The Ordinary body serum: what it does and how to use it

What does the body serum do?

Salicylic acid opens clogged pores and exfoliates the skin. It is effective for whiteheads and pimples, so the serum makes sense when body breakouts are the concern rather than dryness alone. The serum's US label identifies it as an acne treatment that helps clear blemishes and allows skin to heal. It is a treatment you leave on, not a body wash: apply it, rub it in if needed, and let it dry.13

Which The Ordinary body product should you choose?

The body care range separates acne, visible dark spots and dryness into different products, rather than giving one bottle three job titles. Choose the product that matches the concern you want to treat.2

The serum's US label lists water, glycerin, pentylene glycol, isoceteth 20, sarcosine, sodium hydroxide, phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin as inactive ingredients. The niacinamide emulsion and inulin body lotion are separate formulas, not alternative names for this serum.12

How do you apply it?

1. 1Patch test first. Apply to a small area once daily for three days to check for sensitivity.
2. 2Clean the skin thoroughly before applying the serum. Wash gently rather than scrubbing.
3. 3Apply a thin layer across the affected body area, not just the individual blemishes.
4. 4Rub it in with your hands if needed, then allow the product to dry.

Begin with one application daily. The US label allows a gradual increase to two or three applications daily if needed or directed by a doctor; that is an option, not a starting target. If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce use to once daily or every other day. The directions do not specify morning or evening, so choose a time that lets you cleanse first and let the serum dry.1

A back lotion applicator can help you put treatment where it needs to go, because skincare routines tend to overlook the small administrative problem of reaching your back.4

How long does it take to work?

Think in weeks, not applications. General acne treatment guidance puts the first reduction in breakouts at six to eight weeks. For back acne, complete clearing can take three or four months when treatment works. These are general treatment timelines, not a measured schedule for this particular serum. If your back acne shows no difference after six to eight weeks, see a dermatologist rather than simply increasing how often you apply it.34

What should the rest of your routine look like?

• Use gentle, fragrance free skin care. Skip abrasive scrubs, loofahs and back brushes, which can worsen back acne.
• Choose oil free skin care and cosmetics. Look for wording such as noncomedogenic, meaning the product is intended not to clog pores.
• After sweating, shower and change clothes as soon as possible. Wear loose workout clothes and wash them after each use.
• Avoid rubbing against affected skin and picking or popping blemishes.
• Protect exposed skin outdoors with oil free, broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Sun exposure can darken acne and make it last longer.

Can you use it with other acne treatments?

Using another topical acne medication alongside this serum increases the likelihood of dryness and irritation. If irritation occurs, use only one topical acne medication at a time. General salicylic acid precautions advise against applying benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, other topical medicines, abrasive cleansers or alcohol containing skin care to the same area unless your doctor directs you to. If you already have a prescription routine, ask before adding the serum.15

Who should be careful?

Do not apply salicylic acid to broken, red, swollen, irritated or infected skin, or across large body areas without medical direction. Do not cover treated skin with a dressing unless instructed. Discuss use with a doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding, have diabetes or kidney, liver or blood vessel disease, or take aspirin or use methyl salicylate muscle rubs. Children and teenagers with flu or chickenpox should not use it without a doctor's direction. Avoid it if you are allergic to salicylic acid or a formula ingredient.5

When should you stop or get help?

Get medical advice for severe or persistent irritation or stinging. Stop using salicylic acid and seek immediate medical help for hives, throat tightness, trouble breathing, faintness or facial swelling. Deep, painful body acne needs a dermatologist's help. Bumps that resemble acne can also be another condition, including folliculitis, a skin infection, so uncertain or persistent breakouts deserve an assessment.345