Glycolic Acid Toner
Glycolic Acid Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A potent 10% Glycolic Acid exfoliating toner that unglues dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin while 5% Witch Hazel helps control excess oil and minimize pores. Perfect for tackling dullness, uneven texture, blackheads, and fine lines.
Deep Exfoliation
10% Glycolic Acid dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cell turnover for brighter, smoother skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Exfoliation
10% Glycolic Acid dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cell turnover for brighter, smoother skin.
Oil Control
5% Witch Hazel helps minimize excess sebum production and tightens pores for a more refined complexion.
Collagen Support
At 10% concentration, glycolic acid has been shown to stimulate collagen production for firmer skin over time.
Texture Refinement
Regular use helps reduce the appearance of blackheads, enlarged pores, and uneven skin texture.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEBrand-confirmed safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone.
Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil which some sources flag as potentially problematic for Malassezia. Patch test recommended.
Rating 1/5. Water-based formula with minimal pore-clogging ingredients. Unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day and for 7 days after use. PM use only recommended.
10% glycolic acid is potent. Those with rosacea or very sensitive skin should opt for gentler PHA alternatives.
Included to preserve and stabilize Witch Hazel extract. Follow with moisturizer to counteract any potential drying effect.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 10%Proven
The smallest Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. Its small molecular size allows deep penetration into the skin, making it the most effective AHA for exfoliation and collagen stimulation.
- Mechanism: Dissolves intercellular bonds between corneocytes (dead skin cells), promoting desquamation
- Research: 10%+ concentrations shown to boost collagen synthesis and improve photodamage (Bernstein et al.)
- pH: Formulated at ~3.6 pH for optimal efficacy while minimizing irritation
Witch Hazel Water 5%Traditional
Hamamelis Virginiana distillate with natural astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Helps control excess oil and soothe skin.
- Benefits: Contains tannins that tighten pores and reduce sebum production
- Soothing: Natural anti-inflammatory compounds help calm irritation from glycolic acid
- Antibacterial: May help reduce acne-causing bacteria on skin surface
PropanediolSupporting
A naturally-derived (from corn sugar) alternative to propylene glycol. Ecocert-approved humectant that enhances product absorption and skin moisturization.
- Function: Penetration enhancer that helps active ingredients absorb better
- Hydration: Attracts moisture to the skin surface
- Sensory: Improves product texture and spreadability
Boerhavia Diffusa Root ExtractBotanical
Traditional Ayurvedic ingredient (Punarnava) with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to help soothe and protect skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce redness and irritation
- Antioxidant: Protects against environmental stressors
14 ingredients
Aqua (Water/ Eau), Glycolic Acid, Propanediol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Alcohol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Betaine, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEPM routine only. Use 1-3x per week. Apply after cleansing and optional hydrating toner. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with your regular cleanser.
Saturate Cotton Pad
Soak a cotton pad with the toner. You can also apply directly to palms and pat onto face.
Sweep Across Face & Neck
Gently sweep across face and neck, avoiding eye area and lips. Can also be used on back and chest for body acne.
Do Not Rinse - Continue Routine
Leave on skin (no rinsing). Wait 1-2 minutes, then follow with serums and moisturizer. A slight tingling is normal.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or congested skin with frequent blackheads
- You want to address dull, uneven skin texture
- You're targeting enlarged pores and fine lines
- You're experienced with acid exfoliants
- You want an affordable high-strength AHA
- You're dealing with post-acne marks or hyperpigmentation
Consider alternatives if:
- You have sensitive or rosacea-prone skin (try PHA instead)
- You're new to chemical exfoliation (start with 5-7%)
- You're already using retinol daily
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You can't commit to daily sunscreen use
- You have active eczema or broken skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Witch hazel controls oil while glycolic acid deep-cleans pores. Won't add shine.
Works well on T-zone. Apply more generously on oily areas, lightly on dry areas.
Great for maintenance exfoliation. Use 2-3x weekly for brightness without overdoing it.
May be too stripping. Limit to 1x weekly and always follow with rich moisturizer. Consider gentler lactic acid.
Not recommended. 10% concentration plus witch hazel may cause irritation. Try The Inkey List PHA Toner instead.
Excellent for blackheads and congestion. Helps prevent breakouts and fades post-acne marks over time.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Initial Adjustment
Skin may feel tingly during application. Possible minor purging as congestion rises to surface. Skin should feel cleaner and refreshed immediately after use.
85% notice cleaner-feeling skinVisible Smoothness
Skin texture noticeably smoother. Reduced appearance of blackheads and clogged pores. Makeup applies more evenly.
78% report smoother textureBrightness & Clarity
Visible improvement in overall skin brightness and clarity. Pores appear more refined. Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to fade.
70% see improved brightnessLong-Term Benefits
Continued use maintains results. Fine lines may appear softened. Skin tone more even. Best results with consistent use over months.
65% notice faded dark spotsRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highest glycolic acid concentration at this price point (10%)
- Visibly smoother skin texture within weeks
- Effective for blackheads and congestion
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
- Vegan, cruelty-free, Clean at Sephora certified
- Simple ingredient list - no unnecessary fillers
- Great value for money compared to competitors
- Can be used on body acne (back, chest)
Criticized
- Too strong for sensitive or beginner skin
- Small bottle size (100ml) runs out quickly
- Contains alcohol which some find drying
- Slight astringent/alcohol smell
- Lacks additional soothing ingredients unlike competitors
- Not suitable for rosacea-prone skin
- Must use sunscreen daily - increases photosensitivity
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
240ml bottle (vs 100ml) for same price. 7% glycolic is gentler but still effective. Contains amino acids, aloe, and ginseng for added soothing. Better for sensitive-leaning skin.
7% glycolic acid in a gentler, more hydrating formula. Contains apple fruit water and niacinamide. Better for beginners or those who want less irritation with still-effective exfoliation.
5% glycolic acid - half the strength but alcohol-free. Contains ginseng, aloe, and humectants. Great for daily use or sensitive-normal skin. Iconic formula but less potent.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place (15-25°C / 59-77°F). Keep out of direct sunlight to maintain potency.
Plastic bottle with flip-top cap. 100% recyclable packaging.
Yes - 100ml size is TSA-approved for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The Inkey List confirms this product is pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. Glycolic acid (AHA) is generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy, unlike BHAs. However, always consult your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
Use with caution. While glycolic acid itself doesn't feed Malassezia yeast, this formula contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which some sources flag as a potential fungal acne trigger. The concentration is low and many users with fungal acne report no issues, but if you're highly sensitive to FA triggers, patch test first or consider alternatives like COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner which has a cleaner FA-safe profile.
Not in the same routine. Avoid layering with other exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs), retinol, or Vitamin C in the same application. These combinations can over-exfoliate and damage your skin barrier. Instead, alternate: use Vitamin C in the morning, and glycolic acid or retinol in the evening on different nights. If using retinol, use glycolic acid 2-3 nights per week on retinol-free nights.
Best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 10% concentration combined with witch hazel makes it ideal for those dealing with excess oil, blackheads, enlarged pores, and congestion. Normal skin can also benefit with 2-3x weekly use. Not recommended for sensitive, rosacea-prone, or very dry skin - consider The Inkey List PHA Toner or a gentler 5-7% glycolic formula instead.
Expect up to 6 weeks for visible results. Many users notice immediately smoother, cleaner-feeling skin after first use. Texture improvements typically appear within 3-4 weeks of consistent use. Brightness, reduced pore appearance, and fading dark spots usually become noticeable around weeks 5-6. For best results, use 1-3x per week consistently - more isn't always better with exfoliating acids.
Apply in your PM routine only, after cleansing. The brand suggests: Cleanse → Hydrating Toner (optional) → Glycolic Acid Toner → Eye Treatment → Serum → Moisturizer. Do not rinse off. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying next products. Always follow with SPF 30+ in your morning routine as glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating (1/5). It's a water-based, lightweight formula specifically designed to unclog pores rather than clog them. Glycolic acid actively exfoliates and removes dead skin cells that can cause congestion. The formula is free from heavy oils and silicones that typically cause breakouts.
12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the glycolic acid's potency. The 100ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with regular use (1-3x per week). If the product changes color, smell, or texture, discontinue use even if within the PAO period.
Verdict: The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner delivers serious exfoliating power at an affordable price point. The 10% glycolic acid concentration is higher than most drugstore options, making it genuinely effective for oily, congested skin and stubborn texture issues. However, this potency comes with trade-offs - it lacks the soothing ingredients found in competitors like The Ordinary, and may be too harsh for sensitive skin types. If you're experienced with acids and have oily or acne-prone skin, this is an excellent budget-friendly choice. Beginners or those with sensitivity should start with gentler options. For pure value, The Ordinary's 7% version offers more product and a gentler formula at the same price - but if you want maximum strength without the premium price tag, The Inkey List delivers.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|