I Tested The Ordinary's Salicylic Acid Masque & It's Earned A Permanent Spot In My Skincare Routine

June 21, 2024

The Ordinary has revolutionised skincare since its launch in 2017, offering high-quality formulas with effective ingredients at affordable prices – hence its cult status in the beauty community. While everyone has their favourites from The Ordinary range – the Squalane Cleanser, for me please – here, I’m taking a look at The Ordinary's Salicylic Acid 2% Masque,and why it’s earned a permanent spot in my skincare routine.

Salicylic acid is an all-round superstar ingredient for acne-prone skin as it's known to break down debris on the skin surface that clogs pores and causes whiteheads, blackheads and inflammation. The Ordinary has infused the Salicylic Acid 2% Masque mask with charcoal and Amazonian clays, which I've found to have deep-cleansing properties, leaving a more radiant complexion. As somebody who has oily combination skin, with a constant smattering of hormonal acne on my chin, the ingredients list ticks all my boxes. So how did it fare?

On first impressions, it’s similar to any typical clay mask; dark grey in colour with a thick yet fluid texture. I applied a thin layer to dry skin and left it on for the instructed 10 minutes. It’s a tad messy, so definitely apply this in the bathroom, so you can mop up any spillages. As soon as I apply the mask to my face, there’s a cooling sensation, which feels refreshing on my angry spots.

As a beauty journalist I’ve tried my fair share of clay masks, but The Ordinary’s Salicylic 2% Acid Masque didn’t tighten up or become at all restrictive. With most, they render you unable to hold a conversation of drink your cup of tea, but this one sat very comfortably on the skin. When the 10-minute the timer went off, I removed the mask easily with a Face Halo Pad, a circular flannel which I find very convenient to remove makeup, and rinse off treatments like this mask. Plus, once you're done, you can just chuck in the washing machine, and it will come up as good as new.

I was pleasantly surprised that my face felt calm, refreshed, and best of all, the mask didn’t leave me looking patchy or irritated. Instead, the spots on my chin are less angry and inflamed, my complexion is smoother overall, and feels matte while at the same time looking brighter. I followed up with Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum, and Cerave Facial Moisturising Lotion to finish.

After using the masque (Credit: Louise Whitbread)

The Ordinary Salicylic 2% Acid Masque would be great to use ahead of an event where you want to look extra glow-y, or just for a weekly top-up treatment to help keep spots at bay. While it’s important to keep in mind that no treatment will get rid of spots completely within one use, there is a definite immediate improvement, so it’s earned a permanent place in my skincare routine.

It’s important to note that you should wear SPF, and generally try minimise sun exposure for at least a week after using this mask, as salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), which increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun.

To conclude, The Ordinary’s Salicylic 2% Acid Masque is quick and fuss-free to use, and you can get your hands on it with change from a tenner. It’s a yes from me.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque is available to buy online and in-store at Deciem.

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