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

  • Ordinary is correct. I purchased a full line up. The price point is great, especially for younger teens just getting into skincare. Outside of that, I found the formulas thin and lackluster.

  • Really good affordable skincare. My favorite product is the hyaluronic acid serum.

  • Been a longtime The Ordinary user and the products are very effective IF you know what you're looking for. Great price points and formulas that actually do what they say. I use the rosehip oil on my face after the sun for anti-inflammation and it's perfect. I also like that most things are decently fragrant-free so it's not overwhelming.

    Feedback

    This is definitely for someone who wants to buy something at the source rather than pay for overpriced packaging. It probably doesn't work for someone who isn't willing to do their research on what could be good for their skin and want a more all-in-one/powerful solution.

  • love all of their products. When I lived in nyc I would go to the store in nolita.

  • Big fan and have multiple products in my regime (marine hyaluronics, peptide serum, peptide for eyes). The acids can be a bit concentrated and having isolated ingredients rather than “big brand blends” is helpful if you know what you’re looking for, but they could use a “it goes well/do not mix with” chart for those dipping their toe in

    Feedback

    Start small, with 1-2 products at a time. Keep acids to a minimum to prevent reactions or burns, but their hydrators are very reliable. Marine hyaluronics is a water weight/good for day time. Multipeptide is a heavier one good for night

  • One of the few products thst doesn’t flair my perio oral dermatitis. Works well with my skin.

    Feedback

    The products are the only ones I have found to not trigger my perio oral dermatitis. I will be a life customer.

  • Great AFFORDABLE SKINCARE! I highly recommend the alpha arbutin and azalaic acid for dark spots.

  • physical exfoliation has never worked out great for me, so i really like the ordinary’s exfoliating solution. it makes my skin super smooth and is very affordable. it looks nice displayed in the bathroom too!

    Feedback

    this temporarily stains my skin light pink for ~20 minutes afterwards, so be wary if you’re going out after using this. additionally, i’ve heard this product burns for some people, so do a patch test beforehand.

  • I love the ordinary. Each product I try I am impressed with. The price point is accessible enough that I feel comfortable trying things that I normally wouldn’t purchase. I also like that each product is boiled down to a few ingredients so anyone can customize and adjust their skincare regimen. I also find that anything I purchase will last me several months so it’s an affordable way to keep my skin happy and healthy!

  • The product (serum for dark circles) is very agreeable, I did not feel any itching, and it worked after about a month

    Feedback

    I really like the packaging and I also like the brand… There is a good value for money

  • One of the best quality and most affordable skincare brands on the market. It is awesome that you can choose products by single ingredients to truly customize your skincare routine.

  • I’m not a huge fan of any of their products but the bha aha mask is life changer.

  • I love how affordable and accessible the products are, but you can tell you're sacrificing the experiential part of applying skincare products. Most of the serums I've tried leave my hands sticky and the tops get stuck on the bottles. As a licensed Esthetician, I wish The Ordinary provided more education on the products since they are mostly single actives and I've seen more clients than I can count who bought 6 serums and use them all everyday with no knowledge of how that can be damaging to their skin or affecting the efficacy of the formulas. Overall I love The Ordinary for somebody who's willing to get a little bit nerdy with their skincare routine and has other priorities in their budget.

    Feedback

    More education/pointers on when to use the products and what not to combine specific actives with.

  • super affordable my favorite is the eyelash serum it works wonders!!!

  • I love this brand’s azelaic acid suspension. I suffer from rosacea and it always helps clear it up or any redness. Also can’t believe the price point. Very affordable!

  • I think the brand overall has a very individualistic curation. They have a few resources that help with defining what your routine should look like. But you can also make it more targeted with personalization. Overall for the value of product from manufacture to consumer, I really really appreciate.

    Feedback

    Overall, I'm really impressed with the products and how easy to use it is. For luxurious products without the huge markup I would say that the ordinary really does prize people's accessibility to their products. I have a very specific morning routine and evening routine, and they make it so easy to travel with.

  • I’ve thrown so many skincare products in the trash after I fell in love with The Ordinary products. I have combination skin and always have a hard time finding quality with a friendly budget. These products are amazing and after a few weeks, my skin has been transformed. I will forever recommend this brand!

  • Great price point. Cleaned my skin but didn’t help clear up acne. I do not really care for face cleansers that do not foam.