The Ordinary reviews and discussion

4.5

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Effective acne-clearing serums
  • Straightforward ingredient labeling
  • Noticeably smoothing exfoliants
  • Gentle, hydrating cleansers
  • Occasional sticky serum texture
  • Irritating high-strength acids
  • Pilling under makeup layers
  • Confusing ingredient naming

The Ordinary earns strong reviews for effective, ingredient-forward skincare that improves texture, acne, oil control, and hydration—standouts include Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, Squalane Cleanser, and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA. However, reviews also flag weaknesses: some formulas feel sticky or pill, certain actives (retinol, high-percentage acids/niacinamide) can irritate or dry skin if misused, results vary by product, and the technical lineup can overwhelm beginners.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

2,517 reviews and posts

  • 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.

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    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

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    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.

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    Nothing

  • Very high quality product at a great price

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    Package aesthetic

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

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    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.

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    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.

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    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.

  • This brand is famous for its strong effect and cheap price for giving remarkable impression on people. I would always get some different tubes for different concerns, and will always get some for my friends.

  • So many great, easy to use products! Use them daily!

  • I love The Ordinary products that I've tried. They're so inexpensive compared to most other brands and work really well for my acne prone skin. The Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% is a daily favorite, but I also love their other serums.

  • I haven't found skincare for a better price that actually works great. The Ordinary is affordable, customizable, and works great! I love that they are now available on Amazon as well, but I will still be stocking up on my skincare from Ulta, because there are usually great deals and free gifts on The Ordinary products. Their online skincare quiz is so helpful in getting started, and for when you think you need a change in your routine. The serum bottles are also made of glass, which makes me a feel a lot better about sustainability and life cycle of the products.

  • It wasn’t a bad product. Just not right for my skin.

  • I took the test online to get the products I need and they’ve been one of my favorite brands this far!