# The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best toners for oily acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent exfoliation for your oily skin, as glycolic acid effectively smooths texture and reduces excess sebum, addressing your concerns with acne and breakouts.
- The inclusion of glycerin and various botanical extracts provides a hydrating and soothing effect, complementing the exfoliating action for your skin.
- The formula is safe for your skin, with no reported irritation risks due to the absence of harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract Fruit

## What the research says

- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- A combination of dermapen and glycolic acid peel significantly decreased acne scar grades and resulted in higher patient satisfaction compared to either monotherapy in 30 patients. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Enzyme-modified ginseng extract cream significantly reduced the global photo-damage score and various roughness measures including total roughness, smoothness depth, and arithmetic roughness average compared to placebo in 23 human subjects. ([Rejuvenation Research, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25867599/))
- A red ginseng hydrogel formulation with 1,2-hexanediol promoted selective growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis and decreased Cutibacterium acnes in 20 female subjects. ([Journal of Ginseng Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35509819/))
- A 1% fermented black ginseng cream significantly reduced eye wrinkles and brightened skin color in twenty-three human subjects compared to control cream and baseline. ([Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part A, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32564709/))
- Treatment with a rose extract activated newly identified skin olfactory receptors and prevented epinephrine-induced skin stress responses in epidermal keratinocytes and human skin explants, while clinically decreasing the appearance of under-eye dark circles in stressed women. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33081083/))
- Rose petal extract improves stratum corneum moisture levels in humans by upregulating HAS2 expression via the GLK-MAP2K-MAPK signaling pathway. ([BioFactors, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36573713/))
- Rosa gallica petal extract (RPE) exerts skin whitening by attenuating tyrosinase activity and melanin accumulation and exhibits anti-wrinkle activity by suppressing MMP-1 levels in human cells. ([Journal of Medicinal Food, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32609563/))
- Topical Tasmannia lanceolata extract reduced skin roughness, increased firmness, dermal density, and thickness of stabilized stretch marks compared to placebo in 29 women over 8 weeks, alongside increased pro-collagen I, elastin, and TGF-beta concentrations in ex vivo human skin explants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33048421/))

## What reviewers say

This product is widely praised as a "holy grail" multi-purpose exfoliant that delivers smoother, brighter skin and effectively treats texture issues like keratosis pilaris and dandruff. While the vast majority of users love its affordability and versatility for both face and body, it is potent; a significant minority experience stinging, irritation, or a damaged skin barrier if used too frequently or on sensitive skin. This summary is based on a very large amount of data and should definitely be taken into account.

- Liked: Improves texture & glow (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Unbeatable value (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Versatile body application (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades acne & marks (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Irritation and stinging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too harsh/damaging (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start using your exfoliating toner once a week and slowly increase frequency if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your exfoliating toner after cleansing and before your moisturizer or other treatments.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin with your hands. Avoid any harsh rubbing .
- Apply the exfoliating toner on clean and completely dry skin to ensure the best results .
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and always use daily SPF while using exfoliating active products.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This toner is a great fit because glycolic acid effectively smooths texture and reduces excess oil, which helps address breakouts. The formula also includes glycerin and soothing botanical extracts that keep skin calm and hydrated while it exfoliates.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Glycolic acid makes this toner a great fit by smoothing texture and reducing excess oil to help with breakouts. Glycerin and botanical extracts also help by keeping your skin calm and hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Glycolic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and soothing breakouts. It exfoliates the surface to keep pores clear and leaves the skin feeling smooth.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24447110/)

### What does Aloe Vera Leaf Water do for oily acne-prone skin?

Aloe Vera Leaf Water helps calm and soothe oily, acne-prone skin while reducing redness and blemishes. It works to improve skin clarity without clogging pores, making it a gentle option for breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/), [Current Pharmaceutical Design, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31269881/)

### Where does this toner go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This exfoliating toner fits into an evening routine right after cleansing as a treatment step. Lovi routines start exfoliating acids once a week, and people who tolerate them well can carefully use them more often.

### Can I use this toner with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this toner with retinol, but it is best to apply them on alternate nights to avoid irritation. Using both strong actives at the same time may dry out or upset your skin.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start using this toner once a week in the evening, and if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results, you can carefully use it more often. It helps smooth texture, reduces excess oil, and clears breakouts with glycolic acid while soothing extracts keep skin calm.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356917/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/)

### Can this toner clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This toner is a great fit for oily acne-prone skin because glycolic acid effectively smooths texture and cuts down excess oil to help prevent breakouts. Glycerin and botanical extracts in the formula keep skin calm and hydrated, and the product is safe with a low likelihood of causing breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is this toner fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — A$62.73 at Amazon
- [BE THE SKIN BHA+ Pore Zero Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/be-the-skin/bha-pore-zero-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — A$59.93 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/anthelios-clear-skin-dry-touch-sunscreen-spf-60/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$14.20 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0DMTDN158?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycolic Acid, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Triethanolamine, Aminomethyl Propanol, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract Fruit, Aspartic Acid, Alanine, Glycine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glutamic Acid, Arginine, Pca, Sodium Pca, Sodium Lactate, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Urea, Hexyl Nicotinate, Dextrin, Citric Acid, Polysorbate 20, Gellan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Chloride, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin