The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%: Fix Strawberry Legs & Dark Underarms

Tired of feeling self-conscious about strawberry legs or dark underarms? You've probably tried every scrub and lotion out there, but let's talk about the affordable, under-the-radar hero that actually works: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%.

Yes, the face toner. It’s the secret weapon your body care routine has been missing.

What Is The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%?

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% is a water-based toning solution formulated with glycolic acid, a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. While marketed for the face, its powerful exfoliating properties and large, budget-friendly bottle make it a holy grail for tackling stubborn body skin concerns like texture and hyperpigmentation.

How It Works

Think of it as a smart exfoliant that works on a microscopic level. Instead of physically scrubbing your skin, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% works by:

• Dissolving Dead Skin Cells: It gently unglues the bonds holding dull, dead cells to the surface, revealing the smoother, brighter skin underneath.
• Promoting Cell Turnover: By clearing away the old layer, it encourages your skin to speed up its natural renewal process.
• Unclogging Follicles: For strawberry legs (keratosis pilaris), it dissolves the buildup of keratin that plugs hair follicles and creates those tiny, rough bumps.

Exfoliant Comparison

Exfoliant	Best For	Key Benefit
Glycolic Acid (AHA)	Normal, Combo, Oily Skin	Brightening, smoothing texture, anti-aging
Lactic Acid (AHA)	Dry & Sensitive Skin	Gentle exfoliation and hydration
Salicylic Acid (BHA)	Oily & Acne-Prone Skin	Deep pore cleansing, reduces blackheads

How to Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%

Step 1: Preparation

Always start with a patch test on a small, discreet area of your body (like the inner arm) to check for sensitivity. For application, ensure your skin is clean and completely dry.

Most importantly, do not use this product on the same day you shave, wax, or on any broken or irritated skin. Trust us on this one!

Step 2: Application

At nighttime, saturate a cotton pad with The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%. Gently sweep it across the target area—be it your legs, underarms, elbows, or the backs of your arms. There's no need to rub harshly. Let the solution work its magic.

Step 3: Aftercare

Allow the glycolic acid to absorb and dry completely for a few minutes before applying other products. Follow up with a simple, fragrance-free body moisturizer to hydrate and support your skin barrier.

The next morning (and every morning), apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to any treated areas that will see daylight.

Who Should Use It?

This is a game-changer if you struggle with body skin concerns like keratosis pilaris (strawberry legs or 'chicken skin'), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots on underarms or from old scars), and overall rough, bumpy, or dull skin texture.

It's suitable for most skin types, but those with very sensitive skin should approach with caution.

Side Effects & Warnings

While amazing, it's still a potent active. Be mindful of the following:

• Increased Sun Sensitivity: This is non-negotiable. AHAs make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Sunscreen is your best friend.
• Potential Irritation: You might experience mild tingling, redness, or dryness, especially when you first start. This usually subsides as your skin adapts.
• Who Should Avoid: If you have extremely sensitive skin, eczema, psoriasis, or open wounds on the area of application, it's best to skip this product.

Results Timeline

Consistency is everything. Here’s a realistic timeline of what you can expect:

Week 1: Your skin may feel noticeably smoother to the touch, but visual changes will be subtle.

Week 4: You should start to see a reduction in bumpiness and a slight brightening of pigmented areas. The texture will feel more refined.

Month 3: With consistent use (a few times a week), you'll see a significant improvement. Strawberry legs will appear diminished, and dark spots will be visibly lighter.

Best Alternatives

If The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% doesn't feel right for you, here are a few other fantastic options we love at Glaze Theory:

• First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub: A great choice if you like a combination of chemical (AHA) and physical exfoliation in one step.
• Amlactin Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion: Contains lactic acid, a gentler AHA, making it perfect for drier or more sensitive skin types who still want to smooth texture.
• Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Body Wash: An excellent in-shower option for those who want a convenient, rinse-off treatment.

FAQs

Q: Can I use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% on my body every day?

A: We recommend starting slow! Begin by using it 2-3 times per week at night to see how your skin tolerates it. If you experience no irritation after a few weeks, you can consider increasing the frequency, but daily use is often not necessary for great results and can increase the risk of irritation.

Q: Is it really safe to use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% on my underarms?

A: Yes, it is generally safe for many people, but this is a sensitive area. It's crucial to patch test first and to NEVER apply it immediately after shaving or waxing, as this can cause significant stinging and irritation. Wait at least 12-24 hours after hair removal before applying.

Q: What’s the difference between using this glycolic acid on my face versus my body?

A: The skin on your body is typically thicker and more resilient than the delicate skin on your face. This means it can often tolerate chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid more frequently.

However, the core principles of patch testing, starting slow, and following up with moisturizer and sunscreen remain exactly the same.

Q: How long does it take to see results for strawberry legs?

A: Patience is key! You may notice smoother skin within the first couple of weeks, but visible reduction in the appearance of strawberry legs (keratosis pilaris) typically takes 4-8 weeks of consistent use.

Long-term results depend on continued use as the condition can return if you stop exfoliating.

Q: Do I really need to use sunscreen on my body after using this?

A: Absolutely, 100%. Glycolic acid is an AHA, which increases your skin's sensitivity to the sun and can make you more prone to sunburn and sun damage. You must apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to any treated areas that will be exposed to daylight, even on cloudy days.

Final Verdict

For its incredibly low price and high efficacy, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% is an unbeatable treatment for common body skin woes. It proves that you don't need expensive, specialized products to achieve silky-smooth, even-toned skin.

When used correctly and consistently, it's a powerhouse for tackling everything from bumpy arms to dark underarms. Get ready to wear your favorite outfits with a new level of confidence!