The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence – Hydrate & Prime Your Skin

The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence is a hydration-boosting, skin-priming essence designed to support and enhance the performance of your skincare routine. As a first-step “treatment” layer, the Multi-Active Delivery Essence hydrates, conditions, and primes your skin to absorb active ingredients more effectively.

This essence isn’t just about moisture—it’s formulated with 10% glycerin, 5% propanediol, sodium caproyl prolinate, and glycogen, which act together to improve the penetration and delivery of skincare actives. In fact, studies show it can double the penetration of Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% after one hour compared to using the niacinamide on its own.

The texture is featherlight and non-greasy, absorbing quickly without leaving residue. It supports skin barrier resilience and keeps skin hydrated and luminous all day.

Use it right after cleansing as a prep step before serums and moisturizers—an ideal addition for anyone looking to optimize absorption and boost hydration in their skincare routine.

Skin Benefits & Use Case

• Suitable Skin Types: All skin types — normal, dry, combination, oily, and sensitive

• Benefits:

  • Deep hydration and moisture retention

  • Primes skin to absorb active ingredients more effectively

  • Strengthens the skin barrier and improves texture

  • Helps skin feel smoother, softer, and more luminous throughout the day

  • Supports better layering and performance of other skincare products

Internal Links:

• Pair with The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% to enhance absorption

• Read our guide on layering skincare products

Usage Instructions

After cleansing, apply a few drops of The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence to damp skin using fingers or a cotton pad. Allow it to absorb for about 30 seconds before following with serums, treatments, and moisturizer. Use both morning and evening for best results.

Ingredient Breakdown

Glycerin (10%)

A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, improving hydration and elasticity.

Propanediol (5%)

Acts as a penetration enhancer, supporting the delivery of active ingredients into the skin.

Sodium Caproyl Prolinate

An amino-acid–derived hydrator that improves skin softness and supports ingredient delivery.

Glycogen

A polysaccharide that energizes skin and helps maintain hydration and barrier lipids.

Comparison Table

Caution

• For external use only

• Avoid contact with eyes; rinse immediately if contact occurs

• Patch test before full use, especially for sensitive skin

• Do not use on broken or irritated skin

• Use caution when combining with direct acids or retinoids (check compatibility)

• Stop use if irritation or persistent redness occurs

• Keep out of reach of children

Why Choose This Product?

If you want your skincare regimen to work harder and more effectively, The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence is an essential layer. It doesn’t just deliver hydration—it prepares and primes your skin to maximize the benefit of every following product. Backed by scientific formulation and The Ordinary’s clean, minimalist approach, this essence makes your active ingredients more efficient and your skin feel more resilient.

How To USE This Product!

1. Cleanse your skin thoroughly

2. Pat damp skin (not dripping)

3. Dispense a few drops of The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence

4. Gently press or pat into skin until absorbed

5. Wait ~30 seconds to a minute

6. Continue with serums, treatments, and moisturizer

7. Use morning and night

Before/After Result Summary

• Before: Dull, dry, or flaky skin with uneven absorption of treatments

• After: Hydrated, smooth, luminous skin with improved performance of your serums and actives

Customer Reviews!

“I added The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence into my routine, and I’ve noticed my serums absorb faster and deeper. My skin feels more hydrated and looks glowier after just a week!” – Sahana M.

FAQ

1. Is Multi-Active Delivery Essence suitable for sensitive skin?
   Yes, it’s lightweight and free of harsh ingredients, but patch testing is recommended.

2. Can it be used both morning and night?
   Yes, it’s designed for twice-daily use.

3. Will it interfere with other actives (acids, retinoids)?
   Check compatibility—The Ordinary notes some limitations with direct acids or retinoids.

4. Does it leave residue?
   No, the texture is non-greasy and absorbs quickly.

5. How much should I use?
   A few drops (2–4) are sufficient.

6. Can I layer it under moisturizer?
   Yes, apply before serums and moisturizer.

7. Does it have fragrance?
   No, it is formulated without added fragrance.

8. Is it vegan and cruelty-free?
   Yes, it is vegan and cruelty-free.

9. Will it help with dullness?
   Yes, it boosts hydration and prep, resulting in improved radiance over time.

10. Can I skip toner if I use this?
    Yes, this essence may replace or complement your toner step.

11. Is it safe during pregnancy?
    Generally yes, but always consult your physician with any skincare concerns.

12. Can men use it?
    Absolutely, it’s gender-neutral.

13. Does it shrink pores?
    While not primarily a pore-tightening product, improved hydration and barrier support may reduce visible pores.

14. Does it protect from sun?
    No, it’s not a sunscreen—use SPF during the day.

15. How soon will I see benefits?
    Many users notice immediate hydration; cumulative improvements in texture and absorption over weeks.

16. Is it compatible with layering?
    Yes, designed as a prepping layer before actives.

17. Will it dry skin?
    No—its humectants support moisture retention.

18. Can I mix with other products?
    Better to layer than mix directly for most cases.

19. What skin concerns is it best for?
    Ideal for dryness, dullness, compromised barrier, and enhancing actives.

20. How should I store it?
    Store in a cool, dark place, upright and tightly sealed.