The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution — Efficacy 3.9/5.0, Safety 4.6/5.0 | DemythSkin
++++
[ DemythSkin Verdict ]
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

SerumAcne
Efficacy
Solid
3.9 / 5.0
Safety
Safe
4.6 / 5.0
System Verdict
Solid no-frills BHA serum that delivers on acne and exfoliation at optimal 2% concentration, but basic watery base lacks penetration enhancers or synergies for elite performance. Efficacy score of 3.9 reflects clinically effective 2% Salicylic Acid (FDA-recognized for acne at 0.5-2%) paired with Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine for water-solubility and stability, plus pH buffered ~3.5-4.0 via Citric Acid/Sodium Citrate/Sodium Hydroxide for maximal BHA activity; deducting for no encapsulation, limited humectants beyond Saccharide Isomerate, and drop packaging that's fine but unremarkable—no major flaws like improper pH or weak derivatives.
Active Ingredients Detected
S Tier: Gold StandardsHigh Clinical Proof | Skin-Transformative
Salicylic Acid
A Tier: Good BasicsProven Results
Aqua (Water)
B Tier: Supporting IngredientsPromising Ingredients
Saccharide IsomerateCocamidopropyl DimethylamineHydroxyethylcellulosePolysorbate 20Citric AcidSodium CitrateSodium Hydroxide
D Tier: Potential IrritantsBe Cautious
PhenoxyethanolChlorphenesin
Analyze on DemythSkin →

DemythSkin is an independent ingredient analyzer. Scores are computed by a deterministic rubric from published clinical evidence — no brand pays for a score.