your browser is not supported
To use ASOS, we recommend using the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Edge
BEAUTY
YOUR A-Z GUIDE TO THE ORDINARY
By ASOS, 6 April 2021
Not everyone’s a skincare expert, but this handy A-Z guide is a stellar starting point. Let us break down The Ordinary and its seriously sciencey ingredients with this skincare-made-simple directory. From Retinol to peptides and everything in-between, get to know your ultimate skincare alphabet – your skin will thank you later.

A – Antioxidants
Your skin’s very own protection against the visible effects of pollutants.
B – Beauty sleep
This one’s free of charge.
C – Cleanse with squalane
A squeaky-clean way to kickstart your day or remove it, with silky-smooth results (hydration fully intact, ofc).
Your skin’s very own protection against the visible effects of pollutants.
B – Beauty sleep
This one’s free of charge.
C – Cleanse with squalane
A squeaky-clean way to kickstart your day or remove it, with silky-smooth results (hydration fully intact, ofc).

D – Dropper
Always put drops of The Ordinary into the palm of your hands, never directly onto your face.
E – Exfoliators
The Ordinary’s liquid exfoliants sweep away dead-skin cells. Our fave? Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
G – Glycolic Acid
The smallest-sized molecule of all AHAs, for a deep exfoliation.
Always put drops of The Ordinary into the palm of your hands, never directly onto your face.
E – Exfoliators
The Ordinary’s liquid exfoliants sweep away dead-skin cells. Our fave? Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
G – Glycolic Acid
The smallest-sized molecule of all AHAs, for a deep exfoliation.

H – Hydrators
One giant glass of H2O for your skin (doctor’s orders).
N – Niacinamide
The holy grail of reducing the appearance of blemishes and controlling shine.
P – Patch test
The Ordinary’s expert lab team recommend patch testing any new product before you dive in.
One giant glass of H2O for your skin (doctor’s orders).
N – Niacinamide
The holy grail of reducing the appearance of blemishes and controlling shine.
P – Patch test
The Ordinary’s expert lab team recommend patch testing any new product before you dive in.

R – Retinoids
A before-bed hero that brings out the best in your skin (hey, cell turnover).
S – SPF
Not just for the scorchers. Apply every day to prevent UV damage.
T – Technology
‘Been using “Buffet” Supersize serum for two months now and I couldn’t be without it, makes my skin look bright and hydrated!’ says another satisfied skincare convert.
A before-bed hero that brings out the best in your skin (hey, cell turnover).
S – SPF
Not just for the scorchers. Apply every day to prevent UV damage.
T – Technology
‘Been using “Buffet” Supersize serum for two months now and I couldn’t be without it, makes my skin look bright and hydrated!’ says another satisfied skincare convert.

V – Vitamin C
Hello, radiant skin.
W – Water
Always an essential. Drink up!
Z – Zero days off
Skincare routine on repeat: the key to seeing best results!
Hello, radiant skin.
W – Water
Always an essential. Drink up!
Z – Zero days off
Skincare routine on repeat: the key to seeing best results!