A comprehensive review of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. Learn about the benefits of toning solution, how it works, and where you can purchase this product.
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Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution from The Ordinary is a mild exfoliant for the skin.
This toning solution contains a derivative from the Tasmanian Pepperberry that helps reduce irritation that is common with acid exfoliants.
On EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database website, this product is rated a 4, which falls into the yellow, or moderate hazard, category.
It should not be used by those who have sensitive skin, or on peeling or compromised skin. It should not be use more than once per day and a PM application is recommended.
Because glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid, it can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Sunscreen should always be worn when using this product, and exposure to sunlight should be limited.
Benefits of Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
The benefits of glycolic acid 7% toning solution include:
- improved skin radiance
- visible clarity
- improved appearance of skin texture with continued use
My Review
The majority of the reviews that I read regarding this toning solution are positive. Most mention that this product is very effective at clearing the skin with little to no irritation.
However, there were some negative reviews. Some reviews state that the product did cause some irritation, while others didn’t see as much improvement as they would have liked.
My Skin Type
I have normal to combination skin. I do get a tad oily, mostly around my nose. There are visible pores on my nose and cheeks. I do not get blemishes often.
There is a larger dark spot on one check and some smaller spots or freckling around my eyes. I also have several areas of melasma under my eyes and on my cheeks.
I am 42 with only slight fine lines around my eyes that become more visible when I smile. I am also noticing a decrease in firmness lately.
How I Use Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
I have been using Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution for approximately 3 months. I use it as instructed and only in the evening.
My evening routine has changed over the 3 month course of use. I was cleansing first and then applying the toning solution. That was followed by Alpha Arbutin and either rose hip seed oil or a retinol sleeping mask.
My routine changed to cleansing and toning, then using a peptide nighttime recovery cream.
I had no irritation or burning sensation at all while using the toning solution. My skin tends to be acne-free and fairly smooth naturally now, so it’s hard to say if this product has done much in those areas.
I did not notice any significant changes with my areas of hyperpigmentation, although some mornings my largest dark spot does look lighter.
I have read that glycolic acid can help reduce dark spots, but that too much can exaggerate their appearance as well. The Ordinary website makes no mention of this product being intended for this purpose.
Cons
No one product is perfect for everyone, and this product does have one major con. Skin irritation.
While The Ordinary has formulated their toning solution to be the least irritating possible, some skin types may still experience burning, stinging or redness associated with using this product.
Attention to sun exposure and the use of sunscreen is also important when using alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid.
I do still recommend trying this product, especially if you have acne, clogged pores or texture issues.
Where To Buy
You can buy The Ordinary products, including Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, at the websites below:
More Reviews of The Ordinary Products
This is the third product of many that I am testing from The Ordinary.
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Review was written about the first product that I tried and absolutely love.
I have also tested The Ordinary’s Alpha Arbutin in an attempt to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
You can also check out my post on the 10 Best The Ordinary Products to help you decide which other products from this brand may work for you.
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