The Ordinary reviews and discussion

4.5

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Effective acne-clearing serums
  • Noticeably brighter, smoother skin
  • Minimalist, clinical formulations
  • Clear, straightforward labeling
  • Sticky serum textures
  • Potential irritation from actives
  • Hit-or-miss product efficacy
  • Confusing product naming

The Ordinary earns strong reviews for effective, ingredient-forward skincare that improves texture, hydration, acne, and glow—with standouts 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, can pill or irritate sensitive skin, high actives may overwhelm newbies, results can be hit-or-miss, and product naming/usage can be confusing.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

2,515 reviews and posts

  • 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.

  • This is one of those rare products that actually lives up to what it promises. It hydrates instantly, layers well with everything else in my routine, and never irritates my skin. When I apply it to damp skin and lock it in with moisturizer, my face feels soft, balanced, and plump all day. It’s not the cheapest out there, but it’s worth the price for how well it works. I’ve repurchased it more than once, which says a lot. Definitely one of the most consistent and reliable steps in my routine.

  • 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!

  • 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

  • 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.