The Ordinary 3-Step Acne Set — Glucoside Foaming Cleanser, Salicylic Acid 2% & NMF + Beta Glucan

The Ordinary Acne Set is a three-step skincare routine that cleanses, exfoliates with 2% salicylic acid, and hydrates to support clearer, balanced skin.

Designed as a simple daily regimen, this trio from The Ordinary combines a gentle glucoside foaming cleanser, the brand's Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, and Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan. Together they address common concerns associated with acne-prone skin—surface oil, clogged pores, and moisture loss—while keeping formulation straightforward for layering into morning and evening routines.

How does the cleanser prepare skin for acne treatment?

The Glucoside Foaming Cleanser removes dirt, oil, and makeup without overstripping the skin, creating a clean canvas for targeted products. Its gentle surfactants support a comfortable cleanse for sensitive or reactive skin types.

• Foaming action clears surface impurities and excess sebum.
• Non-drying formulation preserves natural moisture balance.
• Suitable for daily use, including morning and evening routines.

What does Salicylic Acid 2% Solution do for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic Acid 2% is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps loosen debris inside pores and supports skin surface renewal. Used as a spot or all-over treatment, it’s formulated to help reduce the appearance of blocked pores and recurring blemishes when used consistently.

• Penetrates oily pores to promote natural exfoliation.
• Clear texture designed for targeted application to affected areas.
• Best incorporated into a routine after cleansing and before moisturizing.

Why include Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan in an acne routine?

Moisturizing is essential even for acne-prone skin; this lightweight cream replenishes surface hydration and supports the skin barrier without adding heavy oils. Beta Glucan adds calming, skin-strengthening support to reduce dryness or irritation from active treatments.

• Light, fast-absorbing formula delivers all-day hydration.
• Helps maintain barrier resilience after exfoliation treatments.
• Non-comedogenic texture suitable for layering under sunscreen or makeup.

How should I use the three products together for best results?

Start with the foaming cleanser to remove impurities, apply the Salicylic Acid 2% Solution to clean, dry skin as a treatment step, and finish with the Natural Moisturizing Factors to lock in hydration. Introduce the treatment gradually and observe skin response to establish a balanced rhythm.

• Cleanse morning and night; pat skin dry before treatment.
• Apply salicylic solution sparingly to problem areas or all over affected zones.
• Follow with moisturizer; always use sunscreen during daytime after active exfoliation.

Who is this set for? This compact regimen is intended for teens and adults with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin who want a direct, science-forward approach to cleansing, targeted exfoliation, and hydration. It’s suitable for people looking to simplify their routine with clinically informed ingredients rather than multi-step product layering. If you have extremely sensitive skin or are using prescription acne medications, consider patch testing and consult a dermatologist before combining active treatments.

Ingredients

Glucoside Foaming Cleanser: Aqua (water), Decyl Glucoside, Coco Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Phytic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin. salicylic Acid 2% Solution: Aqua (water),saccharide Isomerate, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Salicylic Acid,hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose, Polysorbate20, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin. natural Moisturizing Factors + Ha: Aqua (water), Caprylic/capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Propanediol, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glucose, Maltose, Fructose, Trehalose, Sodium Pca, Pca, Sodium Lactate, Urea, Allantoin, Linoleic Acid, Oleic Acid, Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Lecithin, Triolein, Tocopherol, Carbomer, Isoceteth-20, Polysorbate 60, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Pentylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.