In the world of skincare, glycolic acid is a well-known star. Many people use it on their faces to treat acne, fade dark spots, and smooth skin texture. But recently, people have started using it on their scalp and hair too—especially the glycolic acid toner from the brand The Ordinary. Can you really use glycolic acid toner on your hair?
At first, it may sound strange. Why would you apply a face product to your hair or scalp? But when used correctly, glycolic acid can actually help with issues like oily roots, dry scalp, and even hair growth support.
This article explains how to use an ordinary glycolic acid toner on your hair in a simple and safe way. We will go over the benefits, risks, and the exact steps to follow. All the information here is written in simple sentences, so it’s easy for anyone to understand.
What Is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid, also known as AHA. It comes from sugarcane and is widely used in skincare. It helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, making your face feel fresh and smooth.
When it comes to the scalp, glycolic acid does something similar. It helps remove dirt, oil, and buildup from hair products. This clears the scalp and creates a healthier space for hair to grow. The result? Less itching, fewer flakes, and possibly stronger hair over time.
Why Would You Use It on Hair?
Your scalp is skin. And just like the skin on your face, it can get clogged, dry, oily, or irritated. A clean scalp is important for healthy hair. If your scalp is full of dead skin or leftover product, it can stop your hair from growing well. It may also lead to scalp odor or dandruff.
Here’s what glycolic acid can do for your scalp and hair:
Exfoliates dead skin
This clears blocked hair follicles and helps reduce dandruff.
Removes product buildup
If you use dry shampoo, oils, or styling products, these can build up over time. Glycolic acid can break them down.
Reduces oiliness
It helps balance the scalp’s oil levels, especially if your roots get greasy fast.
Improves moisture balance
By clearing dead skin, it allows moisture to reach the skin underneath.
Prepares scalp for treatments
It can make other scalp serums and oils work better.
Is It Safe to Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner on Hair?
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is made for the face, not the scalp. But many people have used it on their scalp with good results. Still, this is not its official use. So, it’s important to be cautious.
Here are a few safety tips:
Do a patch test first
Apply a small amount to a small area of your scalp. Wait 24 hours to see if there is any redness or stinging.
Don’t use it on broken skin
If your scalp has wounds, sores, or is very irritated, don’t use glycolic acid.
Use it only once or twice a week
It’s strong. Daily use is too much for most people’s scalps.
Don’t leave it on for too long
Let it sit for just a few minutes before rinsing.
When used properly, it can be a game-changer for scalp health. But always listen to your body. If it burns or makes your scalp itch too much, stop using it.
How to Use Glycolic Acid Toner on Hair: Step-by-Step
Now let’s go through the process of applying glycolic acid toner to your scalp. Follow these steps carefully for the best results.
Step 1: Choose the right time
Use glycolic acid on your wash day. It works best when followed by shampoo and conditioner. That way, you wash away all the loosened dead skin and buildup.
Step 2: Detangle your hair
Brush or finger-detangle your hair before applying anything. This helps you reach the scalp easily and avoids tugging during the process.
Step 3: Apply to a dry scalp
Make sure your scalp is dry, not wet. Wet hair can make the product run into your eyes. Dry scalp helps control the amount you use.
Step 4: Section your hair
Divide your hair into 4 or more parts, depending on thickness. Use clips or ties to keep them apart. This makes it easier to apply the toner evenly.
Step 5: Use a dropper or cotton pad
Pour the glycolic acid toner into a dropper bottle, if possible. If you don’t have one, a clean cotton pad works too.
With a dropper: Apply 3–5 drops directly to each section of your scalp.
With a cotton pad: Soak it lightly and swipe across the scalp line by line.
Step 6: Massage gently
Use your fingertips to gently massage the toner into your scalp. Don’t use nails. A 2- to 3-minute massage is enough to spread the product and increase blood flow.
Step 7: Leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes
This gives the toner enough time to break down buildup and dead skin. If you feel a strong burning sensation, rinse earlier.
Step 8: Rinse and shampoo
After 5 to 10 minutes, rinse your scalp with lukewarm water. Then shampoo and condition your hair like normal. This helps remove all residue and prevent dryness.
Step 9: Moisturize if needed
After washing, use a gentle leave-in conditioner or scalp oil to restore moisture. Glycolic acid can sometimes cause dryness if not followed by hydration.
How Often Should You Use It?
Start with once a week. If your scalp handles it well, you can try using it twice a week. More than that is not needed, unless a dermatologist tells you otherwise.
If you have sensitive skin, stick to once a week or even once every two weeks.
The key is consistency, not frequency. Overuse can cause redness or peeling.
What Results Can You Expect?
If you use it regularly and correctly, here’s what you might notice:
Your scalp feels fresher and cleaner.
Less itching and flaking.
Hair feels lighter and less weighed down.
Over time, your roots may look fuller.
Other scalp treatments (like oils or serums) absorb better.
These results don’t show overnight. Be patient. It can take a few weeks to see big changes. But even after one use, your scalp may feel more refreshed.
Can You Use It with Other Products?
Yes, but not at the same time.
Do not use glycolic acid with other strong actives on your scalp, such as:
Salicylic acid
Retinol
Vitamin C
Tea tree oil (unless diluted)
Too many actives at once can irritate the skin. It’s best to keep your routine simple on glycolic acid days. A mild shampoo and conditioner are enough. Save other treatments for different days.
If you’re using scalp oils or growth serums (like rosemary oil or minoxidil), wait at least a day before or after using glycolic acid.
Who Should Avoid It?
While glycolic acid is helpful for many people, some should avoid it:
People with eczema or psoriasis on the scalp
People with very dry or irritated scalps
People who have just bleached or dyed their hair
Children or teenagers without medical advice
If you’re unsure, ask a dermatologist first. Also, stop using it if you get blisters, severe redness, or burning that lasts.
Conclusion
Using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner on your scalp is a new but exciting idea. It’s not made for hair, but when used with care, it can improve scalp health, reduce buildup, and make your hair feel lighter and cleaner.
It’s not a miracle product, but it’s a useful tool—especially for those who suffer from an oily or flaky scalp. Just follow the steps carefully, keep your routine simple, and watch how your scalp reacts.
Always patch test before full use. If it works well for you, it may become a favorite part of your hair care routine.
Related topics:
- How Do You Use Aveda Beautifying Oil on Your Scalp?
- Can You Really Grow Thick Hair on a Bald Head?
- Can You Really Fix Fried Hair Overnight?
