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've used various Ordinary products over the years, and although I will sometimes gravitate towards trying something new with flashier packaging, there are some staples I always come back to. I like how upfront they are, and I never worry about the quality of the product.

  • I am not too sure if their products do anything for my skin. It is also very drying on my skin and damaged my skin barrier.

  • The Ordinary has become my go-to skincare brand. I've used their products since 2019 and as my skin needs have changed, I have always been able to find effective products that solved my complexion issues. Currently I am loving their Glycolipid Cream Cleanser, which has been a live saver when my skin is extra sensitive.

  • For those on a budget, the ordinary makes consistently high-quality skin care products with few bells and whistles. I recommend reading the reviews of specific products before purchasing, it seems like there are a few that may be less effective. their glycolicacid has been great for me.

  • I have used many many The Ordinary products through the years and most of their products, I love. This one I do not care for, though. It makes my face incredibly sticky and tacky for a very long time. It's very difficult to apply anything else over this serum as it never really seems to dry.

  • Great quality for price - why overpay to a big luxury beauty brand when you can get the same product from The Ordinary. Crazy affordable, even through Sephora

  • I’ve tried a couple of their products and like them. They are quite affordable too.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I've been using the Soothing & Barrier Support Serum from the Ordinary for about a month now. I wanted to add a product to my routine that would provided extra moisture during the winter months because my moisturizer alone wasn't cutting it. So far so good! It's very gentle and adds that extra moisture soothing boost my skin needs after a wash. I appreciate that the smell is subtle. It's a bright pink color but I don't notice the color on my skin after applying.

  • The Ordinary offers high quality, solution based products at a very affordable price. Rather than buying an expensive product they claims to address a variety of issues, The Ordinary has products that focus on one treatment, with high quality ingredients. It's possible to buy an entire line form them for what you would pay for one product from a luxury brand.

  • Love the idea of the ordinary more than actually using it. I feel like you sometimes need to have a lot more skincare knowledge than I do in order to be able to get the most out of it.

  • The Ordinary has quickly become a favorite in the skincare community for its no-frills approach and effective products. Their focus on transparency and using high-quality ingredients at affordable prices is impressive. Each product is clearly labeled with its active ingredients, making it easy to tailor a skincare routine to your specific needs. I’ve found that the Niacinamide Serum and the Hyaluronic Acid are standout products that deliver noticeable results. Overall, The Ordinary is a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their skincare routine without breaking the bank. Highly recommended!

  • I love love love both the Granactive Retinoid Emulsion 2% and the Hyaluronic Acid 2%. Using them for years now. The Granactive Retinoid is a perfect dupe of Sunday Riley's Good Genes but a mere fraction of the price. Use the retinoid 1 to 2 times a week at night and your skin will be softer, smoother and more even toned. The hyaluronic acid is also much cheaper and just as effective as compared to other brands. If you are using another brand, stop and switch to The Ordinary!

  • The Ordinary has completely transformed my skincare routine! Their no-nonsense approach to effective ingredients at affordable prices is unmatched. I’ve seen amazing results with their Niacinamide serum—it’s reduced my redness and improved my skin texture in just weeks. The clear instructions make it easy for beginners, and the minimalist packaging feels so chic. If you’re looking for quality skincare without breaking the bank, The Ordinary is a must-try! 🧴✨

  • I adore this brand. Each product is better than the last. They are affordable and really work great for my skin. No issues at all.

  • I LOVE The Ordinary. I can't believe it took so long for someone to make (nearly) at-cost skincare products. These are no fluff, seriously just products that work.

  • I like the price point on these products. It makes it a lot less painful to the pocket to be able to try a variety of different lotions and serums. I have found that the products themselves are very nice and I appreciate that there are ways to recycle the packaging.

  • Affordable high quality skincare products that are focused on the ingredients themselves rather than the packaging. recommend.

  • I'm obsessed with this brand. They make a variety of products at an awesome price point, making skincare affordable for all. I especially love their skin barrier repair serum and azelic acid serum.

  • Not Ordinary, Extraordinary. I tried the glycolic acid only once at a friends place. Very expensive so haven’t splurged yet. It was great.