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’ve always had very sensitive skin, with an oily T-zone but normal elsewhere. The products I’ve used from The Ordinary are the only products that haven’t made my skin break out or negatively react. I consistently use the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, the Vitamin C Suspension 30% in silicone, and the Retinol 1% in squalane and have never had any issues.

  • I’ve only tried the cleanser from ordinary, and it’s not my favourite to be honest, but it is a good product!

  • I love the ordinary, i have the starter balance kit aswell as some other products i picked up here and there. I love they’re salicylic acid its really good for the price.

  • Could not live without their hyaluronic acid

  • Generally find a lot of different skincare products available from The Ordinary for a reasonable price. At times, I've easily found them on par with more pricier brands. I use the hyaluronic acid, marula oil and mandelic acid regularly for these reasons. Though one downside is they certainly aren't as low priced as they were when they launched.

  • Good basics, not of the highest quality but good to start out a skincare journey.

  • I have tried everything from super high-end, to drugstore quality, and this by far is the best at a very reasonable price as far as skin care. I have recommended it to several friends who are also remarked house. I’ve noticed changes in their skin because of these products. I usually purchase from the manufacturer and shipping time can be a bit slow. But no reason at all not to purchase.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I really appreciate their products. Their line is very affordable but still offers exceptional quality. I like trying new skincare products, so I LOVE that I could buy their entire line for like $100 lol A few weeks ago, my skin became super dry after testing a few new products from a different brand. My face was so tender from burning! I began using the hyaluronic acid with B5, along with moisturizer, of course, and I felt almost immediate relief. Within a few days, my skin no longer hurt to touch. Honorable mention - their Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum is legit. It's super cheap - like maybe $8. It did take time, but I definitely saw results. My eyebrows were in rough shape several months ago. I had patches that weren't growing back evenly. I was having to fill them in everyday and absolutely hated how much I was spending on brow pencils and gels. I vowed to leave them alone for a few months and use this serum regularly. I mean, no plucking, shaping, filling, etc. I had to be brave! My brows are full again and look much healthier. I'm glad I purchased from this line before I wasted money on a more expensive brand.

  • Love the simplicity of this brand. It really just gets the job done and doesn’t break the bank.

  • Great prices and the products don't irritate my sensitive skin. The moisturizer, hyaluronic acid, retinol and caffeine eye serum are all part of my daily routine.

  • Awesome brand. I just prefer to buy this brand in-store.

  • The product go on great and absorb easily. I use a few of the facial serums and see my skin become tighter and plumper. I love the price point but wish there was more product explanation. I'm not always sure what I'm buying even at the flagship stores. Still you know you're getting a good product.

  • it’s decent but, as an ex sephora employee, i would definitely pick other products before reaching for this one in the same price range.

  • I’ve used a few different things, highly recommend the Hyaluronic Acid. Leaves your skin feeling great

  • I love the mission of the brand, but I wouldn’t buy again unless I had a dermatologist or other skin professional tell me exactly how to use specific products. I used the under eye caffeine serum for several months and developed hyperpigmentation at the high points of my cheeks. I’m confident this is user-error and I should have been more proactive with SPF while using this product, but that’s why I wouldn’t start a new product without a professional consult.

  • THEIR PRODUCTS ARE THE BEST. not only are they a lot cheaper that a lot of skin care brand but they work so good. i used the hydrochloric a acid and niacinamide and wow they changed my skin so much. my skin used to be very textured and now is super smooth.

  • The Ordinary is an idyllic skincare line. Inexpensive, expansive product line and ruthless efficiency. All you need to know is your “trouble area” and The Ordinary can find something that will work for the good of your problem.

  • I tried the Retinol for my facial lines and the manager at Sephora told me how much everyone was raving about the brand. The price was so very affordable and I was excited to try it. I used it for 4-6 weeks but unfortunately, I did not see any improvement at all. It may have just not worked for me because so many love it. I really appreciate the simple packaging and price. Definitely worth trying!