The Most-Loved Collection: Skincare Favorites Explained
By The Ordinary | Clinical Formulations with Integrity | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Product Reviews
Discover why The Most-Loved Collection is a customer favorite. This FAQ covers the key serums, who it's for, and how to use it for best results.
Quick answer
The Most-Loved Collection brings together three of The Ordinary's bestselling serums—Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, and Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG—offering a convenient way to address common skin concerns like oiliness, hydration, and puffiness.
Why these three serums are customer favorites
Each serum in the collection targets a different skin need, which is why they appear on so many 'best skincare' lists. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a go-to for balancing oil and refining pores. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 provides lightweight hydration, while Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG helps reduce under-eye puffiness. Together, they cover the basics without overlapping.
What the collection does not include
This set is designed for everyday essentials, so it does not contain treatments like exfoliating acids, retinoids, or targeted dark-spot serums. If you are looking for advanced anti-aging or heavy-duty exfoliation, you will need to add separate products to your routine.
Frequently asked questions
- What skin types is The Most-Loved Collection best for?
- The set works well for combination, oily, and normal skin types. Niacinamide helps control excess oil, Hyaluronic Acid hydrates without clogging pores, and Caffeine Solution targets puffiness around the eyes. Those with very dry or sensitive skin may want to patch-test the Niacinamide first, as it can feel slightly active on compromised barriers.
- How do I layer these products in my routine?
- Apply them from thinnest to thickest consistency. Start with Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 on damp skin, follow with Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, and finish with Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG around the eyes. Use them in your morning or evening routine, but avoid layering them with other high-concentration actives like direct acids or retinoids in the same step. Layer from thinnest to thickest and avoid mixing with strong exfoliants at the same time.
- Can I use this collection if I already have other serums?
- Yes, you can swap or rotate the serums based on your needs. For example, use Niacinamide on days you want oil control and Hyaluronic Acid when your skin feels dehydrated. The Caffeine Solution can be used daily under the eyes. Just keep your total active count reasonable to avoid irritation.
- Is The Most-Loved Collection a good gift or starter set?
- Yes, it is an excellent entry point for someone new to The Ordinary or to a streamlined skincare routine. The price is lower than buying the three full-size bottles separately, and the selection covers the most common skin concerns without overwhelming the user. It saves money compared to buying the serums individually and is ideal for beginners.
Featured product
- The Most-Loved Collection: A curated selection of The Ordinary’s most-loved formulas, this collection brings together trusted clinical skincare favorites in one convenient set. Includes Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, and Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG. It gives you three core serums in one purchase, saving you the guesswork of building a routine from scratch.

The Most-Loved Collection
