# Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Superior · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-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: [Glow Recipe](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/glow-recipe)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best toners for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination skin as gluconolactone and betaine salicylate provide effective chemical exfoliation and pore refinement, while watermelon extract and glycerin offer essential hydration to balance oiliness.
- The inclusion of willow bark extract further targets oily shine and pore congestion, complementing the primary actives for a comprehensive treatment.
- This formula is safe for your skin, featuring soothing watermelon fruit extract and glycerin with no harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Pha Polyhydroxy Acid, Bha Beta Hydroxy Acid, Watermelon Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Licorice Root Extract

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Coniferyl alcohol derived from seed watermelon promoted linoleic acid-stimulated lipogenesis by approximately 2.2-fold at 300 µM and increased total lipid content in SZ95 sebocytes compared to controls. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40871513/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this toner is highly regarded for its hydrating and gently exfoliating properties, resulting in smoother skin and a radiant glow. It is particularly effective at minimizing pores for oily and combination skin types.

- Liked: Hydrates skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Glow and radiance (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Refines pores (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Expensive price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliating toner during your PM routine. Start once a week and slowly build up if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your exfoliating toner right after cleansing and before your favorite moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the exfoliating toner on clean and completely dry skin to get the best results for your combination skin.
- Always avoid the sensitive eye area and wear daily SPF to protect your skin.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner one of the best fits for combination skin?

This exfoliating toner is an excellent fit for combination skin because its acids gently clear out pores while watermelon extract and glycerin hydrate dry areas and balance oiliness. Willow bark extract further helps control oily shine without harshness, keeping the skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

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

This toner is an excellent fit for combination skin because gluconolactone and betaine salicylate provide gentle exfoliation to clear pores, while watermelon extract and glycerin supply essential hydration to balance oily areas.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

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

Polyhydroxy Acid helps balance combination skin by boosting hydration while keeping oiliness under control. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation, making it great for smoothing texture without drying out the skin.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/), [Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002656/)

### What does Bha do for combination skin?

BHA helps keep combination skin clear by diving deep into pores to sweep away dead cells and excess oil, which reduces breakouts and calms redness. It is generally very safe and unlikely to cause irritation when used in a daily routine.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

This exfoliating toner goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your treatment and moisturizer. Lovi routines start exfoliating steps once a week, and people who tolerate them well and see good results can carefully use them more often.

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

You can use this exfoliating toner with retinol by applying the toner first after cleansing, allowing it to absorb fully, and then following with your retinol. Because this routine combines two active treatments, introducing them slowly helps your skin adjust and is unlikely to cause irritation.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start using this exfoliating toner once a week, and if your combination skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you can carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps refine pores and balance oiliness while minimizing any risk of irritation.

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on combination skin because its gentle acids help clear out congestion while soothing ingredients keep skin calm. Some reviewers report minor breakouts, but the formula has excellent suitability for your skin with very low risks of causing issues.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Biossance Squalane + BHA Pore-Minimizing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $32.00 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Vita C Plus Brightening Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/vita-c-plus-brightening-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $23.50 at Amazon
- [COSRX AHA BHA Vitamin C Daily Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/aha-bha-vitamin-c-daily-toner/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $14.97 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $14.97 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $35.11 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087MW23C3?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract Cactus Extract, Watermelon Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Water, Gluconolactone, Sodium Polyglutamate, Betaine Salicylate, Willow Bark Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Extract, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract, Lactobacillus Watermelon Extract Fruit Ferment, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Brassica Oleracea Capitata Leaf Extract, Ipomoea Batatas Root Extract, Sorbitan Oleate, Levulinic Acid, Sodium Levulinate, Parfum
## 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/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/combination-skin