When it comes to affordable, results-driven skincare, The Ordinary is a cult favourite – and judging by the thousands of glowing BEAUTY BAY reviews, you agree. With science-led formulas, no-frills packaging, and prices that won’t break the bank, it’s no wonder this brand has taken over skincare shelves across the UK. Whether you’re tackling breakouts, dryness, dullness, or just building your routine, there’s something in The Ordinary skincare lineup for you. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best The Ordinary products, starring your most-loved, top-rated picks that are actually worth trying.
Which The Ordinary product is best for me?
The Ordinary offers targeted solutions for all kinds of skin concerns. From gentle cleansers that hydrate the skin to powerful serums that tackle oiliness and brighten your complexion, The Ordinary has the solution your skin is craving. With fan favourites like their Squalane Cleanser and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum leading the way, this bestselling brand makes building a skincare routine that fits your unique needs simple, affordable, and easier than ever.
The 10 best The Ordinary products according to you
We scoured through all The Ordinary reviews to find the most revolutionary products you need in your routine. From cleansing to glowing and everything in between, these top-rated bestsellers prove you don’t need a complicated routine to get seriously good skin.
1. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
Best for: Gentle, hydrating cleansing
The Ordinary’s Squalane Cleanser is a buttery balm-to-oil formula that melts away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities without stripping your skin. Packed with skin-loving squalane, it leaves your complexion feeling soft, clean, and hydrated, making it an ideal choice for dry or sensitive skin types who want an ultra-gentle cleanse.
Our favourite 5* review: “Absolutely love this cleanser. The way it melts into your skin is heavenly. So gentle, but so cleansing”- Victoria…
2. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Best for: Brightening and exfoliating
Got dull or textured skin? The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is here to save the day (and your skin). It gently exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and evens out skin tone with regular use, leaving your complexion brighter and smoother. It’s also infused with skin-soothing ingredients like aloe vera, so you don’t have to worry about irritation. Glow incoming.
Our favourite 5* review: “This product is a game-changer! After just a few weeks, my skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and has a healthy glow. It gently exfoliates without irritation, and I love using it a few nights a week. Definitely a must-have in my skincare routine!” – Sneha P.
3. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Best for: Dull, oily, and blemish-prone skin
Breakouts? Oiliness? Enlarged pores? The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum is your skincare sidekick. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production and even the skin tone, while zinc calms the skin, leaving it looking clearer, more balanced, and shine-free with consistent use. Thanks to its water-based formula, it also works to rejuvenate and hydrate the skin barrier without any greasiness.
Our favourite 5* review: “Great product. Have been using for a couple weeks now on places where I keep having acne breakouts, and my skin looks so much better now, and my acne is almost gone. My skin is much more radiant looking” – Eleonora
4. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Best for: Deep hydration and plump skin
Dehydrated skin doesn’t stand a chance with The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. This serum draws moisture deep into the skin for long-lasting hydration and visible plumpness. With added vitamin B5 to soothe and soften, along with low, medium, and high molecular hyaluronic acid molecules to target wrinkles and texture, it’s a must-have for that dewy, bouncy-skin finish.
Our favourite 5* review: “Everyone needs this! This makes my skin so healthy and plump! A must have for all skin types” – Megan W.
5. The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum
Best for: Mature skin
The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum is a powerful anti-ageing formula designed to smooth skin, improve texture, and tackle fine lines. Retinal (a more potent cousin of retinol) works fast but with less irritation, making it a smart pick for retinoid regulars ready to step it up. Just a heads-up: it’s designed with mature skin in mind, so if you’re on the younger side, this one’s not for you (just yet).
Our favourite 5* review: “I feel like a new woman! Who needs botox when you have this!” – Amy M.
6. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Best for: Deep exfoliation and clearer pores
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is an iconic red mask that delivers serious results. With a mix of exfoliating acids to unclog pores, fight blemishes, and boost radiance, it’s the ultimate weekly reset for your skin. This powerful potion shouldn’t be used by sensitive or damaged skin, and it should always be followed with SPF.
Our favourite 5* review: “I love this product and have been recommending it to my friends, the effect it has on the skin is amazing, the pores seem smaller and the skin is clean and soft after use” – Liad P.
7. The Ordinary GF 15% Solution
Best for: Skin firmness and bounce
If your skin’s feeling a bit meh, The Ordinary GF 15% Solution is here to pep things up. It uses growth factors to support smoother, firmer-looking skin, helping improve texture and elasticity over time. It’s perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their anti-ageing game without indulging in heavy-duty actives.
Our favourite 5* review: “Love using this product only been using a week morning and evening after cleansing but I’ve noticed a difference already!” – Emily S.
8. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Best for: Everyday hydration and barrier support
Simple, effective, and seriously hydrating, The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is a no-fuss moisturiser packed with naturally occurring ingredients that keep your skin’s barrier strong. Lightweight and non-greasy, it’s a daily go-to for soft, comfortable skin.
Our favourite 5* review: “Lovely everyday moisturiser. I use it on my face but also sometimes on my body. Leaves a lovely glow and I have been complimented on my skin numerous times” – Rose T.
9. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Eye Serum
Best for: Brightening and smoothing under-eyes
Wake up to brighter, smoother eyes with The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Eye Serum. This featherlight formula targets puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines using a blend of peptides and it absorbs quickly and layers perfectly under makeup, making it the ultimate antidote for tired-eyes.
Our favourite 5* review: “Definitely noticed my under eye improved when using this for 2 weeks. My lines have faded a small but and my under eye looks fresher” – Lisa M.
10. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum
Best for: Fuller-looking lashes and brows
Wishing for fuller, healthier-looking lashes and brows? The Ordinary listened, and made the Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum. With consistent use, this peptide-rich formula helps improve density and strength while nourishing and protecting your lashes and brows. Faux-lash effect on natural lashes? We’re sold.
Our favourite 5* review: “I’m not kidding when I say this actually works. I don’t typically apply more than 2x a week just because I forget but even just after a couple applications a week I can testify that my lashes are longer and my brows seem thicker. Highly recommend” – Jess
