# Shiseido Activating Essence for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [Shiseido](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/shiseido)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/serums)

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

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your oily skin, this essence utilizes Lactobacillus Ferment and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract to help regulate oil production and provide antioxidant benefits, addressing your concerns with acne and breakouts.
- The inclusion of sodium acetylated hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid offers moderate hydration, supporting your skin's moisture balance without exacerbating oiliness.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Hyaluronic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Rosa Roxburghii Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment

## What the research says

- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Motor baicalin encapsulated in bio-vesicles enhanced water solubility, stability, transdermal penetration, antioxidant activity, and clinical skin antiaging efficacy compared to liposome baicalin and baicalin raw material. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39946269/))
- A nighttime topical antioxidant containing resveratrol, baicalin, and vitamin E significantly improved fine lines, wrinkles, firmness, elasticity, laxity, hyperpigmentation, radiance, roughness, and dermal thickness in subjects with mild to moderately photodamaged skin over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25607790/))
- Glycyrrhizin micellar nanocarriers significantly improved topical penetration and follicular accumulation of baicalin in porcine skin, enhanced human dermal papilla cell proliferation, and promoted hair recovery through Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation and upregulation of VEGF, α-MSH, and IL-10. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35973589/))
- Rosa roxburghii fruit extract and its isolated ellagitannins, strictinin and casuarictin, suppressed poly(I:C)-induced interleukin-8 mRNA expression and release in normal human epidermal keratinocytes compared to stimulated controls. ([Journal of Natural Medicines, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33830449/))
- Probiotic-derived lotion successfully reduced inflammatory acne lesion counts and erythema index comparably to 2.5% benzoyl peroxide in patients with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris, while causing fewer side effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35384257/))
- Topical application of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 enhanced collagen synthesis and SPTSSA gene expression while reducing melanin synthesis, Staphylococcus aureus biofilm, and Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, leading to clinical improvements in skin moisture, color, spots, wrinkles, UV spots, and porphyrins in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/))
- Lactobacillus plantarum extracellular vesicles modulated extracellular matrix related gene expression in vitro and suppressed wrinkle formation and pigmentation in clinical trials. ([Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35723322/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users across various skin types consistently report that this essence leaves their skin feeling softer, smoother, and more radiant. It is widely valued for its lightweight, non-sticky texture that effectively hydrates and prepares the skin for subsequent products, though some users note its strong fragrance and alcohol content. This should definitely be taken into account.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves radiance (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Refillable packaging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Alcohol content (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lack of pump (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Shiseido Activating Essence a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Shiseido Activating Essence is a great fit because it uses Lactobacillus Ferment and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract to help regulate oil and manage breakouts on oily skin. It also includes hyaluronic acid to provide moderate hydration without adding extra oil, and it has a very safe formula that is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/)

### Which ingredients make this essence a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This essence is a great fit because it uses Lactobacillus Ferment and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract to help regulate oil and keep breakouts calm. Hyaluronic Acid and sodium acetylated hyaluronate also provide light hydration that is unlikely to make oily skin feel greasy.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

### What does Green Tea Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Green tea extract helps calm oily, acne-prone skin by reducing oil and the number of pimples and red bumps. It is unlikely to irritate because topical green tea products have a very safe profile in human studies.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/), [Phytotherapy Research, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32812270/)

### Where does this essence go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and safe around sun exposure, though some treatments can also be used in the morning or twice a day.

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

Yes, you can use this essence with retinol by applying the essence first and following it with your retinol once it absorbs. This combination is generally well tolerated because the soothing components in the formula help keep irritation low while you treat breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this essence?

Use this essence in the evening as part of your routine. It is unlikely to cause irritation and helps balance moisture without making your skin oily.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/)

### Can this essence clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This essence is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on oily skin, as it contains ingredients that help regulate oil and soothe the skin without heavy oils. It does not contain harsh components that cause purging, and its balanced hydration supports your skin safely.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/galactomyces-95-tone-balancing-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.49 at Amazon
- [Dr. Ceuracle Tea Tree Purifine 95 Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-ceuracle/tea-tree-purifine-95-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$48.14 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Peg Ppg-14 7 Dimethyl Ether, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Parfum, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Sodium Metabisulfite, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopherol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Rosa Roxburghii Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment
## 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/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shiseido/activating-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin