The Ordinary reviews and discussion

4.5

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Effective acne-clearing serums
  • Hydrating, lightweight hyaluronic serum
  • Powerful exfoliating acid treatments
  • Minimalist, reliable packaging
  • Occasional sticky serum textures
  • Harsh actives for sensitive skin
  • Pilling under makeup occurs
  • Inconsistent retinol performance

The Ordinary earns strong reviews as effective, ingredient-forward skincare that improves texture, hydration, acne, and clarity—standouts include Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, and Squalane Cleanser—while minimalist packaging appeals. Reviews also flag downsides: some formulas feel sticky or pill, actives can be harsh or confusing to layer, certain products (retinols, vitamin C, hair care) underperform for some, and a few report irritation or breakouts.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

2,522 reviews and posts

  • 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.

  • Great quality products at a very reasonable price. You just need to be a pharmacist to understand what order to put everything on in lol I love the packaging and it’s easy to travel with. Products worked very very well.

  • I have tried many different The Ordinary products. They are good valued considering the price and quality. But some products like serum have a gluey texture which is sticky and hard to absorb.

  • I use the azelaic acid and hyaluronic acid. They are very effective and very affordable. I highly recommend.

  • 🌟 Incredible Skincare Essential! The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a Game Changer! 🌟 I've been on the hunt for a skincare superhero, and I've finally found it with The Ordinary's Niacinamide serum! Let me just say, this product has transformed my skin game entirely. ✨ Effective Results: Within a few weeks of consistent use, I noticed a visible reduction in the appearance of my pores and a significant improvement in my skin texture. My complexion looks smoother and more even, giving me that coveted natural glow. 🌿 Gentle & Lightweight: The serum feels incredibly light and gentle on my skin. It absorbs quickly, doesn’t leave any sticky residue, and layers perfectly with my other skincare products. I love how it doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin at all! 👌 Perfect for Oily Skin: If you have oily or combination skin, this serum is a game-changer! The zinc component works wonders in controlling excess oil, helping me keep shine at bay throughout the day. 💧 Hydration Booster: Surprisingly, it doesn’t dry out my skin either. It keeps my skin well-hydrated and balanced without making it feel greasy. 🌞 Versatile & Affordable: I've incorporated this into both my morning and evening routines, and the best part? The price! The Ordinary offers top-notch quality at such an affordable price point. ✅ Overall Verdict: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% has become an absolute staple in my skincare routine. It’s a holy grail product that delivers noticeable results without breaking the bank. If you're looking for clearer, more balanced skin, I highly recommend giving this a try!

    Friends with The Ordinary
  • The niacinimide changed my face and really lessened my painful acne! The price point is unbeatable and I love the honesty in their products. It’s very accessible and high quality with a variety of products.

  • Most of my moisturizers are ordinary. I like the azelaic acid moisturizer - it feels so expensive without being expensive. I also like the salicylic acid mask and the retinol. I've also used the squalane cleanser and really like it as a make up remover.

  • I only have their moisturizer. It feels grainy and I don’t think it moisturizes my skin at all. Wouldn’t recommend.

  • Used a serum from here for years! Very good and a great price point too

  • It’s a solid brand to try out new products given the price point! I really like the hyaluronic acid and peptide serum.

  • The Ordinary’s glycolic acid toner is amazing and reasonably priced

  • All the active ingredient products I've used do their jobs in a sensible time frame of about a week, except the squalane cleanser, which can't remove waterproof eye make-up. It would also be easier to get the product at the bottom of bottles if they were cylindrical and not bell-shaped.

  • Ordinary has really good products that I have incorporated in my morning and night time skincare routine including the hyaluronic acid and niacinimide serum!