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

  • The Ordinary has countless skincare products that address many different skincare concerns. My personal favorites of theirs are the Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution, the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum, and the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution!!

  • Honestly, at the beginning I didn,t have much of this brand... then one day I stole a bit of product from my sister and i started loving it. It makes my skin really smooth and calm my red spot on the face, especially the "glucoside foaming cleansing" and the serum with niamicinnamide.

    Buyer
  • I have used the salicylic acid 2% solution for a few years with generally positive results. I love that it comes in a glass dropper that makes it easy to use the product sparingly. The price point is great in comparison with other high-quality exfoliates. It's important to remember that it doesn't take much product to work, so DON'T overuse it or your skill will react poorly.

  • I now use 5 the ordinary products in my skincare routine. I love the breadth of products they offer for various skincare concerns. The package is very sleek and attractive to the eye.

  • great texture and love the packaging but leaves a sticky finish. I don’t know if it has changed something to my skin, but will probably work for other skin type. most important it is budget friendly, very affordable.

  • I’ve tried several products (Most of them ive bought multiple times). They have affordable skincare products, the packaging is stunning, and the ingredients are top tier.

    Received a free product from The Ordinary
  • I absolutely love The Ordinary products! I use their Niacinamide serum, Caffeine Solution, and the Peeling solution on my skin. The Niacinamide has helped my skin so much and has cleared it up as well as protected it from break outs. The Caffeine solution really helped to de-puff my under eyes. I’m not sure if it has lighted them but I do have genetic under-eye bags so that might be why. The peeling solution has helped my skin stay smooth and prevent breakouts! I also use the 100% Moroccan Argon Oil for my hair once a week when I wash it and I think it adds a nice shine and overall strengthens my hair. I overall really like the affordable of the products and have repurchased them multiple times.

  • my favorite brand that has ever existed. so much quality for such an affordable price! I especially love the niacinamide 10% + zinc 1% and the caffeine solution, but I'm sure all the products are amazing.

  • Love the Ordinary range of products! Simple packaging and informative website which provides advice on what products can be used together. I use their Lactic Acid 10% + HA and Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 which have really improved my skins plumpness and texture. Would recommend for people with dry skin! (Note, you may need to build your skin's tolerance to the acid so start at a low percentage).

  • The Ordinary have been my favourite skincare brand for about a year now. I've seen such a huge difference in my ski since using them. I have quite sensitive eyes to certain skincare products but i've never had any issues with the ordinary!

  • I found some of these products at first I love them, but after a couple weeks they didn’t work like they said it would so I had to stop using them

  • This brand is great! The products are good and their prices even better. I tried the Caffeine 5% + EGCG Depuffing Eye Serum and it helped with my puffy eyes. And a little went a long way. I purchased the product online and delivery was quick & easy.

    Personal purchase
  • Cannot beat the price of The Ordinary products! My favorite is the hyaluronic acid, which I use everyday and it was less than $10, which is ridiculously amazing. I keep going back to this product even after trying other similar serums. Highly recommended.

  • I love everything about The Ordinary, it's amazing and so affordable!!!!

    Feedback

    I have quite few products, all I use on daily basis. Such an amazing brand and incredibly affordable level. Quality is really good, without the price tag.

  • Feedback

    Thé ordinary hyaluronic acid 2% + B5 has really helped my skin in the winter time. It has become a stable in my skincare routine. It’s really good and keeps your skin hydrated and smooth looking. It is worth every penny.

  • Absolutely love this brand you get All the great products for your skin for a reasonable price.

    Feedback

    If your looking for a great brand that actually works and it is not going to put a dent in your pocket than this is definitely the brand to go with.

    None
  • I love The Ordinary. My skincare products are composed of 90% The ordinary. My personal favourite are the Niacinamide and the SA masque.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I think that The Ordinary is the perfect brand if you’re looking for affordable but still effective skincare products. I’ve tried so many products from the brand and none of them disappointed me. My favourite is the Hyaluronic Acid (which is less than 10 €) since is the one that made the biggest difference in the appearance of my skin. I use it every single day and it makes my skin more Plumped, hydrated and even. Definitely recommend it

  • I have the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum and it's super thick. I do feel like it's makes my skin a little softer but it's a thick consistency and if you don't pat it in right away, it leaves my skin feeling sticky. For the price though, it's a great skin care option.

    Feedback

    It's pretty thick and if it's not rubbed in or patted right away, it leaves my skin feeling sticky.

  • I’m a big fan of most of the ordinary’s products, but I am most excited about the multi-peptide eyelash serum. Having tried Dr. Lara Devgan’s (didn’t work) and Grande Lash (very $$$), I’m over the moon about the effectiveness of this product and its price point ($14!). My lashes were noticeably longer and fuller after 4 weeks. I’m about 8 weeks in and I think they are continuing to lengthen and thicken. I use it morning and evening. Bonus: it didn’t redden my eyelids the way grande lash did.

    Feedback

    No changes.