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 love the hydrating oil based serums! The retinol serums can be really strong and are only suited for those that have experience with retinols.

  • I can't say enough good things about the ordinary. I love how accessible the brand makes skincare and how easy it is to build and follow a skincare routine -- even for beginners. I got my brother hooked on the brand and countless others.

  • I have sensitive skin and usually have to take samples to test whether a product will work for my skin. But not for Ordinary. All the products by ordinary and simple, clean and deliver on their promise. Highly highly recommend.

  • Been using The Ordinary products for a while now and have no complaints. Their hyaluronic acid is my absolute fave, and never fails to keep my skin looking plump and very hydrated!

  • Can’t beat the price! Have been really happy with their products and have been using them for years.

  • Don’t use their products if you aren’t familiar with the ingredients. Their hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are their best products cult fav for a reason. No BS serums that work. Not a fan of their vitamin Cs

  • The Ordinary may not always work, but it is always worth the money because you only spend a little on it. It's an incredible alternative for someone on a budget who cares about keeping their skin healthy. Once you find the products that work, they will come as a staple for daily use and a rainy day, to say the least. Quality-price is right there or higher on most products and i love that.

  • The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum is my go to hydrating serum. It has totally changed my skincare game.

  • Nourishing, dose not irritate my skin leaves amazing results

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I used to be extremely adamant about using the ordinary products when I was first trying to build a more stable routine. It’s a great line, but I think it’s really great for those who are on a budget. It’s a really great beginner friendly brand and introduction to the different acids that are out there dedicated to different skin conditions and goals. I used to use the azalaeic acid suspension as well as the niacinamide 10% + zinc and they both worked pretty well. Some consistencies were sticker than others, and some pilled quite a bit despite proper layering, but overall a good line of skincare.

  • I love the ordinary products! You don’t have to spend a ton of money on all skincare products and the ordinary shows that. I really like the hydraulic acid & vitamin C serum.

  • I've tried many different TO products over the years. I currently use their argan oil and have gifted it to friends. I have sensitive, breakout-prone skin and when I was using their hyaluronic acid moisturizer I didn't have any issues. I continue to see reputable experts recommend TO products and love that they are affordable, so when I need to try a new exfoliant or serum, I will likely buy from them.

  • this brand helped me step into the world of skincare! with very reasonable and accessible pricing for high quality products, i will always recommend them to skincare newbies and veterans alike

  • I really like the packaging, value for money and how you can choose which serums and products individually match your skin type.

  • I like the 5% azelaic acid. The 15 and 20% are only available with a prescription, and are often not covered. A go-to fir to reduce inflammation and redness.

  • I’ve tried multiple products from the Ordinary and have been happy with all of them. The company offers really great skincare at very affordable prices. Highly recommend!

  • The Ordinary is anything but ordinary! I had sensitive skin and I've been using their oil cleanser and moisturizer for the last 2 years without issues. Highly recommend and very cost-effective for what you're getting.