New York Post Composite See more of our coverage in your search results.
Add The New York Post on Google I finally decided to find out whether The Ordinary’s viral Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner deserved the hype.
I’ve seen The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner all over social media for years, but I never felt compelled to add it to my routine until I started noticing that my skin texture looked rougher than usual. My complexion wasn’t necessarily breaking out, but it felt uneven and makeup wasn’t sitting as smoothly as I wanted.
At only $9, it seemed like a low-risk product to try, especially considering that more than 60,000 shoppers purchase it each month.
The toner is formulated with 7% glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin’s surface by helping remove dead skin cells. Unlike a physical scrub, it relies on chemical exfoliation to encourage smoother-looking skin over time. The formula also includes soothing ingredients like aloe vera and Tasmanian pepperberry derivative to help offset potential irritation.
Since I have combination skin, I introduced it slowly. I used it just twice a week after cleansing in the evening, applying a small amount to a cotton pad and gently sweeping it across my face while avoiding the eye area.
I followed it with a hydrating serum and moisturizer, and I made sure to wear sunscreen every morning because glycolic acid can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
The first thing I noticed wasn’t an overnight transformation, but my skin started feeling smoother within a couple of weeks. Areas that usually felt bumpy, particularly around my forehead and chin, gradually became softer to the touch.
After about a month of consistent use, I also noticed that my complexion looked more even and had a healthier glow. My foundation blended more easily, and I didn’t feel like I had to rely as much on exfoliating scrubs to keep my skin looking fresh.
I also liked that the bottle is generously sized (even though I started off with the mini version), so even with regular use, it feels like it will last for months. A little goes a long way, making the affordable price even more impressive.
That said, glycolic acid isn’t something I’d recommend overusing. It’s easy to assume that more exfoliation equals better results, but I found that sticking to a couple of nights each week worked well for my skin. On the nights I used the toner, I skipped other exfoliating acids and retinoids to avoid unnecessary irritation.
After testing The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner for myself, I understand why it’s become such a popular skincare staple. It didn’t completely change my skin overnight, but it noticeably improved my skin texture, made my complexion look smoother, and earned a permanent spot in my routine without stretching my skincare budget.
As one of the best in K-beauty, the medicube Pore Pads reduce the look of large pores, earning a spot in your skincare routine. Trust me, I reviewed nearly the whole brand (and plenty of pore pads).
When the inevitable blemish or clogged pore arrives, I wear these patches without shame. They work, squeeze all the gunk out (ew, I know), and are a product I can’t run out of.
Love ’em or hate ’em, these wipes easily remove all of my makeup from the day — including the essence mascara! — and never irritate my skin or break me out.
This article was written by Victoria McDonnell, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best sheet masks on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos for all hair types and budgets. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
