The Ordinary

The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence 3.4 fl oz — Lightweight Hydrating Essence, 10% Glycerin

Check the exact product, pack and directions before ordering

£23.88

Available to order with free standard UK delivery.

Shop Pay installment options may appear at checkout where eligible.

Free shipping Secure checkout 30-day returns: check eligibility
Choose your quantity Order 2 units

Choose the quantity you need; pack contents are described in the product details.

Choose your quantity Order 3 units

Free standard UK delivery with no minimum order.

Free shipping

i

Free standard UK delivery. See shipping estimates and tracking details in our shipping policy.

Easy returns

i

Contact us for a free return label for eligible items within 30 days.

Peak-demand shipping delays

i

During high demand, deliveries may experience short carrier delays. Tracking updates remain active for every order.

Email customer support

Email us about products, delivery or returns. We aim to reply within one business day.

Share

Product details

The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence is a lightweight hydration essence designed to instantly nourish skin, strengthen the barrier, and leave the complexion softer and more luminous after a single application.

This essence from The Ordinary is formulated to boost short-term moisture and create an optimal environment for follow-up skincare. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly, helping skin feel refreshed and primed for serums and moisturizers. Clinical testing on a small group showed noticeable hydration after one use, and laboratory testing indicates that using this essence before certain serums can increase their delivery into the skin.

How quickly will I feel hydration after applying this essence?

Most users notice an immediate smoothing and hydrating effect right after patting the essence into the face. The formula contains humectants and moisture-supporting ingredients that attract and retain water at the skin surface, producing a softer feel almost instantly.

  • Lightweight fluid that absorbs fast without sticky residue
  • Contains 10% glycerin and other humectants for rapid moisture
  • Clinical testing showed visible hydration after a single application

Will this essence improve my other serums and treatments?

The Multi-Active Delivery Essence is intended to prime skin so active ingredients in following products penetrate and perform more effectively. In lab testing, applying this essence before a niacinamide serum increased the serum’s delivery compared with using the serum alone.

  • Formulated to be layered under serums and moisturizers
  • Includes propanediol to support delivery of subsequent actives
  • Can be used with a wide range of treatments—avoid incompatible actives on a case-by-case basis

What are the key ingredients and how do they support skin?

The essence blends humectants and delivery-supporting molecules to hydrate and help other actives reach their target. Glycerin provides primary moisture, while sodium caproyl prolinate and propanediol enhance hydration and delivery; glycogen adds energetic support for skin hydration balance.

  • 10% glycerin for effective moisture attraction and retention
  • Sodium caproyl prolinate and propanediol to boost hydration and ingredient penetration
  • Glycogen to support skin’s hydration network and overall condition

How should I incorporate this product into my routine?

Use it after cleansing (and after toner if you use one) and before serums and moisturizers. Dispense a few drops, gently pat into the face and neck with fingertips or a cotton pad, then layer your chosen serums and a moisturizer to lock in benefits.

  • Apply to clean skin, morning and/or night as part of your routine
  • Pat into skin rather than rubbing to maximize absorption
  • Follow with serums and moisturizer; compatible with many active treatments

Who is this for: The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence is suitable for anyone seeking a lightweight hydrator to improve immediate skin comfort and to prime skin for serums. It suits normal to combination skin types and those wanting a non-greasy layer that supports ingredient delivery; if you have specific skin concerns or sensitivities, patch test first and consult product guidance before layering strong actives.

Ingredients

AQUA/WATER/EAU, GLYCERIN, PROPANEDIOL, SODIUM CAPROYL PROLINATE, GLYCOGEN, GELLAN GUM, CITRIC ACID, SODIUM CHLORIDE, TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE, PHENOXYETHANOL, CHLORPHENESIN.

FAQ

Q: Can I use this essence with niacinamide serums?

A: Yes. Laboratory testing showed increased delivery of niacinamide when the essence was applied first, so it pairs well with niacinamide serums.

Q: How often should I use the Multi-Active Delivery Essence?

A: Use it daily—morning and/or night—after cleansing and before serums and moisturizer for best hydration support.