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'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!

  • First of all the glass packaging is great and the product is simple no extra things added and it is affordable my favorite product is the multi peptide hair serum

  • Great ingredients that are very effective and extremely affordable. They carry every type of product for any skin type and I've had nothing but great experience with any of their products.

  • Love the ordinary products! Super good value for money, all of the serums are in very simple packaging which I think helps keeps their costs low. Their Squaline Cleanser is my favourite.

  • Solid 10/10 I love all of ordinaries products! They helped my skin come back to life! Leaves it looking healthy and glowing.

  • I think Ordinary products are okay. I was expecting better results over time but nothing life changing about these products.

  • I’ve used several of their products & they’ve never disappointed. Currently in rotation is the niacinamide with zinc & Im happy with the consistency of brightness with the healing components of the zinc.

  • I love all of their products. I read the entire ingredient list before I try any product and the Ordinary usually has the least amount of ingredients which is typically better for your skin. The chemical peel is my favorite!

  • I think this brand is great for beginners as well as people who want simple straightforward ingredients. Their basics are awesome.

  • I’ve used the Ordinary for years now and have never had an issue. I love their cheap but effective products. It’s nice to have a reliable brand without an expensive price tag.

  • I love the ordinary! This is how I started my journey in skincare and although I’ve tried and liked other things since they still have many products I use and can’t live without.

  • I have been a loyal customer of The Ordinary for a long time! I absolutely adore their affordable price point and the scientific approach they take with their products. It's rare to find a skincare brand that offers affordability without compromising effectiveness. I highly recommend visiting their store, as the staff is incredibly knowledgeable about the products, which is a huge bonus!

    Customer
  • I really like this brand because their products are highly effective while also being an affordable price! I love how practical and straightforward the packaging and products are. They tell you exactly what it is, what it does, and how to use it properly even if you aren't necessarily a skincare expert. This is one of my new favorite brands for skincare - it feels fancy and gives great results, without breaking the bank. I'm now a huge fan.

  • I love this brand! I currently use the Niacinamide serum and the AHA Peeling Solution. On me, a little goes a long way with their products. I have experienced brighter, smoother, and healthier skin with The Ordinary. Also, they are reasonably priced!

  • I love the fact that this brand takes the guessing out of skincare! I get overwhelmed by all the “fluff” of some skincare products and The Ordinary is very straightforward and simple to understand. Also a plus that it’s affordable!

  • THE AHA PEEL IS MY HOLY GRAIL! Let’s talk about this for a second, this peel has done WONDERS for my skin. Anytime my skin looks absolutely awful, dull, and lackluster this product fixes it in literally less than 10 minutes! The rest of the brand is phenomenal as well, but the peel is the show stopper for me

  • I love that the Ordinary is so transparent with their ingredients, and takes the time to explain what they do. It feels so inclusive and empowering — this brand was one of the major reasons I started getting into skincare! It can be pretty intimidating to start a new skincare routine, both monetarily as well as the fact that you have to spend time learning about all the science and ingredients. The Ordinary effectively removed all of those hurdles. I always recommend this brand first whenever friends ask me about my skincare routine, both because they are so straightforward, and also because their products are a huge reason my skin looks so great at 35!

  • I tried the hylauronic acid. New to using acids. It absorbed well and fast . My ski looks like glass upon the intial application but once absorbed it’s dewy. The price is great just like there other wide range cost friendly and as well gray quality. Will repurchase again.