# Acwell 5.5 Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: High fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Superior · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots

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

Brand: [Acwell](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/acwell)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for skin with dark spots; a few cleansing toners fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your normal skin is provided by licorice root water and glycerin, which offer humectant action and support skin hydration while Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract brightens and provides antioxidant effects for your pigmentation concerns.
- The cleansing efficacy is notable due to Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides and Poloxamer 184, which effectively remove impurities and excess oil, further complementing your normal skin type.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your normal skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing botanical extracts.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots): High (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Licorice Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Licorice Root Water Root, Rheum Palmatum Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Psidium Guajava Leaf Extract

## What the research says

- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))
- Topical application of Glycyrrhiza glabra and Sophora japonica flavonoid-rich fractions individually and in combination significantly increased the wound healing rate and reduced oxidative stress compared to wound and Nolaver-treated groups. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37049756/))
- Topical application of the rhubarb charcoal-crosslinked chitosan/silk fibroin sponge scaffold effectively mitigated hepatic lipid accumulation, decreased inflammation, and attenuated oxidative stress in db/db mice via the AMPK signalling pathway. ([Lipids in Health and Disease, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38378566/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of green tea extract encapsulated chitosan microparticles improved skin elasticity, melanin index, and facial wrinkles compared to a placebo in female volunteers without causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34965006/))
- A toner with 6% guava extract significantly reduced skin oiliness on the forehead and nose compared to the base toner in 21 volunteers over 28 days. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30964238/))
- Pre-incubation with guava crude extract significantly decreased apoptotic and dead cells and markers of oxidative damage while improving antioxidant enzyme activity in human dermal fibroblasts subjected to AAPH-mediated oxidative stress, compared to cells subjected to stress without prior pre-incubation. ([Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29455277/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this toner is widely praised as a "holy grail" cleansing step that effectively removes lingering impurities while balancing the skin's pH without stripping moisture. Users with dull or sensitive skin frequently report a noticeable brightening effect and improved texture, though a small minority experience breakouts or dislike the herbal scent.

- Liked: Deep cleansing ability (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens and evens tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle for sensitive skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Scent preference (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using your cleansing toner 3 times a week and work up to daily use if your skin tolerates it.
- Apply your cleansing toner after cleansing, and before your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the cleansing toner into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the cleansing toner on clean and dry skin for the best results .
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Acwell Licorice Toner a great fit for skin with dark spots?

Acwell 5.5 Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner is a great fit because licorice extract helps brighten dark spots and provides antioxidants, while licorice root water and glycerin keep your skin hydrated. It also gently cleans away dirt and oil without irritating normal skin.

### Which ingredients make this toner a good fit for skin with dark spots?

Licorice extract and licorice root water make this toner a great fit for skin with dark spots because they help brighten your skin and provide antioxidant effects for your pigmentation concerns. They are supported by gentle plant extracts that keep your skin safe and calm without causing irritation.

### What does Licorice Extract do for skin with dark spots?

Licorice extract helps fade dark spots and even out skin tone by slowing down the melanin production that causes discoloration. It is also very safe and gentle, making it unlikely to irritate even sensitive skin while brightening your complexion.
Sources: [Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40350048/), [Pigment Cell Research, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9870547/)

### What does Licorice Root Water do for skin with dark spots?

Licorice root water helps fade dark spots and uneven skin tone by calming the skin and supporting a more even complexion. It is generally well tolerated and unlikely to cause irritation, making it a gentle option for brightening dark areas.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21623927/)

### Where does this toner go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This cleansing toner goes in your evening routine after removing makeup and cleansing, as part of your steps to help brighten dark spots. It is very gentle on normal skin, helping to refresh and clear away excess oil without causing irritation.

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

Yes, you can use this toner with retinol by applying the toner first to clean skin and following it with your retinol treatment. This helps prep the skin while delivering brightening benefits, and it is unlikely to cause irritation since the formula includes soothing botanical extracts and lacks harsh ingredients.

### How often should I use this toner?

You can use this cleansing toner in your evening routine for skin with dark spots. It is a great fit because licorice root extract helps brighten dark spots while gentle cleansers remove impurities without causing irritation.

### Can this toner clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, as reviews report a very low risk and the formula avoids harsh ingredients while including soothing botanical extracts. It helps clear away impurities and excess oil gently without disrupting your skin.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Boosting Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-boosting-toner/for/dark-spots) — High fit — $20.00 at Amazon
- [Troubless Clear Toner Pad](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/troubless/clear-toner-pad/for/dark-spots) — High fit — $19.99 at Amazon
- [SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-clear-lotion/for/dark-spots) — High fit — $80.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $16.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $17.90 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $15.70 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LZK411L?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Licorice Root Water Root, Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Poloxamer 184, Phenoxyethanol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Rheum Palmatum Root Extract, Psidium Guajava Leaf Extract, Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Perilla Ocymoides Seed Extract, Poncirus Trifoliata Fruit Extract, Bergamot Oil Fruit, Sodium Citrate, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract, Cimicifuga Dahurica Root Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Propylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
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- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/acwell/5-5-licorice-ph-balancing-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots
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