The Ordinary reviews and discussion

4.5

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Effective acne-clearing serums
  • Straightforward ingredient labeling
  • Noticeably smoothing exfoliants
  • Gentle, hydrating cleansers
  • Occasional sticky serum texture
  • Irritating high-strength acids
  • Pilling under makeup layers
  • Confusing ingredient naming

The Ordinary earns strong reviews for effective, ingredient-forward skincare that improves texture, acne, oil control, and hydration—standouts include Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, Squalane Cleanser, and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA. However, reviews also flag weaknesses: some formulas feel sticky or pill, certain actives (retinol, high-percentage acids/niacinamide) can irritate or dry skin if misused, results vary by product, and the technical lineup can overwhelm beginners.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

2,517 reviews and posts

  • 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.

  • I really appreciate the straightforwardness of Ordinary products. Often times companies list products but it's unclear to what else is included or at what strength. Not to mention the price. It makes skincare more accessible.

  • Il est incroyable je vous le conseille

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • i love how you can try the latest new product at an affordable price and they are great quality why pay the big bucks before you commit to a new skin regimine when you can affordably try and continue with great results at a good price. I have tried the niacidimine and the hyuralaunic acid and they are very good i use them all the time . the best thing is you know your only getting good for you ingredients no bad stuff

  • Used their hyaluronic acid previously after having it recommended by friends - skincare is quite a personal thing and personally I did not see significant results so I switched back to my regular products, however I will say that the branding is brilliant and I know lots of people enjoy their products, just not for me!

  • I honestly can't say enough about the Ordinary. I have extremely sensitive skin coupled with unknown allergies that have resulted in some late night ER visits looking like a blowfish 😬 My mom sent me a starter kit and 3 years later it's still what I use! They LITERALLY have thought of everyone with their custom kits for different needs, or you can enter your skin concerns and build your own regimen on their site!! Making the Ordinary even MORE accessible is their price point. My Daily Set includes 3x30 ml of non foaming cleanser, serum and moisturizer, retails for approximately $25 and lasts a month! The Ordinary is a Canadian company, so the exchange makes it a no brainer! Spend $25 and it ships FREE too! I honestly can say that this is a product that I DO use, and would recommend anyone to try. They've expanded their offerings since I first tried, offering peptide lash & brow serums and so much more! *I was not paid or given free product for this review, nor am I affiliated with the ordinary. Actual customer, actual review!*💋🇨🇦

  • The first time I used it it actually stung a little bit, so I think it's pretty strong for sensitive skin. Once my skin got used to it though, it was nice. I definitely see more of a glow to my skin.

  • I have been using the Ordinary's Glycolic Acid for years now and my skin is in love and never broke out my skin. As well as the niacinamide serum and the natural moisturizing factor and they make my skincare routine 10 times better especially with acne-prone skin.

  • lots of great products just not as many options for my personal preferences since i have severe excema. Incredible price point for products

  • The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is very good product. This is best suited for my skin. Easy to use and dry off easily so I can apply my moisturizer after. It prevents dryness on my skin and helps lessen the pigmentations. I feel my skin is hydrated. I love this product and become essential part of my skincare routine.