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

  • So incredibly affordable and packaging still feels high quality. Effectiveness of the product seems to go away sort of quickly?

  • I feel like I'm getting real ingredients for my skin and it feels nice that I'm not paying extra for marketing and added fragrances (shout out to Dr Emily Newsom from JVN's Getting Curious podcast). I like the 'clinical' feel of the brand and I'm a repeat buyer of the Niacinamide. Because they're also usually smaller bottles, it doesn't feel too wasteful to try something or test something out on my skin.

  • The Ordinary as a brand is really great at providing ingredients at an affordable price point. I will say that you’ll need to do some research on your own of the ingredients to know what can be mixed with what. It’s sort of like they give you the raw materials and it’s up to you on how to utilize them.

  • I have used several products from The Ordinary and am never disappointed. Love how they use clean ingredients and everything is affordable. Currently still using the marula oil

  • Appreciate this brand putting out quality skincare for affordable prices . Keeping it simple and available

  • Great products, affordable prices, however be mindful of layering and mixing them as some have very potent ingredients and can irritate your skin if not used correctly.

  • I love the Ordinary. There is a product for everyone! I personally love the Buffet + Copper Peptide serum. Since incorporating, skin has been smooth and glowy.

  • Overall, this brand is clean, functional, affordable, and straightforward. I gave 4 out of 5 stars because the cleansing balm was disappointing. I use the "Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1% daily and the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution weekly. Highly, highly recommend both of these products to improve skin tone, overall texture, shrink pores, and add smoothness.

  • I have used the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, retinol, and AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution and seen AMAZING results. for the Hyaluronic acid, make sure the face is slightly damp for it to fully work. The product holds up to 200% it's weight in water and gives a great plumping effect. The peeling solution tightens my skin and fades acne scarring, and the retinol has given my skin a much smoother, younger appearance. Great products at a low price!

  • Amazing masks and serums - I love the aha “blood”mask it’s always made my skin freshen up and lasts for a couple weeks! Their packaging is gorgeous and minimal - looks great in my cabinet ♥️ I used their hair serum as well before but didn’t notice a difference I heard it is a long term solution.

  • The quality of products for the price is really impressive. their skin care is really top notch and comparable to those of luxury brands. There are some items which I’m not sure if they contain as many active ingredients as more expensive brands but sometimes less is more on skin especially the face.

  • Amazing quality at an accessible price. Research the ingredients to know what you need and how to combo them!

  • Really liked their daily moisturiser and niacinamide serum. The moisturiser is a little on the heavier side but otherwise, I have no hesitation reccomending a friend adds this to their skincare routine.

  • I live for The Ordinary! The no-nonsense branding is exactly what I look for in a quality product when it comes to skincare. Everything I've ever tried works wonders and the price is right.

  • This is a great price point to try new products. I think the most difficult thing is knowing what your skin actually needs and would be helpful to have a curated selection for each skin type. I’ve used the caffeine eye cream but didn’t really notice any improvement.

  • Love this brand and all of their products. So many different options depending on your needs. I have bought the glycolic acid many times.

  • Honestly so good. Helped with acne which was nice. However some of their skincare doesnt tell you that it can damage the skin barrier so be careful.

  • Good inexpensive skincare if you’re trying to stay on a budget. They were the first of their kind with targeted ingredients at affordable prices. I do admit though they need better warnings or guidance on what to use if you’re a beginner and how. I used their vitamin C for a bit and I swear it was burning my skin.