# Elemis Balancing Lavender Toner for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin

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: [Elemis](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/elemis)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/toners)

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

Works for acne-prone skin; other cleansing toners fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing and hydration for your combination skin, as glycerin and saponins help decongest gently and retain moisture. Lavandula Angustifolia Oil provides anti-inflammatory benefits supportive for acne and blemishes.
- The formula offers general skincare benefits that can aid in soothing and hydrating, which is beneficial for managing breakouts.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing lavender oil.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Lavender Oil, Lavender Flower Extract, Glycerin, Saponins, Chlorphenesin

## 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/))
- Saponaria officinalis callus extract suppressed inflammatory mediators in macrophages, showed no skin irritation in 30 volunteers, and significantly reduced desquamation by 44.07% in 21 participants, demonstrating significant anti-inflammatory and exfoliating effects. ([Plants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40431100/))
- Saponins of Korean red ginseng protect the skin from particulate matter-induced damage by decreasing levels of reactive oxygen species, leptin, inflammatory cytokines, and melanin. ([Nutrients, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35215495/))
- Polysaccharide-based O/W emulsions incorporated with lavender essential oil applied to cellulosic support are non-irritating, provide softness and moisturizing effects, and are safe for topical patch applications. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34547316/))
- Gellan gum hydrogel films co-encapsulating ofloxacin with tea tree or lavender oil achieved 98% wound contraction and completely healed epidermis in rats after ten days of treatment compared to baseline. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33130262/))
- Topical application of lavender oil significantly promoted wound contraction, collagen synthesis, and fibroblast differentiation with up-regulation of TGF-beta in a rat model compared to control. ([BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27229681/))
- Lavandula angustifolia leaf callus extract enhanced skin cell viability, reduced oxidative stress and melanin content, improved wound healing, and enhanced skin barrier function in human skin cells and clinical tests. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40345503/))
- Tea tree oil effectively treated acne while lavender and rosemary oils demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties in derma cosmetic applications based on an evaluation of various essential oils. ([Frontiers in Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40917836/))
- A blend of Lavandula angustifolia flower extract and dipeptide-4 reduced oxidative and glycation markers, enhanced ATP, SOD, autophagy, and melatonin production, and improved tissue morphology in human skin models and fibroblasts. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41235571/))
- 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/))
- Lycoperoside H from tomato seeds improved epidermal dehydration by stimulating ceramide synthesis and increasing total stratum corneum ceramides by approximately 1.5-fold and ceramide (NP) by approximately 2-fold in reconstructed human epidermal keratinization models, while exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects in animal tests. ([Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34641404/))
- Total saponins of Panax notoginseng ameliorated sodium dodecyl sulfate-induced barrier impairment in a reconstructed human epidermis model by alleviating stratum corneum thickening, upregulating barrier-related proteins, and regulating a multi-pathway network involving lipid metabolism. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41465207/))
- Ginseng berry rare saponins protected human keratinocytes and mouse skin against UVB-induced photodamage and ferroptosis by activating the Nrf2/HO-1/GPX4 pathway. ([Food Research International, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39643347/))

## What reviewers say

This alcohol-free toner is praised for purifying and hydrating combination skin, leaving it balanced, soft, and refreshed. Users frequently note its gentle, non-stripping properties and a refreshing lavender scent, with many appreciating its ability to enhance the absorption of subsequent skincare products. Some users find the lavender scent strong, and a few mention potential dryness for dry skin types.

- Liked: Gentle and non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Convenient spray (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong lavender scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Spray bottle preference (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using the cleansing toner 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the 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 before layering other products.
- Apply the cleansing toner on dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target blemishes.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before first use to ensure your skin feels comfortable.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Elemis Balancing Lavender Toner work for acne-prone skin?

Elemis Balancing Lavender Toner works moderately well for acne-prone skin by offering gentle cleansing, moisture retention, and soothing benefits to help manage breakouts. While it is safe and calming, this skin type needs a product that includes strong blemish-fighting ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or niacinamide, paired with hydrating and soothing components like aloe vera or gentle exfoliants.
Sources: [Plants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40431100/)

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

Glycerin and saponins help gently clear pores and hold onto moisture, while lavender oil and extract provide calming benefits for breakouts. A toner for acne-prone skin needs ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or niacinamide to more effectively target blemishes and balance oil.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Lavender Oil do for acne-prone skin?

Lavender oil helps acne-prone skin because it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that target breakouts and calm redness. Studies show it may fight acne-causing bacteria and reduce swelling safely.
Sources: [Nanomaterials, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36903722/), [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37687224/)

### What does Lavender Flower Extract do for acne-prone skin?

Lavender Flower Extract helps calm acne-prone skin by reducing redness and swelling linked to breakouts. It also offers antioxidant benefits that protect irritated skin while it heals.
Sources: [Anais Da Academia Brasileira de Ciencias, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26247152/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

Use Elemis Balancing Lavender Toner as a cleansing toner in your evening routine after removing makeup and cleansing. Acne-prone skin works best with products that provide gentle decongestion, moisture retention, and calming ingredients like lavender oil and glycerin.

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

You can use this toner with retinol by applying the toner first to hydrate and soothe, followed by your retinol treatment. This approach helps keep your skin calm while managing breakouts, though acne-prone skin ultimately needs gentle cleansers and barrier-repairing ingredients to fully thrive.

### How often should I use it?

You can use this toner in your evening routine as a gentle cleansing step. To best manage acne-prone skin, this type of product also needs ingredients that deeply clear pores and keep oil balanced.

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it is free of harsh ingredients and uses soothing lavender oil and gentle cleansers to help calm the skin. However, since it is only an average fit for acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs stronger blemish-fighting ingredients and oil-balancing benefits to truly keep breakouts at bay.
Sources: [Plants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40431100/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (linalool, geraniol, parfum, and limonene).

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Aesop In Two Minds Facial Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/aesop/in-two-minds-facial-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $57.00 at Amazon
- [LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Exfoliating Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/laneige/water-bank-blue-hyaluronic-exfoliating-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $31.00 at Amazon
- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Boosting Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-boosting-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $20.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $44.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0079QOG2G?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Polysorbate 20, Glycerin, Methyl Gluceth-20, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Edta, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Lavender Oil, Chlorphenesin, Linalool, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Saponins, Tromethamine, Geraniol, Parfum, Limonene, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract Lavender Flower Extract, Saponaria Officinalis Root Extract Leaf Sweet Betty Root Extract Leaf
## 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/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/elemis/balancing-lavender-toner/for/acne-prone-skin