By
Jean Santiago
Apr 14, 2025
My Guide to Glycolic Acid Toners (and Why They’re Worth Trying)
Glycolic acid toners are having their moment right now, but they’ve actually been around for quite some time now. In fact, my first experience with glycolic acid as an ingredient was over 10 years ago, back when I was still in college.
Back then, I didn’t even know what an acid toner was. It was The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid Toning Solution that introduced me to the whole concept. I got curious and gave it a shot. Now, I always keep one in rotation, depending on my current skincare needs.
If it’s your first time hearing about glycolic acid and are wondering if it’s right for your routine, well, you’re in luck. Let’s talk about the best glycolic acid toners here.
What Is A Glycolic Acid Toner?
To put it simpy, it's a chemical exfoliant in toner form.
Glycolic acid is part of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family. It works by loosening up dead skin cells from the surface of your skin so they can slough off more easily. That makes your skin smoother, brighter, and clearer over time. It also helps your other skincare products absorb better because there’s less dead skin blocking the way.
Glycolic acid is water-soluble and has the smallest molecule size of all AHAs, so it penetrates quickly and works deeply. That’s why it's such a popular choice if you’re targeting texture issues, dullness, or clogged pores.
Glycolic Acid Toners Worth Trying
Now that you know what to look for, here’s where it gets fun. I’ve rounded up some of the best glycolic acid toners, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned exfoliation pro.
(Note: We may get a commission if you buy from these links, but rest assured that it doesn’t affect our opinion in any way.)
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
No glycolic acid toner review is complete without this one. The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner was the very first toner I ever used, and honestly, it holds up. It’s strong, affordable, and a great intro to chemical exfoliants.
What makes it special is the 7% concentration. It’s effective without being too intense. Plus, it’s got aloe and ginseng to balance things out. If you’re a beginner, it’s hard to go wrong with this.
Price: $13.00 for 240 mL
Get it on Sephora | Get it on The Ordinary | Get it on Look Fantastic
Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner
I’ve always loved Mario Badescu for their iconic Drying Lotion. It’s my go-to for shrinking pimples overnight, along with pimple patches. And what do you know, their glycolic acid toner is a great pick if you're after something gentle but effective.
There’s also a unique addition of grapefruit extract and aloe. Together, they brighten and soothe, making it a solid option for dull skin or anyone dealing with dark spots. Plus, it’s alcohol-free, vegan, and easy to work into any routine.
Price: $18.00 for 236 mL
Proactiv Revitalizing Toner with Glycolic Acid
Proactiv’s Revitalizing Toner might surprise you. It’s not just for teens dealing with breakouts. This alcohol-free formula combines glycolic acid with soothing ingredients to gently exfoliate, sweep away excess oil, and soften skin without drying it out.
If you’ve used Proactiv before, this toner will feel familiar. It's part of their classic 3-step system and works especially well if you have acne-prone or oily skin. Bonus: it’s dermatologist-developed and safe for all skin types.
Price: $25.00 for 4 fl oz
TruSkin BHA Liquid Exfoliant & Toner
TruSkin’s BHA Liquid Exfoliant & Toner packs a gentle punch with a blend of glycolic acid (AHA), salicylic acid (BHA), and gluconolactone (PHA). If your skin's prone to dullness, blackheads, or texture issues, this could be a solid choice without the sting stronger acids sometimes bring.
It also includes vitamin C, turmeric, and reishi mushroom to help brighten and calm. The formula is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and made in the USA – great for sensitive or oily skin types looking for an everyday glow-up.
Price: $17.99 for 4.2 fl oz
The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner
The Inkey List’s Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner uses 10% glycolic acid – one of the strongest concentrations you’ll find at this price point. It exfoliates deeply, so it’s a good fit if you’re dealing with stubborn texture or clogged pores.
It also has 5% witch hazel to balance oil. That can be helpful, but it might feel drying for some skin types, so pair it with a good moisturizer.
Price: $14.00 for 3.4 fl oz
Derma E Essentials Radiance Toner
Derma E’s Essentials Radiance Toner is a gentle exfoliating option that focuses on glow without irritation. While they don’t disclose the exact glycolic acid percentage, the brand says it’s formulated for results without causing sensitivity – ideal for beginners or anyone with dry or reactive skin.
It also includes soothing ingredients like aloe, cucumber, and chamomile to keep skin calm post-exfoliation.
Price: $17.00 for 6 fl oz
MAREE Glycolic Acid Toner Pads
Marée (pronounced Mah-Ri) Glycolic Acid Pads are all about glow, texture, and hydration – without the harshness. With glycolic, salicylic, and hyaluronic acids, each pad gently exfoliates and refreshes, while niacinamide and vitamin C help brighten and even tone.
Bonus: they’re clean, cruelty-free, and infused with lotus and pearl extracts for added radiance. A solid pick for daily skincare.
Price: $19.99 for 60 pads
Saturday Skin Pore Clarifying Toner
Saturday Skin’s Pore Clarifying Toner balances high performance with a surprisingly gentle feel. It uses 10% glycolic acid to exfoliate, reduce pore size, and smooth out rough texture. You also get tea tree oil, witch hazel, and red clover to help manage oil and keep breakouts in check.
It’s a great option if you want visible results with minimal irritation.
Price: $30.00 for 4.22 fl oz
Neostrata Clarify Oily Skin Solution
Neostrata’s Clarify Oily Skin Solution is a go-to for oily, acne-prone skin. With 8% glycolic acid, it exfoliates dead skin and clears out excess oil without added fragrance or oils. The formula feels clean and lightweight, making it easy to use daily.
It can sting a little if you’re new to acids, so ease in slowly if you’re sensitive.
Price: $36.00 for 3.4 fl oz
Typology Exfoliating Toner with 8% Glycolic Acid
Typology’s Exfoliating Toner with 8% Glycolic Acid is one of those rare formulas that actually lives up to the hype. It smooths, brightens, and gently exfoliates without overwhelming the skin. With 90% naturally derived ingredients and a clean, minimalist formula, it’s ideal for refining texture and reducing blackheads.
Sadly, this toner is being discontinued this year, so if you can still get it, don’t wait!
Price: $33.50 for 6.76 fl oz
Elvira Korean 10% Glycolic Acid Toner Pads
Elvira’s Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Facial Pads pack a powerful combo – 10% glycolic acid, 2% salicylic acid, and niacinamide – into 60 easy-to-use toner pads. They're made to tackle both acne and early signs of aging.
What makes them stand out is how they resurface the skin while still being gentle enough for sensitive types. You’ll notice smoother texture fast.
Price: $16.99 for 60 pads
Nu Skin Here You Glow Face Exfoliator Toner
Nu Skin’s Here You Glow toner is loaded with a 10% acid blend – AHA, BHA, and PHA – making it a solid choice for anyone who wants smoother skin and clearer pores. It targets breakouts, helps prevent congestion, and lightly exfoliates without making your skin feel stripped.
It’s also packed with glycerin, aloe, and adaptogenic botanicals, which help hydrate and calm skin daily.
Price: $28.99 for 5 fl oz
Soap & Glory in The Glow How Vitamin C 5% Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Tonic
Soap & Glory’s In the Glow How tonic combines 5% glycolic acid with vitamin C and chamomile to exfoliate gently and hydrate all at once. It’s great for dull or uneven skin and works well even if you’re just starting out with acids.
The price is hard to beat – and so is the glow it leaves behind.
Price: $10.99 for 6.76 fl oz
No7 Derm Solutions AHA Exfoliant & Face Toner
No7’s Derm Solutions AHA Exfoliant & Face Toner combines glycolic and lactic acid for targeted oil control and gentle exfoliation. It’s made for oily, blemish-prone skin and helps reduce the look of old acne marks while preventing future breakouts.
It’s not a leave-on like most toners – you rinse it off after 15 minutes. Use it just 1–2 times a week.
Price: $21.24 for 1 fl oz
What Are The Benefits of Glycolic Acid Toners?
Let’s break it down:
- Smooths skin texture. Glycolic acid works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells so they can shed more easily. That gentle chemical exfoliation helps soften rough patches and reduce uneven texture over time.
- Fades dark spots. It’s often used to lighten post-acne marks, melasma, and sun spots. Because glycolic acid increases cell turnover, it helps push discolored cells to the surface so fresh, even-toned skin can take its place.
- Preps skin for serums. When you remove dead skin buildup, your serums and moisturizers don’t have to fight their way through a barrier. That means your vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and everything else you’re using can actually penetrate and work.
- Gives you glow. Dull skin is often caused by buildup and sluggish turnover. Once those dead cells are gone, you’ll notice your skin looking fresher, brighter, and a little more alive.
- Can help reduce breakouts. Glycolic acid isn’t technically an acne treatment, but it does help by keeping your pores clear. Less buildup means fewer whiteheads, blackheads, and angry under-the-skin breakouts. Glycolic acid can even work with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, two popular anti-acne ingredients.
- Softens fine lines (over time). With consistent use, it can gently reduce the look of early signs of aging, especially the tiny lines around your mouth, forehead, and eyes.
Are There Downsides to Using a Glycolic Acid Toner?
This is where things get personal. While glycolic acid can do wonders, it’s not perfect. So, here are a few things to keep in mind.
- It can irritate sensitive skin. Glycolic acid is strong, and if your skin barrier is compromised, it can cause redness or stinging. Start with a low percentage (around 5%) and apply only 2–3 times a week to build tolerance.
- You’ll need to wear sunscreen. Glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity, so skipping SPF can lead to sunburn or dark spots. Use it only at night and follow up with SPF 30 or higher every morning.
- Overuse can backfire. Using glycolic acid too often can strip your skin, leading to flaking, dryness, or breakouts. Space out your usage and don’t layer it with other strong actives on the same night.
- It may not play well with certain actives. Mixing glycolic acid with retinol, vitamin C, or salicylic acid without guidance can trigger irritation. Alternate usage by using glycolic one night and other actives on different nights.
- Purging is possible. Some people experience temporary breakouts when first using glycolic acid. Ease in slowly and stick with it for a few weeks before deciding if it’s right for your skin.
How Do You Choose the Best Glycolic Acid Toner?
There are so many options out there, and they all claim to be "the one." Here’s what actually matters when picking your toner:
- Percentage of glycolic acid. Most range from 5% to 10%. Beginners should start low to make sure your skin can take it.
- Other ingredients. Look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin, aloe, or hyaluronic acid. Sensitive skin? Look for calming ingredients like chamomile or panthenol.
- Fragrance-free if you’re reactive. Glycolic acid is active enough. You don’t need added irritants.
- Packaging. Acid toners should come in opaque bottles to protect the formula.
- Your skin goals. Want glow? Texture correction? Help with dark spots? Read the label and choose accordingly.
Is a Glycolic Acid Toner Worth It?
If you want clearer, glowier, more even-toned skin without the harshness of scrubs, a glycolic acid toner might be exactly what your routine needs. Just go slow, listen to your skin, and moisturize like crazy. You may even want to use a barrier cream if you’re not sure your skin can handle it.
Already using one? Let us know what’s working for you or stay tuned for our product picks if you need help choosing your first!
Products mentioned in this guide:
No items found.