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

  • 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.

  • My skincare collection consist mostly on 80% of The Ordinary products, because they are truly amazing; also very affordable for beginners and if you are on a budget. Haven't had any issue with them, also the hair line is very good for curly hair.

    Feedback

    need an eye cream and sunscreen available on more countries.

  • The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution has been a game-changer for me, but not in the “typical” way. I don’t really use it on my face, instead, I use it behind my arms for bumps and between my legs to help with shaving spots. And it works so well! It’s made my skin a lot smoother and helped cut down on irritation. Honestly such a versatile product. Would definitely recommend if you deal with those little bumps or ingrown-type spots.

  • The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a true glow-getter. It gently exfoliates, refines texture, and helps fade dark spots over time. Just a few swipes a few times a week, and skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and feels more even. It’s super effective, super affordable, and a staple in any skincare routine. I spend already 10 bottles at least ✨love it 🤍

  • “Affordable Skincare That Works: The Ordinary Niacinamide & Glycolic Acid Review” When it comes to skincare that’s both affordable and effective, The Ordinary always delivers. Their Niacinamide serum is my go-to for inflammation and to minimize the appearance of my pores. It keeps my skin calm and balanced without breaking the bank. And their Glycolic Acid? It gets the job done, it is a great exfoliant and it also brightens too all while staying budget-friendly. These products prove you don’t have to spend big to get great results!

    Customer
  • I started using The Ordinary a year ago after discovering it on Instagram. When I checked out the prices online, I was amazed at how affordable their products are. My first purchase included the Multi-Peptide Serum, the Cleanser, and the Aloe 2% + NAG 2% (perfect for blemish-prone skin). Not only have I loved the results, but my husband is also a fan of the cleanser. It's been a great addition to our skincare routine, offering effective solutions without breaking the bank.

    I bought it myself.
  • I have the ordinary natural moisturizing factors + Beta Glucan moisturizer and let me just say, it is absolutely amazing it was a huge game changer for me, as I had super dry skin. It blends in super well into the skin it also helps apply makeup easier and it smells good too! It’s help clear up my skin as well as making it super soft, hydrated and clear. Definitely worth the money!

  • The Ordinary is a great brand for those who are looking for affordable, effective skincare products - I love it! The brand's wide range of products, clear labelling, and focus on high-quality ingredients make it a viral product choice.

  • It’s a really great skincare brand for beginners and teens! The ingredients are very clean and simple which is a plus. I totally recommend it 💕

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • I have loved all of Ordinarys product and they are so affordable, my ONLY issue is with the " Buffet" serum. It says to use morning and night however If you wear makeup it does not blend well, I always get very patchy makeup, even if I use a moisturizer or a primer and spf... any combo to that effect. Its just so sticky, I'd stick to just applying it at night. The Peeling solution is my absolute favorite, in that is shrinks my pores and keep the sebum from clogging my nose pores!

  • The Ordinary products are affordable and effective. I like that they have a variety of products for people of all skin types.

    Received a free product from The Ordinary
  • Honestly I love The Ordinary’s glycolic acid toner solution. I use it after I shave for my legs and armpits and it’s really helped with not having strawberry legs or ingrown hair. I also use it for my face and feel it’s brightened up a lot. I will definitely keep buying this!

  • The hylauronic is never missing from my skincare products. I've been using it for a year now & it went from testing to being an essential in my routine! Love Ordinary!