Multi-Active Delivery Essence for Hydration

The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence for Hydration is a prep step rather than a treatment. It conditions skin with water first, so the serums you apply afterwards land on skin that is ready for them — the brand's stated goal is both instant and longer-lasting hydration.

Best for	Normal, dry, combination and oily skin
Targets	Dryness
Key ingredients	Sodium caproyl prolinate · glycogen · glycerin
Free from	Formaldehydes and releasers · phthalates · mineral oil · oxybenzone · coal tar. Gluten-free and cruelty-free.

What it actually does

• Hydrates at the prep stage. Glycerin and glycogen are included for hydration and barrier support; the brand links glycerin to visible elasticity as well.
• Helps what comes next absorb. Sodium caproyl prolinate is the ingredient the brand credits with improving how well following steps get into the skin.
• Brand lab data on penetration. In The Ordinary's in-vitro testing, applying this essence before Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% doubled that formula's penetration after one hour versus using it alone.
• Brand wear-test data. On 20 people after a single use, the brand reported immediate hydration lasting through the day; on 35 people measured straight after application, skin was reported softer, smoother and more luminous. Brand-reported — results vary.

How to use

1. Morning and evening, with a cotton pad or straight from your fingers.
2. Keep it off the eye area. If any gets in your eyes, rinse immediately.
3. Follow with your serums and moisturiser. This is step one, not the whole routine.
4. Patch test first, and stop if irritation appears. Use only on unbroken skin, and keep away from children.
5. Avoid pairing with direct acids or retinoids — the brand lists both as contraindications.

Is it right for you?

Questions

Where does it go in my routine?

Right after cleansing, before serums and moisturiser. It is designed as the conditioning step that everything else sits on top of.

Can I skip my moisturiser if I use this?

No. An essence delivers water; a moisturiser keeps it there. Use both.

Can I use it with retinol or acids?

The brand flags direct acids and retinoids as contraindications, so separate them — for example this essence in the morning and your retinoid at night.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery takes 3 to 21 working days, depending on availability. See our Shipping Policy for the full detail.

Payment and returns?

We take credit card, debit card, Instapay and mobile wallets — there is no cash on delivery. Returns cover defective, damaged or expired items only, reported within 1 day of delivery, with the refund issued to your original payment method within 15–30 days. See our Return & Refund Policy.