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

  • My skin loves the ingredients

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    Fully read ingredients when buying.

  • Have used several of their products, most are very good to excellent, I have a few can’t live without items from them, a few I’ve upgraded to other brands. My must have is the squalene, it’s fabulous. My so-so experience is the caffeine eye serum, I’d rate it as just ok.

  • I really love my rosehip oil. Used it while on accutane and it kept my skin super moisturized. I still put in on my face every day and i feel like it just makes my skin super hydrated and glow.

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    The smell is not the best, however it is natural and no added scents so it is very earthy.

  • I recently shifted to the UK and had to curate my skincare all over again. And hence started using The Ordinary products to start with. Their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum is such a safe bet - simple & just great. I am loving their Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA serum, that's literally nurtured my skin and majorly improved its tone. I am so happy that I landed on the right products without needing to try and test many.

  • Great product, low price, and beautiful packaging!

  • I enjoy the quality of the products, quality is higher than the price

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    Availability of products in the stores

  • Exceptional products with completely transparent information on what is in the products. Every product I have tried is quality. Complete line of acids, cleansers, serums, and moisturizers for exceptional prices. Fast shipping and accuracy.

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    Products needed for acne care

  • unmatched quality that produces spectacular results for such an affordable price point

  • I am obsessed with their products I love them so much they work wonderful on the skin

  • I've been using The Ordinary products for about 1.5 years. I'm pretty religious about my routine with 4 of their products: The vitamin C, the Hyaluronic Acid serum, The Buffet serum and the toner. (I LOVE the Hyaluronic.) I attribute it to the balance of my skin tone/texutre and attribute the cost to the balance of my bank account :) Honestly, I don't know how they get away with such low prices. They could raise them by $10 and I'd still buy it.

    Feedback

    The Vitamin C stings a bit. It's a good sting but it stings. I used the copper for a bit but I think it was staining my pillow.

  • The Ordinary does a great job of making skincare accessible. I really like some of their acids like AHA/BHA mask, however I didn’t notice much of an impact from the azelic acid and didn’t like the texture of it much. The good thing at this price point is you aren’t putting too much on the line if you want to explore a new type of product.

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    The base of some products give the active ingredient a consistency I don’t enjoy

  • I appreciate how clear and straightforward the ingredients are, and there is a consistency of products throughout. The retinoid and lactic acid are specifically well formulated and I've seen effective change during their use.

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    I don't think it is feedback for the brand, as glass containers with minimal plastic are great for refills and recycling. I have to be extra careful not to drop it on the bathroom floor -- and be really careful about the amount I'm letting out of the dropper.

  • It is what it says - functional and affordable. If you like doing your skincare for the experience, you might want to check out other options. If you are starting out on building up a skincare routine and want to stick to the basics (with sleek packaging) - this might work for you!

  • I love every product I have tried from the Ordinary. I have seen gradual results from all of their products. I have been using their products for about 7 months now and there is a clear difference in my skin. The caffeine solution has brightened my under-eye area and makes me look so much happier.

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    The Ordinary's products are incredibly affordable and work really well. I have 4 Ordinary products that are a part of my daily and weekly skin care routine.

  • I love this brand. I love the products, and everything is so affordable, but works just as well. One of my fave skincare brands for sure

  • Amazing brand best for acne prone skin

  • I love it, has helped with hormonal acne and texture so much!

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    It does not pair with other products

  • My skin has never felt better. I use a 5 step routine all comprised of The Ordinary product from face wash to moisturizer. I could not be more impressed especially for the price.