The Ordinary is a popular skincare brand under the global beauty brand, Deciem’s, umbrella. The brand’s founding philosophy is “clinical formulations with integrity”. For them, this means skincare treatments that provide solutions to real needs while maintaining open communication and honesty at all stages of their operations.
Each of The Ordinary skincare formulations is simple, containing only a few ingredients including one or two actives, and leaving out additives, fillers, fragrance, and dyes. Even the product packaging is minimal with straightforward names that describe exactly what the product is without any extra fluff or deceptive details. This approach to skincare has enabled The Ordinary to become one of the most popular (and affordable) skincare brands on the market today. In fact, none of the brand’s products cost more than $15.
Even though The Ordinary skincare products are popular, it’s still necessary to evaluate the product formulations to determine what key ingredients are used and whether or not there’s research to support the use of these ingredients in skincare products. Below we’ll review the 10 best The Ordinary skincare products through a scientific lens so that you can make an informed decision when buying these products.
What Are The Top 10 Best The Ordinary Skincare Products?
The Ordinary offers results-driven products at affordable prices – what’s not to love? One problem with The Ordinary skincare products is that if you don’t know your alpha lipoic acid from your hyaluronic acid, choosing a product may become overwhelming. In order to help you out, below we’re breaking down the top 10 best The Ordinary skincare products.
The Ordinary Peeling Solution
- A 10 minute exfoliating facial that should only be used by experienced users of acid exfoliation
- The formula contains a total of 30% alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which include glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric acid
- The formula also contains 2% beta hydroxy acid (BHA), which is salicylic acid
- Also includes a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use
- This treatment solution should only be used twice per week
- The Ordinary Peeling Solution is a good option for those with skin texture irregularities, pore congestion, blemishes, dull skin, and/or fine lines
The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc
- A high-strength vitamin and mineral blemish formula that combines 10% niacinamide with 1% of the zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA)
- Reduces the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion, and balances visible aspects of sebum activity
- This product is not an acne treatment. If you’re dealing with persistent acne-related conditions, the brand recommends using other products with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and/or retinoic acid
- The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc is a good option for those with skin blemishes and congestion
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5
- A hydration support formula that combines 2% hyaluronic acid and provitamin B5 (panthenol)
- Formula includes three forms of hyaluronic acid with varying molecular weights, as well as a hyaluronic acid crosspolymer
- The purpose of using varying molecular weights of hyaluronic acid is to offer multi-depth hydration and visible plumping without drawing water out of the skin solely to improve temporary surface hydration
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a good option for those with dehydrated skin and/or skin showing signs of aging
The Ordinary Retinol 0.5 in Squalane
- A highly-stable, water-free solution of 0.5% pure retinol in a base of squalane
- This moderate strength formula is recommended to be used once daily in the evening
- If you have not used high-strength retinol formulas in the past, the brand strongly recommends that you start your retinol regimen with The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane and adjust to higher strengths as your skin builds tolerance
- The Ordinary Retinol 0.5 in Squalane is a good option for those with fine lines, signs of photo damage, and signs of general skin aging
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension
- A lightweight cream-gel that a very high 10% concentration of azelaic acid
- Azelaic acid helps with acne by normalizing the shedding of dead skin cells and preventing the growth of acne bacteria
- According to a publication in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, both in vitro and in vivo it has an antimicrobial effect on both aerobic and anaerobic (Propionibacterium acnes) microorganisms
- Azelaic acid is also an antioxidant and a tyrosinase inhibitor, which means that this ingredient could help to fade hyperpigmentation and improve skin brightness
- The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension can be used by all skin types, but is best for those with acne-prone skin and/or dull skin
The Ordinary Buffet
- A peptide serum formulated to target multiple signs of aging at once
- The key ingredients — or “technologies” as the brand calls them — in The Ordinary Buffet include Matrixyl 3000, Matrixyl synthe’6, SYN-AKE, Argirelox, and a probiotic complex
- All of these technologies are formulated in a base of 11 skin-friendly amino acids and multiple hyaluronic acid complexes
- The total concentration of these technologies in the formula by weight is 25.1%
- The Ordinary Buffet is a good option for those with signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles
The Ordinary Lactic Acid + HA
- A high-strength superficial peeling formulation with 10% lactic acid
- Lactic acid is a type of AHA that exfoliates the skin while also improving hydration
- Formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use
- The Ordinary Lactic Acid + HA is a good option for those with dullness and/or texture irregularities, especially those with sensitive skin since lactic acid offers gentle exfoliation
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid Masque
- A 10-minute rinse-off mask with 2% salicylic acid, a type of BHA
- Formula also includes kaolin clay and charcoal powder, which are known for their deep cleansing abilities due to their porosity and large surface area available for adsorption. They aid the removal of facial impurities that would otherwise remain on the skin surface and clog pores
- This masque should only be used once to twice per week
- The Ordinary Salicylic Acid Masque is a good option for those with lackluster tone, clogged pores, blemishes, and/or textural irregularities
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toning Solution
- A mild toning solution with 7% glycolic acid, a type of AHA
- Formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use
- Additional key ingredients include rose flower water, cornflower water, aloe vera leaf water, glycerin, ginseng root extract, and amino acids
- The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toning Solution is a good option for those with lackluster tone, texture irregularities, pore congestion, blemishes, and/or fine lines
The Ordinary Caffeine Solution
- A light-textured formula that contains a high 5% concentration of caffeine combined with highly-purified epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside (EGCG) from green tea leaves
- Caffeine is an antioxidant and a stimulant that causes vasoconstriction (constriction of the blood vessels). Vasoconstriction can tighten and firm the skin due to the removal of excess fluids while simultaneously reducing the amount of blood that accumulates under the eyes (a major factor that contributes to dark circles)
- EGCG is a type of polyphenol antioxidant that targets free radicals, particularly those caused by UV-induced oxidative damage
- The Ordinary Caffeine Solution is a good option for those who would like to reduce the look of puffiness and of dark circles underneath their eyes
What is The Best The Ordinary Serum?
The Ordinary serum collection is pretty extensive, which may leave you wondering which one is the best. While the serum you choose will depend on your skin concerns, we think The Ordinary Buffet is one of the brand’s best serums. With a combination of peptides, probiotics, amino acids, and multiple hyaluronic acid complexes, The Ordinary Buffet should help to reduce multiple signs of aging while also improving your skin’s hydration.
What Are The Key Ingredients in The Ordinary Skincare Products?
After reading about the best selling The Ordinary skincare products, you may be wondering what exactly ingredients like peptides, retinol, squalane, and salicylic acid can do for your skin. Below we’ll give you a brief description of each of the key ingredients used in the best selling products by The Ordinary.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
AHAs are the key ingredients in The Ordinary Peeling Solution, but you’ll also find AHAs in several other The Ordinary skincare products. The primary benefit of AHAs is their ability to exfoliate the skin by targeting corneocytes (dead skin cells that make up the stratum corneum) in a process called corneocyte desquamation. By enhancing their breakdown and increasing the separation of skin cells, the rate of cell turnover is increased, leading to smoother, brighter skin and a more even complexion. According to a publication in the journal Molecules, AHAs can be used to easily peel all types of skin with minimal risk.
Salicylic Acid
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid Masque and The Ordinary Peeling Solution use salicylic acid,
a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA), to soften and dissolve keratin. Keratin is a protein found in the skin that acts as a “glue” to keep cells together. This allows salicylic acid to exfoliate the skin and slough off dead skin cells. Salicylic acid also has the ability to penetrate deep into pores, where it helps to loosen clogs and allows oil to flow out more freely. Thus, salicylic acid is known to break down blackheads and whiteheads.
Peptides
Several of The Ordinary skincare products include multiple peptide technologies, one being the Matrixyl 3000 complex. Matrixyl 3000 is a combination of the matrikines palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 that provide anti-aging benefits by signaling to cells to produce more collagen.
Another technology in The Ordinary Buffet is the Matrixyl synthe’6 peptide complex with palmitoyl tripeptide-38, a peptide derived from the tripeptide KMK naturally found in collagen VI and laminin. In-vitro studies have found palmitoyl tripeptide-38 to have a matrikine-like effect that stimulates the synthesis of collagen I, II, IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin 5.
The Ordinary Buffet also contains a unique peptide complex called SYN-AKE, a synthetic peptide that mimics the effects of the peptide Waglerin 1. Waglerin 1 is a component of the venom found in the Temple Viper, a poisonous snake native to southeast Asia. SYN-AKE peptide complex works by reducing muscular contractions in the face and reduces cell movement; thereby keeping the skin smooth.
The relistase peptide complex in The Ordinary Buffet is designed to increase skin firmness and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by inhibiting the enzyme elastase.
The final peptide complex in The Ordinary Buffet is ARGIRELOX peptide complex (with acetyl hexapeptide-8, pentapeptide-18). ARGIRELOX fights expression wrinkles by attenuating muscle contraction in the pre-synaptic pathway.
Retinol
The Ordinary retinol products are ideal for those with signs of aging and/or acne prone skin. According to a publication in the journal Clinical Interventions in Aging,
retinol can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve uneven skin tone, restore skin firmness, and shrink the appearance of enlarged pores. After application, retinol is converted to retinoic acid, which works deep within the skin where it boosts collagen synthesis, increases elasticity, and repairs connective tissue. It also increases cellular turnover, which helps to prevent clogged pores and promotes smoother, healthier skin.
Squalane
Many of The Ordinary skincare products include squalane because it is a very effective emollient. Squalane is a saturated and stable hydrocarbon that mimics squalene (note the e), a natural compound in your skin that plays an important role in lubrication and protection. Squalane helps to replenish and strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier. The Ordinary Squalane is a facial oil with 100% pure squalane, but you’ll also find this ingredient in several other products, such as The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser and The Ordinary retinol products.
Niacinamide
The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc is a great option for all skin types due to its high concentration of niacinamide, the amide form of vitamin B3 (niacin) that provides many benefits to the skin. For instance, a publication in theJournal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, states that niacinamide can repair the skin barrier and improve skin moisture, as well as reduce inflammation, blotchiness, hyperpigmentation, acne, and wrinkling.
You may want to consider The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc if you have acne-prone skin since niacinamide has antimicrobial and sebostatic effects, meaning it can help protect against the bacteria that cause acne while also helping to reduce oil production. Two double-blind studies published in the International Journal of Dermatology (one in 1995, the other in 2013) found that a topical preparation of 4% niacinamide treated moderate acne just as well as 1% clindamycin (a topical antibiotic prescribed for acne) when applied twice daily for eight weeks. And a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy found that a 2% topical niacinamide formulation could reduce oil production.
Where are The Ordinary Skincare Products Sold?
The Ordinary skincare products are sold on the brand’s website, as well as third party sellers like Amazon, Ulta, and Sephora. The brand has a store locator and list of authorized retailers on their website.
What is The Ordinary Return Policy?
All Deciem brands, including The Ordinary, offer a 365-day full refund policy.
Is The Ordinary Cruelty Free?
The Ordinary is cruelty free. DECIEM and The Ordinary do not test on animals and do not ask others to do so. For this reason, none of their brands or products are sold in stores or conventional retailers in mainland China, since such sales require animal testing for registration purposes.
The Ordinary Reviews
The Ordinary reviews on the brand’s website are overall very positive. We noticed that many of The Ordinary reviews focus on the brand’s effective formulations and affordability. It is common to find customers comparing The Ordinary skincare products to some of the most well known and respected skincare brands as comparable and more affordable.
Other The Ordinary reviews appreciate the detail the brand takes in explaining their products, ingredients, and the science behind why they work well for the skin. This helps customers feel informed about their skincare purchases and further exemplifies The Ordinary’s mission to provide clinical skincare solutions with integrity.
Negative The Ordinary reviews are mostly from customers who experienced reactions to these products, such as skin irritation and breakouts. To prevent this from happening, the brand recommends following The Ordinary Patch Test Guide. Patch tests are an easy way to help predict if you will have a negative initial reaction to a new product. It is recommended to perform a patch test before incorporating a new product into your routine.
Our Verdict
Since its debut, The Ordinary has received glowing reviews. The products work, and experts in the skincare industry respect the brand not only for the quality of their product but for the company’s transparency. They take the time to explain the ingredients and science behind each formulation. Overall, we think that The Ordinary products are formulated well with high-quality, evidence based ingredients. And it’s a plus that the products are priced low, making this brand accessible to many consumers.
Pros
- Products contain evidence based ingredients
- Products are fragrance free
- The brand is very transparent and they also take the time to educate consumers on how the ingredients in their formulations work
- The Ordinary reviews are very positive
- Affordable cost (all products less than $15 USD)
Cons
- Due to the nature of some of The Ordinary skincare products (e.g. acid exfoliants, retinol products), reactions like irritation and sensitivity are a possibility. But these reactions can be prevented by performing a patch test before use.
What are the Best Skin Care Products of 2021?
What Are Some Alternatives to The Ordinary Skincare?
One thing that we noticed about The Ordinary is that all of their exfoliating products use chemical exfoliants, like AHAs and BHA. But keep in mind that as we age, our skin’s natural shedding process slows down. Excess dead cells build up on the outermost layer of the skin, resulting in a rough, dull complexion. All of this is to say you may need more than just chemical exfoliants to achieve deep exfoliation. That’s why we’d like to recommend Formulyst’s Retexturizing Microdermabrasion Exfoliator.
The Retexturizing Microdermabrasion Exfoliator is formulated to gently exfoliate built-up layers of dead skin to expose the younger, more vibrant-looking skin beneath. The formula contains fine aluminum oxide crystals to effectively remove dirt, excess oil, and dead cells, while nutrient-rich jojoba oil, red tea extract, apricot kernel oil, squalane, and hyaluronic acid deeply nourish and soothe newly exposed skin. Also, by removing the dead surface skin cells, products can penetrate deeper and make-up goes on smoother, enhancing the efficacy of your overall skincare routine. Overall, Formulyst Retexturizing Microdermabrasion Exfoliator can help reveal smoother skin with less visible lines and wrinkles.
There’s no need to compromise when it comes to finding skincare that is effective and safe. Carrot & Stick takes a tough love approach to skincare, perfectly balancing the power of plants with cutting edge science. Not only is Carrot & Stick good for your skin, it is also good for the environment as the formulas skip harmful chemicals as well as the preservatives, emulsifiers and thickeners commonly found in skincare products.
References:
J Am Acad Dermatol 1987 Dec;17(6):1033-41.
Molecules. 2018 Apr; 23(4): 863.
J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2010 Feb; 3(2): 22–41
Int J Dermatol 1995 Jun;34(6):434-7.
Int J Dermatol 2013 Aug;52(8):999-1004.
Clin Interv Aging. 2006 Dec; 1(4): 327–348.
