The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, 30ml

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution contains the maximum OTC concentration of this beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliant. Salicylic Acid's oil-solubility is the key property that differentiates it from AHAs like Glycolic Acid - being lipophilic, it penetrates through the sebum layer into the pore lining where AHAs cannot reach, exfoliating the dead cells and sebum deposits inside the follicle that create blackheads, whiteheads, and the anaerobic environment in which acne bacteria proliferate.

Specs

• Active ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2% in carrier solution
• BHA type: Beta-Hydroxy Acid - oil-soluble
• Form: Solution
• Volume: 30ml
• Action: Intrafollicular exfoliation, sebum control, anti-comedone

Benefits

• Being oil-soluble, Salicylic Acid penetrates through the sebum layer into the pore canal and dissolves the cohesive mixture of sebum and dead cells that forms open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads) - addressing the primary physical blockage responsible for acne
• Regular use creates a hostile environment for Cutibacterium acnes by keeping pores clear and reducing the lipid-rich sebum substrate on which the bacteria feed, lowering the bacterial load that drives inflammatory acne without antibiotic resistance concerns
• The exfoliating action on the pore lining progressively reduces the overall pore congestion that gives acne-prone skin its characteristic rough, bumpy texture, improving skin surface smoothness alongside active blemish management
• Reduces the visible pore size over time as pores that are consistently cleared of their contents and have reduced sebum production appear smaller and less prominent than congested, filled pores
• The 2% maximum OTC concentration provides the most potent available exfoliation inside the pore for addressing established blackheads and preventing new comedone formation - appropriate for moderate to oily acne-prone skin types

How to Use

• Apply to affected areas after cleansing, morning or evening
• Use sparingly - a few drops is sufficient for the target area
• Can be applied as a spot treatment on individual blackheads or blemishes, or diluted across the full face for oil control
• Allow to absorb before applying moisturizer
• Begin with every other day use for 2 weeks then increase to daily if well tolerated
• Always use SPF50 in the morning when using this product - BHA exfoliation increases UV sensitivity
• Do not use on broken or actively inflamed acne pustules
• Reduce frequency if significant dryness, peeling, or irritation develops