The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution- All Info!

Product Overview

Brand Background/Philosophy:

The Ordinary is a skincare brand owned by DECIEM that focuses on offering effective, no-frills skincare products at affordable prices. Their philosophy is to provide transparency about ingredients and formulations.
Product Description/Marketing Claims: The Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is an alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin and serves as a facial toner that exfoliates the skin’s surface to improve texture and brightness and reduce signs of aging. It is marketed as an affordable chemical exfoliating toning solution. Contains natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides
Promised Benefits & Key Ingredients Highlighted: Glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid) exfoliates to reduce dullness, uneven texture, and hyperpigmentation. It promises brighter, more even-toned skin. Other key ingredients are ginger root, aloe vera, and Tasmanian pepperberry.
Glycolic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin. It offers mild exfoliation for improved skin radiance and visible clarity. The formula also improves the appearance of skin texture with continued use.
Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner (previously Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution) is an exfoliator that significantly smoothes skin texture and promotes the appearance of a more even skin tone, as well as more luminous skin, with regular use.

Ingredients in The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

Complete Listed 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.
Our formulations are updated from time to time as part of our commitment to innovation. As such, the ingredient list shown here may vary from the box of the product depending on the time and region of purchase.

Research Highlights on Major Ingredients: Glycolic Acid: An AHA that exfoliates to improve skin texture, brighten, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Concentrations of 5–10% are commonly used. Aloe vera soothes and hydrates skin. Tasmanian Pepperberry: Contains natural AHAs to gently exfoliate. -Please note that Tasmanian pepperberry derivative included in this formula is of plant origin and varies in color seasonally, and this color variation may be apparent in the formula from time to time.
Potential Irritants/Concerns: Glycolic acid can cause irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity, so introducing it slowly is recommended. The higher 7% concentration may be too strong for sensitive skin types. Avoid the eye contour and contact with the eyes. This formula should not be used on sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin. Limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.
Sunburn Alert: This product contains alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, particularly the possibility of sunburn.
Contraindications: This formula should not be used on sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin. Please refer to additional sun protection note and other warnings in the provided directions.

The Science Behind It:

CosDNA analysis shows it contains mild irritants and rates its safety as “troubling.” EWG rates it a 3 (moderate hazard) due mainly to the glycolic acid content.

Ingredient	Function	Acne	Irritant	Safety
Aqua	Solvent			1
Glycolic Acid	Exfoliator, Whitening			1-4
Rosa Damascena Flower Water	Skin conditioning			1
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water	Skin conditioning			1
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water				1-3
Propanediol	Solvent, Viscosity Control			1
Glycerin	Solvent, Viscosity Control, Skin conditioning, and Moisturizer	0	0	1-2
Triethanolamine	pH Adjusters	2	0	5
Aminomethyl propanol				1-3
Panax Ginseng Root Extract	Skin conditioning, Plant extract, Emollient			1
Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/leaf Extract	Skin conditioning, Antioxidant
Aspartic acid	Antistatic, Moisturizer			1
Alanine	Antistatic, Moisturizer			1
Glycine	Skin conditioning			1
Serine	Antistatic, Moisturizer			1
Valine	Antistatic			1
Isoleucine	Antistatic			1
Proline	Antistatic, Moisturizer			1
Threonine	Antistatic			1
Histidine	Antistatic, Moisturizer			1
Phenylalanine	Antistatic			1
Glutamic Acid	Antioxidant			1
Arginine	Antistatic, Skin conditioning, Moisturizer			1
PCA	Moisturizer			2
Sodium PCA	Antistatic, Skin conditioning, Moisturizer	0	0	1
Sodium Lactate	pH Adjusters, Moisturizer, Exfoliator			1-3
Fructose	Moisturizer			1
Glucose	Moisturizer			1
Sucrose	Moisturizer			1
Urea	Antistatic, Skin conditioning, Moisturizer, Anti-inflammatory, Exfoliator			1-3
Hexyl nicotinate	Skin conditioning			1
Dextrin	Viscosity Control			1
Citric Acid	pH Adjusters			1-2
Polysorbate 20	Surfactant, Emulsifier	0	0	3
Gellan gum				1
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate				1
Sodium chloride	Viscosity Control		0-3	1
Hexylene Glycol	Surfactant, Solvent, Emulsifier	2	1	1
Potassium Sorbate	Preservative			2
Sodium Benzoate	Preservative			1-3
Hexanediol	Solvent			1
Caprylyl Glycol	Moisturizer, Emollient			1

How To Use

The Ordinary recommends performing a patch test prior to incorporating a new product into your skin care routine. Keep out of reach of children.
Recommended Application: Ideally, use in the evening, no more than once a day, on clean skin.
Soak a cotton pad with the formula and pass it over the face and neck.
Avoid the contour and contact with the eyes. Do not rinse.
Then apply additional care as needed. If irritation persists, stop using the product and consult a doctor. (Sunburn Warning: This product contains alpha hydroxy acid [AHA], which may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, including the risk of sunburn.
Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sunburn. exposure to sunlight during the use of this product and for the week following Use only as directed.
The product should not be applied to the skin too frequently or over a long period.)
Suitable Skin Types & Concerns: Designed for normal, combination, and oily skin types. Not ideal for very dry or sensitive skin.
If eye or skin irritation occurs, rinse thoroughly, cease use, and consult a physician.

Routine Fit

Where it Fits: Can be used as the toner step in an AM or PM routine after cleansing. Those new to chemical exfoliants should start by using it just once a week.
Complementary Products: Can be combined with other hydrating toners, serums, and moisturizers. The Ordinary has a full regimen of products to layer with it.

Do not use it with

User Reviews

Aggregate reviews from Google: Extremely popular product, with over 32,576 reviews on retailers like Sephora, mostly positive. Average rating of 4.6/5 stars.
Positive Feedback Trends: Many rave about how well it improves skin texture, reduces acne/clogged pores, and fades hyperpigmentation. affordable price is a major pro.
Negative Feedback Trends: Some experienced excessive dryness, redness, and irritation, likely from overusing. A few mentioned it caused purging/breakouts initially.

Performance According to Users

Most anecdotal reports are very positive, with many claiming it provides noticeable brightening, smoothing of bumpy texture, and fading of marks/acne scars within a few weeks of consistent use. Some state that it helps control oil and acne as well. Dryness is the main issue reported if overusing.

Dupes & Alternatives

Affordable Dupes: Pixi Glow Tonic ($15), The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner ($9), Naturium Glycolic Toning Solution ($16)
Formula Comparison: The ordinary’s has a higher 7% glycolic acid concentration compared to around 5% for most dupes. However, it lacks additional exfoliating acids like lactic acid that some dupes contain.

Cost & Availability

Pricing Details: $8.70 for 8 fl oz bottle
Where to Purchase: Sephora, Ulta, The Ordinary’s website, and other online/offline retailers
Expiration/Shelf Life: 6 months once opened

Pros and Cons

Pros: Very affordable, potent 7% glycolic acid concentration, contains soothing ingredients, unbeatable price, brightening/smoothing results

Cons: Potential for irritation, especially if overused, doesn’t contain additional exfoliating acids like lactic acid, simple packaging

Overall Rating

Composite Rating: 4.6/5 based on thousands of glowing user reviews
My Final Thoughts: An excellent, no-frills glycolic toner that delivers impressive results for the price. The higher 7% concentration makes it very effective but also increases the potential for irritation, so starting slowly is key. Overall, it’s a cult classic that most will likely tolerate well with proper usage.

Questions You May Find Useful!

People also Asked	Answers
How long does it take to see results with the ordinary glycolic acid?	Between one and six months – depending on your skin and skin cycle – your skin will be firmer and more elastic, and you might even notice a reduction in the appearance of scars.
What are the disadvantages of the ordinary glycolic acid?	Common side effects of GLYCOLIC ACID include dry skin, erythema (skin redness), burning sensation, itching, skin irritation, and skin rash. GLYCOLIC ACID can make the skin more sensitive in the sunlight, hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors.
How many minutes should I leave glycolic acid on my face?	Type Concentration Duration of application Very superficial 30%–50% 1–2 minutes Superficial 50%–70% 2–5 minutes Medium-depth 70% 3–15 minutes
Can I use 7% glycolic acid every day?	It is OK to use 1-2% containing glycolic acid face wash or ointments daily. The creams have a higher glycolic acid content (10% and above) and must only be used once or twice a week to avoid skin irritation. The creams with a concentration above 15% may need to be kept only for a few minutes and then wiped off.
What are the side effects of the ordinary glycolic acid?	Side Effects of GLYCOLIC ACIDBurning sensation.Itching.Skin irritation.Swelling.Skin rash.
Does the ordinary glycolic acid remove dark spots?	One of the top benefits of glycolic acid is its remarkable ability to fade dark spots, age spots, and melasma. Hyperpigmentation mainly impacts the top layer of skin. When glycolic acid is applied, it removes and exfoliates the darkest skin cells to reveal fresh, more even-toned skin underneath.
Can the ordinary glycolic acid be used for underarms?	Many people on social media spotlight The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Solution as their go-to underarm treatment — you just soak a cotton pad and swipe it over the area — “but any facial product with less than 10% glycolic acid should be fine in terms of the irritation factor,” says LoGerf
Does glycolic acid help with armpit odor?	This is because glycolic acid possesses antibacterial properties. Furthermore, it serves as an exfoliant, sloughing off superficial dead skin cells and eliminating the bacterial load on the skin’s surface. This action may contribute to a reduction in underarm or body odor.
Can I use the ordinary glycolic acid on inner thighs?	Glycolic Acid can be used for dark areas on the skin,such as private areas and inner thighs. Glycolic Acid on feet help to break up rough skin.
How often should I use glycolic acid on my armpits?	A thin layer can be applied to dry underarms once daily. It’s important to allow the underarms to dry completely before lowering them. It is safe when used correctly but too high concentrations of glycolic acid, too much glycolic acid, or too frequent use can possibly lead to irritation, burns and pigmentation.”
How often should I use glycolic acid?	Two to three times a week as recommended. For starters, you can use glycolic acid two to three times a week. Apply it at night rather than during the day since glycolic acid increases your skin’s photosensitivity and makes it more susceptible to sunburn and damage. Once your skin has gotten used to the peel, you can begin to use it daily for the best results.
How long to use glycolic acid?	After about a month, you should notice clearer skin as glycolic acid works to keep skin clean and decongested. Two months in, you should see that dark spots and pigmentation is reduced as the regular glycolic acid application is melting away old, dead skin cells and increasing cell turnover.

FAQs

The Glycolic Acid 7% Solution is used as a chemical exfoliant to improve skin texture, brighten the complexion, reduce hyperpigmentation, and minimize signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.

It’s not recommended to use the 7% glycolic acid solution daily, especially when starting. Overuse can lead to dryness, irritation, and damage to the skin barrier. Begin by using it 1-2 times per week and slowly increase frequency as tolerated.

Potential side effects include dryness, redness, stinging, peeling, sun sensitivity, and purging/breakouts when you first start using it. Introduce it slowly to avoid irritation.

Yes, glycolic acid can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time through its exfoliating effects on surface pigment and by inhibiting abnormal melanin production.

Using the 7% glycolic acid toner every single day will likely lead to over-exfoliation, compromising your skin barrier. This can cause excessive dryness, redness, peeling, and increased sensitivity.

Individual results vary, but most see noticeable fading of dark spots and hyperpigmentation within 8–12 weeks of consistent glycolic acid use.

Yes, glycolic acid can help lighten and brighten overall skin tone through exfoliation and inhibition of melanin production over time.

Most see initial results like smoother texture and brighter skin within 4 weeks, but it can take 8-12 weeks of consistent use to see more dramatic fading of concerns like hyperpigmentation.

Glycolic acid makes your skin more sun-sensitive, so nighttime application is generally recommended.

Yes, you should rinse off the glycolic acid toner thoroughly after letting it sit for 5-10 minutes to remove any remaining residue.

For the 7% concentration, leave it on for no more than 10 minutes before rinsing to avoid excessive irritation.

Yes, it’s recommended to follow with a hydrating moisturizer after using glycolic acid to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier.

You can try leaving it on overnight, but only after building a tolerance by using it for several weeks first. Leaving it on too long increases dryness and irritation risks.

Look for a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to calm and restore the skin after exfoliation.

Yes, niacinamide can be a great pairing with glycolic acid. It helps calm irritation while also providing brightening effects.

It’s best to apply retinol at separate times from glycolic acid initially. Try using glycolic acid in the PM and retinol in the morning routine when your skin has built more tolerance.

Start by using it 1-2 times per week and slowly increase frequency as tolerated. Overuse can cause excessive irritation.

Use after cleansing and before serums/moisturizers.

Likely too strong for very sensitive skin types. Try a lower 5% glycolic product instead.

Most see improvement in 4–8 weeks with consistent use, but individual results vary.