The 25 Best The Ordinary Products Worth Your Money
The Ordinary is one of the few brands that has changed how we shop for skin care. Before The Ordinary, a Canadian company that gave us the best of its cheap, high-quality products, we mostly only had makeup to choose from. Even though drugstore skincare brands are always coming up with new products, only some can compete with the serums and moisturizers that cost a lot more.
That’s why people keep talking about the best The Ordinary products, like this peeling solution that’s popular on TikTok. The brand’s approach to skin care is clinical and science-based, focusing on single-ingredient products that get specific results. The best part? Most anything costs $30. Most of it costs less than ten dollars. This is mostly because The Ordinary is committed to being open and honest, which means prices aren’t much higher than they should be.
The Ordinary is one of the most popular beauty brands; its products aren’t ordinary. The formulas in The Ordinary’s products are simple and backed by science, so they speak for themselves.
We dug deep into this unique brand to find its most popular items. Here’s what you need to know about The Ordinary and our picks for the 25 best products from the brand.
1. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
Reviewers say this cleanser doesn’t need soap and removes dirt and makeup without irritating or drying the skin. It goes on like a balm or a thick moisturizer, but as you rub it into your face, it becomes a serum that feels like oil. This means that your skin won’t feel dry after you wash it off.
Its main active ingredient is squalane, a super-hydrating ingredient that can fight skin damage and boost collagen production when applied topically.
2. The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer
This primer is loved for its blurring effect, especially because it can hide large pores and other flaws, making it easy to put on the perfect makeup. Many reviewers love how this product feels, but they stress that it needs to be completely dry before putting makeup on top so that the primer doesn’t pill or flake off.
Other reviewers said it made their oily skin even oilier, so people with oily skin might not like it.
3. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is used in this product to help dissolve the links between the skin’s surface and the layer beneath it, resulting in softer, more even skin. Being the smallest AHA, glycolic acid enters the skin quickly and effectively, and its smoothing benefits can be seen more quickly than with any other AHA.
The toner’s key components, glycolic acid and aloe vera exfoliate the face gently to enhance its texture and luminosity. Most reviewers were pleased with its effectiveness in reducing acne and bumps. However, some people say it causes breakouts on their skin, so it’s smart to try a small area first.
4. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
According to what I’ve learned from my online research, using a high-quality lotion isn’t the only way to keep your skin supple and healthy. Use a serum or acid that can penetrate deeper than your regular emollient if you want deep moisture. To that end, I’ve been meaning to try hyaluronic acid for months now, but I haven’t because the one time I walked into a store (which shall remain nameless) to shop for one, a woman there recommended a brand that retailed for $185. No! Because of this, I jumped at the chance to try a serum with vitamin B5, an anti-inflammatory that can help reduce puffiness, for less than $10. After using it for approximately three weeks, I can’t say I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s texture. Still, I can attest to the product’s ability to make me look radiant. My skin is left supple and hydrated without feeling oily. I’ve gone without makeup for the better part of a month since I appreciate the result so much.
5. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
You can see what it looks like in our comprehensive review, but the results are just as Instagrammable, even if it doesn’t appear like you’re getting a blood facial at home. When alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs) are used together, they remove congestion, dead skin cells, and hyperpigmentation. After only one application, my acne-prone, sensitive skin was noticeably more radiant and smooth. As well as for a fraction of the price of a traditional vampire facial? The decision is obvious. Author and beauty expert Bella Cacciatore.
The peel helps clean congested pores, smooth the surface texture, and brighten the skin, but at-home peels aren’t for everyone (especially those with sensitive skin or cystic acne).
Some users reported temporary dryness but no peeling or discomfort.
6. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
This lotion enhances hydration and surface smoothness with natural substances in your skin. The milder formula of this moisturizer makes it ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. It can, however, be used on anyone. You may enjoy the hydrating advantages without worrying about your skin being stripped, and the formula won’t give the impression that your skin is oilier than it already is.
Some reviewers said that some users added a hyaluronic acid serum during the day or a richer night cream at night to the product.
7. The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
When used once or twice weekly, this mask can clean up acne in about 10 minutes. Several reviewers say that after using this mask, their pores got smaller and they had fewer breakouts.
You also don’t need much of the cream to achieve the desired smoothing effects on your face, so that’s a bonus.
8.The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution Pore Clearing Serum
My skin is very prone to acne and very sensitive, so it’s hard to keep it happy. On the other hand, this serum was made just for me. Its main ingredient is squalane oil, which makes it moisturizing and soothing. It also helps to balance out the high amount of salicylic acid in the formula. That doesn’t mean the star ingredient doesn’t work. Instead, I get a gentle exfoliation that has made my pores clearer and cut down on breakouts and whiteheads.
9. The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension of 10%
Azelaic acid comes from a type of yeast that grows naturally on the face. It can be used to treat rosacea and acne. It is also responsible for the cream’s skin brightening and redness-reducing effects. Users have complained about the formula’s thick texture and pilling consistency. However, because it contains a direct acid, it should only be used at night and not under makeup.
Don’t be alarmed by the word “acid.” Chemical exfoliants, which are acids you can buy over the counter, aren’t as good as professional treatments from a dermatologist or esthetician for getting rid of dead skin cells.
10. The Ordinary Buffet
Since it uses peptides to enhance texture and diminish flaws, this serum is ideal for aging skin. But the manufacturer claims that you won’t see effects for up to 4 months, so regular use is essential.
Reviewers saw an improvement in their skin’s clarity and brightness. This product shouldn’t be used with direct acids or ascorbic acids, like the Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% on our list, because it contains peptides (amino acids that, when absorbed into the skin, can strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, aid in clearing breakouts, and more).
11. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This blemish cream contains 10% niacinamide, a vitamin B3 that helps your skin establish a stronger moisture barrier and reduces redness, blotchiness, and pore size.
Critics have praised the product’s effectiveness in removing blackheads and its ability to soak into the skin quickly. You shouldn’t take niacinamide simultaneously to get the most out of your vitamin C supplements.
12. The Ordinary Caffeine Solution of 5% + EGCG
This eye serum has two anti-inflammatory ingredients: caffeine and EGCG, which come from green tea leaves and are known to make the skin less puffy.
The water-based formula is light enough for the sensitive area around the eyes and makes a smooth base for concealer.
13. The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronic
This popular serum is made with a light version of hyaluronic acid that helps your skin attract and hold water without having the creamier texture of regular hyaluronic acid.
Reviewers said this lighter formula gave their sensitive skin the moisture it needed without irritating it. It’s a great addition to your skincare routine, especially in the winter when your skin needs more moisture.
14. The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
The skin-soothing nutrients in this rose hip seed oil, such as linoleic acid (which helps strengthen the skin barrier to keep moisture in) and pro-vitamin A, benefit your skin.
People with oily skin may not want to use oil, but reviewers say this product works for all skin types and doesn’t cause breakouts. It moisturizes and smooths the skin.
15. The Ordinary The No Brainer Set
The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, and Buffet are all part of this three-product set. It’s the brand’s best-selling skin regimen because its products work to get rid of dark spots and smooth out the skin.
It works for all skin types and gives a healthy glow when used regularly. Reviewers say that you should use this set at night because the Buffet cream tends to pill.
16. The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
This sunscreen is made with zinc oxide and titanium oxide, which work to reflect harmful UV rays and get rid of free radicals. The Tasmanian pepper berry, full of flavanones, is added to calm the skin and keep it from getting red and irritated.
Reviewers say this product isn’t as good as other zinc-based SPFs because it leaves a white cast on the skin, which can be a problem for people with darker skin.
17. The Ordinary Sulphate 4% Cleanser for Body and Hair
This all-in-one product makes it easier to shower without sacrificing the quality of the products you use. This cleanser is made with mild sulfate SLES-2, which is supposed to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities without removing hair color or the skin barrier.
Some reviewers say there isn’t enough lather (they were hoping for more soap bubbles), but others say that their skin and hair feel clean and fresh after using it.
18. The Ordinary 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil
Reviewers with dry hair have called this antioxidant-rich oil a “lifesaver,” and it sells out quickly. Marula oil, which comes from the kernels of the fruit of marula trees, can smooth frizzy hair, fix dry locks, and add shine.
It’s another popular two-in-one product from The Ordinary because it can also be used on the skin to help even skin tone.
19. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA for Scalp
This hyaluronic acid scalp treatment helps the skin barrier on the scalp do its job and keeps hair healthy and free of flakes by adding moisture.
Reviewers say this serum does a great job of keeping their hair free of dandruff and helps them deal with too much oil. Some people, though, say that the milky texture of the product can make it messy to use at first.
20. The Ordinary Behentrimonium Chloride 2% Conditioner
This conditioner is made with an ingredient called behentrimonium chloride, known for making hair smooth. Customers give this conditioner almost five stars on Sephora because it makes their hair shiny and soft, no matter how thin, thick, or curly.
Many reviews say that the formula is light, easy to rinse, and adds moisture to the hair without making it feel heavy.
21. The Ordinary Serum Foundation
The lightweight foundation from The Ordinary is made with glycerin, a natural moisturizer found in skin, and coconut alkanes, which work as an emollient to give the skin a smooth, cake-free finish. It comes in 36 different skin tones. It’s a good choice for people who want some coverage but want to avoid feeling or looking like they’re wearing a lot of makeup.
Reviewers talk about how good this foundation is for the price, though some say they wish it came in more colors.
22. The Ordinary Concealer
This high-coverage concealer hides blemishes and other flaws without clumping or touching the skin. Dimethicone is a silicone emollient that forms a barrier over the skin to keep the surface smooth. It also goes on well and doesn’t make you look like you have a lot of makeup on.
Reviewers say this product works well both as a concealer for under the eyes and as a way to shape the face. Some say that the formula dried out their skin a bit too much.
23. The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
Want to make your acne scars and dark spots look less noticeable? Have this item on hand. My dry skin doesn’t like strong actives all that much, so this serum-oil mix seemed like a good place to start. The formula has 3% resveratrol and ferulic acid, two antioxidants known to make skin brighter and more even-toned. The formula isn’t too harsh, but if you want an even bigger antioxidant boost, you can always add two or three drops to your vitamin C.
24. The Ordinary Pycnogenol 5%
Anything made from trees must be good since trees can live for hundreds or even thousands of years. Pycnogenol is a plant extract made from the French maritime pine trees. It is in this serum. It’s full of good things for your skin, like procyanidins, bioflavonoids, and organic acids, which help keep your skin hydrated and flexible—even more reason to protect trees.
25. The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution of 20% in Vitamin F
The name sounds crazy and is hard to say, and I’ll admit that I had no idea what it did before I used it. But after doing some research and taking it for a test drive, I’m sold. It’s a form of vitamin C, which helps brighten and even out your skin tone. On the other hand, Vitamin F is an omega-6-rich fatty acid that helps keep your skin’s barrier in place. When this barrier is broken, things like acne and redness can happen. Even after just one use, I could tell that my skin was in much better shape. It was noticeably smoother, firmer, much brighter, and more radiant.