# The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for France.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Face masks](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/face-masks)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other cleansing masks fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts due to the presence of salicylic acid, which aids in pore cleansing and oil control beneficial for oily skin.
- Kaolin and charcoal powder further assist in decongesting pores and managing oiliness, enhancing the product's suitability for your skin concerns.
- The formulation is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Kaolin, Squalane, Glycerin, Charcoal Powder

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- Vectorization of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid with clay enabled its penetration into deeper skin layers and led to a significant clinical reduction in fine lines in the crow's feet area compared to placebo after 28 days. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38591218/))
- Twice-weekly use of a clay mask over 4 weeks in 75 adults with oily or combination skin improved acne-related outcomes, sebum content, skin evenness, hydration, and reduced dryness and irritation. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38009030/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Soap-and-water wash and superactive charcoal paste applied topically at various times after T-2 toxin exposure effectively reduced skin lesion severity in swine compared to untreated controls. ([Fundamental and Applied Toxicology, 1989](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2612785/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily, congested, and acne-prone skin report that this mask effectively clears pores and reduces blackheads without being overly stripping. Many praise its ability to smooth skin texture and calm active breakouts, while some users find the application messy and the small tube size inconvenient.

- Liked: Clears pores (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes skin texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Messy application (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good value (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-drying formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces acne (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Small packaging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying or irritating (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your cleansing mask PM as part of your weekly routine. Start 1×/week and increase carefully if your oily skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this step after your enzyme powder and before your hydrating toner. Follow the standard weekly order to keep your skin balanced.
- Spread an even layer of the cleansing mask across your face while avoiding the eye area. Let it sit for the recommended time without rubbing .
- Apply the mask on clean and dry skin for the best purifying effect on your breakouts. Clean skin allows the formula to target blemishes directly.
- Always do a patch test before your first use to check for sensitivity. Avoid combining this mask with strong acids or retinoids in the same routine .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6089f210022bdd96805c3bf12c9a44a3.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque work for oily acne-prone skin?

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque works reasonably well for oily acne-prone skin by offering moderate exfoliation and oil control through ingredients like salicylic acid, kaolin, and charcoal powder. This mask helps clear pores and manage blemishes safely, though top-rated products of this type often include stronger clarifying ingredients like BHA and soothing natural extracts for even better oil control and skin clarity.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Which ingredients make this mask a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid, kaolin, and charcoal powder make this mask a good fit because they help clean pores and control oil. This mask of this type also needs soothing and clarifying ingredients like blue tansy and natural extracts to keep oily skin clear and balanced without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear breakouts and keeps oily skin balanced by reducing oil levels and calming inflammation. It is well suited for oily, acne-prone skin because it targets pimples while helping keep the skin hydrated and protected.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

### What does Kaolin Clay do for oily acne-prone skin?

Kaolin Clay helps oily and acne-prone skin by absorbing excess oil, clearing out pores, and keeping skin feeling smooth and calm. Using it regularly helps improve skin evenness and hydration while keeping dryness and irritation unlikely.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38009030/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This cleansing mask is used weekly in your evening routine, coming after your cleanser and enzyme powder. To truly thrive, oily acne-prone skin needs a routine built around oil-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid and kaolin clay that deeply decongest pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Can I use this mask with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this mask on the same day as retinol, but it is best to use them on alternate nights or keep them well spaced out to prevent excessive dryness or irritation. This type of skin needs gentle exfoliants and soothing ingredients like ceramides or licochalcone A to maintain comfort and protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26293170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### How often should I use it?

This cleansing mask is used once a week as part of your weekly routine, which helps clear out pores and manage oiliness without irritating your skin. People who tolerate this exfoliation well and see good results may carefully use it more often.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This mask helps clear pores and control oil for oily skin without clogging them, though a product for this skin works best when it also includes ingredients that deeply soothe breakouts and keep the skin barrier balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Is this mask fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Herbivore Botanicals Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/herbivore-botanicals/blue-tansy-bha-and-enzyme-pore-refining-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €79.97 at Amazon
- [Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sulwhasoo/clarifying-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — €47.00 at Amazon
- [Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kora-organics/turmeric-brightening-and-exfoliating-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €12.50 at Notino

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €17.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.fr: €13.00 (https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B0BSSCJMF2?tag=lovi-care-web-product06-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €7.02 (https://www.lookfantastic.fr/p/the-ordinary-salicylic-acid-2-solution-30ml/13754943/)
- Notino: €15.20 (https://www.notino.fr/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque-masque-purifiant-a-lacide-salicylique/p-16185482/)
Prices checked 14 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

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
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-masque/for/oily-acne-prone-skin