15 Best Ordinary Skin Care Products, Recommended By An Expert (2024)
This brand swears by its chemical-free, cruelty-free formulations that fit your budget.
Anna is a licensed esthetician and the founder and owner of Beauty and Cutie® hair, skin and nails vitamins from New York. Her interest in nutrition analysis and beauty propelled her to obtain a certification in Nutrition Science from the Stanford Center for Health Education and then develop and successfully market her product to improve hair, skin, and nails.
Read full bio of Anna Misztela
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda
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One beauty brand that is admired by many beauty bloggers and skin care enthusiasts is The Ordinary. You should definitely give the best The Ordinary skin care products a try. Their approach to skin care is unique and the products are made with single ingredients, and they offer visible and targeted results. These products are made with clinically formulated solutions and are backed by quality research.
All The Ordinary products are vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and free of harmful chemicals, alcohol silicones, gluten, and nuts. They also do not contain any water. The best part? They are not too expensive and are quite affordable. Check out this to get a compiled list of the 15 best The Ordinary skin care products you can include in your skin routine at an affordable price. Scroll down to know more!
In This Article
15 Best Ordinary Skin Care Products That Are Worth Trying In 2024
Note:
Most of these products contain acids. Do a patch test to check for any irritation, allergic reactions, redness, or inflammation. Also, do not pour the solutions on the face directly.
Best For Blemishes:The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a 10-minute gentle exfoliation solution. It is formulated with 30% alpha hydroxy acids, 2% beta hydroxy acid, hyaluronic acid crosspolymer, vitamin B5, black carrot, and Tasmanian pepper berry. AHA exfoliates the skin gently for dead skin cell removal, clearing the pores of congestions.
The 32% infusion of AHA and BHA deeply exfoliates the skin, reduces visible blemishes, and imparts radiance. Black carrot has anti-aging and antioxidant properties, and vitamin B5 helps repair damaged skin. This AHA-BHA peel is one of the best exfoliators as it improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with regular use.
Note: Do not use this solution on sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin. It contains AHA, which increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Thus, remain indoors after application. If going outdoors, apply sunscreen and wear protective accessories like scarves and hats. Check out this video to better understand the functions of this product.
Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, and Salicylic acid
Pros
- Reduces blemishes
- Adds radiance
- Repairs damaged skin
- Improves skin texture
Cons
- May cause skin irritation
CautionDo not use AHA/BHA with granactive retinoid. Used together, they might cause excessive skin irritation, redness, and inflammation.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 22,475 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
Best Anti-Aging:The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is made with an ultra-pure formula. Hyaluronic acid draws up to 1000 times its weight in water. The formula blends low, medium, and high molecular weight hyalyronic acid with a HA cross polymer to penetrate the skin deeply. It has proven efficacy in making the skin plump and filling in fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin B5 accentuates surface hydration. Check out this reviewer’s experience in this review to get a deeper insight into the functions of the product.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin B5 and Hyaluronic acid cross polymer
Pros
- Hydrates the skin
- Makes the skin plump
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
- May pile and lead to flaky skin
TriviaBrandon Truaxe launched The Ordinary skincare brand in 2016.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 899 reviews claiming its efficacy.
Best For Oily Skin:The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% solution is made with a high-strength vitamin and mineral formula. The niacinamide minimizes the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion and brightens the skin tone. The zinc salt helps balance sebum production, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Note: This solution should not be used with topical vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid and/or Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid). If topical vitamin C is a part of your skin care regimen, use this product at alternate timelines. The product shows visible results in 8 weeks. Watch this YouTuber’s video to learn about the reviewer’s experience and for more information.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide and Zinc PCA
Pros
- Controls sebum production
- Brightens the skin
- Minimizes the appearance of blemishes
Cons
- May sting
- Strong smell
- Might form a residue
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 14,742 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution Best For Blemishes | The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Best Anti-Aging | The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Best For Oily Skin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Acne Prone | All | - |
| Dimensions | 1.97 x 1.97 x 3.94 inches | 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches | - |
| Weight | 1.06 Ounces | 1.1 Ounces | - |
| Color | - | - | White |
| Weight | - | - | 1.1 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 22,475 | 899 | 14,742 |
| Price | $8.0 | $12.13 | - |
Best Exfoliating:The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution exfoliates the skin gently. It is formulated with amino acids, aloe vera, ginseng, and Tasmanian pepper berry. This toning solution improves skin texture, evens out the skin tone, and visibly clears the skin with regular use. The Tasmanian pepper berry reduces irritation caused by acids. Ginseng and aloe vera enhance skin radiance and soothe the skin.
Note: This solution should not be used on sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin. Due to the presence of AHA, this solution can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Make sure you limit your sun exposure or use sunscreen and wear protective accessories like hats or scarves while going out.
Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/leaf extract, Ginseng root, and Aloe vera
Pros
- Brightens the skin
- Exfoliates the skin
- Improves skin texture
- Imparts radiance
- Soothes the skin
Cons
- May cause breakouts
- May form a sticky residue
RememberDo not mix glycolic acid with vitamin C since they are both acidic. They can hamper the ph balance of the skin and not give you the expected results.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 8,734 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
Best For Treating Puffiness:The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG
The Ordinary’s Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG shows visible results in minimizing the appearance of eye contour pigmentation and puffiness. This solution has a light texture that is easily absorbed into the skin. EGCG is extracted from green tea leaves. It provides extra hydration to skin and reduces melatonin formation. Caffeine, a favorite ingredient of many skincare enthusiasts, the appearance of cellulite. The blend of caffeine and EGCG reduces visible signs of aging and dark circles under and around the eyes.
Note: EGCG is light sensitive and hence the packaging is UV protected. Stay indoors after application and wear sunscreen and protective accessories like hats when going out.
Key Ingredients: Caffeine and EGCG
Pros
- Reduces eye contour pigmentation
- Treats puffiness
- Minimizes the appearance of cellulite
Cons
- None
Best For Skin Brightening:The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% solution is a mild and superficial peeling formula with many skin benefits. Lactic acid is an AHA that gently exfoliates the skin. This solution also contains purified Tasmanian pepper berry derivative, which is of plant origin and reduces inflammation and skin sensitivity caused by mild exfoliation. Hyaluronic acid maintains hydration level and plumps the skin. This solution resurfaces, brightens, and smoothens the skin and evens out the skin tone.
Note: This solution contains AHA, which increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Hence, apply sunscreen before stepping out and limit your sun exposure.
Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, Hyaluronic acid, Tasmannia Lanceolata fruit/leaf extract
Pros
- Exfoliates the skin
- Brightens the skin
- Smoothens the skin
- Reduces inflammation and irritation
Cons
- Might feel sticky
- Unpleasant smell
- Not for sensitive skin
Best Non-Greasy:The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
This popular product contains Natural Moisturizing Factors that protect and hydrate the outer layer of the skin. They include 11 amino acids, phospholipids, fatty acids, triglycerides, urea, ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, saccharides, sodium PCA, and other elements found naturally in the skin. It is non-greasy, long-lasting, and moisturizes the skin instantly. It shows visible results with regular use.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Dermal lipids, 11 amino acids, Allantoin, Glycerin, Urea, Sodium PCA, and Saccharides
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Moisturizes the skin
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin type
- Unpleasant smell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 7,118 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
Best For All Skin Types:The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA solution provides superficial dermal peeling and improves skin texture. Mandelic acid accelerates cell turnover and penetrates the skin slowly and gently to make it healthy. Hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin and seals in the skin’s natural moisture, making it supple and firm. It strengthens the natural skin barrier and is suitable for all skin types. This solution addresses uneven skin tone, fights fine lines and wrinkles, and smoothens the skin to give brighter skin. This gentle formula does not irritate reactive skin.
Note: This solution should not be used on sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin. It contains AHA, which makes the skin sensitive to UV rays. It is advised to remain indoors after application. Apply sunscreen and wear protective accessories like hats or scarves while going out.
Key Ingredients: Mandelic acid and Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Evens the skin tone
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Brightens the skin
- Hydrates the skin
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Might feel greasy
Best For Hyperpigmentation:The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA contains pure alpha arbutin that minimizes spots and hyperpigmentation. The hyaluronic acid moisturizes the skin, retains its natural moisture, and strengthens its natural barrier, making it a favorite product of many. This solution has a pH of 4.9 pH and keeps the skin plump.
Note: Do not mix water with this solution as it can degrade the alpha arbutin.
Key Ingredients: Alpha arbutin and Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Reduces spots and blemishes
- Moisturizes the skin
Cons
- Might feel sticky
Best For Repairing Sun Damage:The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane
The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalene is a highly stable solution with many skin benefits. It contains 0.2% pure retinol that reduces the appearance of fine lines, repairs photo damage, and minimizes the signs of skin aging. Squalene has emollient, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory properties that hydrate the skin, prevent sun damage, reduce redness and swelling, respectively. This squalane solution makes your skin soft, healthy, and even-toned.
Note: When used in high concentrations, retinol can irritate the skin. It can also make the skin sensitive to the sun. Thus, stay indoors after application and wear sunscreen and protective accessories while going out. Also, water can inhibit the stability of retinol, and plant oil infusions with retinol can cause lipid peroxidation and tarnish retinol integrity. Pregnant women or nursing moms should refrain using any retinol creams or solutions.
Key Ingredients: Retinol and Squalene
Pros
- Reduces fine lines
- Repairs photo damage
- Evens out the skin tone
- Soothes the skin
Cons
- None
Best For Adding Glow:The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
The Ordinary 3% Resveratrol + 3% Ferulic Acid solution is a highly potent formula that contains two powerful antioxidants – resveratrol and ferulic acid. Resveratrol is extracted from Japanese Knotweed, while the ferulic acid is extracted from the inner walls of plant cells. Resveratrol works at the cellular level to fight skin aging. It hydrates the skin, protects it from UV damage, brightens it, and improves skin texture. Ferulic acid reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Key Ingredients: Resveratrol and Ferulic acid
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Smoothens the skin
- Evens out the skin tone
- Adds glow
Cons
- Might feel sticky
Best Dewy Finish:The Ordinary High-Spreadability Fluid Primer
The Ordinary High Spreadability Fluid Primer is lightweight and smoothens the skin with high flexibility silicones. This beauty product allows makeup products to spread easily over the skin. This leads to an even makeup application without accumulation of pigments around the eyes or on dry skin. It also acts as a non-oily moisturizer that imparts a natural dewy finish to enhance the appearance of dull skin.
Key Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, CaprylylMethicone, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Hexamethyldisiloxane, PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer, and Tocopherol
Pros
- Lightweight
- Smoothens the skin
- Non-oily
- Imparts a dewy finish
- Moisturizes the skin
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
Best Moisturizing:The Ordinary 100% Cold-pressed Virgin Marula Oil - BROKEN LINK
The Ordinary 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil is a daily support oil for the hair and skin. It is enriched with antioxidants extracted from fruit kernels of the Marula tree. It is one of the best moisturizers as it contains oleic acid, linoleic acid, procyanidin, catechins, and flavonoids. These ingredients moisturize the skin and restore its radiance and tone.
Key Ingredients: Virgin marulaoil
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Evens the skin tone
- Imparts radiance
Cons
- May cause breakouts
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
The Ordinary "Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1%
The Ordinary “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% eliminates multiple signs of aging. It contains copper peptides, matrixyl 3000 peptide complex, matrixyl synth’6 peptide complex, SYN_AKE peptide complex, relistase peptide complex, argirelox peptide complex, and a probiotic complex. These are made solvable in a base of 11 skin-friendly amino acids paired with hyaluronic acid.
The 1% copper peptides improve overall skin health. Matrixyl and argirelox peptide complexes reduce the appearance of fine lines and static and dynamic wrinkles. The blend of peptide complexes maintains regular immune function, boosts collagen and fibroblast production, and induces anti-inflammatory responses. This solution has a total concentration of 26.1% complexes.
Key Ingredients: Copper peptides, Matrixyl, and Argirelox peptide complex
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Reduces the signs of aging
- Boosts collagen and fibroblast production
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions and breakouts
- Might feel sticky
Best For Treating Discoloration:The Ordinary AscorbylGlucoside Solution 12%
The Ordinary AscorbylGlucosideSolution 12% brightens the skin and reduces signs of aging. Ascorbyl glucoside is a water-soluble, highly stable derivative of vitamin C with antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. The antioxidants fight free radicals, which cause wrinkles and dark spots. Vitamin C derivative stone the skin and lighten discoloration. This solution is water-compatible and imparts a natural glow to the skin.
Key Ingredients: Ascorbylgluco side
Pros
- Adds glow
- Minimizes dark spots
- Reduces signs of aging
- Treats discoloration
Cons
- Might cause a burning sensation
The best part about Ordinary products is that they are affordable and have made high-quality skincare accessible to many. They have an impressive list of products that address almost every skin type and concern. In addition, all Ordinary products are free of harmful chemicals, alcohol-free, and vegan-friendly. The only task is that you need to know your ingredients. Check out our mini guide on how to pick the best Ordinary products that will work for you.
How to Choose the Best The Ordinary Skin Care Products
- Know Your Skin Type
To get started, you need to know your skin type. Skin types are classified into dry, oily, combination, and normal. The Ordinary will provide you with products with ingredients suitable for each skin type. It is essential to know your skin type, as what may work for one skin type may not work for another. Therefore, always do a a patch test before using any product.
- Know Your Skin Concern
Different serums can address various skin concerns. For instance, oily skin needs lightweight products that do cause clogged pores, whereas pigmentation and dark spots need an alpha-arbutin-infused serum. Therefore you need to know your skincare issues to pick the correct serums.
- Know The Active Ingredient
The main ingredient mentioned in the bottle is the active ingredient. Different elements target different concerns. Ordinary serums are packed with only these single, potent ingredients to penetrate the skin more effectively. For example, retinol is excellent for anti-aging as it reduces signs of aging. On the other hand, salicylic acid works for oily and acne-prone skin to reduce clogging pores and control excess oil.
- Know The Strength of The Ingredient
The percentage of the ingredient indicates its strength in the product. If you are new to active ingredients, starting with lower potency, especially for sensitive skin, is best. Though in most cases, higher strength may be more effective. Finding the right balance for your skin is key to the effectiveness of the program you follow.
Infographic: Key Ingredients & Trivia About The Ordinary
What is the secret behind the huge popularity of The Ordinary? Well, the brand says their formulas deliver exactly what they claim. We have done a bit of research and put together a list of their star ingredients in our infographic. Scroll down to learn some interesting facts about The Ordinary you never knew before! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Among the few skincare brands that have revolutionized skin care over the past few decades, The Ordinary is one of them! The brand is known to formulate unique skin care products that offer visible and targeted results. All products from this brand are devoid of harmful chemicals and are also quite affordable. They reduce hyperpigmentation, spots, and blemishes while adding a radiant glow to your skin. For instance, The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a powerful exfoliant that improves skin texture, tone, and clarity, while The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 provides deep hydration and maintains skin moisture, and The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% regulates sebum production and minimizes the appearance of pores. These products have safe, clinical formulations, rely on quality ingredients and are backed by quality research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Ordinary skincare brand good?
Yes, The Ordinary skincare brand is one of the most popular brands worldwide as they provide its users with products made from natural ingredients. In addition, their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and affordable.
What product from The Ordinary is the best?
All Ordinary skincare products are rich in beneficial ingredients and give targeted results. You can check the best ones from the list above.
Which The Ordinary product is the best for fair skin?
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA is the best product to reduce hyperpigmentation in the skin.
What does The Ordinary do to your face?
Various The Ordinary skincare products help your skin regain its youthful glow and moisture with regular use.
Why is The Ordinary so popular?
The Ordinary skincare products are so popular because they are based on single ingredients, which result in optimal results. In addition, their products were free of every toxic element.
How long does it take for The Ordinary products to work?
The Ordinary products are very effective and start showing results within a few days of use.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach and loves writing comprehensive beauty content for her readers. She reviewed various online platforms to check user feedback and learned about the products mentioned in the list. The best Ordinary skin care products are vegan, cruelty-free, and irritant-free. They prevent redness, inflammation, and irritations and improve skin texture.
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums For Dehydrated Skin
- Top Niacinamide Products to Look Out
- Best Salicylic Acid Products
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