Are you annoyed of routine fight with resistant acne and blackheads? We’re looking closely at “The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution Review” to find out does this oily-skin exfoliator serum live up to the multiple promises?
Acne and blackheads are the worst, making it hard to feel good about yourself and forcing you to do just about anything to get rid of them. And the market is saturated with products that promise miraculous results, which can feel impossible to sort through. Step forward The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, a treatment which has been making waves for its ability to banish breakouts and improve acne.
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid, or BHA exfoliant, that penetrates deep into the pores, and that’s where the magic happens. It’s famous for exfoliating the skin and for breaking down the debris that causes acne to begin. In this The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution review, we cover whether this product is really worth the hype, and if it can help you finally achieve that clear skin you’ve been hoping for.
Did You Know?
Salicylic Acid is extracted from the bark of the willow tree, and has been used for centuries to treat skin conditions. It’s not oil-soluble, so it can also penetrate oily skin and loosen clogged pores as well. Frequent use can also play a role in keeping breakouts at bay and improving skin texture overall.
At a Glance: What You Need to Know
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Product Name | Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution |
Key Ingredient | Salicylic Acid (2%) |
Skin Type | Oily, Combination, Acne-Prone |
Texture | Lightweight Liquid |
Price | Affordable |
A Closer Look: The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is a exfoliating serum for oily skin contains a high concentration of this powerful blemish fighting ingredient and is supported with additional agents to help control visible sebum production. Here is an explanation of what it is and how to use it:
- For Oily and blemish prone skin types.
- Aids in the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin and inside pores.
- Being oil-soluble, it is able to penetrate deep into pores and dissolve all oil and debris ensuring the prevention of blackheads and whiteheads.
- Its not only pore-clearing but also anti-inflammatory properties can treat active acne and prevent new breakouts.
- Aids in fading dark spots and evening skin tone, over time.
Ready to try it yourself? Buy here.
Key Ingredients and Their Functions
The active ingredient that makes The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution so effective is, obviously, salicylic acid. Here’s a closer look at its main ingredients and claims:
- Salicylic Acid (2%): A BHA exfoliant that penetrates and cleanses the skin, assisting in the prevention of acne and blackheads.
- Willow Bark Extract: A natural source of salicylic acid, also provides powerful anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Glycerin: A humectant that assists in keeping moisture on the skin to avoid dryness, which can be an issue with exfoliating products.
First Look: My Thoughts on the Packaging
We received The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution Oily Skin at first look, I was nothing but impressed with its minimalist packaging. It comes in a glass dropper bottle, which I find convenient to get out the right amount of product. I appreciate how clean the design feels, in-line with the brand’s ethos of transparency and simplicity.
The label makes it clear what the key ingredient is and how much of it there is, easy for consumers to understand what you’re getting. All in all, the packaging feels solid and professional, which is good for a product so cheap.
Who Should Try this Exfoliator?
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is great for:
- People with oily or combination skin
- The ones with acne and blackheads.
- Those in search of a good exfoliating serum for oily skin.
- People that use cruelty-free and vegan skin care.
- Anyone looking for an affordable path to brighter skin.
How I Use It for Best Results

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is easy to use. Here’s a quick guide to help you integrate it into your routine:
- Cleanse: Begin the day with a mild cleanser to wash away any dirt and makeup.
- Apply: With the dropper, apply a few drops directly to your problem areas, or cover all over your face with a cotton pad.
- Hydrate: Apply a moisturizing cream immediately after your shower to keep skin from getting dry.
Pair It With
Use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% to assist in regulating how much oil our skin produces and visibly reduce the size of our pores. and a mild moisturizer to moisturize and maintain the balance of your skin.
User Reviews: What People Are Saying
Feedback Lots of positive experiences shared online. Here are some common themes:
- Promising review: “Wow. This stuff is amazing. My skin is clearer and I also don’t get breakouts as often as I used to.
- Mildness: For an acid, it was gentle enough even for some of the more sensitive folks to use frequently without overwhelming irritation.
- Value for money: For the price, this product is accessible to a wide range of people, and those who use it feel they’re getting a good bang for the buck.
Editor’s Note: My Skin Type & Experience
I have a combination skin, leaning on oily during summer, I was eager to try The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution. I have grappled with breakouts and blackheads, especially on my nose and chin. I’ve been using this for about a months and I’ve seen a huge difference in my skin texture and breakouts!
How It Stacks Up Against Other Exfoliators
It’s worth comparing The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution to other common cleansers. Here’s a mini face-off:
Feature | The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution | Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant |
---|---|---|
Key Ingredient | Salicylic Acid (2%) | Salicylic Acid (2%) |
Texture | Lightweight Liquid | Liquid |
Price | Affordable | Expensive |
Target Audience | Oily, Combination, Acne-Prone | All Skin Types |
Effectiveness | High | High |
Mini Exfoliator Face-Off
The Ordinary apart is they’re extremely affordable, and with a nice texture. But Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant has a richer formula with more great ingredients though it also costs a bit more.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable
- Effective at reducing blackheads and acne
- Minimalist ingredient list
- Fast-absorbing texture
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Can cause purging initially.
- Not suitable for very dry or reactive skin.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Adding to Your Routine?
Upon giving The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution a good test run I’ll say it definitely lives up to its kind of universal approval as an acne treatment. The lightweight ingredient penetrates the skin effectively to treat clogged pores and inflammation without overdrying. I like how it strikes that balance between effectiveness and affordability, so anyone can afford it.
While it’s not a be all and end all for everyone (read: those with really bad skin), it’s been a welcome inclusion in my skincare regime. Consistency is key with this product, but consistent use can result in huge improvements in skin texture and clarity.
Not to mention, its minimalist packaging and easy application also make it user-friendly. All in all, I would whole heartedly recommend The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution for anyone who has acne and blackheads, a very practical and effective product for clearer skin.
FAQs
How do I incorporate The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution into my routine?
Smooth on a small amount to clean, dry skin one to three times a day focusing on areas with large or clogged pores, or all over the face if you need. Apply a moisturizer and sunscreen after if you’re using it in the morning. Don’t use it in combination with strong acids, retinoids or irritant compounds.
Can you use The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution on sensitive skin?
That could potentially be too intense for extremely sensitive or weakened skin. If you’re new to salicylic acid or have sensitive skin, do a patch test first, and use it only 2-3 times a week. If irritation occurs, consider using a weaker BHA product or using it less frequently.
Can I use The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution with other anti-acne treatments?
Use with care when layering other actives such as benzoyl peroxide, retinol or AHAs, which can be drying or irritating. You can apply this over any medication so you don’t have to let your chemical exfoliant or acne prescription go to waste.