Brands like The Ordinary instantly resonate with skincare enthusiasts. If the name doesn't ring a bell, it's likely because this Canadian brand is relatively new to the French market and skips traditional advertising. Launched in 2016 by Brandon Truaxe under the Deciem group—which unites 10 brands for face, body, and hair—its hallmark is delivering proven active ingredients at optimal concentrations in streamlined formulas. These aren't fully 'clean' but prioritize minimal controversial additives and short ingredient lists. Cruelty-free from the start (packaging proudly states: "tested on humans"), prices are unbeatable: serums from €3.60, most under €10, with the top product at €28.90.
The Ordinary's philosophy centers on single or minimal-ingredient formulas (only "Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%" offers a complete treatment, and it's the priciest). This contrasts with all-in-one products targeting specific skin types or issues, empowering you to customize routines precisely—say, hydrating, gently exfoliating, and balancing sebum with just three items. Acids come in varied strengths for all skin types. The catch for beginners? It can feel daunting without prior knowledge of oils, acids, or peptides. Product pages (English now, French soon) guide you with ingredient breakdowns, combo suggestions, and contraindications.
Purifying serum (niacinamide), caffeine eye contour, squalane cleanser… We've tested several and wholeheartedly recommend The Ordinary—a brand that's refreshingly extraordinary!
