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 propose des produits au rapport qualité-prix très intéressant, ce qui explique son succès. Cependant, la marque n’est pas exceptionnelle et ne bluffe pas vraiment. Certaines formules sont efficaces, mais d’autres peuvent être décevantes, voire inadaptées selon les peaux. C’est une marque correcte pour débuter, mais limitée en termes d’innovation et de résultats visibles à long terme.

  • 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.

  • Sorry but nothing beats The Ordinary when it comes to price-to-quality ratio for basic skin care (especially for those of us who do not identify as skin care nerds).

  • If you are between the ages of 20 and 35, I expect at least one thing from The Ordinary to be in your medicine cabinet with the rest of your skincare. It's a staple! The products are crafted well, cheap as hell, and provide amazing results! I'm a big believer in switching up brands and products often to find the best but even compared to larger, much more expensive brands, I find myself returning back to what I know in this line. Even if you don't know what you're looking for, their website has a tool where you can provide what your goals are, and what you're using now, and you'll get a personalized recommendation from the team! My go-to's over the last few years have been the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum, and the Serum Foundation.

    Feedback

    Not necessarily related to The Ordinary, but more to DECIEM as a brand - I will miss The Chemistry Brand and Hylamide! I really hope these products find their way back into NIOD and The Ordinary.

  • There's absolutely something to be said about how brands utilize minimalism, neutral colors, and sans serif fonts to market skincare brands as more clinical-- but The Ordinary truly IS the embodiment of clinical grade skincare. Super affordable, incredibly effective, and provides new skincare gurus a great "intro" to understand all the different products and what they do with zero frills.

  • I really liked how it felt like a luxury skin care brand but was very affordable.

    Feedback

    Because of what they sell, some of their products are not entirely clear. It's often hard to know what acids to use and where

  • Really great products distilled down to just the science of what you need.

    Feedback

    Some of the explanations on what the purpose of a product is for is confusing.

  • Best skin care products out on the market.

  • I decided to get a set that comes with a big size version and travel size one, The set is perfect because if I don’t want to travel with a big bottle, to the airport, I can bring the little one instead. If you're looking for a reliable exfoliating solution and don’t have very sensitive skin, The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid Set is worth trying. Just be sure to follow up with sunscreen during the day, as glycolic acid can increase sun sensitivity. The only negative thing about the product is the smell. I know some people might not like it, but I was fine with is the scent. The product has a distinct vinegar-like smell, which may be off-putting to some. I put it underneath my armpit, which might sound strange but it’s perfect at also removing odor. I will say be careful if you shave and then instantly apply right after the toner because it could sting or tingle the area if by accident you made an open wound.

    Received a free product from The Ordinary
  • No frills, solid skincare. Not such great packaging, but does the job. Not the best on the market, but certainly not the worst.

  • My daughter absolutely loves The Ordinary products and I love the price! They work really well, are easy to use and so affordable!

  • I've tried a few serums from The Ordinary and loved them all. I like the transparency with ingredients, ability to have fragrance-free and dye-free products through them. Ordering online was easy and quick