ReviewsProduct ReviewsThe Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Review

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

This chemical exfoliator is one of the most-loved The Ordinary products, with an effective 7% concentration of glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid, or AHA).

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Exfoliating

Tested on animals: No

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The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Review

By Courtney Leiva

Nov. 19, 2021 / < 1 min read

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In this article

Quick Facts

Product Overview

Key Ingredients

How to Use

What to Expect

Are you looking for a toner that sheds dead skin cells, brightens dullness, and softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles?

Consider your search over; The Ordinary's glycolic toner may be the product you've been looking for. Read our comprehensive review of this popular toner.

Quick Facts

Summary

Squalane is incorporated into cosmetics because of its emollient properties. It is also antibacterial and is safe for sensitive skin [2]. In addition to squalane, this cleanser adds other lipophilic and emulsifying sucrose esters in its formula. These esters provide thickness and texture to the cleanser formula.

Pros

Oil-free
Alcohol-free
Fragrance-free
Lightweight and non-greasy
Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

May irritate sensitive skin

Why We Picked It

Regular exfoliation is necessary in order to maintain clear, smooth skin. This product contains an effective 7% concentration of glycolic acid, which has been shown to reduce the signs of aging (including wrinkles and sun spots) and minimize texture.

Product Overview

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution contains 7% glycolic acid, aloe vera, ginseng, and Tasmanian Pepperberry ingredients. It works to reduce the signs of aging (including wrinkles and sun spots) and minimize texture.

Claims

Brighter and more radiant-looking skin
Improved appearance of skin texture with continued use
Removal of dead skin cells and excess sebum from the skin surface, leading to fewer breakouts as a result

Key Ingredients

7% Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is a topical alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that works by removing dead skin cells from the skin surface, which, in return, keeps the skin smooth and prevents pores from becoming clogged. Additionally, it can be helpful in correcting dullness and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Tasmanian PepperBerry

While there aren't many published studies that examine the effectiveness of this ingredient, Dr. Allawh explains that "Tasmanian Pepperberry is becoming increasingly popular because of its ability to reduce skin inflammation and redness." This ingredient may also be able to brighten the skin, as it is a derivative of an Australian native fruit that has antioxidant benefits, she explains.

Ginseng Root

"Ginseng root has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries to treat dry skin, skin irritation, wounds, and eczema," says Dr. Allawh. "Ginseng has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties," she adds. "However, there are small studies revealing potential benefits of ginseng on skin elasticity and collagen production—meaning it may be able to target wrinkles and brighten the skin."

Aloe

While skin hydration is the major beauty benefit aloe brings to mind, Dr. Allawh says that "this ingredient may help to reduce skin hyperpigmentation—it blocks an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is primarily responsible for skin hyperpigmentation." Additionally, because aloe is soothing to sensitive and acne-prone skin, she explains that it may be helpful in minimizing skin redness, irritation, and skin inflammation associated with painful pimples.

View all ingredients

Aqua (Water), Glycolic Acid, Rosa damascena flower water, Centaurea cyanus flower water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Triethanolamine, Aminomethyl Propanol, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Aspartic Acid, Alanine, Glycine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glutamic Acid, Arginine, PCA, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Urea, Hexyl Nicotinate, Dextrin, Citric Acid, Polysorbate 20, Gellan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Chloride, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.

How to Use

Cleanse your skin and allow it to completely dry
Saturate a cotton pad with the product and gently sweep across the face and neck
Allow the product to dry, then follow up with your favorite serum and moisturizer.

Quick tip: Because this product can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, it’s recommended to wear an SPF product of 30 or greater. Additionally, following up with a moisturizer will be beneficial in minimizing the dryness often associated with the use of AHAs. When using toner, always apply the product onto a saturated cotton pad first, and, then apply it evenly onto the skin after cleansing. Though, don't use this toning solution more than once a day—overusing toner can cause irritation in some people.

Other tips

Conduct A Patch Test Before Using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

If you aren't sure how well your skin will tolerate this toning solution, it's best to conduct a patch test on your forearm before using it on your face. If irritation, or an allergic reaction, should occur, discontinue using the product immediately, and then consult with a reputable dermatologist.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution May Help Improve The Appearance Of Scarring

Because this toning solution is rich in glycolic acid, it can help improve the appearance of acne scarring over time. User reviews of this product indicate that regularly using this toning solution can lighten acne scars found on the face and back areas.

You Can Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution For Other Purposes

Product reviews of this toning solution suggest that it can remedy other beauty woes. Some users indicate that this toner can come in handy as a deodorant, can be used as a prevention treatment of ingrown hairs, and used as a scalp exfoliant before shampooing.

What to Expect

In the early stages of using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, users can expect some dryness and irritation to occur. As glycolic acid is considered an alpha hydroxy acid, be mindful that it will cause the skin surface to shed or peel. AHAs can make the skin sun-sensitive, so you'll want to use sunscreen daily to protect your skin from damage. Similarly, a moisturizer should also be used when using toner—it replenishes the skin barrier with moisture.

Because this toning solution utilizes effective product ingredients, users can expect to see smoother and brighter skin, fewer breakouts, and the softening of fine lines and wrinkles with continued use.

What Experts Think

Dr. Rina Allawh, MD, FAAD

"The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% toner can be helpful for those who suffer from all types of acne—especially stubborn black and white-heads—as this is an effective exfoliant," says Dr. Allawh. "Those with hyperpigmentation and skin redness also may want to consider this product, as it helps to lighten and brighten the skin, target overproduction of melanin, and evens out dyspigmentation. "

The Bottom Line

Thanks to its effective product ingredients, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution can be helpful in preventing breakouts, correcting skin dullness, and improving the appearance of scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles. This toner should be used after the cleansing step of your skincare routine and should be used once a day to start. Using sunscreen and moisturizer are important when using toner, as glycolic acid can be drying and make the skin sun-sensitive.

How often should I use The Ordinary glycolic acid 7% toning solution?

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution should be applied to the skin after the cleansing step of your skincare routine. However, depending on how often you wash your face, you should be mindful of how you use this toning solution. Those who cleanse twice a day, for example, should limit their use to only once a day to start. Overusing toner can irritate the skin, so you'll want to see how your skin responds to this product before you increase your usage.

Who should not use The Ordinary glycolic acid 7% toning solution?

While The Ordinary claims that this toning solution has a pH level range of 3.50-3.70, which, in return, reduces the risk of developing irritation, there are some skin types—dry and sensitive—that should exert caution before using this product. If you remain unsure if The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is right for your skin type, be sure to share your concerns with your dermatologist.

Can The Ordinary glycolic acid 7% toning solution be used for other purposes?

Several user reviews of this product indicate that it can be used for other purposes. Some have used it as a deodorant, while others have used it to prevent ingrown hairs and as a scalp exfoliant.

About the author

Courtney Leiva

Courtney Leiva is a lifestyle and beauty writer based in New Jersey. Her work has been featured on Women's Health, Refinery29, Bustle, and NewBeauty. When she is not writing, Courtney enjoys ranking her favorite ice cream flavors, scrolling for hours on Etsy, and dreaming up new ways to decorate her house.