How Often Can I Use The The Ordinary Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is one of the most talked-about skincare ingredients—and for good reason. As the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), it penetrates deeply and works effectively to exfoliate, brighten, and even skin tone. One of the most popular products containing this powerhouse ingredient is The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution.
But one question that comes up again and again is:
« How often can I use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid? »
The answer is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on your skin type, concerns, tolerance level, and current skincare routine. In this blog post, we’ll explore the answer in depth—so you can use glycolic acid safely and effectively.
🧪 What Is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is an AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) derived from sugar cane. It’s used primarily for chemical exfoliation, removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin to improve texture and clarity.
Fact: Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular size of all AHAs, which allows it to penetrate the skin more deeply and deliver more noticeable results.
✨ The Benefits of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution contains a blend of glycolic acid, Tasmanian pepperberry extract, ginseng root, and aloe vera. This makes it both powerful and soothing.
✅ Key Benefits:
- Exfoliates dead skin cells
- Brightens dull skin
- Fades hyperpigmentation and acne scars
- Reduces texture and uneven skin tone
- Minimizes fine lines over time
- Improves product absorption
⏳ How Often Can You Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid?
🔹 Beginner (Never used acids before)
Use: Once every 7-10 days at night
Start slow. Let your skin adjust to acid exfoliation. Apply only at night and always follow with a moisturizer.
🔹 Intermediate (Used acids occasionally)
Use: 2–3 times per week, at night
Use after cleansing but before moisturizing. If your skin tolerates it well, you can increase frequency to every other day.
🔹 Advanced (Skin used to acids)
Use: 3–5 times per week at night (max)
Even experienced users should not use it daily. Overuse leads to irritation, sensitivity, or damaged skin barrier.
📊 Recommended Frequency by Skin Experience Level
| Skin Type/Experience | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New to Acids | 1x/week | Monitor for redness |
| Acid-Experienced | 2–3x/week | Alternate nights |
| Tolerant Skin | Up to 5x/week | Avoid daily use |
| Sensitive Skin | 1x/10 days | Patch test first |
| Acne-Prone Skin | 2x/week | Avoid over-exfoliating |
🧴 Usage by Skin Type
💧 Dry Skin
- Start with once a week.
- Follow with a rich moisturizer.
- Avoid during dry winter months if skin feels tight.
🛢️ Oily Skin
- Use 2–3 times per week.
- Helps with clogged pores and blackheads.
😮💨 Sensitive Skin
- Use once every 10–14 days.
- Always patch test on jawline before full use.
⚡ Combination Skin
- Start with 2x/week and adjust.
- Apply on oily zones, avoid dry patches.
🚨 Signs You’re Overusing Glycolic Acid
Watch out for these warning signs that you may be using glycolic acid too often:
- Redness
- Burning or stinging
- Flaking or peeling
- Tightness
- Increased sensitivity to other products
Tip: If you see any of the above, reduce frequency or pause usage completely for 1–2 weeks and use a gentle barrier repair cream.
🔁 How to Introduce It into Your Routine
Here’s a sample night routine using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid safely:
1. Cleanser (gentle, non-exfoliating)
2. **The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%** (use cotton pad or hands)
3. Hydrating serum (e.g., hyaluronic acid)
4. Moisturizer
5. Optional: Facial oil
❗ Do not use on the same night as other exfoliants, retinoids, or vitamin C serums.
❌ What Not to Mix with Glycolic Acid
Some ingredients can cause irritation or conflict with glycolic acid. Avoid combining in the same routine:
| Avoid Mixing With | Reason |
|---|---|
| Retinol | Increases irritation |
| Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) | Low pH clash, may inactivate both |
| Salicylic Acid | Too much exfoliation |
| Benzoyl Peroxide | Can cause dryness and irritation |
| Other AHAs/BHAs | Over-exfoliation risk |
📚 Real User Case Studies
👩🦱 Case 1: Sarah (Dry Skin, New to Acids)
“I used it once a week for a month. My skin got smoother and brighter. I noticed a mild tingling at first, but it stopped after 3 weeks. I now use it twice weekly.”
👨 Case 2: Ahmed (Oily, Acne-Prone Skin)
“This helped with my blackheads. I used it 3 times per week. I had to reduce to 2x because my skin was getting a bit flaky.”
👩🦰 Case 3: Lina (Sensitive Skin)
“I tried it every 10 days. My skin is sensitive, but I didn’t react when I used it this way. It made my complexion more even.”
🧠 Expert Quotes & Data
🧬 Dr. Whitney Bowe (Dermatologist):
“Glycolic acid is one of the best tools we have for improving skin radiance and tone. But less is more. Over-exfoliation is a major mistake I see.”
📈 Chart: Glycolic Acid vs. Other Exfoliants (Penetration Depth)
AHAs | Molecular Size | Penetration
-------- |----------------|-------------
Glycolic | Smallest | Deep
Lactic | Medium | Moderate
Mandelic| Largest | Surface only
❓ FAQs
1. Can I use it every day?
No. Even advanced users should limit it to 3–5 times per week.
2. Can I use it in the morning?
Avoid using glycolic acid during the day. It increases sun sensitivity. Always apply sunscreen if you use it at night.
3. Can I use it with niacinamide?
Yes, but not in the same step. Use glycolic acid at night, niacinamide the following morning.
4. Why is my skin tingling after use?
A mild tingling sensation is normal during the first few uses. If it burns or itches, stop and hydrate your skin.
5. Is it safe for acne-prone skin?
Yes, but limit to 2x/week and monitor for signs of irritation.
🧾 Conclusion
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a powerful exfoliant—but like all powerful tools, it must be used wisely.
📌 Key Takeaways:
- Start slow and increase frequency based on your skin’s tolerance.
- Avoid mixing with other strong actives.
- Hydration and sun protection are non-negotiable.
- Listen to your skin. If irritation occurs, reduce usage.
With proper use, glycolic acid can transform your skin—giving you a brighter, clearer, and more radiant complexion.
📍 Where to Buy
Looking for 100% authentic The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% in Morocco?
👉 Buy now from Ordinary-Maroc.com — Official Seller 🇲🇦
