The Ordinary Foundations Review & Swatches

The Ordinary Foundations attracted considerable attention for their affordable prices, extensive shade selection, minimalist packaging and practical pump bottles. This review compares the Serum Foundation and Coverage Foundation.

• Prices were approximately €6.70–€6.90 each at the time of review.
• The shade range is extensive but organized clearly.
• The packaging is modern, minimalist and easy to use.

The Ordinary Serum Foundation

Lightweight pigment suspension system with moderate coverage.

• Very fluid texture that can be applied in a thin layer.
• Provides medium coverage and a natural-looking finish.
• Does not layer especially well because it may settle when built up.
• Works best with a brush, as a sponge can absorb too much of the thin formula.

The Ordinary Coverage Foundation

High-spreadability pigment suspension system with high coverage.

• Provides extremely high coverage.
• Is slightly more difficult to distribute evenly.
• Can look cakey even when applied in a thin layer.
• Offers only moderate wear time in the reviewer's experience.
• The reviewer preferred Revlon ColorStay when seeking high coverage.

Swatches and shade comparison

The shades compared were The Ordinary Serum Foundation in 1.2 Y and The Ordinary Coverage Foundation in 1.2 YG.

Both shades have a pronounced yellow undertone. The reviewer estimated that the 1.2 depth was roughly comparable to MAC NC20 and noted that the broader range also included options for pink undertones.

Wear and final verdict

The Serum Foundation was the clear favorite of the two. It produced a more natural result, although visible wear appeared around the chin and nose after about eight hours.

Judged without regard to price, the Serum Foundation was considered a solid everyday option with an appealing shade range, but not a holy-grail product. Its exceptionally low price made the enthusiasm surrounding it much easier to understand.