The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Review: Chemical Exfoliant with 93/100 Yuka Score

Glycolic acid is one of the most effective ingredients for chemical exfoliation, and The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution has become a cult favorite in millions of skincare routines worldwide. With an excellent Yuka score of 93/100, this exfoliating toner delivers visible results while maintaining a high safety profile.

In this in-depth review, we'll analyze this iconic product's formula, examine every ingredient according to Yuka, and help you determine if it's right for your skincare routine.

What is Glycolic Acid and How Does it Work

Glycolic acid belongs to the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family and is derived from sugar cane. It's the smallest AHA, which allows it to effectively penetrate the skin to:

• • Exfoliate dead cells: Dissolves the bonds between dead surface cells
• • Stimulate cell renewal: Promotes the production of new cells
• • Improve texture: Makes skin smoother and more radiant
• • Reduce dark spots: Helps even out skin tone

The 7% concentration in this toner is considered ideal for regular use, strong enough to be effective but gentle enough for most skin types.

Yuka Score Analysis: 93/100 (Excellent)

The Yuka app has given this product a score of 93/100, classifying it in the "Excellent" category. This result reflects a well-balanced formula with predominantly safe ingredients.

The formula contains over 40 ingredients, almost all classified as "Risk-free", with only one "Low risk" ingredient:

Complete Ingredient Analysis

Low Risk Ingredient (Yellow)

Triethanolamine - Classified as "Low risk" for its allergenic potential. This ingredient is used to adjust the formula's pH. According to Yuka, it may cause contact allergies in sensitive individuals, but is generally safe at cosmetic concentrations.

Key Risk-free Ingredients (Green)

Water - Formula base, completely safe.

Glycolic Acid - The main active ingredient responsible for exfoliation. Despite being an acid, it's classified as safe when used correctly.

Rosa Damascena Flower Water - A calming, fragrant hydrosol that helps soothe skin during exfoliation.

Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water - Known for its soothing and decongestant properties.

Aloe Vera Leaf Water - Hydrates and calms skin, balancing the exfoliating effect of glycolic acid.

Glycerin - Powerful humectant that keeps skin hydrated.

Panax Ginseng Root Extract - Antioxidant and revitalizing for skin.

Amino Acid Complex

The formula contains a rich complex of amino acids, all classified as Risk-free:

• •Aspartic Acid, Alanine, Glycine, Serine
• •Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine
• •Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glutamic Acid, Arginine

These amino acids help maintain hydration and support the skin's barrier function.

How to Use: Step by Step Guide

1. Use only at night - Glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity
2. Apply to clean, dry skin - After cleansing
3. Use a cotton pad - Soak it and sweep across face and neck
4. Avoid eye area - Too delicate for this product
5. Don't rinse - Let it absorb
6. Apply moisturizer - After a few minutes
7. Use SPF the next day - Essential when using AHAs

Recommended frequency: Start with 2-3 times per week, then gradually increase if skin tolerates it.

Who Should Use This Toner

• • Dull skin: To restore radiance
• • Uneven texture: To smooth skin
• • Dark spots and discoloration: To even out skin tone
• • Enlarged pores: To refine skin texture
• • Early signs of aging: To stimulate cell renewal

Not suitable for: Very sensitive skin, rosacea, active eczema, or if already using other strong exfoliants (high-concentration retinol, other AHA/BHA).

Pros and Cons

Pros

• •Excellent Yuka score (93/100)
• •Affordable price for the quality
• •Formula rich in beneficial ingredients
• •Visible results in weeks
• •Generous size (240ml)
• •Hydrating amino acid complex
• •Contains soothing botanical extracts

Cons

• •May cause irritation if overused
• •Requires sunscreen use
• •Not suitable for very sensitive skin
• •Slight tingling on application (normal)

Related Products to Consider

Build a complete skincare routine with these complementary products:

• • La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair (Yuka 100/100) - Perfect moisturizer to follow exfoliation
• • Eqqualberry Vitamin Illuminating Serum - Brightening serum to enhance exfoliation results
• • Garnier Micellar Water SkinActive - Gentle cleanser to use before this toner
• • Embryolisse Lait-Crème Sensitive (Yuka 100/100) - Soothing moisturizer for post-exfoliation

Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?

With a Yuka score of 93/100, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is one of the safest and most reliable chemical exfoliants on the market. The combination of effective glycolic acid with soothing and hydrating ingredients makes it a well-balanced product.

Our Rating: 9/10

We recommend this toner to anyone who wants to introduce chemical exfoliation into their routine without breaking the bank. The value for money is unbeatable, and the formula with nearly all ingredients classified as safe offers peace of mind to those concerned about cosmetic safety.