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

  • Good price. But it is not very useful because each product has only one specific ingredient.

  • The moisturizer is fantastic for the price point. It is very rich and does a great job for moisturizing over night or in the winter.

  • No fuss, beauty and good quality product. I really appreciate the simple, packaging and branding of this company. They have no fuss and no frills beauty products. The downside is, you should really know what you need and what you’re looking for. If you do have in mind what you need for your skin, then it’s a breeze finding the ingredients that you need. Excellent quality and even more excellent price

  • Love their natural moisturizing factors + HA moisturizer! So reasonably priced and works just as well as high end products I’ve tried. I have dry/combination skin and the trick to using it for me is to apply it to damp skin. That way, it layers perfectly under makeup, sunscreen, and other skincare. Light enough to use during the day, and I also like putting on a layer at night, letting it set, and then applying my retinol and a thicker night cream.

  • Clear ingredient labeling, simple formulations, and minimal packaging at a great price point.

  • I love almost all the products I got from TO. I love that they're good but still affordable. The Caffeine eye serum is especially good. Like the website experience.

  • Some products work better than others. Love how cheap they are for the quality.

  • I did not find it gave enough moisture. I have a skin that is in the dry side, so I need my products to be very rich and nutrient dense. And, I did not feel it provided moisture that was deep and lasted the day.

    Received a free product from The Ordinary
  • The hyaluronic acid is my absolute staple. Cannot live without staple. I have sensitive skin and have had no adverse results from it. It’s nice to have finally found a product that works.

  • I love how the products are all straightforward and tell you exactly what you're putting on your skin. I learned so much about what ingredients to use and what to avoid from this brand!

  • Love love love this brand! I have been using their products since they were first released and found it so easy to have access to some really great ingredients at lower price points. I do think their mission created a 20 step routine craze which unfortunately did more harm than good for some people... but I love how comprehensive their website is. It makes it so easy to understand what you're ingredients are doing, and how to build your own routine. Lately, they have also been putting out some products, (slightly higher in price point) but with more emphasis on formulation and I have been loving this new direction.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I was introduced to The Ordinary skincare line by an influencer I follow. The standout feature is the cost. It is quality skincare without the high cost that a lot of other brands carry. The Squaline is overall my favorite it delivers noticeable results and leave my skin feeling hydrated and gives a nice glow. Overall is you are looking for a skincare line that won't break the bank this would be my go to.

  • The Ordinary is a go-to for affordable skincare that actually works. I love the variety of products, and there's nothing necessarily wrong with the brand, I just prefer others.

  • Amazing for the price. They have almost every single active skincare ingredient you could want. Their shipping is on the slower side, but if you order from Ulta or Sephora, it is a lot better. I love the caffeine eye serum and the hyaluronic acid.

  • I have so many of their products, they are a great brand, minimal packaging and affordable skincare.

  • Affordable skincare with high quality ingredients! I love that I can curate and customize exactly what is in my skincare and what my skin needs at the moment.

  • I love love love the ordinary products. Super affordable and not harsh on my sensitive skin. I’ve used and repurchased the alpha arbutin and the hyaluronic acid. The products are a staple in my skincare.

  • Love love love The Ordinary. The Azaleic Acid has been my go to for years. Great price point as well.

  • Helped my skin a lot and was easy to apply. Would like more for the price though.

    Received a free product from The Ordinary