The Ordinary reviews and discussion

4.5

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Ingredient-transparent formulations
  • Clinically effective actives
  • Minimalist, fragrance-free options
  • Wide, customizable range
  • Occasional sticky textures
  • Potential irritation from actives
  • Hit-or-miss product efficacy
  • Confusing layering for beginners

The Ordinary earns strong reviews for being effective and ingredient-focused: many users report clearer, smoother, more hydrated skin from staples like Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, and the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. Reviews also flag weaknesses: some formulas feel sticky or pill, certain actives (retinoids, vitamin C, high-percentage acids) can irritate or be too harsh, results can be hit-or-miss by product or skin type, and the range can be confusing without research.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

2,506 reviews and posts

  • I have been using the basic skin care products they have for 3 years now and my skin continues to be glowing.

  • Have AHA, lactic acid and glycolic acid. All great for the price.

  • Love their straightforward approach to skincare, but not sure I saw any results with these products. However, I was able to maintain my skin in a good spot when I was using their products. The 30% AHA red mask is my favorite product.

  • I wanted to love the hyaluronic acid serum and the niacinamide serum but they both pilled so shortly after applying so unfortunately I could not continue using them.

  • Love these products, just got a future set and it's amazing!

  • The fact that you can find anything that you need at this brand is amazing!!!! No matter what skin Type you have , you will find what you need !

  • i have used the niacinamide and the BHA AHA bottle. Personally did not see a difference using the niacinamide but the BHA one you definitely see a difference. The only thing about it, is that it burns and you have to be carful with it. It can irritate your skin pretty bad.

  • love this brand! it has a great value as far as money and the ingredients are really nice! I’ve used the niaminicide and hyloronic acid and moisturizer and they all work wonderful! The rose oil is great and the azelic acid facial serum made my skin very soft!

    Customer
  • The Ordinary's minimalist packaging does not provide a luxurious experience, but the results matter. The brand's products often contain high-quality active ingredients, like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C, which are known for their effectiveness in addressing skin concerns. And the best part is that it’s affordable !

  • I'm currently using the ordinary glycolic acid this product is helping my uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. I have seen a difference in my skin the first week of using it you need to be consistent in using the product.

  • Multiple products at really great prices. If you are wanting to try something new, but not spend a ton of money, this company is the place to go. I really love their peel.

  • The ordinary is committed to creating high quality easy to personalize skin care products. Some of the formulations are a little strong for sensitive skin, they often provide higher concentrations of active ingredients than always entirely necessary but the products are still great if used properly.

  • I love the simple packaging and how clearly it states what is in the products. I can the research and find information on how it is helping my skin.

  • Haven't been super impressed with the products considering how hyped up they are. Ive tried the caffeine solution, niacinimde, glycolic acid, retinol, and I think a couple of other serums. I used glycolic acid for under the arms to help eradicate odor and it not only burned really bad but caused them to be dark when I never had dark underarms to begin with. My skin got significantly worse after using these products and my skin wasnt even bad to begin with, I was just looking to close my pores and have a more smooth texture, and prevent wrinkles. These products ruined my skin. This could also be my fault considering I didn't know what order to go in when using them though.

    Invested in The Ordinary
  • I love everything by the ordinary. It has cleared up my skin and given me glowing , hydrated, clear skin that lasts. I’ve also used their products like the glycolic acid to completely change my hair health and I LOVE it

  • Basic, no-nonsense, straight to the point, easy, and AFFORDABLE

  • Love all of their products. Especially the Peeling Solution. Works wonders for tired skin.

  • Wonderful product for the money! Leaves my skin feeling and looking amazing. I love how it soaks in right away and prepares the skin for subsequent products and makeup. I will definitely buy more of these products for the price and efficacy!

  • Not much bad to say here, just good affordable skincare products that work. I’ve noticed the difference since I started using a handful of their products coming from no formal skincare routine, and I would recommend them as a good place to start in terms of thinking about how to better care for your skin. At some point though, you may wanna level up, and there seems to be a ceiling to their catalog along with some omissions.

  • I like their basic packaging and their product is very good. I like the hyaluronic acid, I add it to my sunscreen every morning and apply it alone at night time I think it is a great product that I can trust.