The Ordinary

Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution, Gentle Exfoliating Serum for Blemishes

$7.5
Paraben-Free
Sulfate-Free
Fragrance-Free
Silicone-Free
PEG-Free

This oil-based serum suspends 2% salicylic acid in squalane, skipping water entirely so the acid can reach oil-clogged pores more directly. It's a gentler, slower-acting option than water- or alcohol-based BHA treatments, with less risk of flaking or stinging. A small amount goes a long way on blemish-prone areas.

Key Concentrations: Salicylic Acid 2%

See on Amazon ↗

Compare

Best The Ordinary Ingredient-Matched Alternatives

#1 Best match
Rapid Relief Acne Spot Treatment
Murad

Rapid Relief Acne Spot Treatment

$26
#2 Strong match
Deep Relief Acne Treatment
Murad

Deep Relief Acne Treatment

$45
#3 Strong match
Redness Correcting Treatment
Proactiv

Redness Correcting Treatment

$16.50

See additional matches

What this product does

Benefits

Why it works

Ingredient Highlights

S Salicylic Acid Exfoliant Salicylic acid unclogs pores and smooths texture by exfoliating inside them. H Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone Antioxidant A synthetic compound that gives a calming feel with mild antioxidant help.

The full formula

Full Ingredient List

Squalane OilCaprylic/Capric TriglyceridePentylene GlycolSalicylic AcidOleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides4-t-butylcyclohexanolHydroxymethoxyphenyl DecanonePhenoxyethanolChlorphenesin