The Ordinary Regimen/Routine For Acne

The Ordinary have an excellent range of products that can help tackle stubborn acne and skin blemishes. We’ve put together a simple routine/regime only using products by The Ordinary to help tackle your facial skin oiliness and acne.

What causes oily skin and acne?

Acne forms when pores (the small openings in the skin) become clogged. There are several causes for this, the primary cause being excessive sebum production. Sebum is a waxy secretion produced by the sebaceous glands in your pores to hydrate and protect the skin. Excess sebum production however can lead to blocked pores and acne.

The Ordinary Regimen For Acne

Two routines have been put together, one for the morning and the other for the night. Both of these routines include the most effective products by The Ordinary which seek to minimise skin congestion, reduce sebum production, and tackle inflammation and acne.

Daytime routine

1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing your skin is essential to get rid of unwanted dirt, oil and pollutants that can clog your pores. Often acne and breakouts are a result of oily skin or overactive sebaceous glands, it is therefore essential that you get an effective skin cleanse at the start of your regime. This squalane cleanser is a gentle but effective formulation at a reasonable price point.
2. Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: *CURRENTLY BEING UPDATED. This is one of the most effective skincare serums available to tackle acne. Salicylic acid is a BHA which works to exfoliate the inside walls of your pores thus preventing acne from forming. Salicylic acid also possesses excellent anti-inflammatory properties which will reduce the appearance of acne, while penetrating deep into the skin to break up breakout-causing debris.
3. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: Glycolic acid is an AHA which can work to increase skin cell turnover, boost collagen production and prevent blemishes and acne. *Do not use with Salicylic Acid.
4. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B-3 which can work to tackle skin congestion and blemishes. Niacinamide is excellent at regulating sebum production, and can therefore help those suffering from oily skin; this is often the culprit for acne and breakouts.
5. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Moisturising is critical step of any skincare regime. NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin. Not only will these protect the skin from pollutants and free radical damage, but it also means the skin’s moisture is locked in.
6. Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants: This SPF solution neutralises free radicals, reduces transepidermal water loss and helps the skin stay hydrated for longer.

Nighttime routine

1. Squalane Cleanser: Cleansing twice a day is crucial, this squalane cleanser is effective for both nighttime and daytime use. It might be tempting to double-cleanse but we this can often be doing more harm than good. Over-cleansing can excessively dry the skin, causing redness or even leading to overactive sebaceous glands. This means more sebum production and potentially more acne and breakouts.
2. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Hyaluronic acid immediately boosts skin moisture and plumps the skin. Not only will this reduce signs of aging, but it will also combat dryness from any acid treatments.
3. Retinol 1% in Squalane: Retinol is a form of Vitamin A which can work to boost skin cell turnover, therefore reducing the probability of clogged pores and breakouts. Retinol can also help boost collagen synthesis and reduce scarring associated with acne.
4. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: Every skincare routine should be followed up with a moisturiser. As described earlier, NMF’s work to provide a protective barrier on the outer layer of the skin, preventing damage and locking in moisture.

Things to look out for

Consistency is key with any skincare regime. Note that you may initially experience a skincare purge, a period of increased acne and breakouts. This should normally subside within a few weeks as your skin adjusts to the products.

Direct acids can also increase skin sensitivity, both in general and to sunlight. Ensure you apply SPF if in direct contact with sunlight, and ensure you moisturise to replenish lost skin moisture.

Any questions or comments? Leave them down below 🙂