Thayers Blemish Clearing 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Toner Versus The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Updated on June 19, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both vegan, cruelty-free, and reef safe . They have a total of 4 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain BHA
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, dry skin, brightening skin, oily skin, reducing pores and scar healing
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
Thayers Blemish Clearing 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Toner 20 ingredients
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution 11 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Thayers Blemish Clearing 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Toner 20 ingredients
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution 11 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Salicylic Acid 2%
Masking
Water
Skin ConditioningSodium Borate
BufferingMelaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
Antioxidant
Hamamelis Virginiana Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract
Skin Conditioning
Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil
Masking
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Cleansing
Glycerin
Humectant
Caprylyl Glycol
EmollientCitric Acid
Buffering
Decyl Glucoside
CleansingEthylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningTocopherol
Antioxidant
Phenoxyethanol
Preservative
Geraniol
Perfuming
Farnesol
Perfuming
Limonene
Perfuming
Citral
Perfuming
Salicylic Acid 2%, Water, Sodium Borate, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil, Hamamelis Virginiana Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract, Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Decyl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol, Geraniol, Farnesol, Limonene, Citral
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Citric Acid is an AHA derived from citrus fruits (think oranges, lemons, and limes!).
As an AHA, Citric Acid removes the top layer of skin cells from the newer layer of skin underneath. This helps skin to remove dark spots and even out skin tone.
If you spot Citric Acid near the end of an ingredient list, it's likely there as a pH adjuster rather than an active ingredient.
Read more about some other popular AHA's here:
Learn more about Citric AcidPhenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is a well-known ingredient for treating skin that struggles with acne and clogged pores. It exfoliates both the skin's surface and deep within the pores to help clear out buildup, control oil, and reduce inflammation.
Unlike AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This allows it to penetrate into pores which makes it especially effective for treating blackheads and preventing future breakouts.
Salicylic acid is also known for its soothing properties. It has a similar structure to aspirin and can calm inflamed or irritated skin, making it a good option for acne-prone skin that is also sensitive.
Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.
It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing this ingredient into your routine.
While salicylic acid does not increase sun sensitivity, it’s still important to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.
Learn more about Salicylic AcidWater. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterIngredient Ratings
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When to use
Thayers Blemish Clearing 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Toner 20 ingredients
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution 11 ingredients
Reviews
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Thayers Blemish Clearing 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Toner 20 ingredients
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