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

  • I enjoyed using this product and the price point was decent but I don't appreciate the company ethics and their sympathy to aggressors in a recent international conflict.

  • I love the hair serum and eyelash serum from The Ordinary I use it all the time. I did not like the Azelaic acid product. Their price points are amazing and it's great to see it available at Sephora.

  • Love the acids in this line. I get dandruff occasionally so I need to dab a bit in my hair and rinse off after ten minutes. I do this about once a week and no more dandruff after!

  • I FREAKING LOVE THIS BRAND. I have used an Ordinary skin routine for the past 3-4 years and it has been the only thing to effectively clean up my texture. Since using it, and especially 1-2 years into using it, I am constantly getting compliments from strangers saying I have super clear or glass skin. What I love the most is how simple it is. The site is easy to manage, the packaging is plain, and the price is right. Also they have amazing customer service and discounts!

  • The ordinary products are great- they are easy to use and get the job done. They are odorless and effective. Their prices are amazing.

  • The Ordinary is more affordable than most trending skincare and actually does something! The Acne set is a great value set that clears up acne and blemishes!

  • I gave routines from this brand to all of my female family members for Christmas this year. It’s affordable and functions well.

  • I’ve used The Ordinary for years. Simple active ingredients equal the right routine customized to your liking.

  • The Ordinary is an amazing company that provides excellent products at an affordable price.

  • Love the serums. Great as little gifts

  • The Ordinary has great packaging and prices, but I don’t think their products have been really effective for me. The rosehip oil and glycolic acid toner don’t seem to do much for my skin. I have used their niacinamide serum for a while but ever since using other serums I realized that the Ordinary’s didn’t have a great as an effect on my skin. I am currently using their retinoid serum which I like and at the price point I would recommend The Ordinary for any people looking for low budget skincare

  • I used to really love the Hyaluronic Acid from The Ordinary. I still use from time to time when I want an extra hydrating layer, but I have a sneaky suspicion that their formula has changed slightly because it doesn't seep into my skin the same way it used to. I do love their other products though! I appreciate that it's affordable and straightforward.

  • This is my favorite brand of cosmetics. While I think that I am a enlightened guy, I'm not one to spend a lot of money on fancy face creams and moisturizers (mostly because I forgot to use them). I started ordering directly from the company and they put me through a tree system to figure out which products I should use to solve which problems. I then started to buy it from Sephora and target to replenish. I think the products are nicely packaged and very reasonably priced. The only thing I would change is that the droppers are more than I can handle. Putting it in a simpler dispenser would be better- one of them shattered in my sink when it fell from the shelf. My skin is probably better than it would be if I didn't use it- but there really isn't any control in the experiment.

  • I use the hyaluronic acid from this brand and love it. Such good quality and so affordable!

  • I think The Ordinary is a wonderful case of getting more than you paid for. They really are great quality for the price point, and the variety they offer. Are there better formulations? Of course, but be prepared to pay 4-10x as much. Some of my favorites are the copper peptides, hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid (great for a body exfoliant!).

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • Nothing is better then this skin care line, life changing knowing what products you are actually putting on your skin!

  • I am obsessed with the Ordinary glycolic acid. It helps my skin stay smooth and exfoliated. After working in dermatology for two years - this had become a staple for my skin care routine.

    Customer
  • I didn't believe the hype but I should have. The way these products CLEARED my skin was amazing. I religiously use the niacinamide 10% and Zinc 1% have repurchased countless times!

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I love this brand! They have so many great products that actually work like the Niacinamide. Hyaluronic Acid, Glycolic Toner....there are too many to name!

  • Only thing to really boast is their price point - otherwise not a company with great moral values and lacking in quality control. I understand folks who stick to this for the price point, but for those willing to pay for a better product and a better company I highly recommend you do.