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The Ordinary review: The products the Cosmo UK beauty team really rate
From the viral sensations to the hidden gems you're missing out on
There are few brands we can confidently say have revolutionised the overcrowded world of skincare, and The Ordinary is one of them.
The brand has evolved massively since it initially launched into the beauty stratosphere in 2016. While there’s been a plethora of buzzy new launches and successful expansions into haircare and body care – and recently the return of the Serum Foundation – the brand is home to some of the most talked-about skincare products around (ahem, Glycolic Acid Toner).
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum
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The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner
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The Ordinary Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion
Read review
The trailblazing brand birthed a generation of “Skintellectuals” with their transparent ingredient percentage-based product names and focus on effective and hard-working skincare. The brand is continuously creating new products but also reimagining their existing best-sellers – in fact, The Ordinary challenged how they see innovation by improving the formula of the OG Hyaluronic Acid serum to now feature ceramides.
In ways, The Ordinary takes the fluff out of skincare by presenting formulations that keep the core ingredients at the forefront – not to mention the simple packaging. The only downfall is you do have to know some skincare lingo to understand what to shop (i.e., one of their products is called the Saccharomyces Ferment Milky Toner, you get me?).
But luckily, the brand makes it incredibly easy to understand who their products are for and where you should use them in your skincare routine. Plus, they have also set the trend that you don’t have to fork out to get products that deliver results. A hard-working serum for a tenner? The Ordinary certainly had us hooked from the get-go.
Intrigued? Read below for our beauty team’s honest thoughts about The Ordinary products we genuinely think are worth adding to your basket...
Best products from The Ordinary, for every skin type...
Clare Stephenson, senior beauty e-commerce writer says: As soon as I heard about this product I knew we’d get on, and I was right. I’d been using another, similar, expensive player up until I found The Ordinary’s retinal and can honestly say the results are just as noticeable.
Firstly, this formula isn’t here to mess around; 0.2% is potent so I’d suggest using it twice a week to start. As I’d been using retinal for some time, I was using it every other day and soon saw incredible results. I said ‘buh bye’ to texture and under-the-skin bumps, plus my complexion looked so much smoother too. When you get skin compliments on Zoom calls, that's when you know.
Reviews: “I have acne prone sensitive skin and used this for several weeks and it didn’t break me out. It’s super easy to apply, very faint citrus scent that goes away fast. The texture is creamy, initially yellow colour that fades and dries clear/no colour. It’s not drying and super easy to use. Need more time to try it to see long term effect but so far, so good and it doesn’t break me out.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Retinaldehyde and synthetic oat analogues to target dryness and sensitivity. |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | All skin types, even the sensitive |
| What does it target? | Pigmentation, dullness, uneven skin tone and texture. |
Clare Stephenson, senior beauty e-commerce writer says: I like to think this serum was made for me. Since I can remember, I’ve had KP on the back of my arms, but could never find a product that was simple enough to use – and one that was effective, too.
What I love about this formula is how lightweight and silky it is, so much so that it almost feels like water. The handy nozzle can be used to dispense the product directly onto the skin and it takes zero effort to blend in.
It packs a powerful punch though: the salicylic acid has helped clear up those pesky bumps in a matter of weeks and I’ve even used it on the odd pimple that shows up from time to time.
The reviews: “This lightweight serum glides effortlessly onto the skin without any greasy residue. Its convenient pump dispenser allows for easy application, with just one or two pumps covering a wide area. Within days, I noticed a visible reduction in both the redness and size of blemishes. Consistent use has dramatically improved my skin’s texture, smoothing rough patches and enhancing overall clarity. Ideal for those struggling with body acne and uneven skin, this gentle yet potent formula is suitable for daily use, even on sensitive skin.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Salicylic acid |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | All skin types |
| What does it target? | Bumpy skin, keratosis pilaris, congestion, acne |
Lia Mappoura, beauty writer says: Varying brands of an oil-free, texture-balancing serums are on constant rotation within my skincare routine, but The Ordinary’s Niacinamide formula is a cult classic and one that I constantly come back to - and have been coming back to for almost a decade… yes, I’m that old.
Not only is the ingredient list super clean (read: fragrance, oil, cruelty, alcohol, silicone and gluten-free) but the 10 and 1 per cent inclusions of niacinamide and zinc work to improve the appearance of the skin tone, visibly refine pores and remove excess sebum. It's a multi-hyphenate if I ever did see one. Basically, it’s a blemish-prone, sensitive (skin) girly’s dream.
The reviews: "I suffered from hyperpigmentation after dealing with acne, and my dermatologist told me to use this serum, and my god did it clean up my skin! I saw a huge difference after a week or so and I continued using it for almost 3 months. I don't have to cover up my uneven skin tone anymore."
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Niacinamide, zinc |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | Oily |
| What does it target? | Uneven texture, congestion, oil and shine, dullness |
Clare Stephenson, senior beauty e-commerce writer says: I never used a toner, but after trying the Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner, I can’t do my skincare without one. It’s a lifesaver if you have sensitive skin but still want to enjoy the benefits of exfoliating acids – well, kinda.
The toner is formulated with 30% saccharomyces ferment, an acid alternative, to gently smooth texture and boost radiance. So it's a less abrasive way of exfoliating, but it also contains squalene so it deeply hydrates the skin and prevents any moisture loss. It’s my favourite first step (after cleansing, of course) to then apply the rest of my skincare – and it layers well under makeup, too.
The reviews: “I have used this toner just a few times but have already noticed a difference. It has helped with redness, texture and has also made my skin really glowy! It also sits well under my makeup!”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Saccharomyces ferment and squalane |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | All skin types, including sensitive |
| What does it target? | Texture, pigmentation, uneven skin tone, dryness |
Clare Stephenson, senior beauty e-commerce writer says: I’ve used niacinamide countless times on my face, but never thought to introduce it into my body care routine. After using this, I’ve discovered that I’ve been missing out – big time.
As niacinamide (also known as vitamin B3) helps to boost the skin barrier and smooth texture, I’ve mainly been using it on my chest where I have slight discolouration and a few KP pumps. After only a few uses, it has brightened my skin and helped to smooth everything out, too. My only niggle? Give us a bigger bottle, please.
The reviews: “This lotion is really nice and hydrating on the skin. It doesn’t feel sticky at all and is not so thick that it leaves a greasy layer. It instantly makes the skin feel hydrated and it lasts through the day. I even had a sunburn on my shoulders that I was trying to heal and this rehydrated the skin and sped up the healing very nicely. The only thing I didn’t love was that it has a very strong scent, and because of that I was unable to use it on my face.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | Dry skin |
| What does it target? | Uneven skin tone, dryness |
Victoria Jowett, former beauty director says: I’m a minimalist when it comes to my skincare, after one too many bad reactions to fancy face masks or glow-boosting retinol, I’ve come to terms with the fact that my skin likes it when I keep things simple. That said, as a permanently dry-skinned human, the one product I will never part with? A hyaluronic acid serum.
The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic 2% + B5 is a no-thrills serum, it doesn’t smell like a spa (which, tbh, is a good thing) and it can be a little tacky on the face, but the formula contains five forms of hyaluronic acid which help provide hydration to multiple layers of the skin. For under a tenner, it’s proof you can get effective skincare at an affordable price.
The reviews: "People think price defines a product, but it definitely doesn’t. But let me say this has knocked out at least 3 expensive skincare products out of my daily rotation. I tried it on my hair as recommended and it brought it back to life! Instant shine and my hair actually looks healthy, and not dry and brittle. I went through the first fairly quick since I use it for both my face and hair. I first tried it on the back of my head/hair in case I got a reaction, which is not uncommon for me as I have very sensitive skin. Another plus is that it is fragrance-free, which is rare for skin products."
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin B5 |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | Dry |
| What does it target? | Dryness and dehydration |
Clare Stephenson, senior beauty e-commerce writer says: I don’t have sensitive skin, but the thought of this potent chemical peel was still enough to induce a small sweat. Anyways, I went ahead, following the brand’s advice to leave it on for no longer than ten minutes, and now can say I wish I tried it sooner.
After a few weeks of use, the Peeling Solution has faded my hormonal acne scars (yes, I’m a spot squeezer) while brightening and smoothing my complexion in the process. I look a little crazy wearing it, but the results are worth it.
The reviews: “I have always struggled with acne and now that I am close to 30 I was tired of continuing to struggle with it. I suffer from fungal acne and recently cystic hormonal acne. I use this 3-4 times a week and I have extremely sensitive skin. Anything and everything will break me out. Since I started this product my skin is like glass. No active acne and fungal acne is GONE. This product is perfect for gentle exfoliation. I have nothing but wonderful things to say. It stings when it goes on and feels a tad bit itchy and uncomfortable but when washed off your skin will be so soft. I do not leave it on for more than 5-10 minutes! LOVE LOVE LOVE this product.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, salicylic acid |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | Dull and textured skin (not sensitive) |
| What does it target? | Uneven texture, pigmentation, dullness |
Clare Stephenson, senior beauty e-commerce writer says: I never really had a body lotion routine, but I’ve been dousing myself in this stuff since I received it. The core ingredient is natural moisturising factors (NMFs) – substances in the skin’s uppermost layers that keep it smooth and hydrated.
The main NMFs in this formula are urea and allantoin which deeply feed hydration and moisture, leading to softer and more supple skin. I also appreciate the silky texture that takes seconds to blend without any white streaks.
Just note, there’s no fancy fragrance or playful colour – what you’re getting is a simple, scent-free formula that does the job.
The reviews: “This is one of the most lightweight yet extremely hydrating body lotions I own. This sinks into the skin so fast. It’s completely non-greasy and doesn’t leave a weird film. Somehow you’re still left with a seal of hydration. I only wish the bottle were bigger because I absolutely love it!”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Amino acids, urea and PCA (minerals to boost hydration) |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | All skin types, specifically dry |
| What does it target? | Dryness |
Lia Mappoura, beauty writer says: If you’re after a fuss-free, does-it-all moisturiser, look no further. The Ordinary offers three different types of moisturisers that all work to seal and support the skin barrier with hydration, however, my favourite is this high-performance formula which touts a combination of amino acids, fatty acids and hyaluronic acid.
These ingredients work harmoniously to saturate the skin with instant moisture, which, in the long term, will deliver a radiant, brighter-looking complexion – all without that greasy feeling. And at under 15 quid, you can’t really go wrong! Plus, it’s oil and fragrance-free, making it a winner for all skin types – even the sensitive, excess sebum-producing girlies among us.
The reviews: “I have relatively sensitive and acne prone skin (due to dryness) and this stuff works wonders!!! I use it after the hyaluronic acid and b5 serum and it is so good. No breakouts & noticed results after the first time using. I apply both the serum & moisturiser before bed & my skin is moisturised the entire day after. absorbs quick and never looks greasy, just healthy! Wish I tried this combo sooner.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Amino acids, fatty acids and hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| For what skin type? | Dry and sensitive |
| What does it target? | Dryness and irritation |
Charlotte Bitmead (she/her) is the Senior Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. She has over six years experience writing about beauty and has previously written for ELLE and The Sunday Times Style, covering everything from politics to sustainability to inclusivity within the beauty industry. When she’s not writing in-depth features, testing out the newest skincare fad or trying to decide what nail art to get, you can find her overspending in bookshops or shouting at Arsenal matches. Find her on LinkedIn
Clare Stephenson is the Senior Fashion and Beauty E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, ELLE and Harper’s Bazaar. She has been an e-commerce writer since 2022, creating matter-of-fact reviews and shopping pages filled with her favourite products for every budget and need – whether that’s a glow-giving foundation, a high-tech LED face mask or the perfect wear-with-everything blazer.
Alongside writing, Clare loves to be in front of the camera creating shopping content, putting viral products to the test to see which ones are truly worth the hype. Through her work, she has interviewed leading dermatologists, makeup artists and industry experts to bring readers trusted advice and product recommendations.
Clare has contributed to titles across the Hearst UK portfolio, including Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Red and Prima. Prior to joining Hearst, she earned a BA in Multimedia Journalism from Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on magazines and editorial. She later worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events including Fashion Week and interviewing notable brand founders.
Outside of work? You can find Clare strolling through London’s Columbia Road Market, pouring her fourth coffee of the day or heading to a Pilates class.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson.
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