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

  • The Ordinary is extraordinary! Their product line is extensive and every product I've tried is amazing. The price point is beyond competitive. I'm a huge fan! I'm 64 years old and have seen a dramatic difference using their serums, acids, and moisturizers. Also the serum for increasing growth of eyelashes and eyebrows!

  • Great product, love that they changed the beauty industry by making single ingredient products. Their products have increased in price astronomically which is not great for the customer

  • I love the ingredients, efficacy, and mostly the price point of the Ordinary products. I have the aha peel and the natural moisturizer in my daily routine. My skin looks and feels great and I can afford to replenish these staples as needed. Another plus is that they’re available in store and not only online. My local Target Carries them which is so convenient

  • You get what you pay for, for the most part. Some products are great (personal favorites include: AHA/BHA peel, brow and lash serum, rose hip seed oil), others are fine (didn't love: lactic acid serum, a few others). Can't beat the price and simplicity of the products! Wish there was a tiny bit more explanation of what the ingredients are good for, etc.

  • The ordinary is a bit on a mixed bag, but the products that work work REALLY well. Their retinol in squalane, salicylic acid mask, azelaic acid cream, and lash & brow serum are key parts of my routine.

  • I personally experienced minimal difference with my dark spots, but my acne improved. I loved how minimal the ingredient list was. I don’t think my face has felt so healthy prior to this. It was one the first brands that made me want to change my entire skincare routine and focus on what’s in the product and actual results.

  • You can’t beat the price. I’ve tried a lot of different products of there’s and believe they may be just as effective as the overpriced ones. I have grown to appreciate clean beauty that has nice scent from natural ingredients as opposed to fragrance and that’s where I would say I tend to go for another brand instead of the ordinary sometimes. That said, still appreciate the brand offering such an extensive collection at such an approachable price.

  • i think the ordinary is great for someone who wants to see if a specific ingredient will work for their skin. the packaging is simple. i've had no issues with any of their products but find other brands to be a little more exciting.

  • I feel like we were all convinced to use to many chemical exfoliants in 2017 but I still have tried and true products from them that I use less frequently to save my skin.

  • Overall quality products and great prices. Love the serums

  • i love their whole range. i’ve been using the hylauronic acid & niacinamide for 2+ years now. their retinoid also did amazing at clearing up my skin.

  • Great affordable alternative to luxury skincare! The Ordinary definitely punches above its weightclass in terms of the quality of their products- I would recommend going for this brand versus any of the buzzier alternatives you see all over social media (*cough* Glossier *cough* *cough*)

  • Super accessible and great skincare. I have tried many products and have been happy with all.

  • I like this brand, some products are better than others but I validate the peeling mask, the caffeine contour. The day cream is classic.

  • The price point is amazing for someone just beginning to take an interest in skincare. Not the highest quality products on the market but they are reliable.

  • The Ordinary is an amazing entry to getting into the wide world of skincare. I'm 1000% dedicated to their hyaluronic acid and niacinamide serums, and while I'll occasionally try out other brands for similar benefits, I always go back to The Ordinary. Unfortunately, I'm not the biggest fans of their cleansers but that's more of a personal choice. Overall- It's no fuss and affordable!

  • I’ve been using The Ordinary products for years and like a lot of their skincare products. I like that they are simple and targeted, but usually I do some research on specific products before purchasing. One exception is their moisturizer which is very good especially for the price. I think the pricing and variety is great for someone just getting into skincare and for those who don’t mind doing a little research.

  • So affordable and high quality. If you are even remotely into skincare you 100% need to incorporate products from The Ordinary. I use their Alpha Arbutin, AHA + BHA mask and their Glycolic Acid. The products showed clear results after 2 weeks. Also loved being able to take the products on international fights without having to check them.