The Ordinary
Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
A water-based toning solution with 7% glycolic acid that exfoliates dead skin cells, improves skin texture, and supports radiance. Formulated with botanical extracts and amino acids to complement the exfoliating action.
Ingredient Snapshot
40 beneficial ingredients detected with no known safety concerns.
2 ingredients to watch — Glycolic Acid (AHA), TEA (pH Adjuster) may cause sensitivity in some skin types.
Ingredients (42)
Aqua (Water)(Water)
Benefits
- ✓Primary solvent that dissolves and delivers active ingredients
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Water as Used in Cosmetics: Water (Aqua) is reviewed by the CIR Expert Panel and is widely accepted as safe for use in cosmetic products. It functions as a solvent and vehicle for delivering other ingredients to the skin.
Glycolic Acid(Glycolic Acid (AHA))
Benefits
- ✓Exfoliates the outermost layer of dead skin cells to improve texture and tone
- ✓Stimulates collagen synthesis with repeated use
- ✓Improves the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation
Potential concerns
- !Increases photosensitivity — daily SPF use is strongly recommended
- !May cause stinging, redness, or irritation, especially on sensitive skin
- !At high concentrations (>10%) can cause chemical burns if misused
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Alpha Hydroxy Acids as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel reviewed glycolic acid as part of its alpha hydroxy acid assessment. It is safe as used in cosmetics as an exfoliant and pH adjuster. At active exfoliant concentrations the Panel recommended sun protection advisories due to increased photosensitivity. Stinging or irritation may occur, especially in sensitive skin.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Glycolic Acid: CTPA lists glycolic acid as a permitted alpha hydroxy acid in cosmetics. At active concentrations, EU Cosmetics Regulation requires advisory labelling on increased sun sensitivity. At low concentrations it functions as a pH adjuster and is considered safe.
Rosa Damascena Flower Water(Rose Water)
Benefits
- ✓Provides mild astringent and soothing properties
- ✓Contributes fragrant botanical character
Potential concerns
- !Rare contact allergy to rose-derived compounds in sensitive individuals
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Rosa Damascena Flower Water: CTPA recognises Rosa Damascena Flower Water (rose water) as a cosmetic ingredient derived from steam distillation of rose petals. It is used as a skin-conditioning agent and fragrance component with a long history of safe cosmetic use.
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water(Cornflower Water)
Benefits
- ✓Traditional use as a mild toning and soothing botanical extract
Sources
CIR/FDA Ingredient Assessment — Not Found in Regulatory Databases: No published safety assessment was found for this ingredient in the CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), FDA, CTPA, or MFDS regulatory databases at the time of review. This does not necessarily indicate a safety concern; many ingredients in common use have not been formally assessed by these bodies.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water(Aloe Vera Juice)
Benefits
- ✓Soothes and calms skin irritation
- ✓Provides lightweight hydration without occlusion
Potential concerns
- !Rare allergy to aloe in individuals sensitive to plants of the Liliaceae family
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Aloe Barbadensis-Derived Ingredients (2016): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water and related aloe-derived ingredients are safe for use in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration. These ingredients function as skin-conditioning agents and are widely used for their soothing properties.
Propanediol(Plant-Derived Glycol)
Benefits
- ✓Conditions skin
- ✓Improves spreadability of formula
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Propanediol as Used in Cosmetics (2015): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that propanediol is safe for use in cosmetic products. It functions as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent with a low sensitisation potential.
Glycerin(Glycerol)
Benefits
- ✓Humectant preventing cleansing-related dryness
- ✓Keeps skin hydrated post-wash
Sources
FDA GRAS Database — Glycerin: Glycerin (glycerol) is affirmed as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. As a cosmetic ingredient, it is one of the most widely used and well-tolerated humectants, drawing moisture from the environment to the outer layers of the skin.
Triethanolamine(TEA (pH Adjuster))
Benefits
- ✓Used as a pH-adjusting agent to maintain formulation stability
Potential concerns
- !Can form nitrosamines when combined with nitrosating agents — a known carcinogenicity concern at high concentrations
- !May cause skin sensitisation in some individuals with repeated exposure
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Triethanolamine and TEA-containing Ingredients (2013): The CIR Expert Panel noted that triethanolamine is safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at concentrations up to 5% but cautioned that in leave-on products, concentrations should be minimised to reduce the risk of nitrosamine formation. TEA should not be used in products containing N-nitroso-forming agents.
Aminomethyl Propanol(AMP (pH Adjuster))
Benefits
- ✓Used as a pH-adjusting neutraliser in cosmetic formulations
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Methyl Propanol as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Aminomethyl Propanol is safe for use in cosmetic products at the concentrations used as a pH adjuster. It has low dermal irritation and sensitisation potential at functional use levels.
Panax Ginseng Root Extract(Ginseng Extract)
Benefits
- ✓Antioxidant activity from ginsenosides may help protect skin from oxidative stress
- ✓Traditionally associated with improved radiance and skin vitality
Potential concerns
- !Rare contact allergy in ginseng-sensitive individuals
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Panax Ginseng Root Extract: CTPA recognises Panax Ginseng Root Extract as a cosmetic ingredient used for its skin-conditioning and antioxidant properties. It has a long history of use in cosmetics without significant safety concerns at typical use concentrations.
Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract(Tasmanian Pepper Extract)
Benefits
- ✓Contains polygodial, a natural compound with reported antioxidant properties
Sources
CIR/FDA Ingredient Assessment — Not Found in Regulatory Databases: No published safety assessment was found for this ingredient in the CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), FDA, CTPA, or MFDS regulatory databases at the time of review. This does not necessarily indicate a safety concern; many ingredients in common use have not been formally assessed by these bodies.
Aspartic Acid
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid skin-conditioning agent; supports natural moisturising factor (NMF)
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Alanine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid humectant that contributes to the skin's natural moisturising factor
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Glycine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid with skin-conditioning and hydration-supporting properties
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Serine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid component of the skin's natural moisturising factor; supports hydration
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Valine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid skin-conditioning agent
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Isoleucine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid skin-conditioning agent
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Proline
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid involved in collagen structure; used as a skin-conditioning agent in cosmetics
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Threonine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid skin-conditioning agent; part of the natural moisturising factor complex
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Histidine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid with antioxidant properties; contributes to the skin's natural moisturising factor
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Phenylalanine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid skin-conditioning agent
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Glutamic Acid(Glutamic Acid (Amino Acid))
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid naturally found in skin proteins
- ✓Conditions skin and maintains moisture balance
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Arginine
Benefits
- ✓Amino acid skin-conditioning agent with reported wound-healing support properties
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics (2013): The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviewed amino acids as used in cosmetic formulations and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. Amino acids function as skin-conditioning agents and humectants, supporting moisture retention and skin barrier health.
Pca(PCA (Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid))
Benefits
- ✓Key component of the skin's natural moisturising factor; binds and retains moisture
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of PCA and Sodium PCA as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) and sodium PCA are safe for use in cosmetics. They function as humectants, mimicking components of the skin's natural moisturising factor.
Sodium Pca(Sodium PCA)
Benefits
- ✓Sodium salt of PCA; highly effective humectant naturally found in skin
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of PCA and Sodium PCA as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Sodium PCA is safe for use in cosmetics as a humectant. It is a naturally occurring component of the skin's natural moisturising factor (NMF).
Sodium Lactate
Benefits
- ✓Humectant that helps maintain skin moisture balance; contributes to the NMF
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Lactic Acid and Sodium Lactate as Used in Cosmetics (2019): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that sodium lactate is safe for use in cosmetic products as a humectant and pH adjuster. It is naturally found in the skin as a component of the natural moisturising factor.
Fructose
Benefits
- ✓Natural sugar humectant that helps attract and retain moisture in the skin
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Saccharide Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that saccharide ingredients including fructose are safe for use in cosmetics as humectants and skin-conditioning agents.
Glucose
Benefits
- ✓Sugar-derived humectant; supports skin hydration
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Saccharide Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that glucose and related saccharide ingredients are safe for use in cosmetics as humectants and skin-conditioning agents.
Sucrose(Sucrose (Sugar))
Benefits
- ✓Natural humectant that helps the skin retain moisture
Sources
FDA — Sucrose as a Cosmetic Ingredient: The FDA permits sucrose (common sugar) for use in cosmetics. It functions as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent and has a long history of safe use in cosmetic formulations. No safety restrictions apply at concentrations used in cosmetics.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Sucrose: CTPA lists sucrose as a safe cosmetic ingredient used as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. It is derived from sugar cane or sugar beet and is considered non-irritating and safe for all skin types at cosmetic concentrations.
Urea
Benefits
- ✓Powerful humectant that draws water into the stratum corneum
- ✓At higher concentrations acts as a gentle keratolytic to soften rough skin
Potential concerns
- !May cause temporary stinging on broken or very sensitive skin
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Urea as Used in Cosmetics (2019): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that urea is safe for use in cosmetic products at the concentrations used in current practice. It functions as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent, supporting moisture retention in the stratum corneum.
Hexyl Nicotinate
Benefits
- ✓Ester of nicotinic acid used as a skin-conditioning agent; reported mild warming effect
Sources
CIR/FDA Ingredient Assessment — Not Found in Regulatory Databases: No published safety assessment was found for this ingredient in the CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), FDA, CTPA, or MFDS regulatory databases at the time of review. This does not necessarily indicate a safety concern; many ingredients in common use have not been formally assessed by these bodies.
Dextrin
Benefits
- ✓Polysaccharide thickener and film-forming agent that improves product texture
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Saccharide Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that dextrin and related polysaccharide ingredients are safe for use in cosmetics as skin-conditioning agents and texture modifiers.
Citric Acid
Benefits
- ✓Fine-tunes formula pH and maintains stability
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Alpha Hydroxy Acids as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel reviewed citric acid as part of its assessment of alpha hydroxy acids. It is safe at concentrations used as a pH adjuster. At higher active exfoliant concentrations, the Panel recommended consumer advisories on increased photosensitivity.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Citric Acid: CTPA lists citric acid as a safe, permitted cosmetic ingredient functioning as a pH adjuster. At higher concentrations where it acts as an active AHA exfoliant, CTPA advises appropriate labelling regarding potential skin sensitivity.
Polysorbate 20
Benefits
- ✓Mild surfactant that blends oil and water
- ✓Solubilizes actives in water-based formulas
Potential concerns
- !May contain trace 1,4-dioxane as a manufacturing byproduct
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Polysorbates as Used in Cosmetics (2016): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that polysorbate 20 is safe for use in cosmetic products as an emulsifier and solubiliser at the concentrations used in current practice.
Gellan Gum
Benefits
- ✓Microbial-derived polysaccharide used as a thickener and texture stabiliser
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Microbial Polysaccharide Gums as Used in Cosmetics (2014): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that gellan gum is safe for use in cosmetics as a thickening agent and texture modifier.
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate(EDDS (Biodegradable Chelator))
Benefits
- ✓Biodegradable chelator stabilizing formula
- ✓Boosts preservative efficacy
Sources
CIR/FDA Ingredient Assessment — Not Found in Regulatory Databases: No published safety assessment was found for this ingredient in the CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), FDA, CTPA, or MFDS regulatory databases at the time of review. This does not necessarily indicate a safety concern; many ingredients in common use have not been formally assessed by these bodies.
Sodium Chloride(Salt)
Benefits
- ✓Adjusts thickness and texture of cleanser
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Sodium Chloride as Used in Cosmetics (2020): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that sodium chloride is safe for use in cosmetic products at the concentrations used as a viscosity-adjusting agent.
Hexylene Glycol
Benefits
- ✓Solvent that aids ingredient blending
- ✓Mild humectant
Potential concerns
- !May cause mild irritation at high concentrations
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Hexylene Glycol: The CIR Expert Panel concludes that hexylene glycol is safe as used in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1.6%; higher concentrations may cause irritation.
CTPA Cosmetic Ingredients — Hexylene Glycol: Hexylene glycol is listed as a potential skin sensitiser under EU Cosmetics Regulation when used at elevated concentrations. It is restricted to use as a solvent and preservative booster at low levels in finished products.
Potassium Sorbate
Benefits
- ✓Broad-spectrum preservative that prevents microbial contamination
Potential concerns
- !Rare contact allergy in sensitised individuals
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Sorbic Acid and Its Salts as Used in Cosmetics (2020): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that potassium sorbate is safe as used in cosmetics as a preservative. It has a well-established safety profile at concentrations up to 0.6%.
Sodium Benzoate
Benefits
- ✓Preservative effective against bacteria and fungi
- ✓Safe at low concentrations
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate as Used in Cosmetics (2021): The CIR Expert Panel concluded that sodium benzoate is safe for use in cosmetics as a preservative at the concentrations used in current practice (typically ≤0.5%).
1,2-Hexanediol
Benefits
- ✓Solvent and antimicrobial agent
- ✓Helps preserve formula without traditional preservatives
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of 1,2-Hexanediol as Used in Cosmetics: The CIR Expert Panel found 1,2-hexanediol safe as used in cosmetics. It functions as a humectant and antimicrobial preservative booster, enhancing the efficacy of other preservatives. No significant dermal irritation or sensitisation was identified at concentrations used in cosmetic formulations.
CTPA Ingredient Library — 1,2-Hexanediol: CTPA lists 1,2-hexanediol as a safe humectant and preservative booster used in cosmetics. It is considered non-irritating at concentrations typically found in leave-on and rinse-off formulations and is widely used as a paraben-free preservation system component.
Caprylyl Glycol
Benefits
- ✓Moisturizes and conditions skin
- ✓Boosts preservative efficacy
Sources
CIR Safety Assessment of Caprylyl Glycol: The CIR Expert Panel concludes that caprylyl glycol is safe as used in cosmetic formulations as a skin conditioner and preservative booster.
CTPA Cosmetic Ingredients — Caprylyl Glycol: Caprylyl glycol is approved for cosmetic use in the EU as a multifunctional ingredient providing skin conditioning and antimicrobial preservation boosting activity.
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