Glycolic Acid (AHA) Toner Guide: How to Exfoliate Safely
Written by FRANKLY Lab, our in-house R&D team in Korea. FRANKLY was founded in 2022 by an AI R&D researcher and a cosmetic R&D researcher from one of Korea's largest beauty companies.
Quick answer: An AHA toner uses glycolic acid to clear away dead skin cells, smooth rough texture and help pores look smaller. Use it at night after cleansing. FRANKLY AHA 8.05% Toner can be used every day. If your skin is very sensitive, use it 3 times a week or more. Use retinol on different nights and wear SPF every morning.
What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It works on the skin surface, loosening dead skin cells so skin looks smoother, brighter and more even.
AHA vs BHA vs PHA
- AHA (glycolic acid): smooths the skin surface and rough texture. Great for dullness and flaky skin.
- BHA (salicylic acid): oil-soluble, works inside the pore. Great for oily skin and congestion.
- PHA (gluconolactone): a gentler exfoliant with larger molecules, suited to sensitive skin.
How to use an AHA toner
- Use at night after cleansing.
- Apply to a cotton pad and sweep over the face and neck from the center outward, avoiding the eye area.
- Follow with serum and moisturizer.
- Wear SPF the next morning.
FRANKLY AHA 8.05% Toner can be used every day. If your skin is very sensitive, use it 3 times a week or more.
Can I use AHA with retinol or vitamin C?
Use AHA and retinol on different nights to avoid irritation. The same goes for high-strength vitamin C. AHA pairs well with hydrating and peptide serums like Closer Serum.
Signs you are over-exfoliating
- Stinging, redness or tightness that does not go away
- Skin that looks shiny but feels dry
- New sensitivity to products you normally use
If you notice these, pause AHA for a few days and focus on soothing, hydrating care.
FRANKLY AHA 8.05% Toner
AHA 8.05% Toner combines 8.05% glycolic acid with 17 amino acids and a centella asiatica calming complex to smooth texture and refine the look of pores while keeping skin balanced. For a complete routine, try the Pore-Perfecting Duo with Closer Serum.
FAQ
Can I use glycolic acid toner every day?
FRANKLY AHA 8.05% Toner can be used every night. If your skin is very sensitive, start 3 times a week.
Should I use AHA in the morning or at night?
At night. Always wear SPF the next morning.
Is AHA good for oily skin?
Yes. It smooths texture and helps pores look smaller. Pair it with a BHA cleanser for extra oil control.
Can I use AHA toner with retinol?
Use them on different nights.