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

  • You have a Great cleanser and Moisturizer!! Love them both. Love to try more of your products soon!

    Friends with The Ordinary
  • They provide detailed information about the ingredients used in their products and their benefits, which allows me to make informed choices about what I put on my skin. One of my favorite products from The Ordinary is their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum. It has helped to reduce the appearance of my blemishes and control oil production on my skin. I have also tried their Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum, which has greatly improved the hydration levels of my skin. Overall, I highly recommend The Ordinary to anyone looking for affordable and effective skincare products.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • Straight-forward, inarguably effective products. Absolutely no frills, nothing fancy, or "luxurious." A couple products probably should have not seen the light of day (a particularly gross micellar water that smells and feels like paint remover), but otherwise a solid line that will help your skin without draining the bank.

  • I’ve only been using products from The Ordinary for about 2 months now, but OMG I could see a difference in my skin within the first 2 weeks. My main skin concerns are wrinkles/lines, dull complexion, & dark spots. I began a regimen using their Argireline solution, Niacinimide, & Matrixyl & the difference it’s made in the look of my skin is incredible. I decided to start using these products bcuz they were cheap & I’m essentially poor now due to the rising cost of gas & food. I will never go back. These products do exactly what they say they will & I’ll shout it to the heavens to anybody who will listen I’m such a firm believer in them!

  • LOVED LOVED LOVED the peeling solution - no pain at all, and actually cleared up my keratosis pilaris quite a lot!

  • High quality products. Easy to order on their website and quick shipping!

  • Too much harsh ingredients in it!

  • OMG ! the ordinary. J'utilise cette marque depuis tous les jours depuis 3 ans. Cela affiné ma peau, les pores sont moins visible. La peau est plus nette. Je recommande à 100% meilleur rapport qualité prix.

  • I was really hoping to lighten up some dark spots on my face. Hasn’t happened yet. Maybe I haven’t found the correct product. They have a wide assortment of products!! And their prices are incredible!

  • Great products at affordable prices

  • I have a love/hate relationship with the Ordinary. I feel that their products are either a complete hit or miss. Their hylaronic +b5 serum and niacinimide made me break out terribly!

  • I really enjoy the Ordinary. It's simple and easy to use and the price point can't be beat. I have sensitive skin and have never had a problem using any of The Ordinary products.

  • I have a very sensitive skin and I can say that I've been using the ordinary AHA serum for deep cleansing and It leaves my skin smooth instantly. I only use this once in 2 weeks without any other active ingredient.

    Friends with The Ordinary
  • You have to read, and try and test. But when you find the good stuff, its really good and really affordable. Just not the most intuitive experience...

  • The branding is good, but the quality is not the best. It made my skin break out, even though I only used their basic products. I do have sensitive skin, so it might work for those who don’t have sensitive skin.

  • Never had such good results when it comes to my skin. After using some of their serums to deal with acne the results were great and most of my acne/acne scars have faded.

  • I love the hair growth serum! Its so nourishing and makes my hair thicker!

  • 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.