanced formulas. These serums integrate into Treatments & Masks routines for enhanced results.

For alternatives, explore CeraVe Facial Serums for ceramide-heavy options or LaRochePosay Facial Serums for thermal spring water soothing. If clean beauty appeals, check GoodMolecules Facial Serums.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Ordinary best known for?

The Ordinary stands out for affordable, high-concentration actives with full ingredient transparency, making professional-grade skincare accessible without luxury pricing.

How do I choose between The Ordinary serums for acne?

For oil control and pores, pick Niacinamide 10% + Zinc; for deep pore cleansing, Salicylic Acid 2%; for texture and redness, Azelaic Acid 10%. Layer cautiously.

Are The Ordinary serums suitable for beginners?

Yes—the Serum Favorites Set is ideal for starters, offering gentle hydration, brightening, and eye care to build tolerance before stronger actives like Retinol.

The Ordinary vs. other brands like CeraVe?

The Ordinary emphasizes single-actives at max potency; CeraVe focuses on barrier repair. Both excel, but The Ordinary suits targeted concerns.

What's the best way to incorporate Retinol 1% in Squalane?

Start twice weekly at night, paired with Hyaluronic Acid. Avoid eyes, and use sunscreen daily to prevent sensitivity.