The Ordinary reviews and discussion

4.5

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Ingredient-transparent formulations
  • Clinically effective actives
  • Minimalist, fragrance-free options
  • Wide, customizable range
  • Occasional sticky textures
  • Potential irritation from actives
  • Hit-or-miss product efficacy
  • Confusing layering for beginners

The Ordinary earns strong reviews for being effective and ingredient-focused: many users report clearer, smoother, more hydrated skin from staples 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 or pill, certain actives (retinoids, vitamin C, high-percentage acids) can irritate or be too harsh, results can be hit-or-miss by product or skin type, and the range can be confusing without research.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

2,506 reviews and posts

  • I tried a couple of products. They were alright, nothing special. The one that I actually like was Salicylic Acid 2% Masque. Leaves your face red for awhile but works. Price is great too.

  • I’ve had good results with the Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide. I like the simplicity of the product and have noticed an improvement to the texture of my skin and a reduction in fine lines.

  • Worst customer service experience. I never received my order, tried messaging mutilple times through email, website, Instagram, Facebook page, nothing. No reply whatsoever. It's been months now and no product or refund or even a single reply. This is unacceptable.

  • Products of great quality are easily accessible to everyone because of how affordable they are. A couple personal favourites are the copper peptide serum and glycolic acid toner. They are effective and provide astonishing results.

  • Amazing quality, my go to products.

  • I love the pricepoint and easy education on its line of products. However, as with all skincare lines, my experience with products themselves vary! The glycolic toner is great, but I found zero-to-no effect with their hair/scalp products. It's a dependable brand but none of its products are a holy grail for me and my body.

  • I love this cleanser so much. It hydrates my skin without stripping my skin.

    Influencer for The Ordinary
  • Works well though not necessarily as well as other niacinamides. Still, worth the price

  • This is such quality skincare with a luxury feel but for a fraction of the price of other high end brands. I recently started to suffer from allergic reactions and breakouts with a lot of my serums, cleansers and moisturizers. My friend recommended the Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA and I haven't bothered with any other brands since. Plus, it was only $6?! Can't be that!

  • The most amazing affordable skin care. From having acne and scars from a teen to adult and pregnancy and postpartum this has helped more than any other brand. It even cured psoriasis I had on my face. Highly recommend all the products

  • I love the primer ! It has a nice texture , not sticky at all. It has a light texture easy to put on !!

    I purchased it
  • I have using eye caffeine serum and it has helped a little. I haven’t seen much of a difference. I very consistent also I have mature skin.

  • I love their caffeine eye serum and the rosehip oil, I wish figuring out what products are able mix together was easier because I had to do a lot of my own research on the percentage which is too high and then the products.

  • I love that this brand is no frills - affordable, sleek packaging, and effective.

  • I liked the coffee eye serum a lot!

  • Glycolic Acid is my favorite, it assisted me in fading my skin hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and age spots. With regular use , it can contribute to a more even skin tone and improved overall skin appearance.

  • Big fan of The Ordinary. They make quality skincare accessible. I’ve noticed a difference in my skin’s texture since using their Buffet product— very happy with the results!

  • Really affordable skincare that actually works. My favorite is the niacinamide serum. It helps make my skin brighter and have a more even complextion.

  • I just started using this product. Let’s see the results. Until now I love it.

    Friends with The Ordinary
  • Love the squalane cleanser which has been a staple - a go-to for affordable, accessible skincare.