Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution, Gentle Exfoliating Serum for Blemishes
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution, Gentle Exfoliating Serum for Blemishes scores 5.3/9.8 overall. It ranks highest in low irritation risk (9.5) and formulation safety (9.0).
✶ Hero ingredients
Lightweight oil that mimics skin's natural sebum
Coconut-derived emollient
Humectant with antimicrobial properties
Score breakdown
Scores last verified: July 2026
What makes The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution, Gentle Exfoliating Serum for Blemishes stand out
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution, Gentle Exfoliating Serum for Blemishes is a decent serum with an overall score of 5.3/9.8. Positioned in the budget bracket, it takes a straightforward approach to skincare. The formula leads with Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Pentylene Glycol — ingredients that support the skin barrier and moisture levels.
It performs well on low irritation risk (9.5). On the flip side, 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
- ⚠Those seeking potent actives — this leans more maintenance than treatment
Key ingredients
- ✶Squalane
Softens and smooths — #1 in the INCI list
- ✶Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Softens and smooths — #2 in the INCI list
- ✶Pentylene Glycol
Draws in moisture — #3 in the INCI list
- ✶Salicylic Acid
Works on your skin — #4 in the INCI list
- ✶Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides
Softens and smooths — #5 in the INCI list
Full ingredient list
8 ingredients — listed in INCI order (highest concentration first)
Compare with similar products
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- innisfree Vitamin C Brightening Serum-Infused Mask for Dark Spots9.7
- Skinfix barrier+ Triple Lipid Activating Serum With Plumping Peptides and Niacinamide9.6
- innisfree Gentle Retinol + Salicylic Acid Acne Serum for Blemishes + Post-Acne Scars9.6
Ingredient breakdown
- Softens and smooths3
- Works on your skin2
- Keeps the product fresh2
- Draws in moisture1