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The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: A Complete Review

June 3, 2025
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a popular exfoliating toner designed to improve skin texture and clarity. By removing dead skin cells through its 7% glycolic acid content, you can actually achieve brighter-looking skin with a more even appearance. All the while, making it very affordable and highly effective has earned this exfoliating toner a permanent place in numerous skin care regimes.

What is The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution?

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a water-based exfoliating toner for skin tone and texture improvement. It contains 7% glycolic acid, an AHA that accelerates skin cell turnover, revealing smoother, brighter skin. It also contains aloe Vera, ginseng, and Tasmanian Pepper berry, which gently soothe the skin and allow this toner to be used on several skin types, including sensitive.

How to Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

  1. It’s best to start slow: Begin with 2-3 applications weekly so that the skin can have time to develop tolerance.
  2. Apply After Cleansing: After cleansing, place the toner on a cotton pad and swipe it all over the face avoiding the eye area.
  3. Follow with Serums and Moisturizers: Let the toner absorb before applying your favorite serums and moisturizers.
  4. Always Wear Sunscreen: Glycolic acid makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so apply sunscreen during the day.

If you are looking for an ideal natural foundation for oily skin, check our fantastic guide to the best foundations for oily skin. You will also learn the process of selecting a product that would balance oil control and perfect surface finish for a long-lasting wearing effect. Learn more about the top natural foundations on our blog post, The Natural Foundation for Oily Skin.

User Reviews and Experience

Experience 1:
I’ve been using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution for about a month, and I’m in love with it. My skin looks noticeably brighter, and my texture has improved. I started with 2 applications per week and have gradually increased it. I did experience mild tingling initially, but my skin has adjusted. It’s great for refreshing my skin overnight, leaving it smooth and glowing by morning.”

Experience 2:
I have oily skin and frequent breakouts. While this toner doesn’t completely clear my acne, it has worked wonders on blackheads and congestion. It helps with refining my skin texture and fading post-acne marks. I also love how gentle it is compared to other exfoliating toners I’ve tried.

Experience 3:
I’m in love with this toner. It’s affordable and effective, with visible results after just one use. My skin feels so smooth, and I’ve noticed a glow by the next day. I’ve also started using it on my body, and my skin looks amazing!

Pricing

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is available for around $13.00 (USD) or £11.50 (GBP) for a 240ml bottle, making it an affordable addition to your skincare routine. The large size ensures it lasts for several months, offering great value for money.

You can find it at various retailers such as:

  • Sephora
  • Beauty Bay
  • Boots
  • Amazon

Pros:

  • On-going effective Exfoliation: Brightening and refining the skin’s texture over the long term.
  • Gentle exfoliating on the skin: Although containing 7% glycolic acid, it mildly exfoliates, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Affordable: Value for money, especially with such a large bottle size.
  • Non-Comedogenic: Does not block pores and is thus helps to those with acne skin.

Cons:

  • Risk of Sensitivity: With every exfoliating acid, overuse leads to sensitivity. Start at about 2-3 days per week and gradually increase its frequency as your skin gets accustomed with the product.
  • Packaging: Packaging is quite basic in standard but lack the flexibility when it comes to measuring the product. It has a bit wide opening, thus requires caution while using this to not end up over-spilling or wasting the product.

Conclusion

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is actually a fair option for anyone looking for an affordable, gentle exfoliating product. Regular use will end up giving you quite decent results-brightening skin texture- so whether you are oily, combination or acne-prone, this makes a good addition into your routine for smoother, glowing skin.

Benefits Apply To:

  • Those with dull, uneven skin tone or texture
  • People looking for a budget-friendly exfoliant
  • Individuals with non-sensitive skin (or those with sensitive skin who can tolerate glycolic acid)

The toner is an overall good balance between efficacy and cost. Just apply with sunscreen during the day, since exfoliating acids can make you more sensitive to the sun.

FAQs Of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

What Is The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7 Percent Toning Solution?

It is an exfoliating toner with 7% glycolic acid, which mildly exfoliates dead skin cells for the improvement of skin texture and brightness. The toner also contains soothing actives like aloe and ginseng.

When should I apply The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution?

Best time is after cleansing in the evening. Start with 2-3 times a week and slowly increase frequency as skin can tolerate. Not to forget, always use sunscreen during the day.

How do I top it up-use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution?

Apply it to a cotton pad and swipe over the face after cleansing. Follow with serums and moisturizers. Start slow Always put-on sunscreen during the day.

Wellitho

Wellness Storyteller | Holistic Lifestyle Blogger

Wellitho is a Platform is a vibrant wellness enthusiast and lifestyle blogger dedicated to exploring the intricate world of holistic health, beauty, and personal transformation. With a keen eye for emerging trends and a passion for evidence-based wellness, she transforms complex health concepts into accessible, inspiring content that empowers her readers to live their best lives.
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