I am constantly on the lookout for effective yet affordable products to incorporate into my skincare routine and review them for my audience, don’t forget to read the reviews here. The Ordinary, a brand known for its no-frills approach to skincare, caught my attention for its popularity, a wide range of affordable and science-backed products. One of their standout offerings is Glycolic Acid, a potent exfoliant that promises to deliver radiant and smoother skin. In this blog post, I’ll share my personal review of the Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid Toner after using it for several weeks.
Understanding Glycolic Acid
Before diving into my experience with The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid, it’s essential to understand what glycolic acid is and what it can do for your skin. Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It is renowned for its exfoliating properties and is commonly used to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. Glycolic acid works by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier to slough off the top layer of dull, damaged skin. This process can result in a smoother, more radiant complexion.
My Skin Type and Concerns
To provide context for my review, I believe it’s essential to share some details about my skin type and concerns. I have combination skin, which means I deal with both dry and oily areas. My primary concerns include occasional breakouts, dullness, and uneven skin tone, particularly around my T-zone area.
My Experience with The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid
- Packaging: The Ordinary is known for its minimalist packaging, and the Glycolic Acid solution is no exception. It comes in a clear glass bottle with a dropper, which makes it easy to dispense the product without wasting any.
- Texture: The Glycolic Acid solution has a watery consistency and is slightly thicker than water. It doesn’t feel sticky or heavy when applied to the skin, which is a plus.
- Application: I incorporated The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid into my evening skincare routine. After cleansing my face, I applied a few drops of the product to a cotton pad and gently swiped it across my face, avoiding the eye area. I followed it up with my regular moisturizer.
- Sensation: Upon application, I experienced a mild tingling sensation, which is common with glycolic acid. It was not uncomfortable or painful, and it subsided after a minute or so. If you have sensitive skin, it’s essential to do a patch test and gradually introduce the product to your routine to avoid irritation.
- Results: After using The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid for several weeks, I began to notice some positive changes in my skin. My skin felt smoother and looked brighter. I also noticed that my breakouts were less frequent, and my skin tone appeared more even.
- Sun Protection: It’s crucial to mention that when using glycolic acid, it’s even more important to use sunscreen during the day. Glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so adequate sun protection is a must.
- Consistency: Consistency is key when it comes to skincare, and I found that using The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid a few times a week worked well for me. It’s important not to overuse it, as excessive exfoliation can lead to irritation.
Results
After several weeks of consistent use, I started to notice some positive changes in my skin. Also, I got to know that this toner can be used in so many different ways, apart from using it for face, watch this reel here to be shocked!
- Smoother Texture: One of the most noticeable improvements was the texture of my skin. It felt smoother and more refined.
- Brighter Complexion: My skin looked brighter and more radiant, with a noticeable reduction in dullness.
- Reduced Hyperpigmentation: I had some post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from past breakouts, and I saw a gradual fading of these marks over time.
- Reduced Clogged Pores: The Glycolic Acid helped to unclog pores and minimize the appearance of blackheads.
- Improved Absorption: I found that my skincare products, especially serums and moisturizers, absorbed better into my skin after using Glycolic Acid.
The Ordinary’s Approach
One of the things that I appreciate about The Ordinary is its commitment to simplicity and transparency. Their Glycolic Acid product contains a straightforward ingredient list, primarily consisting glycolic acid itself, along with a few supporting ingredients to balance its potency and minimize irritation. The formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and free from many common skincare irritants, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types.
How to use:
Try to incorporate The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid into your skincare routine gradually, as AHAs can be potent and potentially irritating if not used correctly. Here’s how you can integrate it into your skincare regimen:
- Patch Test: Begin by doing a patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure you don’t experience any adverse reactions.
- Frequency: You should start using the product just once a week, gradually increasing the frequency as your skin becomes accustomed to it. (Ideally, you should not use it more than twice a week)
- Evening Use: You should apply the Glycolic Acid in the evening after cleansing and before moisturizing. Sunscreen during the day should be a must, as AHAs can increase sensitivity to the sun.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid is an affordable and effective addition to your skincare routine, especially if you’re looking to address issues like uneven skin tone, texture, and dullness. It has helped me achieve a smoother, brighter complexion while addressing issues like hyperpigmentation and clogged pores. However, it’s essential to use it with caution, especially if you have sensitive skin. Start slow, patch test, and be diligent about sunscreen usage during the day.
As with any skincare product, individual results may vary, so it’s a good idea to do a patch test before applying it to your face. Overall, I’m pleased with the results I’ve seen while using The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid, and I plan to continue incorporating it into my skincare routine.
Remember that skincare is highly individual, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the best products and routines for your unique skin concerns. Nevertheless, for those looking to incorporate an effective AHA into their skincare regimen without breaking the bank, The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid is worth considering.
Oh wow ! Very informative, Maria!
hello there and thank you for your information – I’ve definitely picked up something new from right here. I love to use it for my face!!