The Ordinary: The 5 Best-Selling Products Actually Worth Your Money
I vividly remember the mix of excitement and sheer panic that came with my first order from The Ordinary. The prices were so incredible that I'd bought five different serums. When they arrived in their minimalist little boxes, I lined them up on my counter and felt... completely lost. "Granactive Retinoid," "Niacinamide," "Buffet." It felt like I needed a chemistry degree just to wash my face.
My "Aha!" Moment: You Don't Need Everything, You Just Need the RightThings
My initial approach was chaotic. I tried using too many things at once and ended up irritating my skin. It forced me to take a step back and do a deep dive, not just into the products, but into the brand's entire philosophy. My breakthrough was realizing that the power of The Ordinary isn't in using a dozen of their products; it's in strategically choosing a few of their highly effective, single-ingredient "heroes" to supercharge your routine.
Why Trust This Guide? I’ve Navigated the Confusion for You
This guide is the product of that journey. I've personally used every product on this list. I've researched the science behind them and figured out where they fit into a smart, effective routine. This isn't a list of everything they sell; it's my curated, battle-tested list of the absolute must-haves that deliver the best bang for your buck.
The 5 Best The Ordinary Products That Live Up to the Hype
1. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
My Experience:This was the first The Ordinary product that made me a true believer. As someone with combination skin, a shiny T-zone, and noticeable pores around my nose, this serum was a game-changer. Within a few weeks of using it every morning, my skin was visibly less oily, and my pores appeared smaller and less congested. It's the reliable workhorse of my routine. For more on this ingredient, see my Ultimate Guide to Niacinamide.
Best For:Oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types.
2. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
My Experience:This is what I call the "universal friend." It's not a flashy, dramatic product, but it's a foundational staple that every skin type can benefit from. I use it on damp skin, day and night, before my moisturizer. It gives my skin a dose of pure, simple hydration, leaving it feeling plump and bouncy. It's the definition of a no-brainer purchase.
3. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
My Experience:This is my secret weapon for a serious glow-up, but I've learned to respect its power. I use this potent exfoliating toner about twice a week, at night only. The morning after I use it, my skin's texture is incredibly smooth, and it has a radiance that nothing else provides. It’s fantastic for tackling dullness and improving the appearance of old post-acne marks.
4. Multi-Peptide + HA Serum (Formerly "Buffet")
My Experience:This is The Ordinary's all-in-one anti-aging solution, and it's perfect for those who want to target firmness without the potential irritation of retinoids. I think of it as a supportive cocktail for my skin. It's packed with various Peptides that help to firm and plump the skin over time. I use this on the nights I'm not using my retinoid to give my skin a different kind of support.
5. Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
My Experience:This is the product I recommend to every single friend who is scared to start using a Retinoid. It uses a gentler, next-generation form of Vitamin A that provides great anti-aging benefits with a significantly lower risk of the peeling and irritation that can come with traditional retinol. It was my own entry point into the world of retinoids, and it helped my skin adapt beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I combine these The Ordinary products in the same routine? Yes, but strategy is key. Here's my personal rule: I never use the Glycolic Acid and the Retinoid on the same night. That's a recipe for irritation. A great approach is to use the Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide in the morning, followed by sunscreen, and then alternate between the Glycolic Acid, Retinoid, and Peptide serum at night. For a full breakdown, check out my guide to layering active ingredients.
The Ordinary is so cheap. Is it actually good quality? I had this exact same skepticism at first. The answer is yes, the quality of the ingredients is excellent. The company's philosophy is to cut costs on everything exceptthe science. They use simple packaging, they don't use fancy fragrances, and they do almost no traditional marketing. They sell you the active ingredient, pure and simple, and let the results speak for themselves.
Final Thoughts
The Ordinary can feel like an intimidating chemistry class, but it doesn't have to be. By ignoring the noise and starting with these five proven, best-selling winners, you can build a ridiculously effective, science-backed skincare routine that will deliver results that rival brands ten times the price.