Gracie
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum Exfoliating Treatment for Acne
6.3
The Ordinary

Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum Exfoliating Treatment for Acne

serummid-range
Overall score6.3

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum Exfoliating Treatment for Acne scores 6.3/9.8 overall. It ranks highest in low irritation risk (9.5) and formulation safety (9.0).

✶ Hero ingredients

Draws in moisture

Draws in moisture

BHA that unclogs pores and reduces breakouts

Score breakdown

Overall
6.3
Hydration Efficacy3.0
Irritation Risk9.5
Active Ingredient Strength3.1
Ingredient Transparency6.0
Formulation Safety9.0

Scores last verified: July 2026

What makes The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum Exfoliating Treatment for Acne stand out

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum Exfoliating Treatment for Acne is a decent serum with an overall score of 6.3/9.8. Positioned in the mid-range bracket, it takes a straightforward approach to skincare. The formula leads with Propanediol, Sarcosine, Salicylic Acid — ingredients that support the skin barrier and moisture levels.

It performs well on low irritation risk (9.5). On the flip side, hydration could be stronger and active ingredient concentration is on the lighter side.

Is this right for you?

Great for

  • ✓Sensitive skin — low irritation risk with a gentle formulation
  • ✓Safety-conscious shoppers — clean formulation with minimal flags

May not suit

  • ⚠Very dry skin types looking for heavy-duty moisture
  • ⚠Those seeking potent actives — this leans more maintenance than treatment

Key ingredients

  • ✶
    Propanediol

    Draws in moisture — #2 in the INCI list

  • ✶
    Sarcosine

    Draws in moisture — #3 in the INCI list

  • ✶
    Salicylic Acid

    Works on your skin — #4 in the INCI list

  • ✶
    Glycerin

    Draws in moisture — #5 in the INCI list

Full ingredient list

8 ingredients — listed in INCI order (highest concentration first)