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

  • 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.

  • I like that the price is inclusive on most of their products, but my reason for not giving them a 5/5 is the strength of some their formulations, sometime when the active ingredient is over 10% it gets absurd to use on your skin repeatedly, but most products are winners, esp the toner

  • You can't beat the quality for this price, but just be sure to chat with someone from the store to make sure you're putting the right combination of products together for morning/evening routines. Amazing no frills products!

  • Really nice affordable skincare, high quality ingredients for almost every skin concern

  • I've used quite a few products from The Ordinary and I've always loved: - Minimalist design and marketing approach - Affordable pricing - Effective formula

  • I tried the ascorbic acid, glycolic acid, alpha arbutin and retinol.. I just feel like its not worth hype! I love the prices and packaging tho...

  • Love their products! They are very affordable and I have very sensitive skin. Everything I have used from them has helped my skin tremendously. My favorite product is their hylauronnic acid!

  • Great prices, good quality. sometimes the amount you get is a bit small, but for the price worth it.

  • Good quality formulas for cheap. As the name implies, no frills, nothing fancy. My one repurchase is definitely the AHA BHA blood mask.

  • I love the affordable pricing and high quality products. Specifically, I love their Salicylic Acid 2% Solution for my combination skin.

  • The Ordinary's Squalane Cleanser is seriously the gentlest and best cleanser out there. Their new shampoo and conditioner are amazing too. Honestly, everything I try from The Ordinary is top-notch quality at a killer price.

  • I like how affordable and high quality the products are. I especially like the niacinamide serum and the lash and brow serums. However it can be a little confusing picking out what to get and how to put a routine together