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 Ordinary is an exceptional brand. Making designer quality skin care at an affordable price for consumers does not seem like an easy feat, but they really nail it. I love their minimal packaging and I really love how their products make my skin feel. Their moisturize is one of my favorites - it goes on the skin smooth without feeling heavy. I also always make sure to keep a handful of their serums in my medicine cabinet.

  • I love how minimalistic all their stuff is. Definitely makes it easier to understand the products. Recommend.

  • The Ordinary is top quality skin care but so affordable. The Squaline cleaner and Hyaluronic acid with B5 are two of the best products in my opinion and I've used them for over the last two years. My skin is clear and smooth. I highly recommend The Ordinary products for all skin care needs.

  • Skincare is highly dependent on the end user's needs and genetic makeup, so a product that doesn't do much for one person may work wonders for another. I'd say The Ordinary as a whole is a reliable starting point for no-frills formulations that are effective. I've been enjoying their Glycolipid Cream Cleanser as of late (it makes my skin feel clean without stripping), their Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution has been repurposed as a deodorant (no BO all day!), and their AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a cult classic that makes my skin feel baby-smooth. I don't care for their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum as the formula isn't the most cosmetically elegant and pills when layered with other products, and their Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG eye serum does nada for me.

  • Cute packaging, but their products never ended up living up to expectations for me.

  • The Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid work great. but their moisturizers make my skin really oily/greasy

  • Great value for money with products that are effective. The retinol in particular is a great option that is cheap and works exceptionally well. Slovember sales (23% off in Nov aka Black Friday sales) is also a unique take on promos and gives everyone more time to buy what they love vs. impulse buy.

  • Do you need high quality skincare at a drugstore price? Look no further than The Ordinary!!! Their formulas are incredible and their pricing is absolutely amazing!!! It’s actually more affordable than most drugstore brands and more reliable and effective than many high end brands! I love their glycolic acid toner and AHA serum.

  • Love the idea of this company, the products are great and have good effects on my skin. However I would love to see a switch to more sustainable packaging. I also believe they need to have clearer advice about how to use the products so people do not damage their skin.

  • I love The Ordinary hylauronic acid serum. It improved my skin texture and is in affordable, quality product for everyone.

    Consumer
  • i use this shit every day!!!! it makes my skin feel soo good and clean i love it

  • I really like The Ordinary and their business model. They sell skincare at a fraction of the price as the majority of their competitors. I also enjoy the wide range of products they offer.

  • The hyaluronic acid is phenomenal and at a great price point. I have my Mom and MIL hooked. Both are repeat buyers and will continue to purchase. Luxury feel, not luxury price.

  • I am IN LOVE with this brand! It's great seeing such quality skincare being offered at such an affordable price. I continuously buy the Niacinamide & Zinc serum - it has changed my skin for the better! There are so many other products from this brand I have yet to try. 10/10!