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

  • Easy, reliable, classic, simple, not gimmicky. Products I’ve used and noticed a difference: hylaruonic acid, copper peptide + buffet

  • I love their various serums and simple ingredients. I love that you can seek out only the skincare ingredient you are seeking and get a no-nonsense formula instead of needing to by concoctions of various ingredients to get what you need. I have tried the Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic acid, Rosehip Seed Oil, Lactic Acid 10% and I have enjoyed all of these formulas. I had no side effects with any of these products. I did not enjoy the mineral sunscreen though. It's thick and leaves a really obvious white cast on my face that I would have to cover up with makeup even if I didn't want to wear makeup.

  • I have always used The Ordinary, it is affordable and has never given me breakouts or skin-sensitivity. I have sensitive skin but have never had an issue! Great for first-time skincarers xx

  • The Ordinary's formulas aren't necessarily the most cosmetically elegant, but everything else about it is incredibly utilitarian. There's high transparency with formulas, the packaging is clean looking and generally functional, and you can't really beat the prices for the variety and percentages of actives that they have available.

  • I love the aesthetic packaging and how affordable their products are! For the price, you get cheap but effective items. One bottle for me lasts at least 6 months. The Ordinary has helped me with texture, acne, and acne scarring. 10/10 recommend

  • I tried The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, and I must say, it surprised me in a good way! I was skeptical at first, especially with all the TikTok + Pinterest recommendations, but it actually helped fade my acne marks. It's important to note that it's not an overnight miracle, as the changes take some time!✨💫🌟 One thing that really stands out to me about The Ordinary is their simple packaging. It's minimalistic and doesn't overwhelm with unnecessary designs. I like how they focus on delivering a quality product without getting caught up in extravagant packaging. The simplicity of their packaging aligns with their overall approach to skincare,

  • The ordinary brand is top notch, not only is is affordable but the quality of the products is top notch. Instructions of each product are clear and simple telling you how and when to use product for optimal performance of product.

  • I’ve been on a journey healing my eczema and acne-prone skin for over a year and The Ordinary is the back bone of my routine. Their products are easy to understand and super skincare beginner friendly. Not to mention the price - total game changer.

  • Been a longtime user for The Ordinary's Salicylic Acid 2% solution and it's worked wonders for my skin. It hasn't caused any flare up or irritation, feels lightweight on the skin, and it does this at an affordable price. If there's any product that's a staple for your skincare routine (especially if you're dealing with acne) then this is it.

  • Really affordable, straight forward skin care products. I can get almost any skin care chemical I see from other companies for a much more affordable cost from The Ordinary. It gives me the freedom to mix products and create my perfect skin care routine! They have tester sizes of every thing, and they're all travel friendly.

  • I used the ordinary for a while and it just kept breaking me out :(

  • The Ordinary has 100% saved my skin. After struggling with acne for over 10 years, nothing has calmed my skin more than their products. The Niacinamide is a stable in my daily routine and their serum foundation (sadly discontinued) is one of my favourite products I have ever used. I am always recommending to friends and family.

  • I love their products! Are amazing and my skin is better!

    Friends with The Ordinary
  • I love The Ordinary because of the effectiveness of their products and affordability. Not only that, but I break out easy from the fanciest of products, so I love how simple and transparent they are about the ingredients in their skincare. I have tried almost all of The Ordinary's product line, and never have I once had skin issues from it. Not only is it keeping my acne at bay, but it has also made my skin glow as well. My favorite products are the hyaluronic acid one, "The Buffet", and the multi-peptide one for the scalp.

  • Only using the peptide lash and brow serum. So far so good and the brand seems to have simple but effective ingredients

  • Ironic that a brand called The Ordinary can be so extraordinary and absolutely nail every new venture they take. I love that they’re so affordable and accessible with a good mission and transparent ingredients. I’m a long-time lover of their Hyaluronic Acid, Lactic Acid, Niacinimide and Glycolic Acid serums. I’ve also tried and loved their foundations for perfect light-weight, skin-like feels. Essentials but all you could ever need. Love your work The Ordinary 🫶🏼

  • I love the niacinamide + zinc! Left a drastic difference in the texture of skin and cheap!

  • I've been using "the ordinary" AHA PHA peeling solution for quite sometime now. I like the texture of it, the color, and even enjoy the tingling feeling I get from it sometimes. I have noticed that it's helped fade my acne scars and hyperpigmentation. However my main reason for purchasing this product was for my pores. I was looking for something that could help clear them out, and with my congested pores but I just don't feel that it's done that for me. I've been using it for about 6 months now so I've given plenty of time for it to start working on my skin. All of the reviews I've read on this product really sounded great so I gave it a shot. My reason for 4 stars is because while it did help with other skin concerns it didn't do much for what I actually bought it for. So if your looking to help fade hyperpigmentation and even out your skin tone this product is for you.

  • Love the simple and inexpensive formulations. Right now the caffeine eye serum is a must!