The Ordinary skincare reviews are a hot topic, and for good reason. This brand, known for its minimalist approach and focus on effective ingredients, has taken the beauty world by storm. But with so many products and a seemingly endless stream of opinions, it can be tough to know where to start.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about The Ordinary, from its origins and philosophy to its most popular products, how to incorporate them into your routine, and what real users are saying. We’ll also compare The Ordinary to other brands, address common skin concerns, and delve into safety considerations.
Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about The Ordinary and its products.
The Ordinary Brand Overview
The Ordinary is a Canadian skincare brand known for its minimalist approach to skincare and its focus on high-quality ingredients at affordable prices. It is a subsidiary of DECIEM, a beauty company founded in 2013 by Brandon Truaxe.
Brand History and Parent Company
DECIEM, the parent company of The Ordinary, was founded in 2013 by Brandon Truaxe, a Canadian entrepreneur with a background in the beauty industry. The company’s name is a play on the Latin word “decimus,” which means “tenth,” reflecting its initial focus on creating 10 unique skincare brands, each with a distinct purpose and philosophy.
The Ordinary was launched in 2016 as one of DECIEM’s core brands. It quickly gained popularity for its transparent ingredient lists, straightforward product names, and affordable price points. The brand’s minimalist packaging and focus on efficacy over aesthetics resonated with a wide audience.
Brand Philosophy and Target Audience
The Ordinary’s philosophy is centered on providing high-quality skincare products that are accessible to everyone. The brand aims to demystify skincare by offering products with clear and concise ingredient lists, allowing customers to understand what they are putting on their skin.
The Ordinary targets a diverse audience, from skincare enthusiasts to those new to the world of skincare. Its affordable price points and straightforward approach make it a popular choice for people of all ages and skin types.
Key Features and Benefits
The Ordinary’s success can be attributed to several key features and benefits that set it apart from other skincare brands:
Transparent Ingredient Lists
The Ordinary’s products feature simple and straightforward ingredient lists, with each ingredient clearly identified and its purpose explained. This transparency allows customers to make informed decisions about the products they use and to identify any potential allergens or irritants.
High-Quality Ingredients
The Ordinary uses high-quality ingredients sourced from reputable suppliers. These ingredients are carefully selected for their efficacy and safety, ensuring that the products are effective and gentle on the skin.
Affordable Pricing
The Ordinary’s products are priced affordably, making high-quality skincare accessible to a wider audience. This affordability allows customers to experiment with different ingredients and products without breaking the bank.
Minimalist Packaging
The Ordinary’s packaging is minimalist and functional, focusing on the product itself rather than elaborate aesthetics. This approach reflects the brand’s commitment to simplicity and transparency.
Focus on Efficacy
The Ordinary prioritizes efficacy over aesthetics, focusing on developing products that deliver real results. This approach has earned the brand a loyal following among skincare enthusiasts who appreciate its focus on performance.
Popular The Ordinary Products
The Ordinary is known for its wide range of effective and affordable skincare products. Their popularity stems from their focus on using potent, scientifically-backed ingredients in simple formulations. This approach allows users to target specific skin concerns with individual products or create customized routines.
Let’s delve into some of their most popular offerings.
Popular Products Categorized by Function, The ordinary skincare reviews
The Ordinary’s product line is diverse, offering solutions for various skin concerns. Here’s a breakdown of popular products based on their primary functions:
| Product Name | Category | Key Ingredients | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | Serum | Niacinamide (10%), Zinc PCA (1%) | Reduces the appearance of pores, controls oil production, and minimizes blemishes. |
| Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 | Serum | Hyaluronic Acid (2%), Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) | Hydrates and plumps the skin, improves skin elasticity, and reduces the appearance of fine lines. |
| Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA | Serum | Alpha Arbutin (2%), Hyaluronic Acid | Brightens skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and fades dark spots. |
| Salicylic Acid 2% Masque | Treatment | Salicylic Acid (2%) | Exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and helps reduce acne. |
| 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil | Oil | Rose Hip Seed Oil | Hydrates, nourishes, and reduces the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation. |
| Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA | Moisturizer | Hyaluronic Acid, Amino Acids, Fatty Acids | Provides intense hydration, improves skin texture, and helps maintain skin’s moisture barrier. |
Popular Acids and Treatments
The Ordinary offers a variety of acids and treatments to address specific skin concerns.
“Acids are chemical exfoliants that help remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother and brighter skin.”
Here are some popular examples:
- Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%: A gentle exfoliating serum that helps brighten skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
- Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: A stronger exfoliant that effectively tackles hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
- Mandelic Acid 10% + HA: An exfoliating serum that is suitable for sensitive skin. It helps reduce acne and brighten the complexion.
- Retinol 0.5% in Squalane: A potent anti-aging serum that helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.
The Ordinary Skincare Routine: The Ordinary Skincare Reviews
The Ordinary is known for its straightforward, minimalist approach to skincare, offering a wide range of products that address specific skin concerns. Integrating these products into your existing routine can be as simple or complex as you like. Here’s a basic guide to incorporating The Ordinary products into your daily skincare regimen.
While The Ordinary has gained popularity for its straightforward approach to skincare, it’s worth exploring other options like dionis goat milk skincare. Dionis’s unique formulations offer a different perspective on skincare, incorporating natural ingredients like goat milk for its moisturizing and soothing properties.
Ultimately, the best approach is to find what works best for your individual skin type and needs, whether it’s The Ordinary or a more specialized brand like Dionis.
Basic Routine Structure
A basic skincare routine typically involves cleansing, toning, serum application, moisturizing, and sun protection. You can incorporate The Ordinary products into this framework, adjusting the specific products based on your skin type and concerns.
Product Application Order
The order of application is crucial to ensure product effectiveness. Generally, follow this order:
- Cleanser:Start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. The Ordinary offers several cleansers, including the Squalane Cleanser for dry skin and the Salicylic Acid 2% Masque for oily skin.
- Toner:Toners help to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for subsequent products. The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a popular choice for exfoliation and brightening.
- Treatments:This is where you incorporate targeted treatments like serums and acids. The Ordinary offers a wide range of serums, including Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% for brightening and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% for acne control. Apply these serums after cleansing and toning, before moisturizing.
- Moisturizer:Moisturizers hydrate and protect your skin. The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is a popular choice for all skin types. Apply moisturizer after serums and treatments.
- Sunscreen:Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days. The Ordinary does not currently offer sunscreen, so you will need to incorporate a separate sunscreen product into your routine.
Variations for Different Skin Types
Oily Skin
For oily skin, focus on products that control excess oil and prevent breakouts. Consider incorporating the following:
- Cleanser:Salicylic Acid 2% Masque or the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum
- Treatment:Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum or the Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
- Moisturizer:The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA or a lightweight gel moisturizer.
Dry Skin
For dry skin, prioritize hydration and nourishment. Consider incorporating the following:
- Cleanser:Squalane Cleanser or the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Treatment:Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or the 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
- Moisturizer:The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA or a rich cream moisturizer.
Sensitive Skin
For sensitive skin, choose gentle products and avoid harsh ingredients. Consider incorporating the following:
- Cleanser:Squalane Cleanser or the The Ordinary’s Gentle Cleanser
- Treatment:The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or the 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
- Moisturizer:The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA or a hypoallergenic cream moisturizer.
Customer Reviews and Experiences
The Ordinary has garnered a significant following, and customer reviews offer valuable insights into the brand’s strengths and weaknesses. By analyzing these reviews, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of what users like and dislike about The Ordinary products.
Common Themes and Opinions
Customer reviews of The Ordinary products often highlight the brand’s commitment to transparency, effectiveness, and affordability.
- Many users appreciate the brand’s straightforward ingredient lists and the absence of unnecessary fillers or fragrances.
- Customers frequently report positive results from using The Ordinary products, noting improvements in skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.
- The brand’s budget-friendly prices make it accessible to a wide range of consumers, allowing them to experiment with different ingredients and treatments.
Positive Aspects
- Ingredient Transparency:The Ordinary’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and avoiding unnecessary additives is a major selling point for many customers. They appreciate the clear and concise ingredient lists, which allow them to make informed decisions about the products they use.
- Effectiveness:Numerous reviews highlight the effectiveness of The Ordinary products in addressing various skin concerns. Customers often report improvements in acne, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and other common skin issues.
- Affordability:The Ordinary’s prices are generally lower than many other high-end skincare brands, making it accessible to a wider audience. This affordability allows customers to experiment with different products and routines without breaking the bank.
Common Concerns and Drawbacks
- Irritation:Some customers report experiencing irritation or sensitivity when using certain The Ordinary products. This is often attributed to the high concentrations of active ingredients, which can be potent for some skin types. It is essential to patch test new products and start with a low concentration before applying them to the entire face.
- Lack of Fragrance:While many appreciate the absence of added fragrance, some find the lack of scent unappealing. This is a matter of personal preference, but it’s worth noting that The Ordinary generally avoids adding artificial fragrances to its products.
- Packaging:The Ordinary’s packaging has been criticized by some for being prone to leaks and spills. This is particularly true for products in glass bottles or dropper bottles. However, the brand has taken steps to improve its packaging in recent years.
Comparing The Ordinary to Other Brands
The Ordinary has gained significant popularity for its minimalist approach to skincare, offering highly concentrated, single-ingredient formulas at affordable prices. However, it’s crucial to consider how it stacks up against other established skincare brands to make an informed decision.
Price Comparison
The Ordinary’s biggest selling point is its affordability. Its products are generally priced significantly lower than comparable products from brands like La Mer, SK-II, and Estee Lauder. For example, The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum costs around $5, while a similar serum from La Mer can cost over $100.
However, it’s important to note that some high-end brands offer affordable lines or individual products, making direct comparisons difficult.
Ingredient Quality and Effectiveness
The Ordinary focuses on using high-quality, scientifically backed ingredients in its products. The brand’s commitment to transparency allows consumers to easily understand the ingredients and their potential benefits. While the brand doesn’t use luxurious or exotic ingredients like some high-end brands, its formulas are often considered effective, particularly for addressing specific skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Choosing The Ordinary
Advantages
- Affordability:The Ordinary offers high-quality products at a fraction of the cost compared to many other brands.
- Transparency:The brand clearly lists all ingredients and their concentrations, allowing consumers to make informed choices.
- Effectiveness:Many users report positive results from using The Ordinary products, particularly for addressing specific skin concerns.
- Wide Range of Products:The Ordinary offers a wide variety of products targeting different skin concerns, allowing for a personalized routine.
Disadvantages
- Minimalist Packaging:The Ordinary’s packaging is simple and functional, but it might not appeal to everyone.
- Potential for Irritation:Some individuals may experience irritation or sensitivity to certain ingredients, especially those with sensitive skin.
- Limited Customer Service:The Ordinary’s customer service is not as extensive as some other brands.
Comparison Table
The following table compares The Ordinary products to similar products from other brands, highlighting key differences:
| Product Category | The Ordinary | Other Brands | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C Serum | Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% | Skinceuticals CE Ferulic | The Ordinary’s serum is more affordable, but Skinceuticals offers a higher concentration of vitamin C and additional antioxidants. |
| Retinol Serum | Retinol 0.5% in Squalane | Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% | The Ordinary’s serum is oil-based, while Differin is a gel. Differin contains a lower concentration of retinol but is more widely available. |
| Hyaluronic Acid Serum | Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 | Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum | The Ordinary’s serum is a more basic hyaluronic acid serum, while Drunk Elephant’s serum includes additional hydrating and soothing ingredients. |
The Ordinary and Skin Concerns
The Ordinary’s range of products is designed to address a variety of common skin concerns, offering effective solutions for those seeking targeted skincare. Each product focuses on a specific ingredient or combination of ingredients to address a particular issue.
Acne
The Ordinary offers a range of products specifically designed to combat acne, targeting different aspects of the condition.
- Salicylic Acid 2% Masque: This mask effectively exfoliates the skin and unclogs pores, reducing the likelihood of breakouts. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is known for its ability to penetrate the pores and dissolve excess sebum and dead skin cells, thereby reducing inflammation and preventing future breakouts.
- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: This serum helps regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation, minimizing the appearance of acne and blemishes. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while zinc helps control excess oil production. Together, they work synergistically to reduce acne and improve skin texture.
The Ordinary has become a popular brand for those seeking effective skincare at an affordable price. While many rave about their products, it’s important to remember that what works for one person might not work for another. If you’re not seeing the results you hoped for, it’s time to evaluate your routine.
Check out this article on how to tell your skincare routine isn’t working to identify potential issues. Once you understand what might be hindering your progress, you can adjust your routine accordingly, perhaps incorporating a different product from The Ordinary’s extensive range.
- Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%: This serum targets both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne, effectively reducing redness, bumps, and blemishes. Azelaic acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It helps to reduce the production of bacteria that can contribute to acne and also reduces inflammation and redness associated with acne lesions.
Safety and Precautions
The Ordinary’s commitment to providing effective and affordable skincare comes with a responsibility to prioritize user safety. While many of their products are formulated with high concentrations of active ingredients, it’s crucial to understand and follow safety guidelines to minimize potential risks.
Potential Side Effects
It’s essential to be aware that even natural ingredients can cause reactions in sensitive skin. Some common side effects of The Ordinary products include:
- Redness and irritation:This is more common with products containing acids, retinoids, or high concentrations of antioxidants.
- Dryness and flaking:Especially with exfoliating products, as they can remove the skin’s natural oils.
- Breakouts:Some individuals may experience an initial breakout, known as purging, as their skin adjusts to new ingredients.
- Sun sensitivity:Products with exfoliating acids or vitamin C can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, making sun protection crucial.
Minimizing Risks
Here are some important steps to minimize potential side effects:
- Patch test:Always test a new product on a small area of skin (like the inside of your elbow) for 24 hours before applying it to your face. This helps identify potential allergies or sensitivities.
- Start slow:Begin by using a product once or twice a week and gradually increase frequency as your skin tolerates it. This allows your skin to adjust to the new ingredient.
- Listen to your skin:If you experience any irritation, redness, or discomfort, stop using the product immediately and consult with a dermatologist.
- Hydration is key:Adequate hydration is essential, especially when using exfoliating or drying ingredients. Apply a good moisturizer after using The Ordinary products.
- Sun protection:Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, when using products that increase sun sensitivity.
- Avoid mixing incompatible ingredients:Some The Ordinary products, such as acids and vitamin C, shouldn’t be used together. Refer to the product descriptions and the brand’s website for compatibility information.
Final Summary
From understanding the brand’s philosophy and product offerings to navigating the vast world of customer reviews and addressing specific skin concerns, this guide has provided a comprehensive exploration of The Ordinary. We hope you feel empowered to confidently incorporate these products into your routine and experience the benefits they offer.
Remember, with a little research and a personalized approach, you can find the perfect The Ordinary products to achieve your skincare goals.