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 love the ordinary peeling solution. It is beginner friendly, affordable and so good!

    None
  • Love love love this brand! Super affordable and will ALWAYS repurchase! Nothing beats the ordinarys price and quality!

  • Really enjoying the hyaluronic serum, so far it has smoothed out some visible lines on my neck and forehead.

  • Feedback

    I love their products! They helped me nourish my skin. I used niacinamide and peeling and they were fabulous on my skin

  • love the azelaic acid for my acne.

  • I really like the products. My skin feels so much better.

  • All the products have a very good ratio quality/price. I love the bundles they have for beginners .

  • I use their lactic acid 10% and it’s my favorite. Also their peeling solution.

    Feedback

    The hialuronic acid is too sticky.

  • I had a great experience with their red mask, but I truly feel that they lean too heavily on the sciency aspect of their marketing. Their other products are truly just okay, on par with other drugstore products!

  • The perfect brand for those looking for high quality products that won’t break the bank. These products make for a great gift for those just getting into skincare, but they are also tried and true for keeping your skin looking great.

  • My skin looks more even, my pores look a bit smaller, and it’s helped keep breakouts under control. It’s lightweight, doesn’t feel sticky, and layers well with other products.Only thing is if you use too much or pair it with the wrong products, it can pill or feel a bit drying.

  • Everything I’ve tried from this brand, I’ve been super happy with. I’m on my 4th bottle of the hyaluronic acid & 5th bottle of the hair care growth serum.

    Feedback

    I wish it was sold at convenient stores.

  • I tried the azelaic acid suspension from The Ordinary and was pretty impressed. It’s simple, effective, and super affordable. I saw some results, though it took a bit of consistency. Not perfect, but really solid overall.

  • Good value, very accessible. Products are always solid. Love their hyaluronic acid.

  • I only tried the niacinamide treatment and it broke me out BAD — it was chalked up to purging but it’s a regular ingredient in my routine so that is not the answer for me. It put a bad taste in my mouth to try other things, but know people who swear by the brand 😅

  • I’ve tried some products and liked the results. Giving it 4 stars because of price and it can be confusing to figure out which one is right for you

  • Very budget-friendly and boasts a large range of great products. It's crucial to thoroughly research each product to grasp the ideal usage and combination, especially when using multiple products at once, particularly those with exfoliating properties. I was very surprised to see that they introduced a well-organized design system and visual style from the very beginning (despite their extensive product range), and their design approach has remained relatively consistent over time. It'll be interesting to observe how (and/or if) they morph in the years to come.

  • It’s so hard to find quality skincare for a decent price. I’ve used multiple products and have been happy with almost all of them. Highly recommend the glycolic acid toner, azelaic acid, and the granactive retinoid and have rebought them. The caffeine solution and squalene cleanser were not for me.

  • Super broad range of skincare products at insanely cost-effective prices—some are as low as $8! I use this brand to test into trying different things, like hyaluronic acid, because it’s so low risk. I appreciate the simple packaging and availability at retailers bigger retailers. The sizes are also normal/not skimpy and they travel well; most items are in a glass bottle dopper. I believe the quality is effective without breaking the bank.