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

  • Every product I've tried so far, except one (but all skin is different) has provided wonderful results. When I was desperate and at my limits trying to find a solution for horrible acne , The Ordinary finally gave me the solution to my skin problems with their Niacinamide and Zinc serum. The low prices of their amazing products is mind blowing. What an absolutely amazing company.

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    If you've been wondering if this brand is worth it, it most definitely is. They provide high quality potent products that give results at an affordable price. And I love that they will email you with a personalized regimen for skincare and give advice/suggestions for which products to use or not use together. Just all around great

  • Great skincare products by a very competitive price. Definitely a favorite in my household

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    I find The Ordinary products great, as they ratio quality- value- price point is really on point. I like their serums and other products that come in glass bottles, as are easier to recycle besides being really good for my skin. The caffeine drops are life savers in the mornings.

  • The price just can’t be beat. Everything is affordable and the brand transparency is admirable. I do have other brands that I prefer (MERIT instant glow serum, Fenty fat water milky toner essence, LaRoche Posay Cicaplast products), but if you’re on a budget then The Ordinary is a wonderful option.

    Feedback

    Some of the solutions are runny. I would love to see a thicker hyaluronic serum, similar to Dermalogica’s circular hydration serum. A dupe for that would be amazing!

  • I’ve purchased from the ordinary for a few years. I love how affordable their products are.

    Feedback

    I wish that there was a little clearer information about the purpose of each product and how it is intended to be used in a routine.

  • The Hyaluronic acid and Niacinamide were my entry-level duo when I started my skincare journey. They both served me well, but I've moved on to more effective products.

  • They offer a wide variety of inexpensive skin care products that all work well.

    Feedback

    Sure there are probably better options for all of the products they offer but none at such an affordable price.

  • Love that it's affordable, but I've had a mixed experience with the products. Still, at this price point, it's worth giving things a try!

  • Love the whole skincare line and how inexpensive yet effective it is. I use the vitamin c serum, the retinol, the moisturizer, and the AHA mask regularly!

    Feedback

    There are SO many products and it’s hard to know which to use in combination together. I’d love for more curated lists of skincare routines to understand what works well together

  • The Ordinary is top quality skincare for an incredible reasonable price. As someone who has suffered from acne for years I’ve tried 100 of different products, but now I mostly use ordinary products in my skincare routine.

    Feedback

    I wish the labels had more information about who the product is best for. Such as for oily skin, acne pro skin, etc.

  • I've tried several products, including the hyaluronic serum and Buffet. I feel like both products "do their job" but not exceptional. I used it mainly for the affordability, which I believe has helped democratize this high-tech skincare.

  • The Ordinary has done a ton to make skincare accessible. I appreciate their clear labels and product names: there aren't many vague cleansers or serums here! And prices are very reasonable. I recommend going in knowing what you're looking for -- problems at least, ideally do some research into ingredients to keep an eye out for -- so you're not overwhelmed.

  • Absolutely LOVE The Ordinary! I started to use their products when I decided to create a skincare regimen for myself and haven't been happier! My skin has improved so much and I have gotten many compliments in regards to it. I've used b oil, caffiene solution,cold pressed marula oil & lactic acid in my regimen and loved every product.

  • I love The Ordinary. I love that their products are not named something that obscures the ingredients (like "calming butter" or "brightening cream"), but helping customers understand which ingredients they need to manage very targeted issues and providing products that are affordable and customizable.

    Feedback

    Bigger bottles of certain creams!

  • I absolutely love The Ordinary. I use at least 5 of their products every day as part of my skincare routine, from a cleanser, serum, toner and moisturizer. Super affordable and effective.

  • I’ve loved every product I’ve tried from them: moisturizer, hyaluronic acid, aha mask, alpha arbutin serum, niacinamide serum- I’ve literally been using the ordinary since they only sold from their website. Prices have increased upon demand since then but at least I can run to any Ulta near me for a refill next time instead of waiting out the looong shipping via the website (at least it was long back in 2019).

    Feedback

    You should advertise the actives chart more so people know what to and what not to apply to their face. I always have a hard time on the site looking for it but it’s a great reference guide for any newbies to skincare!

  • I love these products for the price point! I have been using a combination of these with more expensive products and have been happy with the results.

    Feedback

    They could do a much better job of connecting the products that should be used together, or suggest combinations based on your needs. Especially in store, it’s frustrating how there isn’t a lineup of the products that work together to make the purchasing experience smoother.

  • Amazing amazing amazing. The Ordinary really just blows all other American skincare products out of the water. The brand serves a wide line of products at a very affordable price. Their hyaluronic acid has repaired my skin barrier and keeps my face super glowy. If I could give them a million stars, I would!

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  • Very affordable. Good for people new to skincare and those who are already familiar. love the azaelic acid.

  • The Ordinary is a great place to start your skincare journey. Many niche products available that are typically sold at a much higher price. I loved trying new serums at this price point before investing in higher end versions. Packaging is simple and chic.

  • Brandon Truaxe was truly a genius (RIP). This brand changed the entire skincare industry on the consumer and brand side. Affordable, effective, and a UGC powerhouse.