The Ordinary reviews and discussion

4.5

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Effective acne-clearing serums
  • Hydrating, lightweight hyaluronic serum
  • Powerful exfoliating acid treatments
  • Minimalist, reliable packaging
  • Occasional sticky serum textures
  • Harsh actives for sensitive skin
  • Pilling under makeup occurs
  • Inconsistent retinol performance

The Ordinary earns strong reviews as effective, ingredient-forward skincare that improves texture, hydration, acne, and clarity—standouts include Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, and Squalane Cleanser—while minimalist packaging appeals. Reviews also flag downsides: some formulas feel sticky or pill, actives can be harsh or confusing to layer, certain products (retinols, vitamin C, hair care) underperform for some, and a few report irritation or breakouts.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

2,522 reviews and posts

  • Mine + my husband's go to moisturizer. We wanted a really no-frills moisturizer that just did the job. I love the price point, feel on my skin, and the fact that it's unscented.

  • This brand has everything, and I mean everything. The ability to build your regime with what you need versus buying brands that have 15 different things crammed into 1 bottle. As a person with chemical allergies, I'm unable to use a lot of products. With The Ordinary, I build my regimen. Also , their team is incredibly helpful and responsive to requests for help and on social too.

  • There are better products out there. The ordinary products are either too strong or else it doesnt do anything. So far, it's a meh.

  • I love their price and the products. Not every product has worked the best for me, but the ones that do are winners, and the cost is so reasonable that I feel okay even when one doesn't work. I love their AHA peel and their niacinamide.

  • I've been using The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum, and I'm quite impressed with the results. After consistent use, I've noticed a significant improvement in the clarity of my skin. It's not overly drying, but it's essential to use it in moderation to prevent any potential dryness. This product has become a must-have in my skincare routine, particularly for controlling breakouts and improving overall skin texture. Love it!

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • My favourite skincare brand !

  • Love their stuff - only educating the customer on their online presence could be a little better!

  • My friend introduced me to the Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution last year and I have been a devotee ever since. This is my go-to mask for times when I am having frequent stress breakouts or patchy skin. Definitely follow the instructions and do not leave on for too long. Almost done my current bottle and cannot wait to buy again!

  • Affordable, easy to use, and a brand with integrity. The products make it easy to add to your current regimen or build a full skincare regimen from just their products. The brand feels reliable and transparent. The only thing I don't like is some of the formulations are sticky or too thick for me to use easily. But the price point and general quality cannot be beat.

  • I bought the Ordinary The Balance set skincare kit on Amazon! I can say I love most of the products. Everything was wonderful the only product I didn't love was the masque. It was harsh to my skin and I felt burning often. I used it once and never touched it again. But the rest of the products definitely helped with my acne, dry skin, and my hyper pigmentation. I love it!

  • I have very sensitive skin, and this product help me a lot with my acne! I didn't feel my skin dry. Also I started having more a smooth sensation in my skin

    Verified purchase

  • I absolutely love The Ordinary! Their products are not only affordable but also highly effective. The simplicity of their ingredient lists is refreshing, making it easy to understand what you're putting on your skin. Personally, I adore their hyaluronic acid for the intense hydration it provides, and their lactic acid has done wonders for my skin texture. It's a brand that delivers quality without breaking the bank, and I couldn't be happier with the results I've seen.

  • I purchased recently the B oil… game changer if you have dry skin… The oil is of a greenish color, and the smell is kind of different ( don’t know how to describe it… marine? Something “ seashy” It’s a light oil that absorbs beautifully. I used it at night and the skin feels moist in the morning (NOT oily). Highly recommend!

  • The Ordinary’s reputation is well deserved. Cutting out harmful chemicals, unnecessary scents, and remaining simple makes for great skincare. Korean skincare + The Ordinary are the only sources I trust.

  • Low maintenance affordable skin care. Easy to use and leaves skin glowing.

  • I love The Ordinary. Totally recommend The Balance Set, it's perfect for someone who wants to improve their skincare routine on a budget. My favorite items are the Salicylic Acid 2% Masque and the Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA. Definitely the best Christmas gift!

    UGC creator
  • I've always been a skincare enthusiast, and when it comes to keeping my skin hydrated and plump, The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 has become a staple in my daily routine. This product has truly been a game-changer, and I can't wait to share my experience with you.

  • For so long I heard great things about the Hyaluronic Acid and it is now my go to and one of the most important parts of my skincare routine. Their entire line of products is shockingly affordable and speaking for this serum it really does its job. I can feel an immediate difference in hydration, and even how my makeup applies more seamless when I use this product first. If you are just getting into skincare this is a great brand to try out products and find what works best for you!