Colour me intrigued! When I stumbled across a viral TikTok video claiming that a $15 product could heal cracked heels, I couldn’t resist. Dermguru’s post on TikTok has racked up over 1.3 million views, showing off some serious before-and-after magic using The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner. Even though sandal season has slipped away for us East Coasters, having soft, smooth feet year-round is definitely something I can get behind. Plus, with busy schedules and chilly weather making salon visits less frequent, finding an at-home solution for in-between pedicure appointments sounded like the perfect hack.
I’ve always been a fan of multi-purpose beauty products, so the idea of using something I already had in my skincare cabinet to rescue my tired feet was genius. A beauty hack that doesn’t require a ton of effort, saves money, and still gives you baby-smooth skin? Sign me up. So, I grabbed my bottle of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner, eager to see if this no-bells-and-whistles $15 product could work its magic on my dry, cracked heels.
Now, what exactly is glycolic acid, and why is it such a powerhouse for skin? Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which is known for its exfoliating properties. It helps break down the bonds holding dead skin cells together, making it easier for the skin to shed them and reveal fresher, smoother skin beneath. In addition to tackling rough textures, it can help with acne and even fine lines. When used on the feet, glycolic acid dissolves the tough, dry patches that can cause cracks, leaving your feet noticeably softer and smoother. It’s no wonder people are raving about this ingredient as a solution for dry, cracked heels!
So, how did I put this viral hack to the test? After a relaxing bath—because why not go all out?—I grabbed my glycolic acid toner and applied it generously to a cotton pad. With my feet still slightly damp, I swiped the toner over the roughest areas, focusing on my heels and any spots that felt particularly dry. Then came the secret weapon: a thick layer of Vaseline to lock in moisture, followed by my favorite pair of cozy socks (dark ones, just in case!). I went to bed feeling hopeful and woke up hopeful to see the results.
And let me tell you, the results were impressive. By the next morning, my feet felt significantly smoother, and the rough, cracked areas were much softer. The real magic, though, came after a couple more nights of repeating the process. By day three, my feet were soft, the dry patches had almost completely disappeared, and they were more sandal-ready than they had been in months. Plus, there was no irritation—just smooth, hydrated feet. The best part? It only took mere minutes of effort, and no salon trip required.
Verdict: I’m giving this hack a solid 9/10. It’s an easy, effective, and affordable solution for anyone looking to pamper their feet at home. Whether it’s sandal season or you’re bundling up for winter, this glycolic acid hack is a game-changer. The affordable price tag and multi-use aspect of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner make it a beauty must-have for all seasons. You can’t go wrong with soft feet year-round, and this viral trend just became my new skincare secret. —Brittany Johnson
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