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

  • I like the fairly simple and pharmacy like packaging. It attracts the eye and every product I tried so far was very good quality. I bought mine in the shop which I liked as well- very simple stripped down and almost industrial looking. I will use it again.

  • I really feel like this is a luxury brand for half the cost. The affordability offers well made products to people who can’t afford a 50$ toner. It’s considerate and an exceptional product that is definitely worth the hype!

  • I love these products!!!!!! The moisturizer I use daily and have atleast 4 other serums and the toner! Love using the toner on my scalp to help with dandruff

  • The Ordinary Serum-Caffeine 5% + EGCG 30 ml is a must for those mornings you wake up with puffy eyes. I’d say that the product works 85% of the time and it’s my go to most mornings. I use it under eye only and a little bit is all that is needed

  • I haven’t used this for a long time, but I don’t see any difference whatsoever yet. It wasn’t that expensive so maybe you get what you pay for. I will continue to use it and hopefully I will see results soon.

  • I don’t know what I would do without The Ordinary!!! 3/4 of my skincare routine is with their stuff!!! They are affordable and effective and they have helped my skin look way better!

  • I have used different products from The Ordinary and I love them. These days I’m using Argireline solution 10%, as a first step before the serum and cream. It seems to give me hydration and tightness. Another product I have used is Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum that promotes and improves the thickness and density of the lashes and brows. It is to be used twice a day, sounds hard to follow but actually is pretty easy and fast. It dries fast, doesn’t let residual product and doesn’t burn or irritate the eyes. Last but not least important, are the ingredients, contains caffeine, amino acids and natural extracts to promote the health of brow & lashes. It is a fragrance free.

  • I've tried a bunch of their products, good quality at a low price, and easy to use especially when you're just starting to build your skincare routine. I love their hyaluronic acid, moisturizer, and argan oil for my hair. For reference, I have dry and acne-prone skin.

  • OMG!!! My skin has never looked so hydrated and glowing in my life since switching to this product!!! My model friend featured this product in a reel and I gave it a try and now im hooked!

  • affordable yet effective

    Feedback

    One of the standout products from The Ordinary is their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum. This serum is designed to help reduce the appearance of blemishes, pores, and uneven skin texture, while also regulating oil production. After using this serum for a few weeks, I noticed a significant improvement in the overall appearance of my skin. My pores looked smaller, and my skin felt smoother and more even.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • Ive been researching a lash serum for ages because faux lashes never looked good on me, the maintenance and cost was ridiculous to upkeep. I felt like the moment those fake lashes came off I was less attractive than before I put them on, it was a neverending cycle of UGH. Finally after completely DESTROYING my natural lashes I tried this last serum as a hail Mary. And within two weeks I already was seeing new growth. Within a month my lashes were stronger and thicker. And now four months later (and only one container of the lash serum) my natural lashes are full, thick and so long people often mistake them for faux lashes. So if you're questioning just buy it babe.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I love the Ordinary skin care line. It offers quality products at a reasonable price point. I am a firm believer in being able to buy great skincare products at drugstore prices. We often get sold prodcuts with unreasonable promises at astromical prices. Their customer service is great too, I asked for advice in the their chat and recieved feedback on which products work best with others and which ones to not use together to avoid negating the intended effects of each product.

    Feedback

    Look into what product will help your skincare concerns and The Ordinary will probabaly offer that item. Don't get caught up in the sells tactics of other overpriced brands.

  • All the products i have used from the brand have done wonders on my skin. The last one I've been using is the Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution and the 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil.

    Feedback

    Very happy with the results of the products. I strongly recommend!

  • Niacinamide + Zinc and Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serums are my secret to healthy growing skin! It has never been this easy and affordable to create custom skin care routines now that The Ordinary is sold in Ulta stores.

  • Ordinary ist the best thing that happened to me , I feel very confident and clean

    Feedback

    Since I use ordinary , I do not have acne anymore . It reduces my acne and dry skin

  • Affordable and works! This brand is my go to for several products, I use the Multi-peptide serum and it helped strengthen my hair and I noticed new growth; I use hair oils and they noticibly nourish my hair. I also use the Caffeine 5% for my under eyes and have seen the decrease of puffiness and it has definitely helped with brightening dark circles!

    Feedback

    Personally I have no feedback for improvement. I have had a wonderful experience overall.

  • The Ordinary builds functional and easy to use skincare essentials that you can easily integrate into your day to day to achieve YOUR skincare goals. Highly recommend.

    Frequent Buyer
  • I really love their 10 minute exfoliating facial peel! It’s honestly one of the best products I have ever used on my skin. I use it about once a week/every 2 weeks and it keeps my skin bright & fresh! Highly recommend- although it can be a bit tingly! It’s worth it!

  • A bit heavy weight but that's probably because I chose the one for dry and combination skin. It's really absorbent and leaves my skin with a glowy finish

    Customer
  • I've used the Ordinary line for about 1 year, mainly the Squalane Cleanser and the Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA lotion. I liked the feel of the lotion, not too greasy and light enough to wear under makeup! I also found the face wash did a good job in also taking off my makeup from the day. Great price point for what you get!