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

  • Super high quality skin care products at an affordable price. This has become a staple in my skincare routine. I have fairly sensitive skin and their products don't make me break out.

  • I love my products from The Ordinary! I started off with one of their starter kits, and have kept buying products since then. I use several products daily and I have seen how it has had a positive effect on my skin. They are easy to use, and I love how inexpensive they are compared to similar products.

  • Love this brand and how affordable all of the products are. The ingredients in all of the products are great too!

  • I appreciate that The Ordinary offers a wide variety of skincare options at a fantastic price point. Great for those just getting started with a skincare routine or for anyone looking for solid products at a good price.

  • I've tried a number of The Ordinary products and I think they're great. The price point is accessible for all, the packaging is simple and distinctive with the brand, there's a number of different products available and the products themselves do the job. It's my go to skincare brand when I need specific products and I've seen results after using acids, peels etc. Obviously, in the long term, I can't comment on how effective they are. I'd highly recommend most of their products.

    Feedback

    Often products are unavailable or sold out in the pharmacies/chemists or online websites as they're so popular. I've found sometimes the pipette can leak and isn't always functional.

  • I really like The Ordinary's products, and the price is hard to beat. I use the Niacinamide, Hylaronic Acid, Hair Peptide Serum, and Vitamin C, and have had good results with all of them. The ingredients are pretty straightforward and great for people with all levels of skincare knowledge.

  • Excellent brand with affordable prices.

    Feedback

    I love it. The prices are amazing for the quality of the items.

  • It is very affordable. Their website gives a lot of information on how to use the products and what each ingredient does. I have also seen my skin improve noticeably since using their serums.

  • My favourite skin care line! The website has so much helpful information to ensure that you’re using the products correctly. I love the selection and the price point.

  • Love the brand. Love the products. So great for such an affordable price

    Feedback

    The concealer needs a different applicator bc it takes forever to get a little bit of product

  • Love this brand - so many good products at affordable prices. I have tried many acids, toners and other serums from the Ordinary.

    Feedback

    Nothing

  • Very high quality product at a great price

    Feedback

    Package aesthetic

  • One of the best skincare companies and very affordable. Highly recommend the moisturizer!

    Feedback

    Can’t think of anything!

  • I love the cost of the products for the value. I rely so heavily on their azaelic acid and I can’t imagine my skincare routine without it.

    Feedback

    None.

  • While the Ordinary is by far the most accessible price point for higher-end skin care ingredients that I’ve ever found, sometimes I feel their quality can be so-so. Some of their products I love, others feel bad on my skin. The product design is great and you really can’t beat the price, but I do feel the quality suffers.

    Feedback

    Some products I’ve used have felt goopy, sticky, or flakey on my skin.

  • Affordability is amazing with focusing on key active ingredients. Not paying for brand name but for the science behind the ingredient.

  • For the price, it’s a good first step into beauty routine territory. If you have more mature skin it might not be enough for you but if you are dabbling for the first time? Absolutely worth it.

  • Love the exfoliating acids. They work so well and are gentle. And the price cannot be beat!

    Feedback

    Lactic acid available in larger size

  • Great quality for the price! Their products work really well and I like the simple packaging. They look very sleek on my counter.