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

  • The Ordinary products are great for people looking for just the essential active ingredients in their skincare routine. The premise of the products is simple: offer the right ingredients at the right dosage, all at the lowest price. What this means in practice is that you get serums, oils, and moisturizers with the same main ingredients as higher-end products—but at vastly reduced prices. I use the niacinamide serum daily and it costs less than $7. I also use the hyaluronic acid serum and moisturizer—both less than $15 each. Other brands using the same ingredients are typically priced much higher than The Ordinary—which is why The Ordinary stands out. I’ve been using these products for years, and I’ve never had an issue with quality, price, or quantity. In fact, what’s impressive about these products is how long they last. I can use the serums daily for months, and the moisturizer lasts even longer. In summary: if you’re looking to quite literally get what you pay for (in the best way)—get The Ordinary.

  • The best most straightforward skincare that you can get for the price.

  • This product has done wonders for my skin! The texture and appearance is much more even and glowing. I really like the consistency of this product too—it feels hydrating and sinks into the skin easily.

  • i think that this brand can be good for certaint type of skin and moreover i think that is a good brand especially for teenagers, but anyway i think that everyone should give to the ordinary a chance :)

  • No frills but you get exactly what you're expecting based on the label. The price point is low enough to be able to buy a full assortment of skin care products without breaking the bank.

  • I have tried so many products from The Ordinary and finally settled on 5 awesome products that have transformed my skin. As with any face regimen, best results come from consistent and proper use of the product.

  • The caffeine under eye solution is the only thing I have EVER found that helped me with under eye puffiness/darkness, can't recommend enough. Amazing product and price! The only other thing I've tried was the multi-peptide lash and brow serum, which did nothing. Took progress pics and saw no change in lashes OR brows. Go for rapidlash and rapidbrow instead.

  • The ordinary products are clean and their serums I easily incorporate into my skincare routine. Clean and love the packaging of the products.

  • Overall those are good products but with time they got more pricey and maybe less efficient? Niacinamide is one of the best that I found.

  • I cannot beat the price of their multi-peptide + copper peptides serum. It functions better than some more expensive items I have purchased and truly makes my skin look healthier. I also like their Niacinamide + Zinc serum for breakouts. It dries up zits overnight. I recommend trying lots of different products to discern what does and does not work for you.

  • The hyaluronic acid is the best! I've been using it for years.

  • Nice packaging, good pricing and value for what you get. Wasn't anything transcendent, but didn't pretend to be or need to be for the price/ease of getting product in my hand.

  • I personally love the hyaluronic acid, good quality at a good price range!

  • I switched from L’Oréal to Ordinary hyaluronic acid and like this better. It does not bother my eyes which is a plus.

  • Great product at an affordable price! Made my skin super smooth.

  • They have such great prices for their products and everything is super simple. It’s a great strategy and their products are really easy to use.

  • Most of the things I have used from this brand are just OK but the price point is good.

  • I love how the ordinary makes it possible to have an affordable yet complete skincare routine. The products are easy to use and the simple explanations are great for people who are new to skincare.

  • I love that this brand provides affordable, high quality, and basic skincare. I wish there were certain products available or guidance from the brand to which products you should use and when.