The Ordinary Glycolic Acid vs Salicylic Acid

What is the difference?

Which one should you pick?

Glycolic acid is the more direct choice if your priority is a smoother surface or uneven pigmentation. Salicylic acid opens clogged pores and treats whiteheads and pimples, making it the more targeted choice for congestion. Glycolic acid can also help acne, so the distinction is about your main goal rather than an absolute division between the two.1356

Both acid types can help unclog pores and smooth texture, making pores look less noticeable, but pores do not close on command like a laptop. Pore size is largely genetic, so choose an exfoliant for clearing buildup rather than permanently shrinking pores.4

How do you use the glycolic toner?

1. 1Cleanse your face and dry your skin.
2. 2Apply a small amount with fingers or a cotton pad to your face or neck, avoiding the eye area.
3. 3Leave the toner on. Let it absorb before applying other treatments.
4. 4Finish with moisturizer, and use sunscreen during the day because AHAs increase sun sensitivity.

The Ordinary directs once daily use, ideally in the evening. General guidance for potentially irritating acid toners is to start every other day and increase only as tolerated; daily use is not a starting requirement. Do not apply this glycolic toner to sensitive, peeling or compromised skin.14

Can you use both together?

Do not layer the glycolic toner with another exfoliating product in the same routine. If you want to use both acids, keep them in separate routines rather than applying one immediately after the other. Follow each product's directions instead of borrowing the glycolic toner's schedule for salicylic acid.1

Who should be careful?

Test a small amount of a new exfoliant on your jawline or behind your ear and wait a day before applying it across your face. Dry or sensitive skin needs particular care because exfoliating products can cause inflammation or a reaction. Stop using a new product if it causes a rash, itching, redness or burning.23

If you use retinol, tretinoin or adapalene, check with your prescriber before adding an exfoliating acid: these products can make a peel penetrate more deeply. Do not treat general pregnancy guidance about some AHAs as approval for either specific bottle.3

How long do results take?

General toner guidance puts noticeable effects at six weeks to three months, often with subtle changes. Acne treatment generally takes at least six to eight weeks before fewer breakouts appear. These are general timelines, not a specific result schedule for either The Ordinary product. Professional chemical peels use different strengths, so their results and recovery schedules are not instructions for a daily toner.456

If acne is not improving with your routine, see a dermatologist rather than continuing to add exfoliants. Different types of acne need different treatments, and some conditions that resemble acne require a different approach.25