# The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/sensitive-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best toners for sensitive skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent exfoliation for your normal skin, as glycolic acid smooths texture while glycerin provides humectant action, and the inclusion of Rosa Damascena Flower Water and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water soothes potential irritation.
- The moderate concentration of glycolic acid effectively addresses redness and irritation by providing mild chemical exfoliation.
- The product is safe for your sensitive skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing botanical waters.

## Fit by skin type

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

## 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

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))
- 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

- Use your exfoliating toner as part of a PM routine once a week to start. Carefully increase frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this exfoliating toner after cleansing and before your moisturizer. It fits right into your usual step for toners.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin. Avoid rubbing to keep redness down.
- Apply the exfoliating toner on completely dry skin to help improve your skin's tolerance. This helps protect your sensitive face.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area . Skip strong acids or retinoids on the same night.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution one of the best fits for sensitive skin?

This toner is one of the best fits for sensitive skin because it smooths texture while soothing botanical waters and aloe vera help calm potential irritation. It is safe for this skin type due to the absence of harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a good fit for sensitive skin?

Rosa Damascena flower water and aloe barbadensis leaf water make this toner a great fit because they help soothe potential irritation on sensitive skin. The inclusion of these calming botanical waters, along with the absence of harsh ingredients, supports a gentle experience.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Glycolic acid can be too harsh for sensitive skin, leaving it dry and irritated, so this type of skin needs a gentler exfoliating ingredient and calming plant extracts to keep the skin barrier safe and comfortable.
Sources: [Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35920724/)

### What does Aloe Vera Leaf Water do for sensitive skin?

Aloe Vera Leaf Water helps calm sensitive skin and keeps it feeling comfortable by reducing redness and soothing irritation. This ingredient is unlikely to cause irritation and supports overall skin comfort.
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 sensitive skin?

This toner goes in your routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer or treatments. Lovi routines start exfoliating toners once a week, and you may carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results.

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

You can use this toner with retinol, but it is best to use them on different nights or separate them into your morning and evening routines to avoid overloading your skin. Since both ingredients actively smooth and renew texture, alternating them helps prevent dryness and keeps your skin calm and comfortable.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start by using this exfoliating toner once a week, and if your skin feels comfortable and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps your skin adjust safely while avoiding potential irritation from the acid.
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 sensitive skin?

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin because it is free of heavy ingredients and includes soothing botanical waters. However, it may cause mild purging or stinging as the glycolic acid clears out dead skin cells.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £20.00 at Amazon
- [Missha Skin Peeling Pad](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/skin-peeling-pad/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — £24.45 at Amazon
- [BE THE SKIN BHA+ Pore Zero Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/be-the-skin/bha-pore-zero-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Average fit — £13.76 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/broad-spectrum-spf-50-mineral-sunscreen-fluid-for-face/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £21.00 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £9.52 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B071914GGL?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: £11.50 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/the-ordinary-glycolic-acid-7-exfoliating-toner-240ml/11429303/)
- Notino: £12.40 (https://www.notino.co.uk/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution-exfoliating-toner/p-16168463/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 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/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/sensitive-skin
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