The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Review

Adding direct acids into your skincare routine whether it be a toner or serum can be a game changer. Chemical exfoliation can fade dark spots, imperfections, fight texture and create a radiant complexion. The only thing is that you must use them correctly or else they can do more harm than good. The basics of proper acid use include: not to use them everyday, not in a routine with retinoids or other acids and you must always wear SPF.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is an effective acid toner that’s perfect for a nighttime routine. Glycolic Acid, an AHA, is great at fading dark spots, fighting signs of anti-aging and creating a radiant complexion. This toner includes aloe vera and tasmanian pepperberry which provide soothing properties to the skin as acids can be irritating. This product is suitable for many, affordable and a great way to incorporate acids into your routine.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Review

This toning solution includes 7% Glycolic Acid, Amino Acids, Aloe Vera, Ginseng and Tasmanian Pepperberry. Glycolic acid is a common AHA – it chemically exfoliates the skin for a smooth and radiant complexion while also fading dark spots. Aloe vera, ginseng, and Tasmanian Pepperberry help to combat the irritation many experience with acids and present a soothing effect.

So, what is the difference between acid toners and acid serums? An acid toner absorbs quicker into the skin and is more prone to stinging and burning. An acid serum takes a little longer to absorb into the skin giving longer-lasting and deeper results. There are pros and cons to both, but, if an acid toner works for your skin, you can totally continue to use it. Something to note – this is an acid toner, not a hydrating and balancing toner you can use daily after cleansing.

The most important thing to note is that you should not be exfoliating daily or layering this toner with other acid or exfoliating products. The Ordinary’s advises that 7% Glycolic acid toner conflicts with other acids, retinoids, vitamin C and copper products. A good nighttime routine with this product would look like: cleanse, toner, HA serum and moisturizer. If you have other acids or retinoids, use those on alternating nights.

This formula by The Ordinary is suitable for many because it’s effective without being too irritating. With consistent use, it can work quickly. But, remember consistent use and overuse is a very fine line. This product should be used a few times a week, alternating use with your other actives. AHAs work well when used in tandem with BHAs as those are oil soluble and good for unclogging pores.

Personally, this product did not burn my skin and it was very easy to use. I still prefer an acid serum but I think this product could do alot of good for my skin. I would not call this product gentle nor harsh; it’s a good middle ground which can be great for keeping your skin happy while seeing great results. Great results like smoother skin with less texture, faded dark spots and a radiant complexion.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Pros

• This product is very affordable and you get 7% glycolic acid with a ton of product. This toner will last a long time.
• The nozzle pump top is super easy to use and very mess-free.
• This should not tingle or burn if your skin is accustomed to acids.
• Has a subtle smell that may vary from batch to batch.
• 7% AHAs are good for consistent use. (Think 3-4 times a week.) It’s not too strong but still effective.
• Very multi-use. This can be used on your legs to help with ingrown hairs. It can also work on the underarms to detox from aluminum-based deodorant. It also works as a scalp detox for product build-up and scalp acne.
• This is not too gentle but not too intense. It’s a good middle ground.
• Alcohol-free formula. Cruelty-free, vegan, and nut-free.
• Many reviews mention that this gives ‘glass skin.’
• Helps to improve textured skin.
• Includes aloe and Tasmanian Pepperberry to help soothe the irritation that can come with acids.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Cons

• Can potentially irritate your skin. The Ordinary recommends patch testing this before using it all over.
• A serum may be a better option if your skin is sensitive to acids. They also linger a bit longer on the skin and give better results.
• You have to use this product with cotton. Versus a serum that you apply to your face. This includes an extra step.
• Some reviews said this toner did not do much for their skin.
• An acid toner can be very drying for some whereas a serum is not.
• Wearing SPF is a must when you use this product. Not really a con but something important to note.

How to use

This product best works on cotton and then applied to your face. Use it in your PM routine after cleansing and before water based serums and moisturizers. This conflicts with Vitamin C, Direct Acids, Retinoids and 100% Niacinamide Powder or EUK 134 0.1%. No other actives like Vitamin C, acids or retinoids should be used on nights when you use this toner. This toner pairs well with The Ordinary’s niacinamide serum and other hydrators.

This is an acid toner not a typical toner used after cleansing that hydrates and balances the skin. SPF is a must when you use acids as it makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. Think of it as maintenance to protect your skin from all the good stuff the acids are doing.

Where to buy it

This 7% Glycolic Acid toner is available at:

• Amazon
• Sephora
• ULTA

Final Thoughts

An acid toner and acid serum will yield similar results but depending on your skin type one may work better than the other. If you like acid toners this Glycolic Acid Toning Solution is a great option that can help you to achieve your best skin. Plus it’s super affordable and you get tons of product for the price. This product is one of many in The Ordinary’s lineup of direct acids so there’s more options if an acid toner isn’t for you. Regardless of what you like, direct acids for chemical exfoliation are a must in your routine if you’re looking to improve your skin!