The Ordinary Glycolic Acid: Everything You Need to Know

Glycolic acid has become one of the most popular ingredients in skincare, and for good reason. Known for its ability to exfoliate, brighten, and improve skin texture, it’s a staple in many routines. One product that has taken the beauty world by storm is The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner. This affordable yet highly effective product from The Ordinary’s lineup is praised for delivering results comparable to luxury brands.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what glycolic acid is, the benefits of using glycolic acid, how to incorporate The Ordinary Glycolic Acid into your routine, and answer some of the most common questions about its use. Whether you’re new to acids in skincare or a seasoned user, this post will break down everything you need to know about glycolic acid, including its benefits, how it compares to other acids like salicylic acid, and even its unconventional uses for areas like the armpits.

What Is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. It is one of the smallest AHAs, meaning it can penetrate the skin more effectively than others like lactic acid. This allows it to work deep within the skin’s layers, helping to exfoliate, remove dead skin cells, and reveal smoother, brighter skin.

The chemical structure of glycolic acid allows it to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, encouraging their removal from the surface of the skin. This process not only improves the texture of the skin but also helps other skincare products to penetrate better and work more effectively.

What Does Glycolic Acid Do?

Glycolic acid works as a chemical exfoliant, meaning it removes dead skin cells without the need for physical scrubbing. Here are the primary actions glycolic acid performs on the skin:

1. Exfoliates the skin: Glycolic acid helps to slough off dead skin cells, promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
2. Improves texture and tone: With regular use, glycolic acid can smooth out uneven texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and brighten the skin’s complexion.
3. Unclogs pores: By removing dead skin cells, glycolic acid helps to keep pores clear, reducing the likelihood of breakouts.
4. Boosts collagen production: Glycolic acid stimulates collagen, which improves skin elasticity and reduces signs of aging.

Benefits of Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid benefits go beyond just exfoliation. Here are some of the key advantages of incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine:

• Brightens dull skin: By removing dead skin cells, glycolic acid reveals fresh, radiant skin underneath.
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles: Its exfoliating properties help soften the appearance of fine lines, making the skin look smoother and more youthful.
• Fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation: Regular use of glycolic acid can lighten discoloration and improve the appearance of sun spots, acne scars, and melasma.
• Improves skin texture: Glycolic acid smooths out rough or bumpy skin, giving it a more even feel and look.
• Prevents acne: By keeping pores clear, glycolic acid can help reduce the frequency of breakouts.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner: A Game-Changer

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is one of the brand’s most popular products. This toner contains a 7% concentration of glycolic acid, which is potent enough to provide noticeable exfoliation without being too harsh for most skin types. The formula also includes Tasmanian Pepperberry and aloe vera to help soothe the skin and reduce irritation.

Why Choose The Ordinary Glycolic Acid?

1. Affordable price: One of the main reasons for The Ordinary’s popularity is its affordability. Despite containing high-quality active ingredients, the products are available at a fraction of the cost of high-end brands.
2. Effective formulation: The 7% glycolic acid concentration is strong enough to make a difference in skin tone and texture but gentle enough for regular use.
3. Multi-use benefits: Beyond facial exfoliation, many users report benefits from using glycolic acid for armpits and other body areas prone to dark spots or rough texture.

How to Use Glycolic Acid

Knowing how to use glycolic acid correctly is essential for avoiding irritation and getting the best results. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Start slowly: If you’re new to acids, start by using the product 2-3 times per week. Over time, you can gradually increase the frequency to nightly use if your skin tolerates it well.
2. Apply at night: Glycolic acid can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s best to apply it at night.
3. Follow with moisturizer: After applying glycolic acid, wait for it to absorb fully, and then apply a hydrating moisturizer to protect the skin’s barrier.
4. Always use sunscreen: Since glycolic acid makes the skin more vulnerable to UV damage, wearing sunscreen during the day is crucial.

What Is Glycolic Acid Used For?

Glycolic acid can be used for a variety of skincare concerns, including:

• Anti-aging: Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture.
• Acne prevention: Helps keep pores clear and reduces breakouts.
• Brightening: Improves the appearance of dull, lackluster skin.
• Hyperpigmentation: Fades dark spots, acne scars, and melasma.

Glycolic Acid for Armpits: An Unexpected Solution

One of the most unexpected but popular uses of glycolic acid is for treating dark underarms. Many users have found that applying glycolic acid for armpits helps lighten hyperpigmentation in this area and keeps the skin smooth. The acid works by exfoliating the skin, removing dead cells that may have contributed to the darkening of the skin over time.

Glycolic Acid vs Salicylic Acid: Which Is Better?

While glycolic acid is an AHA, salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). Both acids are effective but work differently:

• Glycolic acid: Works on the surface of the skin to remove dead skin cells and improve texture.
• Salicylic acid: Penetrates the pores to clear out excess oil and prevent acne.

If you have oily, acne-prone skin, salicylic acid may be more beneficial. However, for those focused on anti-aging or brightening, glycolic acid is often the better choice.

Glycolic Acid and Retinol: Can You Use Them Together?

Both glycolic acid and retinol are powerful skincare ingredients, but using them together can be tricky. Both exfoliate the skin and can cause irritation when used at the same time. If you want to incorporate both into your routine, it’s best to alternate between them on different nights or consult a dermatologist to see what works best for your skin.

Glycolic Acid Body Wash and Creams

Aside from toners and serums, you can also find glycolic acid body washes and glycolic acid creams. These products are excellent for treating areas of the body prone to rough skin, such as the elbows, knees, and back. They work by exfoliating dead skin cells, smoothing the texture, and improving the overall appearance of the skin.

FAQs About The Ordinary Glycolic Acid

1. What does glycolic acid do for your skin? Glycolic acid exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells, brightening the complexion, and improving texture.
2. Can I use glycolic acid every day? While some people can tolerate daily use, it’s best to start with 2-3 times per week and increase gradually based on your skin’s tolerance.
3. Is glycolic acid safe for sensitive skin? Glycolic acid may cause irritation for sensitive skin, so it’s important to start slowly and patch test before incorporating it into your routine.
4. What are the benefits of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner? The toner exfoliates, brightens, and smooths the skin, offering the benefits of glycolic acid in a gentle and affordable formulation.
5. How long does it take to see results with glycolic acid? You may notice improvements in skin texture and brightness within a few weeks of consistent use, but it can take several months to see more significant changes.
6. Can glycolic acid help with acne? Yes, glycolic acid can help by keeping pores clear and preventing breakouts, although salicylic acid is more targeted for acne-prone skin.
7. Is glycolic acid better than physical exfoliation? Yes, chemical exfoliation with glycolic acid is generally more effective and less abrasive than physical exfoliation.
8. Can I use glycolic acid for body care? Absolutely! Glycolic acid is effective for improving skin texture and brightness on areas like the arms, legs, and underarms.
9. What’s the difference between glycolic acid and salicylic acid? Glycolic acid works on the skin’s surface, while salicylic acid penetrates deeper into pores. Glycolic acid is better for anti-aging, while salicylic acid is better for acne.
10. Can I use glycolic acid and retinol together? It’s best to alternate between glycolic acid and retinol on different nights, as using them together can cause irritation.

Conclusion

Glycolic acid, especially in the form of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner, is a versatile and powerful skincare ingredient that offers numerous benefits, from improving texture to brightening skin and preventing acne. With the right application and precautions, it can transform your skincare routine and help you achieve smoother, more radiant skin.