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

2,516 reviews and posts

  • These products are great - they are scent-free, efficacious, and value for money. I am addicted to the serums and have converted my son into using these products as well. You feel super clean, with no unnecessary smells, or textures - just simple, products that work.

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    Understand your skin type before buying so that you choose the right products

  • I have tried several of their products & liked them. I use the niacinamide daily & love it.

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    I use the niacinamide daily & love it. I have tried a few other products & found them to be great for the price point.

  • Good brand overall has a lot of basics that are good for someone trying to build a skincare routine without spending too much money.

  • Used their skincare test to determine a small routine to try, a cleanser, hyaluronic serum, mask and moisturizer. Compared to a lot of other brands the price points were low, and the science behind the products was clear and well described. With all of that I still didn't love any of the products and didn't see results. The cleanser was fine, but not better than what I was already using. The Hyaluronic, which I was most excited about, felt a bit sticky and I didn't see much moisture retention. The mask made my skin reactive and rash-y. The moisturizer was forgettable.

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    I continue to appreciate the prices, science, and transparency behind this brand, I just didn't personally enjoy anything I tried.

  • I dabbled with fancy skincare on and off throughout my 20s but having been pretty lucky on that front I can’t attest to any of that stuff working- but The Ordinary absolutely does. When I suddenly developed hormonal spots on my cheeks that resulted in pigmentation a Google hunt led me to, what was at the time still very new to the scene, The Ordinary. Whilst it can be confusing to know what products you should combine for your own skin issues, I got really lucky with my very first order and 3 out of the 4 items that arrived continue to form the basis of my skincare routine.

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    I have tried many of their products but I swear by the Granactive Retinoid 2% emulsion, Vitamin C Suspension and Hyaluronic acid 2%. So much so, I usually buy them in multiples so I am prepared in case I run out! The moisturiser is adequate but I switched to the Plant derived squalane and it is a fuss free, non comodogenic oil perfect for Gua sha. I have been recommending this brand to my friends and family since pretty much the get go as it worked so well on my skin and is incredibly accessible in comparison to many other active skincare brands. I do supplement it with a few other lotions and potions but 6 years on I am still using these products and will continue doing so. Note- their makeup gets a no from me. I have not found a shade that suits my skin tone and I dislike the texture.

  • Good affordable skincare options for people with specific skin concerns. I use the glycolic acid as an exfoliant for my scalp.

  • Dear the Ordinary, please never change. From the moment I heard about this line of products, I knew it was going to be my go to. Not only does it offer amazing skincare solutions, but the price can't be beat!

  • Their products are so incredibly affordable, and they offer such a wide range of products. I'm currently using their Niacinamide + Zinc serum, and love it! It's a great option for blemished and textured skin.

  • I love how affordable The Ordinary products are. The packaging and feel creates such a high end look. I was surprised to find out how much the products were and how convenient it is to get them. I have only used the AHA 30% product and it is a nice peel that makes my skin feel refreshed.

  • The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a standout product for those looking to tackle skin concerns like acne, enlarged pores, and uneven skin tone. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a well-known powerhouse in skincare for its ability to balance oil production, minimize pores, and brighten the complexion, while zinc helps to regulate sebum production and soothe inflammation.

  • This brand makes skin care accessible on cheap products and many can buy, and there are lots of benefits and options to choose from there. Something for everyone here to pick dermatologist recommended high quality. I trust this friend to offer great results.

  • I am not a big fan of this brand. It is affordable, but none of the skincare items work for my sensitive skin. The AHA peeling serum and azaelic acid serum are too strong that it damaged my skin barrier.

  • Such a great brand - I think this is a gateway brand for many people and it did something that honestly changed the skincare industry forever by focusing on minimalistic, ingredient-forward marketing!

  • When I first started getting into skin care. I bought a lot of products from the ordinary and I love how cheap and affordable they are and accessible. They are for people that are just starting a skin care routine. The products do a good job.

  • We love her she’s perfect she’s a girls girl she has our back when we can’t afford anything. There are absolutely products I swear by and products that aren’t for me but the price point makes me feel less guilty about that.

  • Game changer! I started using this on my back a few times a week, and within a couple of weeks, my back acne started clearing up noticeably. It gently exfoliates without being too harsh, and it's super affordable for how effective it is. I apply it with a cotton pad or spray bottle post-shower, and it’s made a huge difference in texture and breakouts. Definitely a holy grail for body acne!

  • This serum is a stellar choice for those battling oiliness and blemishes, offering visible results within 4–6 weeks. While the texture and high niacinamide concentration require patience, its affordability and efficacy make it a standout. Sensitive-skinned users may prefer a lower niacinamide percentage. A testament to The Ordinary’s mission: clinical ingredients, accessible price.

    Friends with The Ordinary
  • I love how affordable everything from the Ordinary is. My favorite product is niacinamide and the aha + bha peeling solution.

  • I’ve been using this Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toning Solution for a few weeks now, and I can already tell it’s a keeper. It’s gentle enough for my skin—no redness or irritation at all—but it still gets the job done. I use it in the evening, and it helps remove those last stubborn traces of makeup while giving my skin a nice, clean feel.

    Friends with The Ordinary
  • I love how lightweight it is, and it absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky residue. The formula is gentle but effective, helping to refine my skin’s texture and reduce any signs of dullness. Whether you're dealing with dryness, congestion, or just want to maintain healthy, glowing skin, this toner does the job without irritating or over-drying.

    Friends with The Ordinary