The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Uses
Title: An In-depth Discussion on The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Uses
Glycolic acid, one of the alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), has carved its way as an essential ingredient in the beauty industry, specifically in skincare. The Ordinary, an industry-leading brand known for its effective, affordable and transparent products, offers a cult favorite-Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. This particular product has been lauded for various benefits it offers to consumers. This article aims to delve into the uses of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid in skincare routines and how it wins over skincare enthusiasts.
Exfoliation and Skin Brightening
Primarily known for its potent exfoliative properties, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid effectively sheds dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. Through this, it assists in revealing a fresher, brighter and more youthful layer of skin. The rejuvenating power of glycolic acid helps in replacing dull, worn-out cells with new ones, facilitating not only a radiant skin appearance but also an improved skin texture. This regeneration process contributes to an overall evening of the skin tone.
Another noteworthy benefit of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid solution is its anti-aging properties. Through stimulating the skin’s natural collagen production, glycolic acid aids in reducing appearances of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. As collagen production decreases with age, utilizing products that can boost its production is key to maintaining youthful-looking skin.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid’s ability to penetrate deep into the pores has proven it to be beneficial for acne-prone skin. By unclogging the skin pores and preventing the build-up of sebum, glycolic acid can reduce acne breakouts significantly. Moreover, it swiftly removes the top skin layer and uncovers the underlying skin, hence propelling the healing process of current acne lesions and preventing the formation of new ones.
Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots
Glycolic acid is also known for its efficacy in addressing hyperpigmentation and dark spots. This acid delicately removes the top skin layer, taking with it some of the pigmented cells, and reveals brighter, even-toned skin.
Increasing the Efficacy of Other Skincare Products
An often overlooked, yet significant benefit of using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid, is its ability to increase the efficacy of other skincare products. By removing the dead skin layer, it creates a clean canvas, making it easier for other skincare products to penetrate the skin. This in turn assists in amplifying the effects of various skin serums, creams or treatments.
Incorporating The Ordinary Glycolic Acid in the skincare routine can undoubtedly bring about several skin transformation. However, note that it’s a potent chemical exfoliant and can cause skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin types or for first-time users. Hence, it’s recommended to gradually incorporate it into your routine, rather than using it daily immediately. It is also important to apply sun protection as glycolic acid can make skin more susceptible to sunburn.
In conclusion, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid is not just an ordinary skincare product. Its multiplicity of uses in skincare ranging from exfoliation, anti-aging, acne treatment, fading dark spots to enhancing the potency of other products only reinforce its appeal to skincare enthusiasts globally. As with any skin product, users must exercise caution and consultation is advised prior to use. Overview of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Benefits
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid has received significant attention as a potent beauty product owing to its versatility. Here are the underlying benefits of this product:
1. Exfoliation and Skin Brightening: Its main functionality is to serve as an exfoliant, eliminating dead skin cells and revealing the fresh, radiant, and youthful layer beneath.
2. Anti-Aging Properties: Glycolic Acid stimulates the production of collagen, which is essential in minimizing fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
3. Acne Treatment: Its ability to deeply penetrate pores makes it highly effective in treating acne-prone skin. It does so by unclogging and ridding pores of sebum, which in turn reduces acne breakouts.
4. Treating Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots: Glycolic Acid also presents an efficient way to combat hyperpigmentation and dark spots. It removes the top layer of the skin, shedding pigmented cells and uncovering a brighter skin tone.
5. Increases Efficacy of Other Skincare Products: The exfoliative property of Glycolic Acid prepares the skin for other products by removing the top layer of dead skin cells, enhancing the penetration and effectiveness of other skin products.
Conclusion on The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Uses
The multi-functionality of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid proves its indispensability in skincare. From its powerful exfoliation abilities, treating acne, combating signs of aging to enhancing the results of other skincare products, the benefits are seemingly endless. However, as potent as it is, caution should be taken particularly by first-time users and those with sensitive skin types. Always ensure to gradually incorporate it into your skincare routine and to use sun protection, as you can become more prone to sunburn with its use. With proper use, this product is sure to have a significant impact on the health and appearance of your skin. As we’ve looked at the various uses of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid, it’s clear how it holds the power to transform the skin’s appearance through varied approaches. It’s a tool of exceptional skincare that targets not just one but many skin concerns. The uniqueness lies in its capacity to suit different skin types and conditions, from the beginners to the skincare veterans, each finding something beneficial from its use.
However, even with its numerous benefits, it’s important to remember that the product is a strong chemical exfoliant that can cause skin irritation. It’s crucial to introduce it into your skincare routine gradually to test your skin’s response. To avoid an undesirable reaction, users are advised to conduct a patch test before applying it to the complete face. It’s also essential to use sun protection while using products which contain Glycolic Acid as they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Be it exfoliation, anti-ageing, acne therapy, lightening dark spots or amplifying the effect of other skincare staples; The Ordinary Glycolic Acid has proved itself remarkably. With appropriate and cautious use, this skincare marvel can do wonders in enhancing skin health and beauty. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid boasts a multitude of skincare uses and benefits. A highly potent exfoliant, it works by removing dead skin cells and revealing a fresh, radiant layer of skin underneath. Its anti-aging properties stimulate collagen production, which helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. This effective serum also serves as an acne treatment, as it can penetrate deep into the pores to unclog them and prevent the buildup of sebum.
Another advantage is its ability to treat hyperpigmentation and dark spots by gently removing the top skin layer and pigmented cells, unveiling brighter, even-toned skin. Lastly, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid can enhance the efficacy of other skincare products by creating a clean canvas for these products to better penetrate the skin.
Incorporating this product into your skincare routine can positively transform your skin. However, as a potent chemical exfoliant, it can cause skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin types or first-time users. Therefore, it is recommended to gradually integrate it into your routine and use sun protection as it can increase susceptibility to sunburn.
In conclusion, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid is more than an ordinary skincare product. With multiple uses and benefits, from exfoliation, anti-aging, acne treatment, reducing dark spots, to enhancing the effectiveness of other products, it is a highly sought after product by skincare enthusiasts worldwide. Regardless of the product, users are encouraged to exercise caution and consult with a professional prior to use.
Glycolic acid, classified as an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), has gained recognition in skincare regimens due to its various skin-enhancing properties.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, a cost-effective product offering the goodness of glycolic acid, serves to exfoliate your skin. This helps enhance skin transparency, regulate uneven skin pigmentation, and rectify skin texture with continued use.
However, this product is not limited to facial use. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid can be applied to other body areas as well, proving its versatility and value for money.
This guide on utilizing The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution aims to help you maximize the benefits of this product while minimizing the risk of skin irritation.
Purchases made through the affiliate links in this post will result in a commission for me, at no additional cost to you. Please refer to my Disclosure for more information.
Don’t Miss The Ordinary’s Sale:
Enjoy a 10% discount on purchases over $55 and a 15% discount on purchases over $100*
Use Code: FROMUS2U
*Offer valid until September 8, 2023. Terms and Conditions apply.
Prior to using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, it’s important to note that glycolic acid and other exfoliating acids may increase your skin’s sun sensitivity. Hence, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 while using this product and for a week afterward.
Also, perform a patch test of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid toner before applying it on your face or body to prevent potential skin reactions.
This toner contains 7% glycolic acid, an AHA derived from sugar cane, celebrated for its multiple skincare benefits. AHAs aid in exfoliating the skin’s top layer, stimulating new skin cell growth, lessening wrinkles and fine lines, improving texture, fading sun spots and acne scars, and making pores appear less noticeable and more refined.
Besides glycolic acid, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution also includes a Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative, which helps mitigate irritation associated with AHA usage. Additionally, aloe vera and cornflower flower water serve to soothe your skin.
The ginseng root extract within offers antioxidant protection to the skin against environmental stressors, while the multiple amino acids and sugars help hydrate and moisturize your skin.
For a closer look at my experience with this toner, please read my The Ordinary Glycolic Acid review post.
How To Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
It is advised to introduce The Ordinary Glycolic Acid toner slowly into your regimen, using it once or twice a week to start with, and gradually increasing the frequency as your skin acclimatizes, up to daily usage if well-tolerated.
Refrain from using the acid toner on sensitive, peeling, compromised, or damaged skin.
To incorporate it into your skincare routine, follow these straightforward steps:
- Cleanse Your Skin: Use a mild cleanser to cleanse your face, removing any dirt, oil, or makeup. This preps your skin for effective absorption of glycolic acid.
- Apply The Ordinary Glycolic Acid: After cleansing, moisten a cotton pad with The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. Gently glide it over your face (and neck if tolerated), taking care to avoid the eye area. Note that glycolic acid is a potent exfoliant and should be used sparingly, especially for sensitive skin types.
- Apply Serums and/or Treatments: Once the glycolic acid solution is absorbed, apply any additional serums or treatments to enhance your skincare regimen. Exercise caution when combining glycolic acid with other active ingredients, as it can provoke irritation for certain skin types.
- Apply Moisturizer: Following the application of your serums, it’s crucial to moisturize your skin. Opt for a product containing nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin for intense hydration.
- Apply Sunscreen (AM): Glycolic acid can render your skin more susceptible to the sun, so it’s advisable to use it in your evening skincare routine. Regardless of whether you use it in the AM or PM, it is imperative to incorporate a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen into your AM routine. Select a product with at least SPF 30 to provide protection against harmful UV rays.
If you don’t want to use it on your entire face, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution can also be used as a spot treatment for hyperpigmentation or acne, reducing the visibility of active breakouts and preventing future ones.
Consistency and patience are key while using this product, as noticeable results may take time.
Alternative Ways To Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution On Your Body
Beyond its core function as a toner in your skincare regimen, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution offers other versatile uses.
Here are a few unique ways to include this effective glycolic acid toner in your beauty routine:
As A Deodorant
The glycolic acid solution can be used as a natural deodorant. It helps to eliminate odor-causing bacteria and exfoliate dead skin cells. Glycolic acid works by lowering your skin’s pH level, which helps neutralize any odor-causing bacteria. However, as the temperature of your underarm skin increases, it might compromise your skin barrier, and the sweat’s water content may decrease glycolic acid’s effectiveness. Also, glycolic acid doesn’t prevent sweating, so it won’t keep you dry.
While glycolic acid might help with underarm pigmentation, frequent use can cause irritation, potentially worsening hyperpigmentation. If you choose to use glycolic acid as a deodorant, apply it with a cotton pad to clean dry underarm skin. Ensure you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on areas exposed to sunlight as glycolic acid can make your skin sensitive to UV rays.
To Prevent Ingrown Hairs
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid is an effective remedy to prevent ingrown hairs by gently exfoliating the skin. After cleansing the area, apply the toning solution to a cotton pad and gently sweep over the area prone to ingrown hairs.
To Improve Dandruff
If you struggle with dandruff, glycolic acid can be a useful addition to your scalp care regimen. The solution’s tapered nozzle is particularly useful for targeting the scalp. Apply The Ordinary Glycolic Acid directly onto your scalp and gently massage it in. This helps exfoliate the skin cells, reducing flaky skin.
Exercise caution and avoid contact with your eyes as the toner has a runny consistency. Allow the toner to sit for approximately 30 minutes before washing and conditioning your hair. You can apply this treatment once or twice a week.
Following a few weeks of this regimen, you should observe a reduction in flakes and dandruff.
To Reduce Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris, a skin condition that presents as small, rough white bumps typically found on the back of the arms and thighs, can also be tackled with The Ordinary Glycolic Acid.
Apply the solution gently to a cotton pad and sweep over affected areas to stimulate cell turnover, thereby helping reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris.
For Dry Feet
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution can also be leveraged to soften dry, cracked feet. Apply the solution to a cotton pad and swipe over clean, damp feet until they are fully coated with the toner.
Follow this up with a gentle moisturizer and socks, and after a few hours, you may be pleasantly surprised at how much softer your feet feel.
For Strawberry Legs
Strawberry legs refer to dark pores or hair follicles on the legs that appear when hair follicle oxidation occurs due to trapped oil, bacteria, and other debris.
Glycolic acid can help reduce the appearance of strawberry legs by exfoliating dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Apply The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution with a cotton pad to clean damp skin and massage in a circular motion until fully absorbed.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Alternatives and Complementary Products
If you find that The Ordinary Glycolic Acid doesn’t suit your needs or concentration preference, several alternatives are available:
Glycolic Acid Toners
The Good Molecules Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner contains 3.5% glycolic acid and 0.9% galactomyces ferment filtrate, which exfoliate your skin’s surface while enhancing skin brightness and uniformity.
This glycolic toner is an excellent choice for beginners due to its low glycolic acid concentration.
Lactic Acid
An alternative to consider is lactic acid, a type of AHA that is particularly beneficial for dry or sensitive skin. It helps lighten dark spots, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and gently exfoliate the skin surface.
Lactic acid is lauded for its moisturizing properties and is suitable for treating dry, sensitive skin or those new to chemical exfoliants.
Mandelic acid, with a larger molecular size than glycolic acid and lactic acid, causes less irritation and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Salicylic Acid
An alternative consideration is salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) ideal for targeting sebum, blackheads, and acne. This oil-soluble acid penetrates deep into your pores and is particularly effective for oily or acne-prone skin types.
The Ordinary offers two 2% salicylic acid serums and a 2% salicylic acid rinse-off face mask, all of which target blemishes and unclog pores.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, and salicylic acid. It is a potent rinse-off peel for experienced users of acid exfoliation.
Azelaic Acid
Another alternative is azelaic acid, an anti-inflammatory agent that helps address redness from acne and rosacea while also improving skin texture and tone.
Azelaic acid tends to be less irritating than glycolic acid, making it a better choice for sensitive skin.
Other Active Ingredients
Incorporating other products that complement glycolic acid in your skincare routine can also be beneficial.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps brighten your skin tone and can help reduce the appearance of acne scars and uneven skin tone.
It provides protection against environmental stressors and free radical damage.
The Ordinary offers four pure vitamin C products at