# COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/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 Germany.

Brand: [COSRX](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/cosrx)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/toners)

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 weak match for oily acne-prone skin; the toners alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers general hydration and soothing benefits for your oily skin and acne-prone skin due to propolis extract and honey extract, but these ingredients are not specialized for targeting acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- Glycerin and panthenol provide humectant action that may be too heavy for oily skin, offering only partial benefits for your primary concerns.
- The product is safe for your oily skin with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low (this page)

## Key ingredients

Propolis Extract, Honey Extract, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol

## What the research says

- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- 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/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- 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 propolis application significantly reduced postoperative pain, hemorrhage, and accelerated wound healing in patients undergoing tonsillectomy compared to a control group. ([Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29665628/))
- Topical treatment with ethanol propolis extract resulted in complete mycological and clinical cure in 56.25% of patients with onychomycosis, demonstrating non-toxicity and effective antifungal activity against Trichophyton spp. both in vitro and in patients. ([Frontiers in Microbiology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29922236/))
- Honey-based dressings reduced mean healing duration, length of hospital stay, and VAS pain scores compared with povidone iodine-based dressings in 1236 participants. ([Journal of Wound Care, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33856925/))
- Topical honey application improved the mean duration of attacks and pain, occurrence of crusting, and healing time compared to acyclovir cream in 16 adult patients with recurrent labial and genital herpes lesions. ([Medical Science Monitor, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15278008/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))

## Why other toners fit oily acne-prone skin better

- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this toner is highly praised for delivering deep hydration and a radiant glow, making it ideal for dry, dehydrated, or dull skin types. It effectively calms redness and soothes active acne without feeling heavy. Some users with sensitive skin appreciate its gentle formulation. A small number of users reported experiencing breakouts or a sticky finish.

- Liked: Deep hydration glow (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothing healing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formulation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Allergic reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lack of results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin feels fine.
- Apply your hydrating toner after cleansing and before putting on your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the hydrating toner into your skin with your hands. Let it ⏱absorb for a minute before adding your next product.
- Applying the hydrating toner on slightly damp skin helps your face absorb it better. This keeps your oily skin balanced and hydrated.
- Be sure to avoid the eye area when applying. Do a patch test before your first use to check for any reaction.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is COSRX Propolis Toner a weak match for oily acne-prone skin?

This toner provides general soothing and hydration, but it lacks specialized ingredients to target acne and breakouts. Its humectant ingredients may also feel too heavy for oily skin. A product of this type needs oil-controlling agents, excellent hydrating and soothing properties, and ingredients that actively address blemishes while balancing skin health.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a poor fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Glycerin and panthenol are the main ingredients that may be too heavy for oily skin. A toner for this skin type needs oil-controlling agents and specialized ingredients to target acne and breakouts, rather than just heavy moisture.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Propolis extract helps calm breakouts and redness on oily, acne-prone skin while fighting the bacteria that cause pimples. It works to reduce redness scars and clear up lesions, making it a helpful addition to your routine for clearer skin.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/), [Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722953/)

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

Honey extract helps calm oily acne-prone skin while keeping it soft and smooth. It acts as a natural treatment that supports healing and provides antimicrobial benefits to help manage breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24305429/)

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

This toner goes right after your cleanser in the morning routine, and it is also used after a cleansing mask during your weekly routine. It provides general soothing and hydration, but oily and acne-prone skin needs ingredients that specifically target acne, blemishes, and breakouts.

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

You can use this toner with retinol by applying the toner first to damp skin and following with your retinol once it absorbs. This product is safe for your skin with no risk of irritation, though oily skin of this type needs specialized ingredients that target acne, blemishes, and breakouts rather than heavy hydration.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this toner?

You can use this hydrating toner in both your morning and evening routines after cleansing. It is safe for your oily skin and unlikely to cause irritation, though its ingredients may feel too heavy for your skin type. Oily acne-prone skin of this type needs lightweight ingredients that specifically target blemishes and breakouts.

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause purging, but it may occasionally cause breakouts for oily acne-prone skin because some of its moisturizing ingredients can feel a bit heavy. Oily and acne-prone skin needs lightweight products with ingredients that actively target blemishes and breakouts while keeping hydration balanced without heaviness.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €12.59 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.30 at Amazon
- [Torriden Dive-In Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/torriden/dive-in-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.06 at Amazon

## Routine for oily acne-prone skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €37.64 at Amazon
- SPF: [Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dear-klairs/all-day-airy-sunscreen/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Rodial Vitamin C Brightening Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/rodial/vitamin-c-brightening-tonic/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €24.62 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €5.80 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €37.64 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €48.55 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [VT Cosmetics Cica Purifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vt-cosmetics/cica-purifying-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €16.79 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €5.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €14.00 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B089SCWPJR?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €18.90 (https://www.notino.de/cosrx/full-fit-propolis-hauttonikum-fuer-klare-und-glatte-haut/p-16113532/)
Prices checked 3 Nov – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Propolis Extract, Honey Extract, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycerin, Betaine, Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride
## 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/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin