The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner is a cult-favorite for good reason. This 8.1 fl oz powerhouse uses alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) to gently exfoliate the skin’s surface, revealing a brighter, smoother, and more even-looking complexion over time.

Why It’s a Skincare Staple:

7% Glycolic Acid: Just the right strength for noticeable results without overwhelming sensitive skin.

Daily Use Formula: Designed for nighttime application to help renew skin while you rest.

Brightening & Smoothing: Targets dullness, uneven texture, and discoloration for a more radiant glow.

Texture & Feel:

Lightweight, watery toner that absorbs quickly.

Slight tingling on application is normal—just avoid broken skin or overuse.

No heavy fragrance, making it suitable for most skin types.

Bonus Features:

pH Balanced: Formulated at a skin-friendly pH to maximize effectiveness and minimize irritation.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free: No animal testing, no nonsense.

Generous Size: 8.1 oz lasts for months, even with regular use.

Perfect For:

Those dealing with dullness, rough patches, or post-acne marks.

Anyone looking to upgrade their nighttime routine with a gentle chemical exfoliant.

Skincare minimalists who want results without a 10-step regimen.

Final Verdict: The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid Toner is a simple, effective way to hit refresh on your skin. Affordable, potent, and backed by science—it’s the kind of product that quietly transforms your complexion one night at a time.

Let me start by saying this: if you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “Why is my skin just... dull?”, this toner might be what you’re missing. The Ordinary's Glycolic Acid 7% Toner is kind of a cult favorite—and for good reason.

I started using it a few times a week at night, and within the first two weeks, I noticed my skin was smoother, less congested around my nose and chin, and definitely more radiant. It's not a dramatic overnight transformation, but it's like your skin slowly wakes up and starts behaving better.

The feel? Slightly tingly at first—especially if you're new to acids. It's watery, almost like a micellar toner, and absorbs quickly. I apply it after cleansing and before serums or moisturizer. I don’t rinse it off.

What it actually helped with:

Uneven tone – My cheeks had some mild discoloration from old acne marks. They faded faster than usual.

Texture – It gently exfoliates, so my skin feels much softer and looks smoother.

Breakouts – It doesn’t prevent them entirely, but it definitely helps keep pores cleaner and reduces those little under-the-skin bumps.

What to watch out for:

It’s strong. I wouldn’t recommend this every day right out of the gate—especially if you have sensitive skin. Start with 2–3x per week at night.

Can dry you out if overused, especially around the mouth and nose. I always follow with a good moisturizer.

Sun sensitivity is real. You must use sunscreen during the day while using this, or you’re just undoing the benefits.

Oh, and a little secret? People use this on their underarms, knees, and even for keratosis pilaris (those little bumps on arms). It’s not officially for that, but it works.

This 7% glycolic acid toner delivers noticeable results without the harsh irritation many AHAs cause. After two weeks of evening use, my skin texture is noticeably smoother and my complexion looks brighter and more even. The addition of aloe and Tasmanian pepperberry really helps minimize irritation - I experienced only mild tingling during the first few uses.
The liquid formula absorbs quickly and layers well under moisturizer. At The Ordinary’s signature affordable price point, it’s incredible value compared to similar products from premium brands. The unscented formula is perfect for sensitive noses.
Fair warning: start slowly (2-3 times per week) and always use SPF the next day. Some initial purging is normal. Perfect entry-level glycolic acid product that actually works.
Effective, affordable, and surprisingly gentle.

Was in the market for a good chemical exfoliant, and this product has exceeded my expectations. I use this product at night, it feels a little sticky as it's settling in to the skin, but when I wake up in the morning, my skin is sooo soft and supple. It's lovely.

Doesn't really have a smell, little goes a long way. It doesn't irritated my skin, but I will use it for 3 nights, take a few mights office. My skin texture is improving, and skin tone is evening out. I also use a little on my arm pits and it's been a huge help with the BO I've had since having my baby. Highly recommend.