Why Shoppers Call This Toner Their ‘Head-to-Toe Staple’

Glycolic acid has long been considered one of the most effective exfoliating acids for smoothing texture, brightening skin and keeping pores clear—and according to a recent survey of more than 600 NewBeauty readers,* The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner is one of the most-loved ways to use it. 

The water‑based formula uses 7 percent glycolic acid to gently dissolve dead skin cells and reveal a more radiant, even surface, while a Tasmanian pepperberry derivative helps soothe and calm the skin, making it far less irritating than many traditional acid toners.

Reviewers continuously call out how surprisingly versatile (and budget-friendly) this toner is. A 41‑year‑old fan said it’s “useful in numerous ways” and that the “price is amazing for the size of the bottle.” A 50‑year‑old with sensitive skin echoed that it hasn’t “aggravated nor caused any skin flare ups,” adding that it helps keep their pores clear while still being affordable. Another reviewer, age 38, loved that it’s “very affordable and better in quality than others that are more pricey.”

BUY ON THE ORDINARY – $13

BUY ON SEPHORA – $13

Many shoppers also rave about how far beyond the face the formula can go. A 35‑year‑old described it as “the Frank’s Hot Sauce of products because I put that ish on EVERYTHING!” They use it for deeper penetration of their skin care, as a smoothing body treatment and for keeping skin soft and even-toned all over. “It’s truly a staple for head-to-toe use.” Targeted concerns get love too: a 36‑year‑old said they use it frequently to help clear her KP.

Between the gentle exfoliation, the impressive multi-use flexibility and the hard-to-beat price, shoppers say The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner is the kind of product you buy once and quickly wonder how you lived without.

*Source: BeautyEngine Advanced Research, 2025