The Ordinary reviews and discussion

4.5

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Effective acne-clearing serums
  • Noticeably brighter, smoother skin
  • Minimalist, clinical formulations
  • Clear, straightforward labeling
  • Sticky serum textures
  • Potential irritation from actives
  • Hit-or-miss product efficacy
  • Confusing product naming

The Ordinary earns strong reviews for effective, ingredient-forward skincare that improves texture, hydration, acne, and glow—with standouts 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, can pill or irritate sensitive skin, high actives may overwhelm newbies, results can be hit-or-miss, and product naming/usage can be confusing.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

2,515 reviews and posts

  • The Ordinary is by far one of my favorite brands. From the approachable and affordable price point to it's quality and CLINICAL (science backed and proven) formula's what's not to love. I use the glycolic everyday under my arms to detox and lighten my pits. I also use their Multi-Peptide Serum for hair density on my thinning hair line. Its been about 2.5 months and I can see a small but subtle change (for the better)

    Feedback

    I will say since their skincare is clinical, its strong and if you are not well versed in what ingredients should and should not be used together you could really mess up your skin with the wrong combo. So my advise is do your research and you should see amazing results.

  • I’ve tried The Ordinary’s Peeling Solution, HA serum, and Azelaic acid suspension. They all knock it out of the park, especially for the price.

  • I tried The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and love it. It definitely makes my skin more hydrated and I have combination skin.

    Feedback

    I love the texture of the product. It's very smooth and easy to spread across the skin. A little bit of the hyaluronic acid goes a long way. I love the bottle and the dropper that comes with it. It looks very professional! No complaints here.

  • This is an affordable entry to skincare for most people who know what kind of blemishes they are targeting for their skin specifically. I like that they have a variety of exfoliants for different skincare purposes. You can end up with a burn if you are not careful about what concentration you are using and how frequently you are using it. Be sure to wear sunscreen if you are using any of these products.

    Feedback

    I would like The Ordinary to have more soothing skincare products alongside their most popular peels and acids.

  • The exfoliating mask did wonders and was super affordable! They also have a large range of products that I will be purchasing in the future.

  • I'm loving everything I have gotten so far...the price point is amazing and just as good probably better than the overpriced overhyped celeb endorsed products...highly recommend you willnot be disappointed!

  • I have been struggling with acne and painful redness to cheeks since I began perimenopause. I started using cream cleanser salicylic acid serum and moisturizer and have seen improvement in just a week. Would definitely recommend the products. Affordable and effective.

  • The Ordinary has become one of the most talked-about skincare brands, known for its science-backed formulations, minimalist packaging, and budget-friendly prices. What I Love: ✅ Affordable Pricing ✅ Effective Ingredients ✅ Transparency

    Invested in The Ordinary
  • Did not work for me, used it for 3 months no improvement, my bottle also got moldy, ended up throwing it away. Not worth the money

  • I’ve been using The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid for a while now, and it’s a game-changer for my dry skin. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and leaves my skin feeling super hydrated and plump without any greasiness. I love that it layers easily with my other products too, no pilling or stickiness. The best part? It’s affordable! You really don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your skin moisturized. If you’re looking for an easy way to boost hydration, I definitely recommend giving this a try!

    I bought it
  • Bought this product about a month ago and I’m in love! So versatile! Not only for the face, but I use it on my skalp, armpits or wherever I feel my skin needs a little extra care and push for its health. The price is really good for this type of beauty product , big recommend ‘

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I love their Salicylic Acid 2% Solution! The skin feels so smooth and glowy in the morning without any bumps! It perfectly fits in my night - skincare routine. Also tried the The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors - when you use it, your skin feels instantly hydrated. It’s good for daily use, and over time, your skin may feel smoother and more comfortable. If you have very dry skin, you might need something more moisturizing, but this works well for normal to oily skin.

  • I really like the glycolic acid, it helps reduce my acne and hyperpigmentation. I will continue to use to see better results.

  • In one night you can feel your skin different. This brand make my face clear and make my pores small. I will trust this brand all the way. I really recommend it! The only products of this brand that didn’t work for me was the products for the eyes. Beside that, all it’s really good. I most recommend the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, the Niacinimide and the AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution.

  • I love everything about this brand! Unlike other brands, it commits to the quality and it's worth every penny. I have used the Retonoid 2% and their AHA30%, BHA 2% peeling solution and loved the results. Highly recommend!

    Sephora purchase
  • I have been using GLYCOLIC ACID and HYALURONIC for 1 year now and honestly impressed since.the way it clear s the skin with improving the texture and also having multiple uses makes it my fav brand

    Works for The Ordinary
  • I love the Ordinary, what worked for my skin so far is the Natural Moisturizer Factors+HA., the Multi Peptide Eye serum and Multi peptide HA Serum. However the 100% Plant Derived Squalene and the Squalene Cleanser was not for me, my skin felt to warm. It did work for my niece. My 17 year old son uses the moisturizer and his skin looks flawless, he has combination skin with a pimple here and there.

    Bought my self.
  • I use the niacinimide solution everyday on my face. It really helps with textured skin. Plus, the price is really friendly, talking as a college student . ;)

    No
  • I recently decided to try The Ordinary's Caffeine Solution 5% after reading countless recommendations and I'm incredibly glad I did. From the first application, I noticed a significant difference in the appearance of puffiness and dark circles under my eyes. The lightweight serum is incredibly easy to apply and absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky residue. It's been a few weeks now, and the skin around my eyes feels firmer and looks much brighter. One thing I appreciate about this product is its simplicity and effectiveness. With just a few ingredients, including caffeine and green tea catechin, it targets the eye area with precision. It's refreshing to find a product that lives up to its claims without unnecessary additives. Another bonus is the affordability of this product. High-quality eye serums often come with a high price tag, but The Ordinary has managed to offer a product that is both effective and budget-friendly. I've also found that a little goes a long way, making this an excellent value for the price. For anyone on the fence about trying this product, I highly recommend giving it a shot. Whether you're battling with tired eyes from too many late nights or you're looking for an effective way to reduce the appearance of dark circles, The Ordinary's Caffeine Solution 5% is a game-changer. It's definitely earned a permanent spot in my skincare routine.

  • Loving my purchase of The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. I bought it on a whim and because it wasn’t a breaking the bank type of skincare product I thought I would try it out. It is like creamy, soft water droplets on your skin. My skin looks brighter, healthier, and feels sooo soft. I’m always very careful when purchasing skincare because of harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates. This product is paraben and sulfate free. To be honest I haven’t noticed a difference in my wrinkles but it’s early yet maybe after some time I will. But for now, my skin feels softer and is looks glowing. Definitely a keeper