The Ordinary Salicylic Acid Review

The Ordinary skincare
Today at Oxygen Boutique we're putting The Ordinary Salicylic Acid to the test. Those of us here that have oily skin are forever hunting for the perfect skin mattifier. Ideally, we want a product to reduce oil production, tighten pores & prevent breakouts. We're not asking for much, are we? Well, The Ordinary didn't think so either, releasing a 2% Salicylic Acid solution for a mere £4.20. When the skin becomes oily, the oils tend to block the pores and it makes it hard to give them a good clean. This 2% treatment exfoliates the inside walls of the pores, ridding unwanted nasties, therefore, preventing breakouts. But does it work and what is Salicylic Acid? Here's our The Ordinary Salicylic Acid review...
 
What is Salicylic Acid?
For a lot of us, the thought of putting acid directly on the skin is a scary thought. It immediately triggers thoughts of peeling or burnt skin. Don't panic, that's not the case at all with this solution. Salicylic Acid is a gentle formula that chemically exfoliates the top layer of the epidermis and is perfectly safe for home use. After use, it leaves behind a perfectly even skin tone and squeaky-clean pores. Working best on oily & combination skin.
 
How to use:
The Ordinary recommend using both morning and evening. If you currently have a breakout, apply a small dot to the affected area and it will start to reduce in a few hours. To maintain visible clarity, apply a small amount to a cotton pad and swipe all over the skin. If you have combination skin, avoid using Salicylic Acid on dry skin as it will dry it out further.
If this is your first time using Salicylic Acid, it's recommended that you perform a patch test. Generally, using acid on the skin for the first time will cause a slight tingle but shouldn't cause irritation. It's better to be on the safe side and make sure it works for you! Sunburn alert: Using acids on the skin does make skin more susceptible to sunburn so make sure to use an SPF. We recommend  Zelens Daily Defence Sunscreen SPF 30.
 
Does it work?
This little skin hero has earnt a permanent place in our skincare routines at Oxygen Boutique. There is a noticeable difference in skin appearance. Skin appears smoother, pores tighter and is considerably less oily in general.  Noticeably fewer breakouts and if one does appear, it clears up in half the time. Using a chemical exfoliant ensures only the top layer of skin is removed. When using a scrub with microbeads, it exfoliates the top layer of skin but can damage the healthy layer underneath.
Salicylic Acid is great for mattifying the skin. So even if you don't suffer from breakouts but would like your skin to be less oily, this is a handy little product to have. After use, it leaves behind a beautifully clean, mattified, even base. Results are noticeable after first application and continued use of Salicylic Acid provides better results.
Editor tip: If you find your face makeup is looking cakey, Salicylic Acid is great for refining skin texture and creating a flawless base for makeup. Remember, great makeup starts with great skincare!
Overall:
Don't let the small price tag fool you, it truly is an amazing product. Here at Oxygen Boutique, we believe in bringing our customers the best of the best. The Ordinary is no exception to that. Offering premium results for a budget price tag, you won't be disappointed. After just one week of use, we noticed our skin looking noticeably smoother, feeling cleaner & makeup lasting longer than usual. We recommend slipping the 2% solution into your skincare routine if you have oily skin.
The Ordinary is anything but ordinary, boasting a huge budget-friendly range. Treating every skin complaint imaginable - you can shop the full range, here.