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

  • I love that these products look very luxurious but are very affordable. My skin is a lot better since using these products.

  • Love how affordable their products are and they work great for me, especially the glycolic acid toner. I noticed a difference after just a couple days of use

  • Great quality products that are simple, but so affordable. I use the niacinamide, salicylic acid, and caffein solution almost daily and they've done wonders for my skin.

  • Love how affordable the products are. Makes me feel better about expanding my skincare repertoire but I do wish that the education about which products do what and which ones could be combined were a little more accessible and front of mind. My skin has liked the products though and I would continue to repurchase!

  • Used their hand lotion. Unique feel on skin, as if wearing a glove. Not oily or greasy though! Affordable and customizable. Clean packaging, no complaints!

  • Good basic beginner skincare. Nothing incredible. It’s simple and focuses on one major ingredient per product, but I didn’t find it effective and quickly moved onto other brands that focus on many effective ingredients in one product.

  • I’ve tried multiple products from the brand- hair care, moisturizing products, chemical exfoliants, and hydrating and anti-aging serums. Several of them have worked their way into my everyday routine (although the hair care line didn’t really do much for me).

    Feedback

    I think they’re great quality for the price. The ingredient list is easy to understand and although nothing will create magical results, my skin has improved when using their products. Accessible and functional brand.

  • I really enjoy using the ordinary products. It’s a great no-fuss way to get affordable and quality skincare. If it was easier to find their products in person, I would definitely buy a lot more.

  • Love all of the ordinary products! The packaging is some of my favorites for skin care. Everything lasts a long time if you use it properly so it’s worth the price.

    Feedback

    Nothing notable to change! Maybe pricing.

  • Great products! You have to know what to use and what you are able to pair together. They have great resources and customer service for this!

    Feedback

    Would prefer the packaging to have more info that is easy for the average person to understand

  • i use their chemical exfoliant on a regular bases with great results.

    Feedback

    love the price point.

  • Great, effective products for the price! Love that they're super accessible now that they're sold in Sephora.

  • Niacinamide serum is an easy addition to my face wash routine. Always feel clean and healthy after using it

  • A sure staple in my skincare routine. Their niacinamide and salicylic acid works so well for my acne-prone skin. Really helped in lightening my acne scars too. And they're affordable too!

  • I like how affordable The Ordinary's products are. They have lots of options depending on your skin and what you're looking to address.

    Feedback

    I don't love their moisturizer or SPF, they make my skin oily. However, I do love their serums!

  • Can honestly say these products changed my skin - the hyaluronic acid and squaline oil are an essential part of my morning and nighttime skincare routine and I love their hair oil, too. The best part is how affordable they make their products.

  • I love using The Ordinary products to create my own tailored skin care regimen. I've struck out with a few products, but thats more due to my own skin sensitivity (the sunblock for one.) Good products at a good price, highly recommend, I love the oils in particular

  • Affordable, simple products that get the job done. The Squalene Cleanser and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA moisturizer are staples.

  • one product consistently worth coming back to is the squalane oil, which provides the best cost per ounce among its competitors. compared to many products, squalane is not sensitizing or reactive and it adds that extra protective boost during moisture barrier-compromised days when everything you put on your face just HURTS. it's low-risk, high-reward for many people.

  • I use a few products from The Ordinary in my skincare routine, and so far I have really enjoyed them. I'm going on 4 months using the products, for context.