# Medik8 Press & Glow for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [Medik8](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/medik8)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/toners)

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 toners fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your oily skin due to gluconolactone, which gently smooths texture and provides general skincare benefits.
- While Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice offer soothing properties, the formula lacks stronger ingredients for significant seboregulation.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and the inclusion of calming botanical extracts.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Pha Polyhydroxy Acid, Gluconolactone, Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract

## What the research says

- Opuntia ficus-indica extract and its isorhamnetin-glucosyl-rhamnoside suppressed nitric oxide, COX-2, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 production in vitro and inhibited croton oil-induced ear edema in vivo. ([BioMed Research International, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25821823/))
- 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/))
- Combining 10% gluconolactone chemical peeling with oxybrasion or microneedle mesotherapy increased skin hydration and decreased sebum, pH, and TEWL in twenty-one Caucasian women, with no significant differences between the two methods. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/))
- Nanoemulsions containing 1% Opuntia ficus-indica extract demonstrated suitable stability and successfully increased the water content of the stratum corneum for 5 hours after forearm application. ([Molecules, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25648593/))
- 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/))
- Opuntia ficus-indica extract activated AHR-NRF2 signaling, inhibited reactive oxygen species generation, and upregulated filaggrin and loricrin expression in human keratinocytes. ([Journal of Medicinal Food, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26061570/))
- Pre-treating normal human keratinocytes with an Opuntia ficus-indica cladode water extract protected against UVA-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis by inhibiting free radicals, lipid peroxidation, and GSH depletion. ([Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29107540/))
- Mucilaginous and methanol extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica flowers accelerated wound contraction and improved cutaneous repair compared to the control group in rats. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26306411/))
- 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/))
- An acai oil-based organogel containing hyaluronic acid showed no cytotoxicity and provided a high level of hydration, thermal protection, and hyaluronic acid release after 6 hours of application in in vitro and ex vivo tests. ([Pharmaceutics, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39339231/))
- Phenolic compounds from açai fruit, specifically malvidin and cyanidin derivatives, strongly protect immortalized fibroblasts against UV-A-induced oxidative stress by preventing ROS production, GSH depletion, lipid peroxidation, and stress-pathway protein phosphorylation compared to unprotected irradiated cells. ([Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology. B, Biology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28527426/))
- Nanotechnological hydrogels containing desonide nanocapsules and açai oil increased epidermal drug retention and reduced ear edema and inflammatory cell infiltration comparably to a commercial formulation with twice the drug concentration in an animal model of acute skin inflammation. ([Pharmaceutical Development and Technology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35850635/))

## Why other toners fit oily skin better

- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Chemical peels with 30% supramolecular salicylic acid effectively treated acne and reduced facial sebum secretion while improving skin hydration and barrier function in 25 patients. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35073439/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently report that it hydrates well, creates a perfect base for makeup, and pairs effectively with Vitamin A (retinol) routines. Based on a very large amount of data, this should be definitely taken into account. A small minority experienced dryness or a lack of visible results.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves glow (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Packaging & usability (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: No results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliating toner once a week at first, then increase frequency only if your skin feels fine.
- Apply the exfoliating toner after cleansing and before your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press a few drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin and let it dry.
- Apply the exfoliating toner on clean and dry skin for the best results.
- Avoid the eye area and always use sunscreen during the day.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Medik8 Press & Glow work for oily skin?

Medik8 Press & Glow works moderately well for oily skin by smoothing texture and calming the skin, though other products fit it better. An exfoliating toner for oily skin needs effective ingredients like salicylic acid or strong exfoliating acids and calming extracts that control oil, minimize pores, and manage shine.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

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

This toner fits oily skin through gluconolactone, which provides moderate exfoliation to gently smooth texture, alongside soothing aloe vera and prickly pear flower extract. To work best for oily skin, a product of this type needs stronger oil-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid or willow BHA to manage shine and minimize pores.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

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

Polyhydroxy Acid helps oily skin by balancing oil production and lowering skin pH while remaining very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation. This type of ingredient works best when it also includes calming and purifying ingredients to keep pores clear and skin smooth.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37335807/)

### What does Gluconolactone do for oily skin?

Gluconolactone helps clear up oily skin by reducing both red and blocked bumps similarly to harsher treatments but with fewer side-effects. It is unlikely to irritate your skin and may improve overall skin texture when used regularly.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

This exfoliating toner goes in the evening routine after cleansing, as Lovi routines place exfoliating steps and treatments then for simplicity and safety around sun exposure. It works safely on oily skin without harsh irritation, but oily skin also needs stronger ingredients for significant oil control.

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

You can use this exfoliating toner with retinol by applying the toner first in your routine and following it with your retinol product. Because this toner uses a gentle PHA, it is unlikely to cause harsh irritation when paired with retinol, though you should watch how your skin feels and space them out if dryness occurs.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start by using this toner once a week in the evening, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps prevent irritation while giving your oily skin moderate exfoliation.

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on oily skin, as it features a gentle formula with soothing ingredients and low irritation risks. An exfoliating toner for this skin type typically needs stronger oil-balancing and pore-clearing ingredients to prevent breakouts effectively.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [BE THE SKIN BHA+ Pore Zero Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/be-the-skin/bha-pore-zero-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €26.10 at Amazon
- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €124.67 at Amazon
- [Missha Skin Peeling Pad](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/skin-peeling-pad/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €28.16 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €33.70 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €41.99 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B08KYV8H21?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €35.00 (https://www.notino.nl/medik8/press-glow-exfolierende-reinigingstonic/p-16157170/)
- Lookfantastic: €40.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.nl/p/medik8-press-and-glow-tonic-200ml/12708819/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Gluconolactone, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Citrate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate
## 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/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/press-and-glow/for/oily-skin