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

  • Ultimately, the prices can't be beat for what's offered. I actually use their Glycolic Acid toner as an underarm deodorant (lol). As other reviews have mentioned, I appreciate their straightforward approach to product names and branding. Unfortunately, I've been trying their hair growth serums for a few months now with no luck. Definitely try a bunch of things out to see what works for you.

  • for the price point, these products are incredible. i especially liked the glycolic acid and used it for my scalp to exfoliate. the rosehip oil, while unsure if it's sustainably produced, is one of the cheapest ones of the market and it worked really well!

  • love love that there is a cheap high quality brand like this in the skincare space. their hair serum is really good and i also like their glycolic acid and a few other products. not everything is acne safe but lots are!

  • This serum is formulated with growth factors, which are known for their ability to stimulate skin cell growth and repair. The Ordinary has always been known for its affordable yet effective products, and this serum is no exception. It offers high-end skincare benefits at a fraction of the cost, making it accessible to a wider audience. The Ordinary GF 15% Serum is a fantastic addition to any anti-aging skincare routine. It delivers noticeable results without breaking the bank. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their skin's appearance and health. Gifted by theordinary.

    Received a free product from The Ordinary
  • Their glycolic acid is great and serves so many purposes. I can find The Ordinary in many stores which makes it more accessible. The prices are relatively affordable for skincare.

  • Good price for the basic products without all the hype and additives. Frustrating because there are only a few of their many products carried in stores. Also, wish they would put a bit more info about what the products are targeted to help with. Efficacy is good if you know what you need!

  • Products that are quality and at a good price. You have to do your research with the wide variety of available products

    Verified purchase

  • High quality, simple, trustworthy. Not the most luxurious, and not always the best consistency, but the primer is heavenly.

  • Cleared all my acne. I had the weirdest combo of skin textures and acne, but this cleared it all up. I used my Ordinary today, and I never travel without it. Niacinamide, BHA are my favorites. Miracle working! It's the best products at the best price.

  • Go in my bathroom and you'd think I'd got shares in this brand... I love it so much! The products are all brilliant and have completely transformed my skin. They're not quite as purse friendly as they used to be but they still deliver great results without too much outlay. I repeat buy a whole load of products, including the amazing Resveratrol, which I combine with the Vitamin C Suspension + HA Spheres to give me glowy skin and even out blemishes. I'm a complete convert, and so too is my partner. Ultimately, The Ordinary proves that you don't need to buy high end to get excellent results.

  • LOVE The Ordinary's products, they're just as good as so many expensive beauty products I've bought. I appreciate their simple packaging and their premium products for affordable prices.

  • Heard great things about their stuff, but I thought it was "okay". Tried their hyaluronic acid, and really wanted to like it, but the barrier flakes/pills off when I wear it under makeup. I know their prices and product range are a steal, but I found it ineffective and a bit redundant for me. Might try them again another time.

  • I'm very torn on The Ordinary. On one hand, I like that a lot of their products are affordable, innovative, and have gotten people into skincare but on the other, I feel like many of their products are ineffective, redundant and confusing. I really enjoy the antioxidant products like the Pycnogenol and Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% but find the Lactic Acid products and vitamin C to burn and not provide any benefits that I see from similar products. Overall, there are I products I really love, and ones I really dislike so I'd rate it somewhere in the middle.

    Feedback

    I'd recommend their antioxidants but try the exfoliators at your own risk.

  • I love the Ordinary! I like to keep my skincare routine simple but everything I've tried from them (peeling solution, retinol, glycolic acid) has been quality & the price can't be beat. I love the wide variety they have as well. Every time I hear about a new skincare ingredient I go to their website and always find something with that ingredient! Love that they're vegan and cruelty free as well.

  • I really like The Ordinary and how accessible it is to people who want products at a lower price point. I use the Niacinamide, Glycolic Acid Solution, and AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. Overall, I like the products, but if you are a beginner you need to really understand your skin and what you are putting on it (and amounts and such). You have the potential to really hurt your skin if you don't know your skin/ the product.

    Feedback

    Would love more ecofriendly packaging for products in plastic.

  • The Ordinary is the gold standard for affordable skincare. Their range of products and product innovation gives you a cheap way foray into trying new products. Standouts include the Buffet (think hyaluronic acid +), caffeine solution (for under eye darkness), marula oil, and retinoids.

    Feedback

    Larger formats of product!

  • Amazing price points. Some great products some meh

    Feedback

    Each product is built around one “powerhouse” ingredient with the exception of their “buffet” serum ( which is nice) . This results in the need for multiple products daily. More combination products would be great.

  • I love using the Glycolic acid under my armpits and that has served as amazing way to combat sweating/body odor throughout the day. I used to use more of their moisturizing serums but have found better since their inception. Also love seeing this brand grow and can always appreciate the cheap price point.

    Feedback

    Some of their products just do not scientifically make sense like having too much percentage of acid, etc. Just be weary/do your research which products you are looking into!