# Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Balm for dry skin

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

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

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

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

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 moisturizers for dry skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your dry skin as Squalane and Shea Butter provide deep hydration and barrier support, while glycerin and caprylic capric triglyceride offer superior moisturizing and enhance barrier resilience.
- The inclusion of Avene Thermal Spring Water ensures a soothing experience, making it ideal for your dry or flaky skin concerns.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and featuring soothing components that prevent irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))

## 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. Start using it 3 times a week and work your way up to daily use.
- Apply your moisturizer after your toner and before your sunscreen in the morning. At night, use it as the final step after your serum.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing to keep your dry skin happy.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra hydration. This is great for soothing dry and flaky areas .
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Avène Tolerance Control Balm one of the best fits for dry skin?

Avene Tolerance Control Balm is one of the best fits for dry skin because ingredients like squalane and shea butter provide deep hydration and barrier support. Glycerin and caprylic capric triglyceride help moisturize the skin while strengthening its barrier, and Avène Thermal Spring Water calms dry or flaky areas.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Squalane and shea butter provide deep hydration and barrier support, while glycerin and caprylic capric triglyceride offer superior moisturizing and enhance barrier resilience. Avène thermal spring water also ensures a soothing experience that helps calm dry or flaky skin concerns.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Avene Thermal Spring Water helps calm dry skin by reducing redness and soothing irritation. Regular use may also improve skin comfort and reduce the feeling of tightness.
Sources: [The Medical Journal of Malaysia, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38553920/), [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32870553/)

### What does Glycerin do for dry skin?

Glycerin helps dry skin by drawing in moisture and keeping it locked in, which makes the skin feel much softer and smoother. It also supports your natural skin barrier to stop water from escaping easily. A product for dry skin needs extra ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing plant extracts to truly calm and hydrate dry patches.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This cream goes in the morning after a hydrating toner and before sunscreen, and in the evening as the last step after treatments. Using a daily moisturizer helps improve clinical dryness and boosts overall skin comfort.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the cream before or after retinol to keep your dry skin soft and calm while reducing irritation. Using a barrier-enhancing moisturizer along with retinol is well supported by clinical studies to improve skin comfort and help your skin adjust to the treatment.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this cream twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine to keep dry skin comfortable and well hydrated. Daily application helps improve skin moisture and supports the natural skin barrier.
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 dry skin?

This cream is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on dry skin, as it features a safe formula with a low complaint rate for causing blemishes. Its nourishing ingredients help keep your skin calm and moisturized without heaviness.

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

Yes, you can use this moisturizer around the eyes and on your body because its gentle, soothing formula suits delicate areas. Squalane and shea butter provide deep hydration and barrier support while glycerin helps keep skin soft without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### 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 dry skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €17.84 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.07 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.28 at Amazon
- SPF: [Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/thinkbaby/safe-sunscreen-spf-50/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €32.81 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €28.50 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B08XYVMRP7?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €18.93 (https://www.lookfantastic.ie/p/avene-tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm-for-dry-sensitive-skin-40ml/13169865/)
- Notino: €26.90 (https://www.notino.ie/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-regenerating-balm/p-16075997/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 3 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/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/avene/tolerance-control-soothing-skin-recovery-balm/for/dry-skin