# The INKEY List PHA Toner for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin

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

Brand: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/the-inkey-list)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best toners for dry skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry skin due to gluconolactone and niacinamide, which gently smooth texture and provide hydration without compromising the skin barrier. Glycerin and propanediol further support humectant action, enhancing overall skin comfort.
- The inclusion of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice offers soothing benefits, complementing the exfoliating properties for a balanced approach to dry or flaky skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your dry skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin): High (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Pha Polyhydroxy Acid, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Topical application of 1,3-propanediol at various concentrations, alone or combined with butylene glycol and/or glycerol, increased skin hydration and reduced trans epidermal water loss in 30 healthy female subjects over an 8-hour period, with the 15% concentration and the addition of glycerol providing greater benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/))
- 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/))
- Lactobionic acid produced better skin performance with a lack of skin irritation and barrier impairment compared to glycolic acid in 77 healthy volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- Gluconolactone and tartaric acid significantly lower transepidermal water loss and erythema after sodium lauryl sulphate challenge compared to vehicle, untreated control, and glycolic acid in healthy subjects. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9470910/))
- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with sensitive and dry skin frequently praise this toner for its ability to gently smooth texture and reduce redness without causing irritation. A moderate number of users note a sticky finish, while a low number find the formula too mild for visible results.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Helps acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too mild (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliating toner as part of your PM routine once a week to start. If your skin is happy, you can slowly use it more often.
- Apply this exfoliating toner right after your cleanser and before your moisturizer. This keeps your skin care steps in the right order.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin with your hands. Let it soak in for a minute before the next step.
- Put the exfoliating toner on clean and dry skin to help it work best. Avoid rubbing so your face stays calm and happy.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the sensitive eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The INKEY List PHA Toner a great fit for dry skin?

This toner is a great fit because it provides gentle exfoliation while smoothing texture and keeping dry skin comfortable. Ingredients like gluconolactone and niacinamide work with glycerin and aloe juice to deliver hydration and soothe dry or flaky skin without irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a good fit for dry skin?

This toner is a great fit for dry skin because gluconolactone and niacinamide smooth texture gently while glycerin and propanediol boost hydration and comfort. Aloe leaf juice also helps soothe flaky skin without causing irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/)

### What does Polyhydroxy Acid do for dry skin?

Polyhydroxy Acid helps keep dry skin hydrated and comfortable while smoothing its surface without causing irritation or barrier damage. It effectively binds moisture and supports the skin barrier while delivering gentle anti-aging benefits.
Sources: [Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002657/), [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728698/)

### What does Niacinamide do for dry skin?

Niacinamide helps dry skin by strengthening the skin barrier, increasing hydration, and reducing water loss. It supports ceramide production and helps keep the surface smooth and calm. This ingredient tends to be very well tolerated and is unlikely to irritate dry skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42108609/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for dry skin?

This exfoliating toner is a great fit for your dry skin because it gently smooths texture and adds hydration without causing irritation. You can use it once a week to start, and then carefully increase the frequency if your skin tolerates it well.

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

You can use this exfoliating toner with retinol by applying it after cleansing and before your retinol treatment. Because it is very gentle and hydrating, it is unlikely to cause irritation when paired with your routine.

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this exfoliating toner once a week in your evening routine, and carefully use it more often only if your dry skin tolerates it well and sees good results.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry skin?

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry skin, as its safety profile is excellent and reviewers report virtually no breakouts. The gentle ingredients smooth texture while keeping your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/dry-skin) — High fit — A$62.73 at Amazon
- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Boosting Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-boosting-toner/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — A$30.00 at Amazon
- [La Prairie Cellular Refining Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-prairie/cellular-refining-lotion/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — A$184.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.09 at Amazon
- SPF: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$43.80 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B09NB35HJB?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-skin