# PCA Skin Smoothing Toner for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-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: [PCA Skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/pca-skin)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/toners)

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.

A great choice for dry skin; a few toners fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your dry skin due to the presence of glycerin and aloe barbadensis leaf juice, which provide humectant and soothing benefits respectively.
- Offers moderate exfoliation for dry or flaky skin with lactic acid and citric acid, smoothing texture without irritation.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your dry skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Lactic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Hydrastis Canadensis Extract, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract

## 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/))
- Transgenic cucumber expressing poly-γ-glutamic acid synthesis genes increased water content by 6-14%, reduced water loss by 11-12%, decreased facial wrinkles and roughness by 19.58% and 24.97%, decreased skin melanin by 5.27%, and improved facial elasticity in human skin and zebrafish compared to controls. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38336313/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose hydrogel formulations of berberine chloride-loaded escinosomes increased skin residence time and transdermal permeability while maintaining high safety and biocompatibility without skin irritation. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32682035/))
- A carboxymethyl cellulose-based hydrogel film loaded with berberine reduced keratinocyte hyperproliferation by 25% and controlled oxidative stress and inflammation markers in vitro. ([Carbohydrate Polymers, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35153024/))
- Berberine dose-dependently inhibited basal and TPA-induced expression and activity of MMP-9, and suppressed TPA-induced IL-6 expression in normal human keratinocytes. ([Phytomedicine, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17951041/))
- Copper Oxide nanoparticles synthesized using cucumber extract exhibited antibacterial, antifungal, UV protection, and reactive-oxygen species inhibition properties with low cellular toxicity and skin-rejuvenating effects when incorporated into skin cream. ([Endocrine, Metabolic & Immune Disorders Drug Targets, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628604/))
- Topical treatment with Holothuria parva extract gel showed significant wound contraction compared to the negative control in full-thickness wounded rats. ([The International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34791922/))

## What reviewers say

This toner is highly effective for users with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin, successfully reducing breakouts and controlling excess oil without causing excessive dryness. Users frequently report a noticeable improvement in skin texture and pore size, describing their complexion as smoother, clearer, and more refined after consistent use.

- Liked: Clears acne and oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refines and shrinks pores (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-stripping formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Smooths skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Stinging or burning (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Can be drying (rarely noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using your soothing toner 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply your soothing toner after cleansing, and before putting on your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the soothing toner into your skin with your hands. Let it absorb for a minute before adding your next product.
- Apply the soothing toner on slightly damp skin to help it absorb better. This works great for dry or flaky skin to lock in extra moisture.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area when applying the soothing toner. Do a quick patch test before your very first use to be safe.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes PCA Skin Smoothing Toner a great fit for dry skin?

PCA Skin Smoothing Toner is a great fit for dry skin because it combines glycerin and aloe leaf juice to boost moisture and calm the skin. It also uses lactic acid to gently smooth flaky areas without causing irritation, backed by an excellent safety profile for dry skin types.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin and aloe barbadensis leaf juice make this toner a great fit for dry skin by drawing in moisture and calming irritation. Lactic acid and citric acid also help by gently smoothing flaky texture.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Lactic Acid do for dry skin?

Lactic acid helps relieve dry skin by drawing in moisture and strengthening the skin's barrier so it stays soft and smooth. This ingredient gently sheds dead cells and supports natural moisturizing factors, making it very useful for improving rough or flaky areas.
Sources: [International Journal of Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40231699/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23521561/)

### What does Aloe Vera Leaf Juice do for dry skin?

Aloe Vera Leaf Juice helps increase water content in dry skin to keep it feeling soft and smooth. It works well to boost hydration without changing water loss through the skin.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/)

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

This soothing toner goes in the morning routine right after cleansing and before moisturizing. It is a great fit for dry skin because it contains glycerin and aloe leaf juice to help keep skin hydrated and calm.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this toner with retinol by applying the toner first to clean skin, letting it dry, and then following with your retinol. The gentle ingredients and soothing plant extracts help keep dry skin calm while smoothing its texture.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start using this toner once a week in the morning, and if your skin feels comfortable and looks good, you may carefully use it more often. It helps smooth dry or flaky texture with mild acids while keeping skin calm with aloe and glycerin.

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry skin, as it has a very safe formula with soothing ingredients and no heavy oils. Some reviewers report mild stinging, but the gentle acids help smooth flaky patches without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Medicube Super Cica Pad](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/medicube/super-cica-pad/for/dry-skin) — High fit — $18.90 at Amazon
- [The Body Shop Aloe Calming Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/aloe-calming-toner/for/dry-skin) — High fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- [Susanne Kaufmann Tonic Soothing](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/susanne-kaufmann/tonic-soothing/for/dry-skin) — High fit — $35.27 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $19.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $15.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $49.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CCD5FHT?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrastis Canadensis Extract, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Salvia Officinalis Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Paullinia Cupana Seed Extract, Hedera Helix Stem Extract Leaf, Tetrasodium Edta
## 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/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-skin