4.5
93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend
The Ordinary
4.5 • 2,520 Reviews
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4.5
93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend
The Ordinary earns strong reviews as effective, ingredient-forward skincare that improves texture, hydration, acne, and clarity—standouts include Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, and Squalane Cleanser—while minimalist packaging appeals. Reviews also flag downsides: some formulas feel sticky or pill, actives can be harsh or confusing to layer, certain products (retinols, vitamin C, hair care) underperform for some, and a few report irritation or breakouts.
AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews
I used the ordinary throughout the years and they truly have some hits or misses. I went crazy over the acid peel as did everyone else but felt meh about the squalene cleanser. It was fine to take off makeup but not for the cleansing part. I might check out some other products from them once I understand more about curating skincare.

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.

1y ago
Really great line if you’re looking for affordable, basic skincare essentials to build a larger collection with. I keep the Salicylic and Glycolic Acids in my routine for clear and smooth skin, and the Soothing Barrier Support Serum is great for my damaged spots and eczema. I’ve even used the glycolic acid to help heal my cracked heels (TMI, but it helps!). Simple, effective, and priced right.

This makes a huge difference in texture with consistent use. It’s strong, so I use it just a few times a week. Super affordable for how effective it is—definitely a staple in my routine in order to keep my legs smooth.

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

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.

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.

3y ago
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!

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.

This company has had an interesting journey as far as founding/social media. The products are all incredibly solid and this is a concept that is absolutely necessary in the skincare/beauty realm. I had the best experience with color matched foundation in the NYC store ever! The rosacea creams are legendary. Aside from the innovative approach, the prices are wildly fair.

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.


I’ve used this a couple of times over the years and as of recent I’ve been using it to minimize sweating. I also apply it to my armpits to help balance my ph, even out the skin tone, remove bacteria and odor. It helped a lot when I decided to transitioning to a aluminum free deodorant. The smell of built up sweat and whatever the heck else my previous deodorant was masking, smelt horrid. This helped reduce the smell and need for reapplying my new deodorant throughout the day. Definitely worked for me.
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I absolutely loved ordinary products! They are highly effective and very affordable. Simple and right to the point ingredients! Love that the products come in glass bottles. Been using it for years because they actually work!

1y ago
This stuff is no joke 🔥✨ The Ordinary Glycolic Acid really helped smooth my skin and fade texture over time. I use it 2–3 times a week max — it’s strong, so go easy! Gives that glow but can be too much if you overdo it.
