# Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Balm for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [Avène](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/avene)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for oily skin as squalane and caprylic capric triglyceride provide emollient action, but it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control to address your oily shine.
- The formula provides excellent moisturizing benefits due to shea butter and squalane, enhancing barrier resilience and hydration, which is supportive for oily skin.
- The safety profile is good, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Avène Thermal Spring Water, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Squalane, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter

## What the research says

- Topical application of an emollient emulsion containing 15.0% caprylic/capric triglyceride doubled the amount of urocanic acid isomers and increased skin hydration with reduced transepidermal water loss in healthy subjects, though it did not prevent ultraviolet-induced urocanic acid isomerization. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- Topical application of a vitamin C-squalene bioconjugate significantly increased epidermal thickness, type III collagen production, and glycosaminoglycans production in human skin explants compared to free vitamin C and vitamin C-palmitate. ([Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33037252/))
- Balneotherapy with thermal water altered specific skin microbiota at genus and species levels in healthy female volunteers compared to tap water, which produced no significant microbiome changes. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36983902/))
- Malaysian thermal spring water as an adjunct to standard acne therapy improved skin hydration, reduced dryness and stinging, enhanced overall tolerability, and improved the acne disability index in patients with mild to moderate acne. ([The Medical Journal of Malaysia, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38553920/))
- A 2% Sphingomonas xenophaga ferment extract cream applied twice daily for 4 weeks significantly decreased facial vascular disorder scores compared to vehicle in 86 Caucasian female subjects, alongside dose-dependent inhibition of pre-kallikrein activity in vitro. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40545753/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))

## Why other moisturizers fit oily skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this product is highly effective at calming and hydrating hypersensitive, reactive, and allergy-prone skin, with users frequently reporting relief from redness, tightness, and irritation. It is also often praised for its ability to restore the skin barrier and for being fragrance-free and gentle. A moderate number of users note that it absorbs quickly without greasiness, while some find the price to be high. A low number of reviews mention breakouts or insufficient hydration.

- Liked: Soothes irritated skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fragrance-free and gentle (often mentioned)
- Liked: Restores skin barrier (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs quickly (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Not hydrating enough (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine every day to keep your face fresh.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toning, but right before your SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and let it absorb fully.
- Apply on clean, slightly dry skin to help control that oily shine.
- Avoid the eye area and do a quick patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Avène Tolerance Control Balm work for oily skin?

Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Balm works reasonably well for oily skin, but other products may fit it better because this formula lacks enough oil-controlling ingredients to manage shiny skin. It helps keep skin soft and hydrated using glycerin and shea butter without causing irritation. To truly thrive, oily skin needs a lightweight moisturizer with peptides and hydrating agents that balance moisture while keeping oil and breakouts under control.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/), [Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for oily skin?

Shea butter and squalane make this cream a good fit by providing great moisture and strengthening your skin barrier without causing irritation. Oily skin also needs lightweight textures, oil control ingredients, and peptides to manage shine and hydration without clogging pores.
Sources: [Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/), [Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33037252/)

### What does Avène Thermal Spring Water do for oily skin?

Avène Thermal Spring Water helps calm and soothe the skin while reducing redness and sensitivity. It has a very gentle profile that is unlikely to clog pores, making it comfortable for oily skin types.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32870553/)

### What does Glycerin do for oily skin?

Glycerin helps keep oily skin hydrated without feeling heavy and supports the skin barrier. Because this product is a weak fit for your skin, an ideal product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and ingredients that balance oil while protecting the skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31840548/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This cream goes in the morning and evening routine as a moisturizer after your cleanser and toner. It is unlikely to cause irritation for your oily skin, but because it lacks ingredients for oil control, an oily skin routine needs ingredients like niacinamide or oil-absorbing minerals to manage shine.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the retinol first and following it with the moisturizer to help soothe the skin. Using a moisturizer with retinol is unlikely to cause irritation and may help improve your skin's comfort and barrier strength during treatment.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. Daily application helps keep your skin hydrated and supports your skin barrier without causing irritation. Oily skin also needs lightweight ingredients that help control shine and balance oil production.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This cream is unlikely to cause breakouts for oily skin, as it has a safe formula with no harsh or irritating ingredients. However, because it provides rich moisture rather than oil control, an oily skin type needs a product with ingredients that balance shine and clear pores.

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

You can safely use this moisturizer around the eyes and on the body because it has a gentle formula without harsh ingredients, though the eyelid skin is quite thin and the back is thick. A product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and oil-controlling ingredients to properly suit oily skin.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$18.90 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/oily-skin) — High fit — A$24.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$34.66 at Amazon
- SPF: [La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/anthelios-clear-skin-dry-touch-sunscreen-spf-60/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$29.99 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B08XYVMRP7?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 1 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Avene Thermal Spring Water Avene Aqua Avene Aqua, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Squalane, Beeswax Cera Alba Cera, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetyl Esters, Aquaphilus Dolomiae Extract Filtrate, Arginine, Citric Acid, Tromethamine, Water, Xanthan Gum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/oily-skin