Let’s be honest–when acne strikes, The Ordinary is often the first brand we run to—and for good reason. It’s affordable, effective, and doesn’t come with a side of marketing fluff.

But here’s the catch: their clinical-sounding names and long list of acids can leave you feeling like you need a degree in skincare science just to build a routine. (Been there, Googled that.)

So if you’ve been staring at their website wondering, “Which Ordinary serum do I actually need for acne and scars?”, this post is your shortcut.

So I’m breaking down my top 5 favorites from The Ordinary—how to use them, who they’re best for, and what to skip if your skin barrier needs a little TLC

Because the goal? Isn’t just fewer breakouts. It’s clear skin that glows—without guesswork, irritation, or wrecking your skin barrier.

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1. Squalane Cleanser

Best for: Dry or sensitive skin as your first cleanser

If you’re wearing sunscreen or makeup (which you should be 👀), you need a solid first cleanse. The Squalane Cleanser is ultra-gentle, doesn’t strip your skin, and melts makeup without harsh surfactants.

Use it like this:

• Apply to dry skin
• Massage for 30 seconds (feels like a mini spa moment)
• Rinse with water
• Follow with a second gentle cleanser if needed

Yes, it leaves a light residue—but that’s part of the magic for dry, dehydrated skin.

2. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

Best for: Body breakouts, scars, and smoothing texture

This Glycolic Acid is a cult favorite in The Ordinary skincare routine, but here’s the thing—it’s strong. Too strong for some faces, honestly. So if you’re feeling nervous about using it on your face, trust your gut and test slowly.

That’s why I love using it on body breakouts—especially on the chest, back, butt, and even the bikini line to prevent ingrown hairs. It’s the perfect spot treatment to brighten, exfoliate, and smooth rough patches without risking your facial barrier.

Pro tip: Apply it with a cotton pad a few nights a week, and always follow up with moisturizer (and SPF the next day if it’s exposed!).

Use it on:

• Chest breakouts
• Back acne (aka “bacne”)
• Ingrown-prone areas like the bikini line or booty

Just remember: patch test first and always follow up with moisturizer. And don’t forget SPF the next day—acids and sun do not mix.

3. Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

Best for: Fading acne scars + calming active breakouts for all skin types, acne scars, redness, and clogged pores

This one deserves a standing ovation. Azelaic acid is one of the most underrated ingredients for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It’s an effective yet gentle exfoliant that helps minimize pore congestion, fade acne scars, and reduce redness—all without burning your face off.

It can feel a little potent at first, so be sure to patch test and start with 2–3x a week to see how your skin responds.

Pro tip: Apply to clean skin before moisturizer, especially at night. It plays well with most other products, so it’s an easy addition to your routine.

4. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Best for: Combination to oily skin, pore refinement, and excess oil

This Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Ordinary serum is basically a classic for acne, and for good reason. Niacinamide helps regulate oil, refine pores, and strengthen the skin barrier. The addition of zinc makes this formula even more effective than competitors, helping to calm inflammation and reduce excess sebum production.

That said, it can feel drying if you already have dry or sensitive skin, so go slow and see how your skin responds.

Use it in the AM before moisturizer or SPF—and if it pills, try simplifying the layers underneath.

5. Lactic Acid 5% + HA

Best for: Beginner exfoliation + dull skin that needs a glow-up

If you’re new to chemical exfoliants and want to ease into The Ordinary skincare routine, Lactic Acid 5% + HA is your girl. Lactic acid is gentler than glycolic and paired with hyaluronic acid, it hydrates while it exfoliates.

But—and this is big—don’t use it on broken-out, inflamed skin. If your skin barrier is healing or your acne is active, save this for Phase 2 of your skincare journey (yes, like we map out in The Ultimate Acne Skincare Guide).

Gentle acids like this can help fade old acne scars and even skin tone once your skin is stable.

How to Use These Products Without Overdoing It

With so many powerful ingredients, it’s really easy to go overboard. But more isn’t more—especially when dealing with acne.

Here’s your golden rule:

• One new product at a time
• Start 2-3x/week (especially with acids)
• Don’t mix too many actives in the same routine
• Always moisturize and wear SPF

If your skin starts to freak out, scale it back. Healing is not a race—think marathon, not sprint.

Final Thoughts

The Ordinary has some real gems for acne-prone skin, but how (and when) you use them makes all the difference.

Start slow, listen to your skin, and don’t feel pressured to add everything at once. These products can absolutely help with breakouts, oiliness, and acne scars—but only when your skin is ready for them.

And if you’re wondering which products to use when, or how to know your skin barrier is ready for acids, I’ve got you covered. Check out the Ultimate Acne Skincare Guide here.

Rooting for you always,

Ally