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

  • I enjoyed the products but find them pricy and enjoy the use of cheaper alternatives, which seam to work just as well. I do like the minimum additives and company mission.

  • Love some of their products are good, and they are cheap and cheerful but I would say they are not as effective as other similar brands like CeraVe or The Inkey List

  • The Ordinary is my holy grail! I've been using for years and never tried a bad product. My absolute favorite is their hyaluronic acid serum. It saves me during winter from having dry skin. You also can't beat the price for the quality of ingredients.

  • The best thing since sliced bread. The ordinary has to be the best skin care range out there I have combined skin most places oily but other places dry. I'm acne prone so most things tend to make it worse for me not this though.

  • I appreciate the minimal packaging and the price point. I use it often but not sure on the consistency of it working. I don’t get consistent results but I think it’s still worth a try. The price alone makes this more accessible so why not try it and see how it works for you.

  • I personally would buy this brand again. There are some serums that helped my hair grow drastically. I did try a lot of different serums for my acne, didn’t see much results as everyone was telling me.

  • I appreciate the company's approach of using minimal packaging/design/ad spend to provide a product that is very accessible price wise with clear formulations. I've tried quite a few of their product but the ones I most frequently repurchase are their Hyaluronic acid, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, and Niacinamide. They may not be the best option on the market but I would say they are a firmly solid choice and a price-point that I can do even when working with a smaller budget. Great option for people just getting into skincare to learn what types of products work well for their skin or as a more standard choice for anyone that is looking for a cost-effective solution.

  • Science-backed, low cost ways to get the targeted products onto your skin that ACTUALLY work.

  • Love the affordability of these products and how clear The Ordinary's directions are in terms of skincare steps and the actual chemistry behind what the product is doing for your skin. Especially love the azelaic acid for my face and the glycolic acid for my scalp and body!

  • I used to like this brand more but over time I have felt that the products didn't have the same efficacy as previously expected and that the scents have gotten more chemically than I remember. I think their price point is great, I do use some of their products and I have enjoyed looking through their stores in person, but it's difficult to best understand how to mix and match products.

  • Been using their Niancinamide serum. It’s ok. Don’t think it works so great. But good price point.

  • I love that they focus on one ingredient products. Their hyaluronic acid was light and didn't leave any sticky or tacky feeling. Simple and effective.

  • I have acne prone, sensitive skin and have always struggled finding something affordable that didn’t leave my skin irritated or made it worse. The salicylic acid and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum changed my skin around for the good! I saw a difference the next day, I will get stubborn bumps and congestion around my jaw and this cleared it right up. Don’t let the low prices turn you away, it actually works!

  • This brand is exceptional and when you consider the price it's just unbeatable value for money. All the skin care products are high quality well branded and safe. I love it

  • I love every product I’ve used! Great results and amazing prices!