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 love the approachable pricing and how this brand takes away the brand name but not the quality. I tried the niacinimide solution as it worked well and didn’t make me break out. As someone who is new to skincare, I liked this one!

  • Good products and varied products for multiple uses. I have not yet used them long enough to know how effective they actually are.

  • I do not recommend AHA 30% + BHA 2% PEELING for skin on the sensitive and dry side as it is way too aggressive. I did not see a difference with their Caffeine Eye Serum. At least it is gentle to the skin.

  • I love ordinary. Simple ingredient. effective. not overpriced. I like it.

  • I really appreciate The Ordinary's straightforward approach to skincare. Their focus on high-quality, effective ingredients at accessible prices is refreshing. I love how they provide transparency about their formulations, making understanding what each product does easy. Plus, the variety of options allows everyone to find what works best for their skin type! It could improve by offering more comprehensive guides or tutorials on how to use their products together for best results. Some users might also appreciate a wider range of products tailored for specific skin concerns, like sensitive skin or anti-aging. Overall, though, they’re doing a great job in the skincare space!

  • Have never used a product from this line that I didn’t love and use to the last drop. Especially love the glycolic acid.

  • I love the glycolic acid is the best product! I use it on my face and my under arms. Helps tremendously with my armpits. Best product!

  • Excellent product and worth buying again. I was satisfied with the quality, may even be better than what I normally purchase. I would definitely buy this again and will be trying the varieties offered.

  • Used The Ordinary Glycolic Acid on my strawberry legs and underarms per my dermatologist's recommendation, and I absolutely loved it! Saw an immediate improvement in skin texture and smoothness within 2 weeks. Definitely a game-changer in my routine!

  • I love the ordinary products!! My skin loves them, and it really makes my night time routine enjoyable.

  • Bought this for a partner, and occasionally will buy on behalf of friends in other countries. Interesting founding story but more importantly it's a good value price/quality and everyone who uses it loves it. I've personally used their exfoliant and moisturizes and can recommend as a solid day-day solution.

  • I love the ordinary for its no nonsense, product forward packaging. The low cost coupled with how effective this product is will always make me reach for it at the store.

  • I use the ordinary Niacinamide and the Hyaluronic acid. I love them both. The niacinimide (after washing my face) makes my pores really tiny and my skin looks really tight. I noticed that it sometimes reacts strangely with other products so experiment before doing a full face of makeup over this. The hyaluronic acid makes my lips look really plump. I make sure there is water on my face before and moisturize while it’s still wet!

  • i have the glycolic acid, it makes my skin super dewy and nice when im out, did make me break out at the start buts that normal. i use it for hyperpigmentation on my knees once a week.

    Invested in The Ordinary
  • AHA serum, works great, I’ve tried other brands at a much steeper price. This is equally as good at a fraction of the cost.

  • Amazing products for less cost, I like it a lot

  • I specifically love the Squalane cleanser that also works as a makeup remover. I have sensitive skin that usually breaks out with most cleansers, but I have not had this issue with this product, also it’s a very reasonable price and fast shipping. I also have a couple of the serums which I enjoy as well and are reasonable in price

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • Such amazing quality for such a great price. Good products to use for everyday and supplemental treatments