Standing in front of your skincare shelf, you have probably asked yourself this more than once. Should you trust The Ordinary or switch to Minimalist? Both look simple, both talk about active ingredients, and both promise real results without burning a hole in your wallet.
That is why The Ordinary vs Minimalist is not just another comparison.
It is a genuine decision that affects your skin every single day. One brand changed global skincare by making science affordable, while the other adapted that science for everyday routines and real weather conditions.
In this article, you will get a clear, honest breakdown so you can choose what actually feels right for your skin!
Profile Comparison: The Ordinary vs Minimalist
Before you compare serums or acids, you need to know where these brands come from and what they stand for. In The Ordinary vs Minimalist, the roots of both brands explain their DNA.
The Ordinary was founded in 2016 in Toronto, Canada, under the parent company Deciem by Brandon Truaxe. It disrupted global skincare with transparent labels and low prices. Later, it became part of Estée Lauder Companies, which gave it global muscle and supply chain power. Today, it sells across Sephora, Ulta, Amazon, and its own D2C platforms worldwide.
Minimalist, on the other hand, was founded in 2020 in Jaipur, India, by Rahul Yadav and Mohit Yadav. The brand focused on active-led innovation specifically for Indian skin needs. From Amazon and Nykaa to Flipkart and Myntra, Minimalist grew fast and reached ₹184 Cr revenue in FY23. In 2025, HUL acquired Minimalist for ₹2,955 Cr, marking one of India’s biggest D2C beauty exits.
In terms of reputation, both brands win praise for transparency, fragrance-free formulations, and science-backed skincare brand positioning. The Ordinary enjoys a cult global following, while Minimalist dominates trust among Indian millennials and Gen Z.
The Ordinary vs Minimalist: Features Comparison
This is where The Ordinary Minimalist comparison becomes personal. Your skin, climate, routine, and tolerance decide the winner.
Brand Philosophy and Ingredients
| Feature | The Ordinary | Minimalist |
| Core Focus | Disruptive affordability with 100+ single-active formulas like Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% for global accessibility | Active-led innovation for Indian skin needs, starting with 10% Niacinamide for acne/oil control |
| Ingredient Approach | Pure synthetic actives (e.g., 23% Vitamin C derivatives, 2% Retinoid) in basic bases, no fragrances or marketing fillers | Stable actives (e.g., 2% Alpha Arbutin + Kojic, oil-free Salicylic) optimized for humid climates, no unnecessary thickeners |
| Target Audience | Global DIY skincare enthusiasts building custom routines from cheap singles | Indian millennials/Gen-Z want simple, potent routines without luxury pricing |
The Ordinary focuses on disruptive affordability. You get single-ingredient formulas like Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% or Retinol 1% at prices that feel unreal for the quality. The approach is global and DIY-driven. You mix and layer based on your skin knowledge.
Minimalist takes a more curated approach. It uses stable actives optimized for humid climates and melanin-rich skin tones. Instead of raw potency, it balances efficacy with comfort. That is why Minimalist The Ordinary skincare feels gentler to many users.
Packaging and Pricing
Both brands follow minimalist packaging beauty principles with clinical white bottles and tubes. The Ordinary packaging feels more lab-like with droppers, while Minimalist sticks to squeeze tubes that are travel-friendly.
Price-wise, The Ordinary vs Minimalist price India shows that The Ordinary often feels cheaper globally, but import duties and availability can narrow the gap. Minimalist prices sit between ₹500 to ₹1000, while The Ordinary ranges from $5 to $10 in the US and Europe.
Performance and Reputation
| Feature | The Ordinary | Minimalist |
| Efficacy Claims | Global clinical backing for hyperpigmentation, acne, and anti-aging with actives like Retinol 1%, Granactive Retinoid 2% | India-formulated for tropical climates; targets acne scars, tan removal with 2% Alpha Arbutin + 3% Kojic Acid |
| User Feedback | Mixed global reviews; potent but can irritate sensitive skin; cult following for affordability | Highly praised in India for gentle efficacy on oily/acne-prone skin; fewer irritation complaints |
| Certifications | Cruelty-free (PETA), vegan, extensive third-party testing under Estée Lauder | Dermatologist-tested in India, Made Safe certified, tailored for Indian skin types |
In The Ordinary vs Minimalist review, performance is subjective. The Ordinary’s potent formulas work fast but can irritate sensitive skin if misused. Minimalist receives fewer irritation complaints because of its aloe-based and hydrating formulations.
Certifications also matter. The Ordinary is cruelty-free and vegan with extensive third-party testing. Minimalist is dermatologist-tested in India and Made Safe certified, which reassures cautious users.
Serum and Product-Level Comparison
This section matters most when you are choosing products. The Ordinary vs Minimalist serums dominate online searches for a reason.
| Product Category | The Ordinary Product Details | Minimalist Product Details |
| Niacinamide Serum | 10% Niacinamide + 1% Zinc PCA; water-based, slightly sticky texture, potent for oil control & pores ($6-8/30ml) | 10% Niacinamide + 1% Zinc; aloe-based, hydrating with allantoin, gentler for sensitive skin ($7-9/30ml) |
| Vitamin C Serum | Multiple options like 15% L-Ascorbic Acid or 23% Ascorbyl Glucoside; powdery feel, needs mixing for stability ($7-11/30ml) | 10-15% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid or 20% Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate; stable, non-irritating, oil-free for daily use ($8-12/30ml) |
| Alpha Arbutin Serum | 2% Alpha Arbutin; basic watery formula, pairs with HA for pigmentation ($7-9/30ml) | 2% Alpha Arbutin + 3% Kojic Acid; faster brightening for Indian skin tones, non-sticky ($7-10/30ml) |
| Salicylic Acid | 2% Salicylic Acid solution; exfoliating, can dry out skin, alcohol-free option available ($6-8/30ml) | 2% Salicylic Acid + 0.5% Hyaluronic; gentler, hydrating base for acne-prone humid climates ($6-9/30ml) |
Niacinamide
The Ordinary niacinamide vs Minimalist debate is intense. Both offer 10% Niacinamide + 1% Zinc. The Ordinary’s version is water-based and slightly sticky but excellent for oil control. Minimalist’s aloe-based formula feels more hydrating and calmer on sensitive skin. If irritation scares you, Minimalist vs Ordinary niacinamide may lean toward Minimalist.
Vitamin C
Minimalist Vitamin C vs The Ordinary shows a philosophical split. The Ordinary offers strong L-Ascorbic Acid and powder formats that demand skill. Minimalist uses stable derivatives like Ethyl Ascorbic Acid for daily use. Beginners often feel safer with Minimalist.
Alpha Arbutin
Alpha Arbutin Minimalist vs Ordinary highlights speed versus simplicity. Minimalist adds Kojic Acid for faster pigmentation results, while The Ordinary sticks to a clean, basic formula.
Salicylic Acid
The Ordinary salicylic acid vs Minimalist comparison shows climate awareness. The Ordinary exfoliates strongly, while Minimalist includes hyaluronic acid for hydration, making it better for oily skin in humid regions.
Other Product Comparisons
Skincare is more than serums. Let us look beyond.
| Product Category | The Ordinary Product Details | Minimalist Product Details |
| Sunscreen | Mineral UV Filters SPF 45 Serum; physical filters (zinc/titanium), thick texture for sensitive skin, $10-12/50ml | SPF 50/60 PA++++ with hybrid filters + antioxidants (Silymarin); lightweight, non-greasy for humid climates, $8-10/50g |
| Moisturizer | Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA; simple, non-comedogenic layers for all skin types, $7-9/30ml | 10% Squalane or Multi-Peptide; oil-free, fast-absorbing for oily Indian skin, $8-11/50ml |
| Face Wash | Squalane Cleanser or Glucoside Foaming; gentle, pH-balanced prep without stripping actives, $8-10/50ml | 2% Salicylic or Niacinamide Face Wash; deep cleanse for acne-prone skin, non-drying foam, $6-9/100ml |
In sunscreen, The Ordinary sunscreen vs Minimalist SPF reveals clear intent. The Ordinary prefers mineral filters, great for sensitive skin but heavier. Minimalist uses hybrid filters with antioxidants, better for daily wear in hot weather.
For moisturizers, Minimalist moisturizer vs The Ordinary HA shows that Minimalist suits oily skin better, while The Ordinary works well for layering routines.
Face wash comparisons show The Ordinary focuses on gentle prep, while Minimalist targets acne-prone skin with actives.
Business Comparison: The Ordinary vs Minimalist
Skincare is also about stability and trust. Minimalist acquisition vs Ordinary business reveals two different growth stories.
| Business Aspects (FY25) | The Ordinary | Minimalist |
| Market Valuation | $2.2B+ (part of Deciem’s $2.2B valuation by Estée Lauder in 2021; no recent standalone) | $350M (₹2,955 Cr HUL acquisition valuation in 2025) |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed; integrated into Estée Lauder’s $70B+ market cap portfolio | Not disclosed post-acquisition; founders retained leadership |
| Revenue Earned | $500M+ estimated global (Deciem group; strong D2C + retail worldwide) | $55M (₹500 Cr ARR at acquisition; FY24 revenue ~$40M / ₹350 Cr) |
| Expenses | Not disclosed; scaled via global supply chain efficiencies under Estée Lauder | Not disclosed (prior FY losses reduced 46%; profitable operations) |
| Profit/Loss | Profitable at scale; leverages parent synergies for margins | Profitable since inception (FY24 profit ₹10.8 Cr / $1.3M) |
The Ordinary operates under Estée Lauder’s $70B portfolio with an estimated $500M+ revenue globally. It benefits from global logistics and R&D.
Minimalist reached a $350M valuation with ₹500 Cr ARR at acquisition and has been profitable since inception. This shows strong D2C beauty India growth and operational discipline.
Both brands are profitable, science-led, and built for scale.
Who is the Winner?
In the Minimalist vs Ordinary battle, you may ask- which is better? To be honest, there is no single winner.
If you live in the US or Europe, enjoy building your own routine, and want raw potency at low cost, The Ordinary wins.
If you live in India or similar climates, want gentle yet effective formulations, and prefer dermatologist-tested products, Minimalist wins.
The real winner is you, because both brands prove that affordable active skincare can be honest, effective, and accessible.
Wrapping Up
The Ordinary vs Minimalist debate is not about copying or competition. It is about evolution. The Ordinary changed global skincare by removing fear and fluff. Minimalist adapted that philosophy for Indian skin and climate with smarter formulation choices. When you choose between them, you are not choosing a brand.
You are choosing a skincare philosophy that fits your skin, lifestyle, and confidence level. Read labels, understand actives, and respect your skin barrier. That is how real results happen!
FAQs
1. Are the Minimalist products cheaper than The Ordinary products?
Yes, generally Minimalist products are cheaper and more affordable in India compared to The Ordinary, which is an international brand often more expensive locally due to import costs, though both offer science-backed, single-ingredient focused skincare at accessible price points for their respective markets, with Minimalist positioned as the budget-friendly, easily available Indian alternative.
2. Is The Ordinary a Korean brand?
No, The Ordinary is a Canadian skincare brand founded in Toronto and operates under Deciem, which is majority owned by Estée Lauder Companies.
3. Do dermatologists recommend Minimalist products?
Yes, many Indian dermatologists recommend Minimalist products because they are fragrance-free, active-focused, dermatologist-tested, and formulated for Indian skin and climate conditions.
4. Which is better, Ordinary or Minimalist peeling solution?
The Ordinary peeling solution is stronger and more exfoliating, while Minimalist’s version is gentler, making it safer for beginners and sensitive or acne-prone skin.
5. क्या त्वचा विशेषज्ञ न्यूनतम उत्पादों की सलाह देते हैं?
हाँ, कई भारतीय त्वचा विशेषज्ञ मिनिमलिस्ट उत्पादों की सलाह देते हैं क्योंकि ये एक्टिव-आधारित, फ्रेगरेंस-फ्री और भारतीय त्वचा के लिए बनाए गए हैं।
6. कौन सा ब्रांड बेहतर है, मिनिमलिस्ट या डर्मा को?
यह आपकी त्वचा की समस्या पर निर्भर करता है। मिनिमलिस्ट एक्टिव्स पर फोकस करता है, जबकि डर्मा को मेडिकल-ग्रेड ट्रीटमेंट्स पर ज्यादा ध्यान देता है।
7. Ordinary vs Minimalist: Which is better?
Neither brand is universally better. The Ordinary suits experienced users globally, while Minimalist works well for Indian skin, climate, and simpler daily routines.
8. Which is better, Ordinary or Minimalist Niacinamide?
Minimalist Niacinamide is gentler and more hydrating, while The Ordinary version is more potent and effective for oil control but may irritate sensitive skin.
9. Which serum is better? Ordinary or Minimalist?
Both brands offer effective serums. The better choice depends on your skin type, climate, tolerance for strong actives, and experience with skincare layering.
10. Ordinary vs Minimalist Salicylic Acid. Which is better?
Minimalist Salicylic Acid is better for humid, acne-prone skin due to added hydration, while The Ordinary’s version exfoliates more aggressively and suits resilient skin.
11. Is Ordinary and Minimalist the same brand?
No, The Ordinary and Minimalist are completely different companies, founded in different countries, with separate ownership, formulation philosophies, and target audiences.
12. The Ordinary vs Minimalist Vitamin C serum?
Minimalist Vitamin C serums use stable derivatives and are beginner-friendly, while The Ordinary offers stronger forms that require careful usage and skin tolerance.
13. The Ordinary vs Minimalist hair serum. Which is better?
Minimalist performs better in hair care because it actively develops scalp and hair serums, while The Ordinary focuses primarily on facial skincare products.
14. What is the No. 1 skincare brand?
There is no single No. 1 skincare brand worldwide, as effectiveness depends on skin type, climate, budget, and personal skincare goals.
15. Is Ordinary owned by L’Oréal?
No, The Ordinary is owned by Estée Lauder Companies, which acquired majority ownership of its parent company, Deciem.
16. What is Japan’s No.1 skincare brand?
Shiseido is widely regarded as Japan’s leading skincare brand due to its long history, advanced research, and strong domestic and global market presence.
17. Which is better for a global purpose, the ordinary or the Minimalist?
Neither is automatically better. The Ordinary suits global, advanced users, while Minimalist suits everyday routines and skin types common in India and similar climates.
18. What is the 4 2 4 rule in skincare?
The 4-2-4 rule is a Japanese cleansing method using four minutes of oil cleansing, two minutes of foam cleansing, and four minutes of rinsing.
19. How to get 100% clear skin?
There is no instant solution. Clear skin comes from a consistent routine, gentle products, sun protection, a balanced diet, stress control, and patience over time.
20. What is the Korean 5-step skin care?
The Korean 5-step routine includes cleansing, toning, treating with serums or essences, moisturizing, and daily sunscreen protection.
21. How do the Japanese wash their face?
Japanese skincare emphasizes gentle double cleansing using an oil cleanser followed by a mild foaming cleanser to protect the skin barrier.
22. Which is better, Dr. Sheth or Minimalist?
Minimalist focuses more on high-percentage actives and ingredient transparency, while Dr. Sheth emphasizes dermatologist-formulated solutions for specific skin concerns.
23. What is the most trusted skin care brand?
Trust depends on region, skin type, and dermatologist recommendations. Brands like CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, and Minimalist are widely trusted in different markets.
24. Which brand is similar to Ordinary?
Brands similar to The Ordinary include Geek & Gorgeous, Paula’s Choice, Timeless, and other active-focused skincare brands with transparent ingredient labeling.
25. Which is the top skincare brand in India?
Minimalist is among the top skincare brands in India due to strong D2C growth, dermatologist trust, affordable pricing, and active-led formulations.
26. Is Japanese skincare good for Indian skin?
Yes, Japanese skincare works well for Indian skin when chosen carefully, especially gentle cleansers, sunscreens, and barrier-repair products suited for humid climates.
27. Is Japanese or Korean skincare better?
Both are excellent. Japanese skincare focuses on simplicity and barrier health, while Korean skincare emphasizes hydration, layering, and preventive skin care.
28. Is Japanese or Korean skincare better?
It depends on your skin needs. Minimal routines suit Japanese skincare, while multi-step hydration lovers often prefer Korean skincare systems.
29. Which skincare is best, Korean or Indian?
Indian skincare brands often suit the Indian climate and skin concerns better, while Korean skincare offers advanced hydration and preventive care benefits.
30. Which country is best for skin care?
No single country is best. South Korea, Japan, France, the US, and India all excel in different skincare philosophies and innovations.
31. What’s better, French or Korean skincare?
French skincare focuses on skin barrier repair and medical-grade care, while Korean skincare emphasizes hydration, glow, and multi-step preventive routines.
32. What is the top 1 cosmetic brand in the world?
There is no single top cosmetic brand globally, as leadership varies by category, region, and consumer preference.
33. Which country is most advanced in skincare?
South Korea, Japan, France, and the United States are considered the most advanced due to innovation, dermatological research, and global product influence.
34. Who has the best skin care in the world?
People who understand their skin type, use consistent routines, protect from sun damage, and choose products wisely achieve the best skincare results.
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By the way, which brand do you find better for your skin- The Ordinary or Minimalist? Share your thoughts in the comment section. Thanks for reading 🙂
