I Used Only The Ordinary Products for 30 Days — Here’s the Result

Last updated on: January 28, 2026

Like most women, I’m always looking for skincare that actually works without costing half my monthly paycheck. I kept seeing The Ordinary all over TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Women were raving about glowing skin, faded dark spots, and fewer breakouts — and all from products that were under $15 each.

So, I decided to challenge myself: For 30 days, I would use only The Ordinary products and see what would happen to my skin. No expensive serums. No luxury creams. Just simple and affordable skincare that anyone can grab from Sephora, Ulta, or even online.

Before I jump into my results, here’s a little info about my skin:

• Skin type: Combination (oily T-zone, dry cheeks)

• Main concerns: Breakouts, uneven texture, and acne marks

• Goal: Clearer, brighter, smoother skin

I didn’t know whether my skin would thrive… or freak out. But I was ready.

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Why The Ordinary?

The Ordinary is known for:

• Straightforward ingredients (no fancy marketing tricks)

• Affordable pricing

• Derm-approved actives like Niacinamide, Retinol, and Hyaluronic Acid

The brand basically says:
“You want brighter skin? Here’s Vitamin C.”
“You want less acne? Here’s Salicylic Acid.”

Simple. Clean. No magic fairy dust stories.

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My 30-Day Routine

I built a routine using their most loved products. If you’re starting out, something like this can help you too.

Morning Routine

1. Gentle Cleanser

2. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (for oil + breakouts)

3. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (hydration)

4. Natural Moisturizing Factors

5. Sunscreen (not from The Ordinary, but a must!)

Night Routine

1. Squalane Cleanser

2. Glycolic Acid Toning Solution (3 nights a week)

3. Retinol 0.2% in Squalane (2 nights a week)

4. Moisturizer again

I kept things simple but consistent. Trust me — skincare is 80% consistency.

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Week-by-Week Progress

Week 1 — “Oh… My Skin Is Confused”

By day four, I noticed a few more pimples than usual.
I freaked out a little. But then I learned it’s normal — it’s called purging.
My skin was also a bit red and tight after retinol nights.

But I told myself:
“Don’t give up after the first sign of trouble.”
So I didn’t.

Week 2 — Hydration Heaven

My skin stopped panicking and started calming down.
I noticed:
✔ Less oil in my T-zone
✔ Makeup gliding on smoother
✔ Way fewer breakouts

Hyaluronic Acid made my skin feel bouncy, like it finally had a drink of water.

Week 3 — People Started Noticing

This was the week where real results kicked in.
One of my coworkers asked, “Did you get a facial?”
That’s when I knew something good was happening.

What improved:
✔ Dark spots from acne started fading
✔ My pores looked smaller
✔ Texture finally smoothing out

Retinol + Niacinamide = A powerful duo ✨

Week 4 — Hello, Glow!

The transformation felt official.
My skin looked brighter than it ever had.

Here’s the summary of Week 4 changes:

• Skin tone more even

• Fewer breakouts

• Makeup looked airbrushed

• Softer, firmer feel

• A natural glow without highlighter

And the best part? My confidence improved.
I found myself going out with just sunscreen and lip balm. And it felt good.

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The Science (In Simple Words)

I won’t get too nerdy, but here’s why this routine works:

When these work together, your skin basically gets a complete reset.

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Challenges I Faced

Let’s be real — it wasn’t perfect.

• Retinol can dry you out

• Glycolic Acid can sting

• If you rush, irritation is guaranteed

My tips if you try this:
✔ Add active ingredients slowly
✔ Always moisturize after strong serums
✔ Sunscreen every day (no excuses!)

If your skin is very sensitive? Consider patch testing first.

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Final Thoughts — Was It Worth It?

100% YES.
I spent less than $60 on products that truly changed my skin.

Here’s my personal results score:

• Hydration: 10/10

• Breakout Control: 9/10

• Brightening: 8.5/10

• Texture Smoothness: 9/10

• Price vs. Performance: 11/10 (seriously)

Will I keep using The Ordinary?
Absolutely. Especially Niacinamide and Retinol — they’re new favorites.

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Who Should Try This?

Good for:
✔ Oily or combo skin
✔ Acne-prone skin
✔ Uneven skin tone
✔ Anyone wanting budget-friendly skincare that works

Maybe be careful if you:

• Have super sensitive skin

• Have never used retinoids before

• Are pregnant (avoid retinol!)

And if you’re dealing with serious skin issues — always talk to a dermatologist first.

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Tips For Your Own 30-Day Glow Journey

Here are things I wish I knew before starting:

• Go slow with acids and retinol

• Hydrate more than you think

• Don’t mix random products without checking

• Take weekly pictures so you notice the difference

• Stick to it — your skin needs time

Great skin is a habit, not a race.

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My Final Message to You

Trying this routine wasn’t just about skincare.
It made me:

• Prioritize myself

• Show up for my wellbeing every day

• Feel proud of taking care of my skin

You don’t need a $200 cream to feel beautiful.
Sometimes all you need is a simple plan and a little patience.

So if you’re curious about The Ordinary — try your own 30-day challenge.
You might just meet a glowing new version of yourself.