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

  • Love the hyaluronic acid 2% + B5. Great product and a great price. My daughter is an aesthetician and she encouraged me to use it. It has helped my oily yet dehydrated skin.

  • Overall the Ordinary products work well on my skin. I am careful to only use a few products at a time. My skin has taken well and I am seeing results.

  • The Ordinary gets the job done at a low price! No complaints here, but I personally see better results from other brands. If you want to test out a new type of product The Ordinary is a great place to start. I love the breakdown of simple ingredients and the accessible pricepoint.

  • I have loved everything I have tried from The Ordinary. Super simple products that don't upset my temperamental skin. I particularly like the silicone primer. The only downside is it can be quite confusing if you're new to skincare, however they do sell starter kits.

  • I used the exfoliating peeling solution for a month and did not see much of a difference, But, I believe this brand is very affordable for the quality and I would love to give this brand a second chance. I really want to try the niacinamide and hyaluronic acid!

  • Really love their website. You can input your skin issues and they spit out a regimen based on your answers. I also appreciate how they also include which products shouldn't be mixed. And they even go so far as to let you know which step in your skin routine the particular product goes. No fancy packaging, just straight to the point skin care.

  • I specifically got this product because I read that it helps remove Comedone type acne. While I found that it did tame breakouts, I still notice the small bumps around my chin area. I use this product about 2-3 times a week for 6 months, and have mostly noticed a difference in breakout frequency. I just wish it could help with the clogged pore more.

  • I love the low cost of entry point and the wide range of products this brand offers! If you are looking at trying new skin care, this is a good place to start. However, there is better quality out there for a majority of the products they offer. Overall, I recommend the brand but proceed with caution and do research prior to buying!

  • I have tried a few of their products over time. They’re super simple formulas but for the price point it makes sense. I’d recommend serums and moisturizers.

  • Favorite skin care brand. Always a reasonable price and always makes my skin feel and look great.

  • The ordinary is a fun brand to get into, I've tried at least 20 of their products, but the thing is, in the end they are not the highest quality. You'll feel like a skincare guru applying all 15 of your skin steps, but if you go see an actual dermatologist, they will set you up with a routine that actually works and is so much more simple than you would ever imagine. My dermatologist basically told me that a lot of these products are totally unnecessary and the ones that aren't harmful, aren't strong enough. So stick with whatever your derm sets you up with and don't get hooked into the addiction of buying all these products.

  • I've tried a few different products from the Ordinary over the years, and my favorite is the hyaluronic acid. It's no frills, does exactly what is promised and is the cheapest option of similar quality competitor brands. The only reason I'm giving 4 stars is because I think the leadership controversy of late is disappointing.

  • I love anything Ordinary! I've purchased their L-Ascorbic powder, multi-peptide lash and brow serum, etc. All products are very affordable, and most importantly they work.

  • I have really sensitive skin, and being able to try new products at a reasonable price point means the world. I use the rosehip oil every night and have noticed a huge difference in the overall appearance of my skin. Highly recommend!!

  • I appreciate the value and added ability The Ordinary has creat getting quality and simplified skin care ingredients that can be used many ways. not every product is meant for all skin types but that’s why it’s helpful that they provide the details for each items purpose

  • The Ordinary is known for a few things, but its most impressive characteristic: the pricing. High quality skincare products for insanely low prices compared to the rest of the market. I really like the hyaluronic acid and niacinamide serum. This is a great skincare brand to start with if you are just building your routine.

  • I have started to replace a lot of my expensive serums with dupes from The Ordinary and I think they work even better than my pricey items. It's also great to try out new skincare products without such a financial commitment. I have sensitive skin and everything from this brand works great. My favorite is the Marula oil, which is a Drunk Elephant dupe!

  • I've used numerous products from The Ordinary and while some of them I love, others I did not like at all. However, you cannot beat their price point. It's a great way to introduce new ingredients into your routine without wasting a ton of money on a product that doesn't agree with you. The hyaluronic acid and the buffet are my go-to's; I will always repurchase them.