# The Ordinary Alternatives in Pakistan

- URL: https://beautefire.com/compare/the-ordinary-alternative-in-pakistan
- Facts checked: 20 October 2026

If you want The Ordinary’s Alpha Arbutin or Vitamin C style serums for less in Pakistan, look for a serum that states its active and strength, lists its full ingredients, comes in a comparable size and is sold by a trustworthy seller. Beautefire’s Clarity (2% Alpha Arbutin, 30 ml) is Rs.1,799 and C Glow (10% stabilised Vitamin C, 30 ml) is Rs.1,799, against roughly Rs.4,900–6,100 for The Ordinary’s 30 ml serums at Pakistani sellers on 20 October 2026.

The Ordinary is popular in Pakistan because its products are clearly labelled and relatively affordable abroad, but imported prices here are several times higher. These are not “dupes”: a different brand’s serum is a different formula, even when the headline active is the same. Use the checklist below to judge any alternative, including ours.

### Quick price guide for 30 ml serums (public listings, checked 20 October 2026)

| Serum | Active as stated | Price in Pakistan |
| --- | --- | --- |
| The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 30 ml | Alpha Arbutin 2% | Rs.5,399–6,100 (most sellers) |
| The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% 30 ml | Ascorbyl Glucoside 12% | Rs.5,450 (derma.pk) |
| The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% 30 ml | L-Ascorbic Acid 23% | Rs.4,900 (derma.pk) |
| Skin Sciences Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 30 ml | Alpha Arbutin 2% (retailer) | Rs.3,899 |
| Beautefire Clarity Alpha Arbutin 2% 30 ml | Alpha Arbutin 2% | Rs.1,799 |
| Beautefire C Glow Vitamin C 10% 30 ml | 10% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | Rs.1,799 |

## A seven-point checklist for any alternative

1. **The active and its strength are printed** (for example “Alpha Arbutin 2%”).
2. **The full ingredient list** is on the pack or product page.
3. **The form of the active.** For Vitamin C, know whether it is L-ascorbic acid or a derivative.
4. **Size and price per ml.**
5. **The seller** shows batch/expiry and has a clear return policy; buying from the brand is safest.
6. **Packaging that protects the formula** (Vitamin C especially).
7. **A plan for daily sunscreen.**

## Specific comparisons

- [Clarity vs The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA](https://beautefire.com/compare/clarity-vs-the-ordinary-alpha-arbutin-2-ha)
- [C Glow vs The Ordinary and Garnier Vitamin C](https://beautefire.com/compare/c-glow-vs-the-ordinary-and-garnier-vitamin-c)
- [Clarity vs other Pakistani pigmentation serums](https://beautefire.com/compare/clarity-vs-pakistani-pigmentation-serums)

## What we do not claim

We do not claim that our serums are equal to or better than The Ordinary’s. Our claim is smaller: they come from Pakistani brands, state their main active and strength, list their ingredients, cost less than the imported option and can be bought with cash on delivery. Try one with a patch test and judge the results over a few weeks of daily use together with sunscreen.

## FAQ

**What is a good alternative to The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin in Pakistan?**

Look for a 2% Alpha Arbutin serum with a stated concentration and full ingredient list. Options include Beautefire Clarity at Rs.1,799 and Skin Sciences at Rs.3,899; compare ingredients and size.

**Is there a cheaper alternative to The Ordinary Vitamin C?**

There are several; Beautefire C Glow (10% stabilised Vitamin C, 30 ml) is Rs.1,799. Compare the form and strength of the Vitamin C, not just the price.

**Are local serums as good as The Ordinary?**

We cannot generalise. Quality varies by brand; choose brands that state actives, strengths and ingredients and check reviews and the seller.

**How can I check a skincare product bought online in Pakistan?**

Look for batch and expiry details, the seller's return policy and an ingredient list that matches the brand's own website. This applies to any imported brand, not only one seller.

**Do I need both Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin C?**

Not necessarily. Many people use Vitamin C in the morning and Alpha Arbutin at night for different jobs (brightness vs spot-fading), but start with one if your skin is sensitive.

## Sources

- The Ordinary – Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA (official): https://theordinary.com/en-us/alpha-arbutin-2-ha-serum-100401.html
- The Ordinary – Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% (official): https://theordinary.com/en-tf/ascorbyl-glucoside-solution-12-vitamin-c-100405.html
- The Ordinary – Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% (official): https://theordinary.com/en-us/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2-vitamin-c-100451.html
- derma.pk – The Ordinary 30 ml serums: https://derma.pk/products/the-ordinarys-30ml-serum-with-alpha-arbutin-2-ha
- derma.pk – Skin Sciences Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 30 ml: https://derma.pk/products/skin-science-2-alpha-arbutin-ha-serum-30ml

_Brands and product names are trademarks of their owners and are used here only to describe public information. Beautefire is not affiliated with them. Formulas, sizes and prices change and can differ by country, batch and seller: compare on your own skin’s needs and always check the pack you receive._