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 absolutely love the squalane cleanser from the ordinary. I use it dry with no water to remove my make up as the first step in my nighttime skincare routine even with my dry sensitive skin. I do it like that first because, it makes my skin less dry before going in for my double cleanse. I do this a lot on my TikTok profile (@sweetzoie1) as well if you were interested in seeing my skincare routine

    No
  • 10 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Love it , it worth every dime.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I love it so much my skin has been cleared up!!❤️

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • Their toner is the best and also has many uses besides toning. It can be used for sweaty pits, cracked feet and more. All their products are very affordable.

  • I love using the Niacinamide and Caffeine Solution Serums every day! Has my skin feeling smooth and shiny!!

  • I purchased several items from this brand and I didn't see any change in my skin. I wanted a brighter complexion with less acne and post acne masks. I did not get more acne while using these products, but I also did not get less. These products have no effect for me.

  • I really love the ordinary products - no markup, simple, clean, effective ingredients. I've always repurchased the Niacinamide serum and it's working great!

  • I really enjoy The Ordinary for skincare ingredients I want to incorporate into my routine without additional unnecessary and potentially harmful ingredients. I have sensitive skin so I appreciate the no fuss aspect of this brand.

  • Loved the price point, the transparency, the help with how to use your products via website, and overall quality

  • Tried a few of their products. Good value for the money. I really enjoyed the lactic acid peel that I bought. Effective product for a very reasonable price point. When there is a promo (I think it’s once annually in November), you should stock up.

  • I love all of The Ordinary products that I've tried. My favorites/daily go-to products are the lactic acid and hyaluronic acid. I have really dry skin and this combo keeps my skin looking vibrant and healthy without causing any acne or redness. Also love the price point for all of their products. Their lactic acid is comparable to Sunday Riley's much more expensive serum, IMO.

  • I purchased their Rosehip oil to use as a neutral oil for makeup removal. No issues with the product and I especially appreciate the price point.

  • i am amazed by the continuous results i have had by this brand, clearing up my acne, getting rid of baggy eyes and calming my skin.

  • I love The Ordinary! Not only to they have amazing skincare products, they are also very affordable. The AHA peel is my favorite product.

  • The Ordinary is a really wonderful option for skincare at a really affordable price. The serums are my favorite as nobody wants to be spending a fortune on those and they are just beautifully crafted. If something doesn't work out for you, it's not the end of the world because at the price, the products are such a steal!

  • Good quality for cheap prices. I think the salicylic acid works really well to treat breakouts as a spot treatment.

  • I used the acne line and it was perfect for my skin! I also swear by their Niacinamide!