# Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/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: [Sulwhasoo](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/sulwhasoo)
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.

Works for dry skin; other toners fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your dry skin, as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide excellent hydration by attracting moisture. However, the formula lacks sufficient emollient ingredients to fully lock in hydration for optimal results.
- The product is safe for your dry skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.
- It provides general hydration benefits for dry or flaky skin, with noticeable yet supportive moisturization.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Honey, Licorice Root Extract, Goji Berries, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower 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/))
- 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/))
- Honey-based dressings reduced mean healing duration, length of hospital stay, and VAS pain scores compared with povidone iodine-based dressings in 1236 participants. ([Journal of Wound Care, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33856925/))
- Topical honey application improved the mean duration of attacks and pain, occurrence of crusting, and healing time compared to acyclovir cream in 16 adult patients with recurrent labial and genital herpes lesions. ([Medical Science Monitor, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15278008/))
- 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/))
- A combination of five-colored plants (mung bean, white truffle, black truffle, chrysanthemum, and Lycium barbarum) at 0.5% concentration improved fibroblast wound healing by 59.89%, reduced cellular senescence markers by 76.32%, and increased epidermal thickness and collagen levels in an ex vivo skin model compared to a negative control. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41340883/))
- Topical administration of phenolic-containing Lycium barbarum extract decreased ROS levels and matrix metalloproteinase expression while increasing antioxidant defenses, skin collagen content, and barrier proteins, leading to an improvement of UV-induced skin erythema, thickness, and wrinkles in mice. ([Photochemistry and Photobiology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34342370/))
- Lycium barbarum polysaccharide pretreatment effectively protects HaCaT cells and mouse skin from blue-light-induced oxidative damage, apoptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction by reducing elevated cellular autophagy and mitophagy levels. ([Photochemistry and Photobiology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37814779/))
- Topical green tea and green tea plus lotus multiple emulsions reduced casual sebum secretions compared to placebo in healthy adults, with the combined treatment producing significantly greater reductions than green tea alone over a 60-day period. ([Hippokratia, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23935347/))
- Combined topical application of lotus and green tea improved facial skin surface parameters including roughness, scaliness, smoothness, and wrinkling in healthy Asian men compared to single treatments and placebo. ([Rejuvenation Research, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23267660/))
- Cosmetics containing lotus-derived callus extract showed a significant skin-whitening effect in 21 volunteers. ([Plants, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38068559/))

## Why other toners fit dry skin better

- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- Sodium trehalose sulfate decreased transepidermal water loss and increased stratum corneum water content in participants with low stratum corneum water content when applied for 4 weeks compared to placebo. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38606717/))
- A mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida prevented skin aging by improving procollagen type I expression, diminishing matrix metalloproteinase-1 secretion, reducing skin roughness and photodamage scores, and decreasing loss of skin moisture in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. ([Journal of Ginseng Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28123324/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this toner is highly praised for its deep hydration and luxurious, non-sticky texture, effectively creating a plump and dewy complexion. It is particularly beneficial for dry and dehydrated skin, offering a soothing effect and a pleasant herbal scent that many enjoy. Some users find the fragrance to be strong, and the price point is considered high, though its effectiveness is frequently noted.

- Liked: Deep hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Luxurious texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Soothing effect (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Herbal scent (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Radiant finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Heavy packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritants (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your hydrating toner AM and PM every day to keep skin soft. Always finish your morning routine with sunscreen.
- Apply the hydrating toner after cleansing and before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the hydrating toner into your skin and let it absorb. Avoid rubbing your face too hard.
- Put the hydrating toner on slightly damp skin to help your face absorb the moisture better.
- Be careful to avoid the eye area when applying the product.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water work for dry skin?

Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water works moderately well for dry skin, offering basic hydration through ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate. However, it lacks sufficient softening ingredients to fully lock in moisture and prevent dryness. Dry skin needs formulas rich in effective hydrating agents and protective softeners to maximize moisture retention and comfort.
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?

Sodium hyaluronate and glycerin make this toner a good fit for dry skin by attracting moisture for moderate hydration. However, a product of this type needs richer emollient ingredients to fully lock in that moisture and keep dry skin feeling soft and comfortable.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into dry skin, giving an immediate and lasting boost in hydration that helps smooth out fine lines and soften rough patches. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving overall skin smoothness and plumpness.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### What does Honey do for dry skin?

Honey helps dry skin by drawing in moisture and keeping it soft, smooth, and well-hydrated. It also helps calm irritation and supports the skin barrier while reducing water loss.
Sources: [Pharmaceuticals, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42515784/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24305429/)

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

This hydrating toner fits in the morning routine right after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Dry skin of this type needs rich, nourishing oils or butters to lock in that moisture and keep the skin soft all day.

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

You can use this toner with your retinol by applying the toner right after cleansing and before your treatment in your evening routine. This helps hydrate dry skin, though a toner of this type needs richer, softening ingredients to fully lock in moisture.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this hydrating toner daily in your morning routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. A product of this type for dry skin needs rich, nourishing hydrators and rich oils or butters to properly lock in moisture and keep skin soft.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores, cause breakouts, or lead to purging on dry skin. The formula is safe and free of harsh ingredients that typically cause irritation or breakouts.

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

It contains fragrance (parfum, limonene, and linalool) and drying alcohol (alcohol).

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/ginseng-essence-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $17.79 at Amazon
- [Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/isntree/hyaluronic-acid-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $17.90 at Amazon
- [Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner Plus](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/isntree/hyaluronic-acid-toner-plus/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $14.90 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

No store in United States has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Alcohol, Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Glycerin, Peg Ppg-17 6 Copolymer, Glycereth-26, Phenoxyethanol, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Honey, Miel, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Cross-Polymer, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract, Polygonatum Officinale Root Extract Rhizome, Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract, Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract, Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone, Parfum, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Potassium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Limonene, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Natto Gum, Sodium Hyaluronate, Linalool, Propanediol, Bht, Acetic Acid, Tocopherol, Beta-Glucan
## 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/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin