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 this straightforward, effective toner. It's such a good price for the amount of active ingredient! The bottle lasts a looooong time and the tip is perfect for dispensing a small amount onto a cotton round. Will repurchase!

  • I have been using the ordinary for about 5-6 years now and really love it. I think its incredibly affordable and approachable to all crowds. This would be a great line to get into if youre just starting out with a skin care routine OR for younger teens who could use a little more than just drug store washes. I personally use the azelaic acid for my rosacea and love it a lot!

  • I´ve been using The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 for two month now, and I’m more than happy. My skin feels noticeably more hydrated, plump, and smooth. I apply it to damp skin morning and night, and it absorbs quickly without feeling sticky or heavy. I also love the clean the ingredient list is — no fragrance, no nonsense. Overall, a great, affordable staple in any skincare routine.

  • This is one of those rare products that actually lives up to what it promises. It hydrates instantly, layers well with everything else in my routine, and never irritates my skin. When I apply it to damp skin and lock it in with moisturizer, my face feels soft, balanced, and plump all day. It’s not the cheapest out there, but it’s worth the price for how well it works. I’ve repurchased it more than once, which says a lot. Definitely one of the most consistent and reliable steps in my routine.

  • The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution has been a game-changer for me, but not in the “typical” way. I don’t really use it on my face, instead, I use it behind my arms for bumps and between my legs to help with shaving spots. And it works so well! It’s made my skin a lot smoother and helped cut down on irritation. Honestly such a versatile product. Would definitely recommend if you deal with those little bumps or ingrown-type spots.

  • The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a true glow-getter. It gently exfoliates, refines texture, and helps fade dark spots over time. Just a few swipes a few times a week, and skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and feels more even. It’s super effective, super affordable, and a staple in any skincare routine. I spend already 10 bottles at least ✨love it 🤍

  • As someone who’s new to the world of retinol this product has been the perfect introduction. I’ve noticed improvement to my skin texture and haven’t experienced any irritation. Its light and absorbs quickly.

  • Clean simple ingredients, what’s not to love? this brand requires a lot of existing knowledge of skincare ingredients and what they do and how they can be combined and what works best for your skin. I have very few of these attributes and so I only have used one product from this brand, their caffeine eye serum and it works for me in the sense that I don’t use any other eye creams or had any issues however, I also must say that I don’t see a dramatic effect. This is unfortunately a common scenario for me and skincare products with a lot of hype.

  • A great, inexpensive way to buy quality skincare chemicals. I have used many different formulas and I have been buying from them for years! Their formulas are great and easy to purchase. My only issue is that some of the formulas are too strong. People with sensitive skin should be careful and do a lot of research.

  • Trustworthy skincare brand, I just recently got into purchasing their products. Their niacinamide products work wonders on dark spots and irritation. My sister has eczema and was the one who put me on to their products. Looking forward to trying out other things by them.

  • I’m picky with my 5 star reviews because 5 star means something is the BEST (to me). The Ordinary is a home run, sustainable products, for a fraction of the cost of other brands. Sometimes (not all the time, don’t come for me) you’re just paying for packaging that you literally throw in the garbage after the products use.

  • I like the lactic acid plus HA. I didn’t at first but I changed my mind. I feel like my skin is smoother when I use it and I’ve finished the bottle. Would recommend to a friend. And it’s pretty cheap, too

  • Affordable and their products work!! I was recommended the hyaluronic serum by a skin therapist and I can't believe I wasn't using the product earlier. Whilst I was in the store, I also picked up their Caffeine Solution, as an eye treatment, and their Niacinamide, their blemish formula. All I can say is RUN don't walk! The products have made a HUGE difference to my skin in it's hydration, reducing my eye bags, and reducing blemishes.

  • I bought this lash & brow serum because it's from the ordinary skincare line and I love their products. I use this mostly on my eyebrows. I've been using it for a couple of months now. The reason I started using it is because I had one eyebrow that the tail was a little bit shorter than the other. Within a couple weeks of using this serum I could tell a difference and now they are even., which I love. I would definitely recommend this to someone trying to grow out their eyebrows. Plus it's affordable $14.50.

  • Overall, The Ordinary has some excellent products for the price-point. I use Caroline Hirons (check out her excellent blog and skincare suggestions) as a guide on which of their products to buy/use. I love the peels and Squalene products. I have not found the washes to be as effective and they run out too quickly for me. But love the brand!

  • I love using their Hyaluronic Acid serum for added hydration. under my daily moisturizer - it leaves my skin feeling super plump and moisturized! I also love their Zinc serum - this stuff is amazing! Not only does it help with discolouration/dark spots, it also works REALLY well under makeup to keep oily skin at bay! Love using this daily followed by a topical sunscreen. Holy grails in my skincare routine!

    Friends with The Ordinary
  • Incredible, science-backed skincare - unbeatable price-to-performance ratio. The targeted formulas, like their Multi-Peptide Hair Serum and Hyaluronic Acid, deliver results without breaking the bank. Love the minimalist formulas and real results. A powerhouse brand for anyone serious about skincare or haircare.

  • Ordinary products are the best! Great quality affordable price! I love them all! Especially the squalane! It delivers amazing hydration to my parched skin.

  • Love the Ordinary as a company with their fuss free packaging and fantastic value for money. AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution is one of my most favourite products from the brand. My skin literally glows after using it.

    Customer
  • I tried The Ordinary High Adherence Silicone Primer and it definitely does what it says it does. My makeup stays on longer whenever I use this product. I love the price point and the fact that it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin.