Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque is a weekly reset for skin that looks dull and feels bumpy. Charcoal and clays team up with 2% salicylic acid to lift away the dead surface cells that make oily, blemish-prone skin look tired — ten minutes, then rinse.

What it actually does

• Targets dullness and rough texture. The Ordinary formulated this mask specifically for lacklustre tone and uneven, bumpy-feeling skin.
• Exfoliates with salicylic acid (BHA). It clears away dead surface cells on oily and blemish-prone skin, so the fresher, brighter skin underneath can show through.
• Deep-cleans with charcoal and clays. The brand says this combination boosts the look of smoothness and clarity and leaves skin feeling refreshed after rinsing.
• Clean formulation. Free of parabens, formaldehydes, phthalates, mineral oil, oxybenzone, coal tar and SLS/SLES sulfates — and it's vegan, gluten-free and cruelty-free.

How to use

1. Start with clean, fully dry skin. This mask should never go on wet skin.
2. Spread an even layer with your fingertips across the face, keeping well clear of the eye area.
3. Set a timer — 10 minutes maximum. Longer is not better with a BHA mask.
4. Rinse off completely with lukewarm water.
5. Limit it to once or twice a week. It's a treatment, not a daily step.

Patch test first: apply a small amount to one area once a day for three days before using it across your whole face. Skip it entirely on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin.

Is it right for you?

Questions

Do I need sunscreen with this?

Yes. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid, and the brand warns it can make skin more sun-sensitive and more likely to burn — during use and for a week after. Wear sunscreen daily, cover up, and limit direct sun exposure.

Why can't I leave it on longer than 10 minutes?

The Ordinary caps the wear time at 10 minutes because this is an active exfoliating treatment, not a hydrating mask. Overstaying raises the chance of irritation without improving results. If you ever develop severe irritation, swelling or blistering, rinse off, stop using it and see a doctor.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery takes 3 to 21 working days, depending on availability. In-stock items arrive at the shorter end; items we order in for you take longer.

How can I pay?

Credit card, debit card, Instapay and mobile wallets — no cash on delivery.

What's the return policy?

Returns are accepted for defective, damaged or expired items only, reported within 1 day of delivery. Once verified, your refund goes back to the original payment method within 15–30 days.