Given the relatively low cost of this product when compared to other takeaways, The OrdinaryGlycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution has established a loyal fanbase that is justified by its quality. All reviews unanimously refer to this product as an efficient and easy method of getting rid of spots left from acne breakouts, reducing blackheads, and waking up with glowy skin without aggressive scrubbing that is typical of chemical exfoliants. However, the practicality of this product reaches far beyond skincare, since, knowing the role of glycolic acid, one can see its potential uses.
An example of such an acid is glycolic acid, which is an alpha hydroxyl acid from the sugar cane. With this type of acid, the process of cell turnover increases, meaning that the dead skin cells are eliminated quicker than without it. This is how smoother skin texture, brighter overall skin appearance, and increased production of collagen, whose production decreases with age, is achieved. It is because of these two properties that most of the AHA skincare line is based on.
1: Every Day for Healthy Skin Tone
Applying this toner to your face a couple of times per week will help you get rid of any blackhead spots and improve the overall skin condition. It is important to be realistic with yourself though; this toner does a good job when it comes to smoothing the skin rather than treating acne. Hormonal acne requires a special approach that can’t be achieved by this toner alone. The best part about this toner is its ability to reduce acne marks, hence why it is often searched along with Glycolic acid.
2: Exfoliation for the Body and "Strawberry Skin"
Another underappreciated use for the toner would be its application to the body. When applied to areas such as the upper arms and thighs using a cotton pad, it can significantly improve the appearance of keratosis pilaris, or "strawberry skin," which consists of small bumpy spots on the surface of the skin resulting from extra keratin clogging the hair follicle. It should be noted that dermatologists frequently use AHAs such as glycolic acid for this very purpose.
3: Scalp and Dandruff Treatment
This toner, when applied to the scalp and kept on the skin for about 30 minutes before washing off, could serve as a means of exfoliation for dry and scaly areas of skin, providing an easy way to treat dandruff from home. While it is not a common application, it has actually been popularized by many people seeking an easier solution to dandruff shampoos.
4: Conditioning Rough and Cracked Heels
Among the most unexpected applications for The Ordinary Glycolic Acid: conditioning rough and cracked heels. The acid’s effectiveness in smoothing skin is not limited to the face, but the same chemical reaction that smoothes out the face works on rough patches on the feet, too.
Proper Glycolic Acid Toner Usage Regardless of Location
Whether it's being applied in any location, the basic principles remain the same; begin slowly by using it only once or twice per week, use it at night, and use SPF on the following day due to the increased risk of sunburn from AHAs. Allow several weeks of usage before evaluating its effectiveness.
Rarely does a product provide such flexibility at less than $10. If you want to fade those acne spots from your face, to make your rough arms smoother, to soothe that itchy scalp, or even soften your rough feet, you know that The Ordinary's glycolic acid toner is worth its hype.
