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

2,516 reviews and posts

  • 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
  • my faveeeeee brand so affordable and clean

  • I love the gentle cleanser. It takes off all my make up, while leaving my skin feeling super hydrated.

  • Consistently great products with low prices. I have a whole routine built out of The Ordinary... The latest I tried was the primer for under make up and it makes my make up sit perfectly.

  • I went on a spree and purchased a ton of their products for the incredible price point. Unfortunately, most didn't have the efficacy I needed, but it was a great introduction to getting more technical with my skincare products and understanding my skin sensitivity.

  • I love the hyaluronic acid serum because it's super hydrating. A luxe quality product without the markup, thank you!

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • The Ordinary has revolutionized skincare with its straightforward approach to high-quality formulations. The minimalist aesthetic belies the exceptional efficacy of each product. From the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% addressing blemishes to the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 delivering intense hydration, The Ordinary excels at targeted solutions. With an affordable price tag and a commitment to transparency, it's a brand that demystifies skincare, making radiant, healthy skin accessible to all.

  • i gave in to the ordinary hype on tiktok and was NOT disappointed. their glycolic acid toner has done wonders for my skin and i love the packaging and simplicity of the ingredients.

  • Very hit or miss. The Ordinary was innovative when they first became popular, offering a stripped down version of skincare that was accessible and simple to understand. And while that's still true, I've found a few of their products to be low quality or include a high percentage of an ingredient that can be harmful to some skin types.