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

2,515 reviews and posts

  • The Ordinary offers some great, affordable skincare products with a no-frills approach, which I really appreciate. Their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% has been a staple in my routine—it helps with oil control and makes my skin feel smoother. I also like that they focus on active ingredients without unnecessary fillers, and the price point is unbeatable for what you get. That said, I found their products a bit tricky to navigate at first. The clinical names and lack of detailed instructions can be overwhelming if you’re not already well-versed in skincare. For example, I accidentally overused their AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution, which irritated my skin because I didn’t realize how strong it was. I also wish the packaging was more user-friendly; the droppers can get messy, and I’ve had bottles leak during travel. The Ordinary is great for someone who knows what they’re doing and wants affordable, effective skincare, but it’s not the most beginner-friendly. If you’re willing to do your research and figure out how to layer and use their products correctly, it’s worth it. Otherwise, it can feel like you’re experimenting on your skin without much guidance.

  • The Ordinary provides quality skincare at a very affordable price point. The Niacinimide serum is in my daily rotation and I use it before my moisturizer. I find that it keeps my acne at bay, and reduces the appearance of blackheads on my nose. I use the red BHA mask once a week to chemically exfoliate my skin and it leaves my face feeling soft and supple. I like using a chemical exfoliator so I am not rubbing at my skin and being harsh. My best friends also love these products and we love that they are less than 20 dollars a piece.

  • I tried the Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone and found it to be okay. Isn't something I'll race back to buy, but it was a nice product.

  • Ordinary is a great price point. Very affordable for everyone. I use the Hyaluronic Acid daily. It does the job well. I use the facial moisturizing every now and then. It is not the most creamy to my skin. I support this brand 100% for their lack of glitz in packaging and the bottles. I work in advertising so I understand consumer behavior and buying habits and our attraction to visually appealing products. This is the down and dirty that does a good job.

  • Love The Ordinary! Have used a number of their products. First product ever was the Hyaluronic acid which is a staple in my skincare. Insane dewy finish under makeup. Have used niacinimide on my severe acne-prone skin. Currently using the multi peptide growth lash & brow serum and the hair density serum, so far loving both! Great brand for effective, and affordable actives that can be easily introduced in your skincare.

  • affordable, simple, efficient. I've tried many products including marine hyaluronics, retinol, buffet serum, salicylic acid, hair serum and many other products. some things I LOVE (Buffet) but some things don't work for me (Caffeine Solution). I think The Ordinary provides a really good value for the price.

  • Loveeeee I love that I can go into Sephora and not spend 100’s of dollars. I’ve used this brand for years. The scalp serum is fantastic. Same with the eye oil. I’ve never had a bad experience

  • Decent and super affordable. Those two words describe my experience with The Ordinary. I’ve used their products on and off for a few years and have found other brands in the same category to be better but The Ordinary can’t be beat for its price. I think it’s a fantastic product for anyone just starting out with skincare and beauty! I’ve enjoyed their hyaluronic acid and niacinamide but haven’t repurchased in a while.

  • The ordinary is perfect for my skin no matter how much I want to use others cleansers I come back to him my cleanser… lol I love the brand bc as well the products are affordable

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • Their Hyaluronic Acid & B5 serum was a game changer for me. It was recommended by my dermatologist and I can understand why! I also tried the Azelaic acid, but it immediately pilled no matter what I did, so there was no chance for me to even really try to experience the effects. I appreciate that the serums come in glass packaging, that's pretty unique in the beauty industry!

  • I love that this lash serum skips prostaglandins—no weird eye darkening or irritation over time. The formula feels gentle overall, and I’ve definitely seen visible lash growth and fullness, especially after consistent use. That said, I’ve noticed some mild eyelid irritation on occasion (nothing major, but worth mentioning). For a clean, effective option that boosts lashes without harsh ingredients, this one’s a win for me.

  • I love the ordinary products and price point. This brand offers simple and effective skincare for a great price with no unnecessary ingredients. Cost effective and great brand mission!

  • This serum is affordable and works well for oily and acne-prone skin. It helps reduce shine and calm breakouts without irritation. A great budget-friendly option for daily use. 🫧☁️✨ recommended ☁️☁️🥥

  • Used it consistently for a few weeks—this is actually my second bottle. Best for oily, acne-prone, or combination skin types. Not fungal acne safe (contains niacinamide and zinc, which can trigger it for some). Helps control oil and fade dark spots, but can feel tacky on the skin.

  • One of my favorite toners, this is great for occasional refresher on your scalps, or including anywhere that needs that brightened effect. Including, great to remove under arm order. This is so versatile to use!

  • I've been reading reviews and feedback on The Ordinary, and I finally decided to try one of their products. I bought the squalane+amino acids lip balm since my lips are always in desperate need of attention. For lip balm, it was not cheap; however, I've spent twice as much for a product that absolutely didn't work, so I feel it was fair. However, I did notice their price point for other products was extremely decent and much lower than many other brands. So far, the lip balm feels wonderful. It's silky smooth with no burn or irritation whatsoever, and it's not leaving my lips drier than before I put it on. I'm hoping there will be long-term benefits to daily usage, but thankfully it feels great enough to keep using.

  • I love this brand and have been using them for a while. it’s a go-to reliable skincare brand for me especially since it’s super affordable. I’ve used the lactic acid serum and the HA moisturizer for years now! I also use the glycolic acid regularly along with some other serums here and there. Their website is super helpful for product info and help with skincare routines.

  • Absolutely love the ordinary. This brand was honestly revolutionized the skincare industry by being so affordable and educating people about ingredient forward products rather than gimmicky products! I love it!

  • The Ordinary’s Niacinamide + Zinc serum has been a game changer for my skin. I started using it for breakouts and oil control, and now my skin feels way more balanced. It goes on light and sinks in fast—no sticky feeling. I just use a few drops before moisturizer, and it’s made a big difference over time. And their Hyaluronic Acid moisturizer? So good. It’s simple but super hydrating, and my skin feels soft all day without being greasy. I love that both products are affordable and actually work. I always keep these two stocked in my routine.

  • This is a brand that I’ve been using for the past 8 years. I especially love their argireline and buffet. Great value, good results, good quality. I can mix/match whatever regimen I’d like to do, at great price!