Glycolic Acid 5% Brightening Face Toner

• Skin type: Normal, combination, dull, and uneven
• Concerns: Dullness, rough texture, pigmentation, fine lines
• Suitable for: Individuals seeking an exfoliating solution for improved radiance and smoothness

• Size: 150 ml
• Fragrance-free
• Dermatologically tested
• Non-comedogenic
• Suitable for daily use, preferably at night
• Sunscreen recommended during the day

Glycolic Acid (5%): An alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates dead skin cells, smoothing texture and promoting a brighter, even complexion.

Aloe Vera (2%): Soothes skin post-exfoliation, providing hydration and calming redness.

Glycerin (3%): A humectant that draws moisture to the skin, maintaining hydration and comfort.

Licorice Root Extract (2%): Contains glabridin, which helps brighten and even out skin tone by inhibiting melanin production.

Vitamin C (1%): Provides antioxidant protection against free radicals and enhances radiance for a brighter appearance.

The Glycolic Acid 5% Exfoliating Toner leverages Glycolic Acid’s small molecular size for deep epidermal penetration, promoting cell turnover and enhancing skin texture. Glycolic Acid belongs to the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family and disrupts desmosomal connections between dead skin cells in the stratum corneum, increasing cell turnover rates. This exfoliative action reveals a smoother, even-toned skin surface, reducing fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and texture issues.

1. Glycolic Acid (5%): Glycolic Acid penetrates the stratum corneum due to its small molecular structure, effectively loosening keratinocyte cohesion and encouraging the removal of superficial, dead skin cells. It activates fibroblasts in the dermis, promoting the synthesis of collagen type I and type III, crucial for skin elasticity and firmness. Glycolic Acid also induces epidermal cytokine release that stimulates deeper collagen synthesis, thereby reducing wrinkles and signs of photoaging. The acid’s exfoliative nature further diminishes melanin accumulation, targeting hyperpigmentation and creating a more radiant, even complexion.
2. Aloe Vera (2%): Aloe Vera delivers anti-inflammatory benefits by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and reducing the release of prostaglandins. Its polysaccharides form a hydrating barrier on the skin, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and maintaining skin hydration post-exfoliation. Aloe Vera also stimulates fibroblast proliferation, promoting collagen synthesis and accelerating wound healing, making it ideal for soothing and repairing skin after acid exfoliation.
3. Glycerin (3%): Glycerin acts as a humectant, binding water to the skin through hydrogen bonding and enhancing the skin’s natural moisturizing factors (NMF) by supporting the intercellular lipid matrix. By interacting with aquaporin-3 channels, Glycerin maintains optimal hydration in the stratum corneum, reinforcing barrier function and reducing susceptibility to dryness and irritation from exfoliation.
4. Licorice Root Extract (2%): This extract contains glabridin, a natural tyrosinase inhibitor, reducing melanin synthesis in melanocytes and contributing to an even skin tone. It provides anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating NF-κB, helping to reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and soothe skin irritation. Licorice also contains flavonoids, which act as antioxidants, protecting skin cells from UV-induced oxidative stress.
5. Vitamin C (1%): Vitamin C, as sodium ascorbyl phosphate, is a stable, water-soluble antioxidant. It acts by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by UV exposure and pollution, preventing cellular damage. Vitamin C also stimulates collagen cross-linking by supporting prolyl hydroxylase and lysyl hydroxylase activity, enhancing skin elasticity. By inhibiting tyrosinase, Vitamin C reduces melanin production, further brightening the skin and reducing dark spots for a more even tone.

This formulation works at multiple skin levels, from the epidermis to the dermis, using Glycolic Acid to promote exfoliation and cell renewal, Aloe and Glycerin for hydration and barrier reinforcement, Licorice to combat hyperpigmentation, and Vitamin C for antioxidant protection.

• Aqua (Water)
• Glycolic Acid (5%)
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (2%)
• Glycerin (3%)
• Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract (2%)
• Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) (1%)
• Sodium PCA (hydrating agent)
• Phenoxyethanol (preservative)
• Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative, non-irritating)
• Caprylyl Glycol (skin-conditioning agent)
• Carbomer (thickening agent)
• Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster)
• Disodium EDTA (stabilizer to prevent ingredient degradation)

After cleansing, apply the toner using a cotton pad or hands, patting gently into the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Use it in the evening, following with a moisturizer. For daytime, sunscreen is recommended to protect the skin.

• Is this toner suitable for sensitive skin?
  This toner is designed for mild exfoliation. A patch test is recommended, and usage can be limited to 2-3 times per week for sensitive skin.
• Does this toner cause purging?
  Glycolic Acid can increase cell turnover, potentially causing purging in some users as underlying impurities surface.
• How long until I see results?
  Visible improvements in texture and brightness often appear after 3-4 weeks of consistent use.
• Can I use this with other actives?
  Avoid layering with other strong acids or retinoids; alternating use is recommended to prevent irritation.
• Is it safe for daily use?
  For most skin types, 2-3 times weekly is sufficient. Daily use may be too intense for sensitive skin.