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

  • I’ve tried many different products here, I love the rose hip seed oil

    Feedback

    The rose hip seed oil is a perfect moisturizer or even blender to mix with your foundation.

  • I haven't used too many The Ordinary Products, but I use the mandelic acid a few times a week. It's great for my skin texture and helps even out any hyperpigmentation.

    Feedback

    As there are so many different products, it's hard to review them all. I definitely think that some are better than others, but from what I've tried, overall this is a great, affordable brand.

  • Used to love them but there are better options these days like the inkey list.

  • Fantastic skincare at a truly reasonable price-point. The moisturiser is light and does the job, but the real star of the show for me is Face Buffet, which I found to be really moisturising serum. I've got sensitive skin, but I haven't suffered at all with any of The Ordinary's products. I really love the packaging, especially the ones with a pipette which helps with application, and also makes you feel like a badass scientist when you're using it.

    Feedback

    If you're looking for affordable skincare then this is a great place to start. It can be pretty hard to navigate what you actually need though due to the product naming, so do your research before you buy.

  • I have been using The Ordinary for three years, and I absolutely love their products! My brother and fiancé also started using it a little over a year ago, and they like it as well. The website is easy to navigate, the price is student/young professional friendly. I had a small allergic reaction to one of the acids, so I recommend following the regimen they e-mail once you complete a short skin quiz, but also do you own research. The one downside is that we have to plan to restock early in advance, because it can take weeks to arrive.

  • Highly recommend anything from the ordinary. They bring quality skincare at an affordable price. I’ve been using this products for years

  • Feedback

    Innovative products at an affordable price. I’ve used one of their peels before. It was good but it irritated my sensitive skin. I would like to try their non peel products though

  • I have tried their hyaluronic acid 2% + B5 and liked it because it did not let me break out. However, the product stays relatively sticky and starts te crumble around the lid of the bottle after a while.

    Feedback

    It works for its purpose but be prepared for a sticky skin for a bit.

  • Budget friendly skincare, I like their lash serum but i’m not too sure if it does anything.. Sleek packaging, would be nice to receive in a gift basket or a little stocking stuffer!

    Feedback

    I can’t speak to the serums etc, but they seem like generally safe purchase, which is always nice

  • The Ordinary has been a big presence in my skincare life over the past few years. I've cycled through trying out different products of theirs (with mixed outputs), but the one product that I use everyday now is the 100% Plant-derived Squalane. I use a couple drops of it all over my face and neck after my cream-based moisturizer every morning - and it really helps lock the moisture in for me and my super dry skin. Love how affordable this brand is and how many different formulations they offer for different skin types. Also think that the brand's aesthetic is clean, simple, and approachable.

  • This is my husband’s favorite go to. We’ve tried a lot of different products for him and this is tied with grown alchemist stuff.

    Feedback

    I think it’s just OK, but my husband swears by it

  • Love the Hyaluronic Acid is fantastic and a fraction of the price of other brands. Highly recommend!

    Feedback

    Don’t let the affordable prices fool you, these products are high quality like some of the luxury brands

  • Overall good experience.

    Feedback

    Some products are hit and miss. But that's more of a finding what works with your skin type

    Sale or special offer
  • Making beauty easy and clean. I love Ordinary's mission and products. Super easy to use and very cost-effective. This is great if you're looking for a specific skin care ingredient or solution but don't want/need to invest in a new moisturizer, mixed serum, etc.

    Feedback

    I wish they had a little more education into what you might use a particular product for.

  • Amazing bang for your buck. Some products seem superfluous so just make sure you know what you’re buying!

    Feedback

    Simple packaging, clear labeling, great price point.

  • This brand is something else! Within budget and effective, The Ordinary delivers skincare products that work! I’ve used multiple serums from this brand and am currently obsessing over the Lactic Acid. Under $15 for a bottle, and immediately I noticed a difference in my skin. It was smooth, fresh and glowing. I looked like I got an expensive facial peel! But I didn’t! Best feeling ever.

    Feedback

    Would like if there were more descriptions on how to use the product.

  • There isn't a product by The Ordinary I don't like. This is a staple in my AM and PM routine. I love that it's simple and effective and feels so nice on my skin. I've spent $$$ on other products that weren't nearly as nice. I hope they keep the price point as is.

    Feedback

    If you use the Glycolic acid for your armpits, be warned that it will make them smell 10x worse than before you applied it (even if there was no odor there prior to applying). Not sure why this is.

  • love this skincare line, love using their vitamin serum to help clear acne and give smooth skin!!

    Feedback

    love this brand, packaging is so cute too

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • good packaging, I haven't seen results yet as it to early but will keep you updated.

    Feedback

    ood packaging, I haven't seen results yet as it to early but will keep you updated.