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

  • I typically love all product from the Ordinary - in particular the "Mandelic Acid 10% + HA" and "Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum," however I would recommend avoiding the "Mineral UV Filters SPF 30" sunscreen as it smells weird and leave a significantly noticeable white cast.

  • I love this brand, very hydrating and just makes my skin feel radiant!

  • Simple, effective and affordable skincare, available in a range of bottle sizes. The only problem is it is often sold out everywhere!

  • I switched from L’Oréal to Ordinary hyaluronic acid and like this better. It does not bother my eyes which is a plus.

  • Love the ordinary products. Simple, effective, cheap.

  • Excellent product for the price. I have been ordering this Niacinamide for months now and it has worked just fine, it controls my face’s oil production and I can tell it minimizes the appearance of my pores. I’ve recently had people ask what I’m using and I truly feel like this product has made the visible differences.

  • Quality products at an affordable price point. The lash serum is great.

  • I love the ordinary they are reliable brand when ever I have a skincare related concern. I have been using the nianacinide and aha bha products for a year and loved the way it has rejuvenated my skin. Now using their retinol and have been loving this product so much! It’s cheap and affordable and really works!

  • Ho avuto modo di provare vari prodotti del marchio e mi sono sempre trovata molto bene, nessun prodotto è mai stato troppo aggressivo con la mia pelle. L’unica pecca è che mi piacerebbe che lasciassero una leggera profumazione che invece non c’è.

    Received a free product from The Ordinary
  • I tried the Ordinary retinol eye cream. It works great. Just as well or better than anything else that is really expensive.

  • have never tried anything beyond the AHA peeling solution (the red mask) and it left my skin burning & not very happy... I'm sure other products are lovely but my skin and i will have to pass on these. xo!

  • Most of the products are very affordable! I have the Squalane Cleanser and it's fine, but nothing great to say about it. I think a lot of it is I've just been so use to foaming cleansers my whole life, that I just feel like my face isn't getting as clean. I do love the toner though! I've seen people online recommending using it for body acne, not just your face, and for me that was really a game changer, and I've really noticed the problem subsiding. When I use it on my face, it makes me feel more clean than the face wash. I've had no negative reactions to any of the products and all the products I have from them work great as a full skincare routine for me, but if you're going to get anything, my recommendation would be on the toner!

  • Ther Alpha Arbutin has helped me lots with my hyperpigmentation. I am running out of my second bottle, it's a staple in my skincare routine!!

  • My go to for multiple single ingredient products so I can use them as needed. The lactic acid serums are both great. The HA moisturizer is perfect for dry skin. I’ve not used every product they make but the ones I have tried are all good.

  • I had the niacinimide and it worked really well for my skin type. I don’t let myself run out of this one.

  • I love the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution. My skin has never looked better. I use it about once week for the most glowing skin

  • I use the retinol, niacinamide, and glycemic acid toner and they allow work amazingly. Have yet to find a cheaper alternative to any of them!

  • These brand is great. The prices are much less expensive than other brands, but the products work just as well. I have been impressed with everything I tried.