10 Best Glycolic Acids 2026 in the United States

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner is a good choice if you're looking to brighten your skin and improve its texture. It contains 7% glycolic acid, which is a medium-strength concentration suitable for daily use, especially if you want to gently remove dead skin cells and even out your skin tone. The formula is a serum-type toner that includes soothing ingredients like Tasmanian Pepperberry, aloe, and ginseng to help reduce irritation, making it more comfortable for people with normal, combination, or oily skin.

It's best used in the evening and should be applied carefully to avoid sensitive areas like the eyes. Because it is an exfoliating acid, it may cause sensitivity for very dry or sensitive skin types and should be used with sun protection during the day. An extra benefit is that it can also be applied to the scalp to help hydrate dry scalp skin, which is a unique feature not common in toners.

If you are new to acids, starting slowly and following the usage instructions carefully will help you get the best results without irritation.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner is designed to help smooth skin texture, even out skin tone, and boost radiance with regular use. Its key active ingredient is 7% glycolic acid, a popular concentration for gentle yet effective exfoliation suitable for daily use, especially in the evening. The product is formulated as a liquid toner, making it easy to apply after cleansing. It also includes plant-based extracts like Tasmanian Pepperberry, aloe, and ginseng that help reduce irritation and soothe the skin, which is a beneficial feature for those with sensitive skin.

This toner is free from oils, silicones, gluten, and alcohol, which lowers the chance of clogging pores or drying out the skin. Users should be cautious to avoid sensitive areas such as around the eyes and follow usage instructions carefully to prevent irritation. It is suitable for all skin types but may be especially appropriate for those new to acid exfoliants or looking for a mild option. Additionally, it can be applied to the scalp to help with dryness, adding versatility to its use.

While it may not replace stronger chemical treatments for deep wrinkles or severe unevenness, the toner offers effective daily exfoliation that improves skin brightness and smoothness without harsh ingredients.

Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash is designed to gently exfoliate and smooth rough, bumpy skin using a blend of AHAs, including glycolic, lactic, pyruvic, and tartaric acids. This combination helps remove dead skin cells while also hydrating the skin thanks to red algae extract. Its pH is balanced to be skin-friendly, which is important because too high or too low pH can irritate sensitive skin.

The product is a creamy body wash but can also be used on the face, making it versatile for daily cleansing routines. It is free from parabens, gluten, synthetic fragrances, and is cruelty-free and vegan, which appeals to those seeking clean skincare options. With a 16.9-ounce bottle, it offers good value for regular use.

This product is ideal for anyone looking to improve skin texture and hydration with a gentle exfoliating wash, especially those who want a multi-purpose cleanser for both body and face.