The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque – Charcoal & Kaolin Clay 1.7 oz, Exfoliating Pore-Refining Treatment

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque is a clay-and-charcoal treatment that exfoliates with salicylic acid to unclog pores, absorb excess oil, and refresh blemish-prone skin.

This masque blends a lipid-soluble beta hydroxy acid with purifying clays and charcoal to tackle congestion and uneven texture. Designed for oily and blemish-prone complexions, the formula removes dead skin cells and draws out impurities without silicones or added oils. Use it as an occasional deep-clean step to reveal smoother, clearer-looking skin and a brighter surface tone.

How does this masque remove pore congestion?

The key active is salicylic acid at 2%, a lipophilic BHA that penetrates into pores to loosen sebum and dead skin debris. While the masque sits on the skin, it helps dislodge blockages so they can be rinsed away during cleansing. The result is less visible congestion and a cleaner-feeling surface.

• 2% salicylic acid targets oil and dead cells inside pores
• Charcoal and kaolin clay absorb surface impurities and excess oil
• Rinse-off format flushes out loosened debris for immediate clarity

When and how often should I use the product?

Use this masque as an occasional deep-clean step rather than daily; frequency depends on tolerance and skin type. Start with once a week and adjust up to two times weekly if your skin tolerates it well and shows improvement. Always patch-test first and follow with a gentle moisturizer and sun protection when used during the day.

• Begin with one treatment per week to assess sensitivity
• Increase to two sessions weekly only if skin remains comfortable
• Follow with moisturizer; apply SPF during daytime routines

What skin concerns will this masque help improve?

This formula is focused on oily, congested, and uneven-textured skin rather than hydration or soothing inflamed conditions. It helps reduce the appearance of clogged pores, refines surface texture, and minimizes dullness from buildup. For active inflammatory acne or very dry skin, pair cautiously with calming products and consult a professional when needed.

• Reduces visible pore congestion and surface bumps
• Improves skin texture by promoting gentle exfoliation
• Absorbs excess oil and surface impurities to boost radiance

What is in the formula and what is it free from?

The masque combines salicylic acid with charcoal and kaolin clay for a dual approach: chemical exfoliation plus physical absorption of oils and debris. The Ordinary designed it without alcohol, oil, or silicones and labels it vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free. That makes it suitable for straightforward pore-targeting without certain common additives.

• Active: 2% salicylic acid for pore penetration and exfoliation
• Support: charcoal and kaolin clay to soak up impurities
• Free from alcohol, oils, and silicones; vegan and cruelty-free

Who is this for: This masque is intended for people with oily or blemish-prone skin who want an occasional, powerful deep-clean treatment to reduce congestion and refine texture. If your skin is sensitive, very dry, or inflamed, perform a patch test and consider gentler exfoliation first. Incorporate it into a balanced routine alongside moisturizing and sun-protection steps to maintain barrier health and long-term clarity.

Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Kaolin, Squalane, Glycerin, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Silica Cetyl Silylate, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Polyacrylate, Pentylene Glycol, Charcoal Powder, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Sclerotium Gum, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Phytic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol.