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 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.

  • I use the ordinary niacinamide & hyaluronic acid twice a day & it makes my skin feel so hydrated & smooth!

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • Not happy at all with the customer service

  • Tenho adorado experimentar este produto. Tão cedo não sai da minha rotina de pele.

  • Apaixonada na qualidade destes produtos, simplesmente perfeitos.

  • Amazing price point. Great for trying new ingredients and products. I love the streamlined packaging.

  • I love their facial oils! Always clean and always affordable

  • I’ve been using The Ordinary products for over five years. They’re an incredibly simple and effective brand. I use their alpha albumin and niacinamide daily. It’s fantastic for my oily/combo skin. I recommend doing your research on products because you can mix products together but you just have to be careful of any negative interactions.

  • I have the niacin-amide and zinc serum. Tones down my blemishes and seems to have gotten rid of some little bumps on my face. Makes my skin glow and work great as a primer.

  • I use the this brand everyday, specifically the salicylic acid. I can slowly see my skin being exfoliating and it gives a nice glow!

  • The price point is incredible. The AHA is a holy grail for me I tried the zinc niacinamide and didn't love - it burns my face but I read it's because of the high %.

  • I bought the Glycolic Acid toner by The Ordinary. I had heard about how it exfoliates dead cells, lightens underarms and reduces odour. Firstly, the product is packaged really well. Second, it legit worked for me. I usually use a cotton pad to wipe it on myself, and not even kidding, that the cotton pad actually gets darker, like its removing the dead cells, and all the dirt. I have been using this consistently for almost 6 months now, and I can see visible differences. I don't smell as much, and my underarms are actually a shade lighter. I believe though that it will take slightly long to completely lighten my underarms but consistent use has given me the results as well. It doesn't work super fast, however, instant results aren't always healthy either. But warning, don't use this everyday, or right after shaving. Thrice a week should be fine. Would definitely recommend.