Item: The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Rating: 4.6
Author: PICKVUE

Product Description

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is a non-greasy hydrating formula designed to supplement the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF). These elements are found naturally in the skin and help keep the outer layer protected and well-hydrated. This formula offers immediate hydration and lasting results with continued use, supporting the skin's barrier function. It's suitable for all skin types, focusing on fundamental hydration without complex active ingredients.

Detailed Specifications

Feature	Specification
Volume Options	30ml, 50ml, 100ml
Texture	Lightweight, non-greasy cream
Key Ingredients	Amino Acids, Fatty Acids, Ceramides, Urea, Saccharides, Sodium PCA, Hyaluronic Acid
pH	6.50-7.50
Formulation Attributes	Cruelty-free, Vegan, Alcohol-free, Silicone-free, Oil-free, Nut-free, Gluten-free
Recommended Use	Apply after serums as needed for effective surface hydration

The One Reason You Choose This Product

The single most compelling reason to choose this product is its ability to provide effective, foundational hydration at an exceptionally accessible price point, making consistent skincare attainable for a broader audience.

Key Ingredient Explanation

Ingredient Category	Explanation
Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF)	These are a collection of compounds naturally present in the skin's outermost layer (stratum corneum). They work like sponges to draw in and hold water, keeping the skin hydrated, pliable, and functioning optimally. The NMF in this product includes amino acids, fatty acids, ceramides, urea, saccharides, and Sodium PCA, all essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)	A powerful humectant, meaning it attracts and holds onto water molecules. Hyaluronic Acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, helping to plump the skin and provide deep, multi-level hydration, reducing the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration.

Brand Introduction

The Ordinary is a brand from the Canadian company DECIEM, known for its commitment to functional beauty and ingredient transparency. Launched in 2016, The Ordinary quickly gained popularity for offering high-quality, science-backed skincare formulations at remarkably affordable prices. Its philosophy centers on providing consumers with a clear understanding of active ingredients and their benefits, demystifying the skincare industry by focusing on efficacy and honesty.

Comparison With Previous Products

Feature	Previous Version (N/A)	Current Product: The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Product Series Evolution	This product is a core, foundational offering and has not had successive 'versions' or direct predecessors in the same product series that offer quantitative improvements over prior iterations.	The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is a consistent and widely recognized formula within the brand's permanent lineup, known for its stable composition and effectiveness since its introduction.
Formulation Updates	N/A	The core formulation remains consistent, providing reliable hydration based on a blend of Natural Moisturizing Factors and Hyaluronic Acid.
Key Improvements	N/A	Offers consistent, effective hydration without requiring incremental 'updates' due to its fundamental and well-balanced formula.

Positive User Reviews

<positive>“This moisturizer is a game-changer for my sensitive, acne-prone skin. It hydrates without clogging pores and never causes breakouts.”</positive>
<positive>“I love how affordable and effective this cream is. It layers perfectly under sunscreen and makeup, and my skin feels soft all day.”</positive>
<positive>“It’s a simple, no-frills moisturizer that just works. My skin barrier feels much healthier since I started using it.”</positive>
“Great for everyday use; it's lightweight but provides enough moisture without feeling heavy.”
“Perfect for minimalist routines, it's all I need after my serums.”
“My skin has never felt so balanced. It’s neither too oily nor too dry with this product.”
“The best value for money in skincare I’ve found – outperforms many expensive brands.”

Negative User Reviews

<negative>“While it’s good for basic hydration, it’s not rich enough for my extremely dry skin, especially in winter.”</negative>
<negative>“I find the texture a bit thick and it sometimes takes a while to fully absorb, leaving a slight film on my skin.”</negative>
<negative>“It caused a slight stinging sensation on my very reactive skin, even though it's supposed to be gentle.”</negative>
“The packaging, especially the 30ml tube, feels small and I go through it very quickly.”
“I didn't notice any significant improvements beyond basic moisture; no 'glow' or addressing other skin concerns.”
“Sometimes it pills if I apply too much or layer it with certain other products.”

Positive vs. Negative Review Comparison

Positive Feedback	Negative Feedback	Trade-off/Context
Excellent for sensitive and acne-prone skin; non-comedogenic.	May not be rich enough for very dry or severely compromised skin.	Its lightweight nature, good for sensitive/oily skin, means it might lack occlusive properties needed for intense dryness.
Highly affordable and offers great value for money.	Smaller packaging (30ml) runs out quickly for frequent users.	The low price per unit is a benefit, but those using it extensively might find themselves repurchasing often.
Provides effective, foundational hydration and supports skin barrier.	Some users desire more 'active' benefits beyond basic hydration; can pill with certain layering.	It's designed as a fundamental moisturizer, not a treatment product, which might lead to unmet expectations for complex concerns or require careful layering.
Good for minimalist routines and layering under makeup/SPF.	Texture can feel thick or take time to absorb, leaving a slight film.	Its creamy texture, while providing good hydration, may not be preferred by those who favor very thin, fast-absorbing gels.

Expected Experience When Purchasing

You can expect a straightforward, no-frills moisturizing experience focused purely on hydrating and supporting your skin barrier.
The texture is a comfortable cream that absorbs well for most, leaving skin feeling soft and supple without a greasy residue.
It integrates seamlessly into most skincare routines, serving as a reliable daily moisturizer that won't interfere with other active ingredients.

Recommended User Types for This Product

User Type	Rating	Reasoning
The Budget-Conscious Skincare Enthusiast	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Its highly effective formula at an incredibly low price point makes it perfect for those seeking quality hydration without breaking the bank, enabling consistent use.
The Skincare Minimalist	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	For individuals who prefer simple, essential routines, this moisturizer provides fundamental hydration without unnecessary active ingredients, streamlining their regimen.
The Sensitive/Acne-Prone Skin Type	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Its non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and generally gentle formulation makes it a safe and effective choice for skin prone to irritation or breakouts, supporting barrier health.

Good Products to Buy Together

Product Name	Why It's a Good Match
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%	This serum targets blemishes, congestion, and sebum regulation. Following it with Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA ensures hydration without irritation, creating a balanced and effective routine for oily/combination skin.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5	Layering this pure hyaluronic acid serum underneath the moisturizer provides an extra boost of hydration, especially beneficial for drier skin types, as the NMF+HA helps seal in the additional moisture.
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser	A gentle, hydrating cleanser that prepares the skin without stripping it. It pairs perfectly with the NMF+HA moisturizer for a fundamental and non-irritating daily skincare regimen.

Alternative Products

Product Name	Why a User Might Prefer This Alternative
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream	Users seeking a richer, more occlusive cream with a broader spectrum of ceramides and a pump dispenser might prefer CeraVe for its robust barrier support, especially for very dry skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer	This alternative offers a similar focus on barrier repair and hydration but includes niacinamide and prebiotics, potentially appealing to those looking for additional soothing and skin tone benefits alongside hydration.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel	For users who prefer a much lighter, gel-based texture that absorbs instantly and provides a cooling sensation, especially for very oily or humid climates, this hyaluronic acid-focused gel is a strong alternative.

Final Summary

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA stands out as a fundamental and highly effective moisturizer that delivers on its promise of basic, yet robust, hydration. Its strength lies in its meticulously formulated blend of skin-identical ingredients, which work synergistically to support and replenish the skin's natural barrier. While it may not offer targeted treatments for specific concerns like anti-aging or hyperpigmentation, it excels at providing the essential moisture all skin types need to function optimally.

For those navigating the vast world of skincare, this product offers an unpretentious, science-backed solution that fits seamlessly into almost any routine, regardless of complexity. It is an ideal choice for individuals seeking a reliable, non-comedogenic moisturizer that prioritizes skin health and affordability. Its widespread positive reception underscores its status as a staple for many, proving that effective skincare doesn't have to come with a high price tag. My overall opinion is that it's an indispensable product for foundational skin hydration, offering unparalleled value and consistent performance.