The Ordinary

Our opinion

n recent years, The Ordinary has become a household name among skincare enthusiasts and novices alike. Known for its minimalist packaging and focus on high-quality ingredients, The Ordinary has revolutionized the beauty industry with its affordable, science-backed products. But what makes this brand so unique, and is it worth the hype? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about The Ordinary—from its top products and new arrivals to ordering, payment, and what we love (and don’t love) about this skincare powerhouse.

What We Like

• Affordable Pricing: One of the brand’s biggest draws is its affordability, with most products priced between $5 and $20.
• Transparency in Ingredients: The Ordinary’s commitment to ingredient transparency is unparalleled, listing active ingredients on every package and providing detailed explanations on the website.
• Effective Formulations: Each product is designed with a targeted purpose, using research-backed ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and retinol.
• Accessible Skincare Education: The Ordinary provides extensive guides and information on their website, making it easy for customers to understand how to use each product effectively.
• Cruelty-Free and Vegan: The Ordinary is a cruelty-free and vegan brand, appealing to conscious consumers who prioritize ethical beauty.

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What We Don’t Like

• Complexity of Choice: For beginners, The Ordinary’s extensive lineup and scientific product names can be overwhelming.
• Potential for Irritation: Some of The Ordinary’s more potent formulations (such as acids and retinoids) can be too strong for sensitive skin.
• Minimal Packaging: While the packaging is functional, it doesn’t have the luxurious feel of more expensive skincare brands, which some customers may miss.

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Breaking Down the Science of Skincare

Founded in 2016 under the parent company DECIEM, The Ordinary made waves by offering affordable, science-driven skincare without the typical frills of luxury beauty brands. The brand’s philosophy centers around “clinical formulations with integrity,” emphasizing transparency and efficacy over marketing gimmicks. Each product’s packaging lists active ingredients prominently, making it easy for customers to know exactly what they’re getting. This no-nonsense approach has made The Ordinary an accessible option for skincare enthusiasts looking to build a routine that’s both effective and affordable.

The Ordinary’s range spans across multiple skincare categories, including cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and oils, each with a focus on a specific skin concern, from hydration to anti-aging. The brand’s accessibility and straightforward formulations make it an ideal choice for those just starting a skincare routine, as well as for experienced users looking to target specific issues without spending a fortune.

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Best Deals and Value

The Ordinary is known for its low prices year-round, but it occasionally offers seasonal sales or bundled product deals, particularly through its parent company, DECIEM. These sales provide customers with an opportunity to try multiple products at a discounted rate. The brand’s Regimen Builder tool on the website is another valuable feature, helping customers select products for specific skincare concerns, which can save time and money by building an effective routine without needing excessive trial and error.

For those who love a deal, look out for DECIEM’s annual November “Slowvember” event, where prices across The Ordinary range are often discounted. Unlike traditional flash sales, DECIEM’s approach encourages thoughtful shopping, allowing customers to take their time in building a skincare regimen without the rush.

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Product Range and Collections: Simple, Targeted Skincare

The Ordinary’s product lineup is designed to address various skin concerns through targeted, single-ingredient or minimal-ingredient formulations. Here’s an overview of some of the key categories:

• Hydration and Oils: These include products like Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil, which aim to boost hydration and lock in moisture. These products are ideal for dry and dehydrated skin.
• Acids and Exfoliants: Popular exfoliating products include the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution and Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, both of which work to exfoliate and brighten the skin.
• Vitamin C and Antioxidants: With options like Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% and Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%, these products are designed to combat free radicals and promote a brighter complexion.
• Retinoids and Anti-Aging: For those looking to target fine lines and wrinkles, The Ordinary offers a variety of retinol and retinoid formulations, such as Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, which encourages cell turnover and boosts collagen production.

This targeted approach to skincare lets customers build customized routines, adding products based on their unique needs. Instead of layering multiple active ingredients, customers can select a few powerful products that focus on specific concerns.

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Top-Selling Products and Why They Work

With The Ordinary’s extensive range, a few products have emerged as absolute customer favorites, thanks to their effectiveness and affordability. Here are some of the top sellers:

• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Known for its ability to reduce blemishes, control oil, and minimize pores, this serum has gained cult status. Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that’s suitable for nearly all skin types, making this product a go-to for those with acne-prone or oily skin.
• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Hyaluronic acid is a skincare staple for hydration, and this serum delivers moisture to the skin’s deeper layers, providing a plump, dewy finish. Ideal for dry and combination skin, it’s gentle enough for daily use.
• AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution: Dubbed “the red peel” by fans, this potent exfoliating mask combines AHAs and BHAs to reveal smoother, brighter skin. Due to its strength, it’s recommended for experienced users looking for an intensive exfoliating treatment.
• Buffet: A multi-peptide serum, Buffet combines several anti-aging ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, peptides, and amino acids. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for an all-in-one anti-aging solution.

These top sellers have become mainstays in many skincare routines because they offer targeted results without breaking the bank. The Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum, for example, has received rave reviews for its ability to reduce acne and control shine, while the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a favorite for those who want a powerful exfoliating mask.

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New Arrivals and Innovations

The Ordinary is constantly innovating, adding new products to its lineup to address evolving customer needs. Recently, the brand launched the Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution, a new addition for those dealing with acne-prone skin who might have found previous salicylic acid formulations too drying. This new product uses an anhydrous formula to deliver the benefits of salicylic acid without irritation, making it more suitable for sensitive skin types.

Another recent launch, The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum, has been well-received, offering customers a way to enhance lash and brow growth affordably. With consistent updates and new product releases, The Ordinary keeps things fresh and innovative, making it exciting for loyal customers to explore new options.

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Features Customers Love

Customers love The Ordinary’s no-frills approach to skincare, as well as its transparency and ingredient-focused formulations. Here’s what stands out the most:

• Ingredient Transparency: Every product lists its active ingredients on the front of the package, allowing customers to easily understand the main benefits and purposes of each item.
• Education and Accessibility: The Ordinary’s website features guides, regimens, and Q&As to help users understand how to mix, match, and layer products effectively.
• Affordable Options for Everyone: The Ordinary’s price point makes it accessible to almost everyone, and its effectiveness has earned it a reputation for providing real results at a fraction of the price of many high-end brands.

Payment Options and Order Process

Ordering from The Ordinary’s website is a straightforward experience, with multiple payment options available, including major credit cards, PayPal, and Klarna for installment payments. The site’s Regimen Builder and product guides make it easy to navigate and select the right items for your routine.

Customers can expect a confirmation email immediately after placing an order, followed by regular updates on shipping and tracking. The Ordinary ships internationally and offers free standard shipping for orders above a certain threshold, making it convenient for customers around the world.

Shipping and Return Policy

The Ordinary’s shipping policy is generally favorable, with free standard shipping on orders that meet the minimum purchase requirement. Most orders ship within a few business days, and customers have the option to choose expedited shipping at an additional cost.

For returns, The Ordinary has a 365-day return policy for unopened items, which is generous compared to many other brands. However, used or opened items are not eligible for returns, so it’s essential to be confident in your choices before making a purchase.

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Final Verdict: Why The Ordinary is a Skincare Staple

The Ordinary has earned its reputation as a skincare staple for offering effective, science-backed products at affordable prices. Its transparent approach to ingredients and education makes it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced skincare enthusiasts. While some customers may find the product names and formulations overwhelming at first, The Ordinary provides plenty of resources to help customers make informed choices.

Whether you’re building a routine from scratch or looking to target a specific concern, The Ordinary offers a vast range of products that are accessible, effective, and budget-friendly. For anyone interested in skincare that delivers on its promises without the high-end price tag, The Ordinary is a brand worth exploring.

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