Ultimate Guide to Layering The Ordinary Skincare Products

Should the Ordinary Niacinamide Burn?

Niacinamide is a powerhouse ingredient that can significantly improve your skin’s overall health. It’s a form of vitamin B3, known for addressing issues like dark spots, enlarged pores, and uneven skin texture. However, one of the most common questions is, “Should The Ordinary Niacinamide burn?” The answer can vary depending on your skin type. Most people find niacinamide gentle and soothing, but a slight tingling sensation might occur when you first apply it. This is especially true for individuals who are new to skincare or who have sensitive skin. That said, if you feel an intense burning sensation, it’s not normal. This could mean that you’re applying too much product or mixing it with ingredients that don’t work well together, such as strong acids. Always start with a small amount and gradually introduce it to your routine, giving your skin time to adjust.

What to Expect When Using Niacinamide

When you begin using niacinamide, it’s possible to experience mild reactions as your skin adjusts. Some users might notice redness, dryness, or a tingling sensation, especially if they are layering niacinamide with other potent products like vitamin C or retinoids. These reactions are usually mild and temporary. However, if the burning sensation persists or worsens, it could indicate that your skin is having a more serious reaction. To minimize any discomfort, ensure you’re applying niacinamide to a clean face and follow it up with a hydrating moisturizer. If necessary, you can apply a water-based serum first to create a barrier between your skin and the active ingredient. This can help prevent irritation, especially for sensitive skin types.

How to Minimize Discomfort with Niacinamide

If you’re experiencing discomfort while using niacinamide, there are steps you can take to reduce it. First, try applying niacinamide in conjunction with hydrating, water-based products. This can help create a protective barrier on your skin and reduce any irritation. Another important tip is to avoid using niacinamide with other strong active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, or glycolic acid at the same time. Instead, alternate between products to avoid overwhelming your skin. For example, you could use niacinamide in the morning and exfoliating acids in the evening. This way, your skin will still benefit from both without the risk of irritation.

Should the Ordinary Peeling Solution Burn?

The Ordinary Peeling Solution is a strong exfoliant known for improving skin texture and clarity, but it often raises the question: “Should The Ordinary Peeling Solution burn?” A slight tingling sensation is normal when using this product due to the high concentration of active acids. However, if you experience intense burning or discomfort, this is a sign to immediately rinse off the product. The peeling solution works by dissolving dead skin cells, so mild tingling means it’s working, but burning is a warning that the product may be too strong for your skin. Always start with a patch test and use it as directed, no more than once a week, to avoid over-exfoliating.

Signs You Should Stop Using the Peeling Solution

It’s important to recognize when your skin is signaling that it’s time to stop using a product. If you notice excessive redness, dryness, or peeling after using The Ordinary Peeling Solution, your skin might be over-exfoliated or too sensitive for this formula. These signs suggest that your skin’s barrier is compromised, which can lead to further irritation or breakouts. If this happens, it’s best to take a break from the peeling solution and focus on hydrating and repairing your skin barrier before reintroducing it at a lower frequency.

How to Safely Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution

To safely use The Ordinary Peeling Solution, start by applying it to clean, dry skin and leave it on for no longer than 10 minutes. Make sure to avoid sensitive areas like around the eyes. For first-time users, a patch test is crucial to ensure your skin can handle the acids. After washing it off, apply a gentle moisturizer and sunscreen the next day, as exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to sun damage. Stick to using the peeling solution once a week, and resist the temptation to leave it on longer than the recommended time—it won’t enhance the results and can actually harm your skin.

Should the Ordinary Toner Burn?

Toners, especially those with active ingredients like acids, can sometimes cause a tingling sensation. But the question is, “Should The Ordinary toner burn?” Ideally, no. Toners are meant to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for other treatments, not cause discomfort. If you experience burning, it may be due to the formulation being too harsh for your skin type. This is especially common with toners that contain exfoliating acids like glycolic acid. If you feel any discomfort, you might want to switch to a gentler toner or use the product less frequently to allow your skin to adjust.

When to Seek Alternatives for Toners

If you find that your skin consistently reacts negatively to toners, even after adjusting the frequency of use, it may be time to seek alternatives. There are plenty of hydrating toners available that are designed to soothe and moisturize rather than exfoliate. Look for toners that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or rose water, which focus on hydration and calming the skin rather than treating issues like texture or acne. Remember, skincare is personal—what works for one person might not work for another, so always listen to your skin.

The Ordinary: Can You Mix Serums?

Mixing serums can be an effective way to target multiple skin concerns at once, but not all serums are compatible with each other. One of the most frequently asked questions is, “Can you mix serums from The Ordinary?” The answer is yes, but with caution. Some serums, like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, work well together to provide hydration and improve skin texture. However, others, like retinoids and acids, can cause irritation when used together. Always introduce new products slowly and one at a time to avoid overwhelming your skin. It’s also a good idea to layer your serums from the lightest (water-based) to the heaviest (oil-based) for the best results.

Potential Reactions When Mixing Serums

While combining serums can enhance your skincare routine, it’s important to be mindful of potential reactions. Mixing powerful ingredients like acids and retinoids can sometimes lead to redness, dryness, or even breakouts. If you notice any irritation after introducing a new combination, it’s best to stop using both products until your skin calms down, and then reintroduce them one at a time. This will help you identify which product is causing the reaction and adjust your routine accordingly.

Guidelines for Combining Different Products

When layering The Ordinary products, a good rule of thumb is to apply products in order of their consistency—from thinnest to thickest. Start with water-based serums, followed by oil-based serums, and finish with creams or moisturizers. Additionally, try not to mix too many active ingredients in one routine, as this can overload your skin and lead to irritation. Instead, alternate between actives; for example, you can use a retinoid in the evening and an exfoliating acid a few nights later. This way, you’ll maximize the benefits of each product without risking irritation.

Should the Ordinary Niacinamide burn?

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is known for its calming and beneficial effects on the skin, especially when it comes to reducing dark spots, minimizing pores, and improving texture. While niacinamide is generally considered gentle, some people may experience a tingling sensation when they first use it, particularly if they have sensitive skin. However, burning is not a typical reaction. If you experience a burning sensation after applying The Ordinary Niacinamide, it could be due to overuse, using too high of a concentration, or combining it with other potent ingredients like acids or retinoids. Always start with a patch test and introduce it slowly into your routine to allow your skin to adjust. If burning persists, it may be best to reduce the frequency or stop using the product altogether and consult a dermatologist.

Should the Ordinary Peeling Solution burn?

The Ordinary Peeling Solution is a powerful chemical exfoliant, containing a mix of AHA and BHA that can help improve skin texture and clarity. It’s normal to feel some tingling when applying the solution, as the acids work to dissolve dead skin cells. However, intense burning is not normal and could indicate that the product is too harsh for your skin. If you experience this, wash the solution off immediately and discontinue use. For first-time users, it’s crucial to patch test the product before full application. Remember to follow the directions carefully—leave it on for no more than 10 minutes, and avoid using it more than once a week. Overuse can damage your skin’s barrier, leading to increased sensitivity, dryness, and irritation.

Should the Ordinary toner burn?

Toners, especially those with exfoliating acids, can sometimes cause a slight tingling sensation when applied to the skin, which can be normal. However, if your skin feels a strong burning sensation after applying The Ordinary toner, this could be a sign that the product is too strong for your skin type or that you’re using it too frequently. The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, for instance, is a potent exfoliator and might be too harsh for sensitive skin. If burning occurs, you should consider switching to a milder toner or reducing the frequency of use. Always follow up with a moisturizer and use sunscreen daily, as toners with acids can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.

Can you mix serums from The Ordinary?

Yes, you can mix and layer serums from The Ordinary, but with some important considerations. Certain serums work well together, like niacinamide with hyaluronic acid, which can provide both hydration and brightening effects. However, not all active ingredients should be mixed. For example, using niacinamide and vitamin C together can neutralize each other’s effects, reducing their benefits. Additionally, mixing retinoids with strong acids like glycolic acid or salicylic acid can cause irritation. To safely combine serums, follow the rule of applying the lightest, water-based serums first, and then layer thicker, oil-based serums. Also, avoid combining too many active ingredients at once. Instead, alternate them between your morning and evening routine or on different days.

What should I do if The Ordinary Niacinamide burns?

If you experience a burning sensation after applying The Ordinary Niacinamide, the first step is to stop using the product immediately and rinse your face with cool water. Burning could indicate that your skin is reacting negatively, possibly because you’re using too much or layering it with other strong ingredients. It’s essential to listen to your skin. After the reaction subsides, you can reintroduce niacinamide slowly, using a lower concentration or applying it less frequently. Always start with a small amount, and make sure you’re applying it to clean, dry skin, followed by a gentle moisturizer to calm any irritation.

Is a burning sensation normal with The Ordinary Peeling Solution?

A mild tingling or stinging sensation is normal when using The Ordinary Peeling Solution, especially since it contains high concentrations of AHAs and BHAs. These acids are designed to exfoliate your skin by breaking down dead skin cells. However, burning is not normal and is usually a sign that your skin is too sensitive for the product or that you’ve left it on for too long. If this happens, rinse the product off immediately and soothe your skin with a hydrating serum or moisturizer. To avoid such reactions in the future, always conduct a patch test before using strong exfoliants and follow the instructions carefully.

How can I safely use The Ordinary products if I have sensitive skin?

If you have sensitive skin, it’s essential to approach The Ordinary products with caution. Start by introducing one new product at a time and always do a patch test to see how your skin reacts. Choose gentler formulations like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and squalane, which are known to be soothing and hydrating. Avoid using too many active ingredients at once, as this can lead to irritation. For example, combining acids, retinoids, or vitamin C in one routine can overwhelm sensitive skin. Instead, alternate actives and focus on hydrating products to help your skin adjust to each new addition. Lastly, always follow up with a gentle moisturizer and wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin barrier.

What is the best way to layer The Ordinary products?

The key to layering The Ordinary products effectively is to apply them based on their consistency. Start with the lightest, water-based products, as they absorb more easily into the skin, followed by thicker, oil-based serums, and finally, creams or moisturizers. This helps ensure that each product can penetrate the skin and deliver its benefits without being blocked by heavier formulations. For example, begin with a hyaluronic acid serum, follow with niacinamide, and finish with a moisturizer. Also, remember not to mix too many active ingredients at once—if you’re using a peeling solution or retinoid, give your skin a break from other exfoliants or strong acids on that day.

Can I use The Ordinary Peeling Solution and niacinamide together?

It’s generally not recommended to use The Ordinary Peeling Solution and niacinamide at the same time, as this can increase the risk of irritation. The Peeling Solution contains powerful AHAs and BHAs that exfoliate the skin, while niacinamide helps to calm and brighten. If you use them together, the acids can potentially irritate your skin, making it more sensitive to niacinamide. A better approach would be to use the Peeling Solution once a week in your evening routine and apply niacinamide on other days to keep your skin balanced and hydrated. Always follow exfoliating treatments with a moisturizer and sunscreen the next day to protect your skin.

What should I do if The Ordinary toner burns?

If The Ordinary toner causes burning, especially if it contains glycolic acid or another exfoliating ingredient, immediately stop using it and rinse your face with cool water. Burning is usually a sign that your skin barrier is compromised or that the formula is too harsh for your skin type. After rinsing, apply a soothing moisturizer to help restore your skin’s barrier. If you still want to use a toner, consider switching to a milder option or using it less frequently. It’s also important to avoid other exfoliating products while your skin heals, and make sure to wear sunscreen daily to prevent further irritation.