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

  • Cost effective products that work

  • Good affordable products, that work well. I think that if I would recommend anything to improve upon it would be making sure that buyers know how the products can help them. The products look good, and can be taken through security at an airport.

  • Love love everything about this company and it’s products. Clean ingredients. Great products. So very affordable. Customer for life.

  • I bought the No-Brainer Set which came with 3 introductory products. It was a great way to level up my skincare habits and give their most popular products a try. Great for anyone looking for high quality and innovative skincare products but who also values having a simple routine like me.

  • The Ordinary has a wide selection of great products. The brand keeps everything simple making skincare a little easier. You can’t beat the price either! The hyaluronic acid is one of the products I can’t live without.

  • I’ve tried several products from The ordinary. It’s great for people who know what they’re doing but it can be overwhelming for those new to skincare. Overall there are a lot of products with great formulations! The hyauluronic acid is a go to!

  • Ordinary Is amazing they have really good quality and affordable skincare. I've been a customer of they 'res for a few years and keep coming back because of the cost/quality.

  • I was introduced to this brand by a friend of mine, who puts in a lot of research into her skin care. I was surprised first by the pricing and how unbelievably affordable it was and secondly the products are actually very good! I wasn’t surprised to then find out that this company is from Canada- as my experience now with all Canadian products that I’ve purchased/tried have been extremely positive

  • I’m testing the organic cold-pressed rose hip seed oil. I use it to do gua sha on my face. It makes the stone run smoothly but the smell is not very pleasant.

  • I'm thrilled with The Ordinary's products! It's made a real difference in my skincare routine. The Ordinary focuses on making quality skincare that's affordable, and this product shows their commitment. The Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is gentle yet effective. It's helped my skin feel smoother and look better. It gets rid of dead skin cells and gives my skin a healthy glow. What's great is that The Ordinary is clear about what's in their products. This toning solution has glycolic acid, which works well without costing a lot. The bottle lasts a long time, so it's a great deal. I use it 3-4x a week and my skin has improved a lot. If you want affordable skincare that works, I highly recommend The Ordinary's Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. It's a game-changer!

  • I've used their Hyalronic Acid + B5 serum and I like it. I've also dappled with their moisturizer. I think they have good prices, but I'm not sure if they benefit my skin or not. I think they maintain, and perhaps I just have to try a different product... but I saw no clear difference. I'd take them or leave them, or simply find a product that works for your specific skin type.

  • Amazing. Great for new to skincare ppl and ppl who are well versed. Website has useful breakdowns on what products go well together and products that should never be combined. It caters all skin types and concerns for a price point that can’t be beat.

  • I am an avid skincare lover and for the most part- The Ordinary can do no wrong! They offer a phenomenal product at an affordable price point. What more could you want!

  • Truly one of the best bang for your-buck skincare brands out there. I really love their ascorbic acid 10% and retinol. I used to use the Hyaluronic Acid 2% for a long while but make sure that your skin is damp when you use it or else it won't work

  • I've been using The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid Serum for a few months now, and I can confidently say that it has become an absolute staple in my skincare routine. This product has truly transformed the way my skin looks and feels. The texture of this serum is a dream. It's lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly into the skin, making it perfect for both morning and night use. I love how it instantly hydrates my skin, leaving it feeling plump and refreshed. I've struggled with dry skin and occasional breakouts in the past, but this serum has helped balance my skin's moisture levels and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It also plays well with other skincare products and makeup, which is a big win for me. The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a game-changer for anyone looking to up their skincare game. It's effective, affordable, and it simply works wonders for my skin. I can't recommend it enough, and it's a product I'll continue to repurchase. Give it a try, and I'm sure you'll be just as impressed as I am!

  • I've used a ton of different products from The Ordinary but definitely have seen the most positive effect on my skin with their actives (particularly their lactic acid and mandelic acid). I like incorporating their HA, ascorbic acid, and azelaic acid products as well.

  • So nice to find affordable skin care with a luxury feel, such a wide variety of products for different skin care needs and plenty of information on their website for those like me who aren't so clued up on this. Always go back and buy more, currently have like 7 of their products!

  • Excellent balance of value and quality - I have used their Niacinimide and HA serums for years now and continue to repurchase.

  • Very affordable, product seem high quality. Their facial peel is amazing.