Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
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The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution scores 6.1/9.8 overall. It ranks highest in low irritation risk (9.5) and formulation safety (9.0).
✶ Hero ingredients
BHA that unclogs pores and reduces breakouts
One of the most effective humectants
Humectant with antimicrobial properties
Score breakdown
Estimated — based on ingredient analysis. Scores refine as user reviews are added.
Scores last verified: July 2026
What makes The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution stand out
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is a decent serum with an overall score of 6.1/9.8. Positioned in the budget bracket, it takes a straightforward approach to skincare. The formula leads with Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol — ingredients that actively target skin concerns.
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
- ✓Ingredient-aware buyers — transparent, well-documented formula
May not suit
- ⚠Very dry skin types looking for heavy-duty moisture
- ⚠Those seeking potent actives — this leans more maintenance than treatment
Key ingredients
- ✶Salicylic Acid
Works on your skin — #3 in the INCI list
- ✶Glycerin
Draws in moisture — #4 in the INCI list
- ✶Pentylene Glycol
Draws in moisture — #5 in the INCI list
- ✶Propanediol
Draws in moisture — #6 in the INCI list
Full ingredient list
12 ingredients — listed in INCI order (highest concentration first)
Compare with similar products
- Lancôme Renergie C.R.X. Triple Serum Retinol9.7
- INNBEAUTY PROJECT Pro C Serum Brightening Solution with 15% Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid9.7
- 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
- Draws in moisture3
- Formula balancers3
- Other ingredient2
- Keeps the product fresh2
- Works on your skin1
- Holds the formula together1