Skin Stories: Silvia Stanica

O: Give us a glimpse into your life outside of work.

Silvia: Two of my favourite parts of the day are early morning runs that kickstart my day with movement and evenings spent winding down over dinner. I also love reading, experimenting in the kitchen, playing tennis, and exploring new restaurants. Whether through movement, meals, or stories, I’m always looking for new ways to stay curious and inspired.

O: What’s your skin type and main skin concerns? 

Silvia: My skin is oily and can be prone to breakouts. My main concerns are keeping blemishes under control, addressing early signs of aging, and preventing dark spots from forming.

O: Tell us about your relationship with skincare over the years. 

Silvia: I developed acne at a young age, so skincare has been part of my routine for as long as I can remember. I used to focus heavily on managing breakouts. Now I approach skincare through the lens of prevention, focusing on maintaining balance and addressing early signs of aging. I love trying new products and technologies, but I’m mindful of my sensitive skin, so I stick to ingredients that work well for me and introduce new products gradually.

Her Morning Routine:

Prep

1. Glycolipid Cream Cleanser, or some days just a splash of water
2. Estee Lauder Micro Essence Treatment Lotion Toner with Bio-Fement or Haruharu Black Rice Toner
3. NuFace microcurrent device while the toner is still moist on my skin

Treat

1. Antioxidant serum, rotating between Multi-Antioxidant Radiance Serum, Pycnogenol 5%, Skinceuticals CE Ferulic, or NIOD Modulating Glucosides

Seal

1. Natural Moisturizing Factors + Phytoceramides or Dr. G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Moisturizer
2. La Roche Posay tinted or Beauty by Joseon sunscreen 

Her Evening Routine:

Prep

1. Squalane Cleanser and Glycolipid Cream Cleanser for a double cleanse.

Treat

1. Current Body Series 2.0 LED Mask for 10 minutes on clean, dry skin
2. Estee Lauder Micro Essence Treatment Lotion Toner with Bio-Fement or Haruharu Black Rice Toner
3. Tretinoin prescription gel 0.1%
4. PDRN or Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair

Seal

1. Natural Moisturizing Factors + Phytoceramides or Dr. G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Moisturizer

O: How do you adapt your skincare routine for specific concerns or situations? 

Silvia: If I’m experiencing breakouts, I’ll reach for a salicylic acid serum or a benzoyl peroxide cleanser to help clear congestion. If my skin is feeling red, irritated, or more sensitive than usual, I’ll skip tretinoin that evening and instead focus on soothing products, like NIOD Modulating Glucosides.

O: What’s your favourite formulation at The Ordinary and why? 

Silvia: My top pick has to be the Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner. While I occasionally use it on my face, it’s been a game-changer for my body. As someone who runs a lot and spends time in sweaty workout clothes, it’s my go-to for preventing backne and keeping my skin clear. It’s also amazing for minimizing shaving irritation and preventing ingrown hairs. 

O: What formulation at The Ordinary deserves more attention?

Silvia:Pycnogenol 5%. It’s such a unique antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental stress while giving it a healthy, glowing look. I love the immediate radiance, how lightweight it feels, and how it layers effortlessly with the rest of my routine.

O: What’s a skincare tip you live by?

Silvia: A hydrated base is everything when it comes to applying makeup. I used to obsess over finding the perfect primer so I could mattify in the summer and hydrate in the winter. I eventually realized that if I focus on keeping my skin healthy and well-hydrated, I don’t need to rely on primers at all. The makeup just glides on.

O: What has been your biggest a-ha moment while working at The Ordinary? 

Silvia: Learning just how much thought, precision, and regulation go into skincare claims. I quickly realized that it’s not just about what a product can do, but about how we communicate those benefits in a way that’s accurate, compliant, and true to its category.