I tried The Ordinarys $9 Glycolic Acid 7% Toner: Heres how it improved my skin texture

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...