Name: The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, Exfoliating Serum for Acne
Brand: The Ordinary

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The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution,… — Score & Review | Gracie

✶ Hero ingredients

#2Saccharide Isomerate

Long-lasting sugar-based humectant

#4Salicylic Acid

BHA that unclogs pores and reduces breakouts

#5Hydroxyethylcellulose

Natural thickener

Score breakdown

Overall

6.4

Hydration Efficacy3.5

Irritation Risk9.5

Active Ingredient Strength3.2

Ingredient Transparency7.5

Formulation Safety9.0

Estimated — based on ingredient analysis. Scores refine as user reviews are added.

Scores last verified: June 2026

What makes The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, Exfoliating Serum for Acne stand out

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, Exfoliating Serum for Acne is a decent serum with an overall score of 6.4/9.8. Positioned in the budget bracket, it takes a straightforward approach to skincare. The formula leads with Saccharide Isomerate, 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
✓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

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Saccharide Isomerate
Draws in moisture — #2 in the INCI list
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Full ingredient list

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

#1Aqua (Water)#2Saccharide Isomerate #4Salicylic Acid #5Hydroxyethylcellulose #6Polysorbate 20 #7Citric Acid #8Sodium Citrate #9Sodium Hydroxide #10

Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, Exfoliating Serum for Acne