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The Ordinary · Masks

Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

$16·50 ml·Rinse-off
89
Low concern

Why this score

Concern51 / 55
  • No ingredients carry meaningful, evidence-backed concern.

How much genuine, cited concern the ingredients carry, weighted by how much of each is likely present and whether the product stays on or rinses off.

Transparency20 / 20
  • No hidden fragrance blend.

Whether the full ingredient list, and any fragrance, are actually disclosed.

Formulation restraint18 / 25
  • 2 known irritant or fragrance-allergen ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Salicylic Acid.

Needless irritant or allergen load for the product type. A clean, purposeful formula scores well without any "free-from" theater.

Reviewed by PlainBody Editorial · Updated July 2026

What’s inside

WaterGenerally safe

The base most products are built on. It carries the other ingredients and has no safety concern.

Full ingredient details →
Alcohol Denat.Watch if sensitive

A fast-evaporating solvent used to carry actives and give toners a light, "clean" feel; at the concentrations used in classic astringents it can be genuinely drying or irritating with repeated use, especially on dry or compromised skin, though it is not inherently toxic and is a normal, well-studied cosmetic ingredient.

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Bentonite ClayGenerally safe

A naturally mined clay used in masks to absorb oil and give a tightening, drying feel. It is generally well tolerated on skin; the main real-world caution is sourcing, since unregulated raw clays have occasionally tested with elevated heavy metal content, so buying from a brand that tests each batch matters more than the ingredient itself.

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Witch HazelWatch if sensitive

A plant extract used for mild astringent and soothing effects. Evidence for its benefits comes mostly from traditional use and small studies rather than large trials, and the tannins it contains can be mildly irritating for some people, particularly in older distilled formulas that retain trace alcohol.

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Salicylic AcidGenerally safe

A beta hydroxy acid used to smooth texture and clear pores. Safe at cosmetic levels; can be mildly irritating if overused.

Full ingredient details →
GlycerinGenerally safe

A humectant that draws water into the skin. One of the best-studied, best-tolerated ingredients in personal care.

Full ingredient details →

Lower-concern alternatives

Same category, higher PlainScore.

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Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. Concern ratings are evidence-graded and cited on each ingredient page. See how we score.