# The History of Whoo HwanYu Essence for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/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: The History of Whoo
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/moisturizers)

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 moisturizers for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your combination skin due to Panax Ginseng Root Extract and Velvet Extract, which provide antioxidant activity and barrier repair to hydrate and improve skin elasticity.
- The formula offers general skincare benefits like hydration and soothing, which are supportive for your oily shine, though it lacks specialized ingredients to directly address this concern.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Cordyceps Sinensis Extract, Squalane, Ceramide Np, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter

## What the research says

- Deer antler velvet extract formulated in sponge spicule micro-blend cream applied to healthy humans for 14 days enhanced macromolecule skin permeation by 1.94-fold, decreased melanin content and erythema, and increased skin elasticity and hydration without causing irritation. ([Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31257296/))
- 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/))
- Emulsions containing ceramides 1 and 3 improved skin hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in sodium lauryl sulfate-irritated skin of fifteen healthy Asian women compared to a control emulsion. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- Enzyme-modified ginseng extract cream significantly reduced the global photo-damage score and various roughness measures including total roughness, smoothness depth, and arithmetic roughness average compared to placebo in 23 human subjects. ([Rejuvenation Research, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25867599/))
- A red ginseng hydrogel formulation with 1,2-hexanediol promoted selective growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis and decreased Cutibacterium acnes in 20 female subjects. ([Journal of Ginseng Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35509819/))
- A 1% fermented black ginseng cream significantly reduced eye wrinkles and brightened skin color in twenty-three human subjects compared to control cream and baseline. ([Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part A, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32564709/))
- Cordyceps sinensis mycelium hydroethanolic extract increased sirtuin expression, NAD+ synthesis, ATP production, collagen synthesis, and reduced ROS and wrinkles in in vitro assays and human subjects compared to controls. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38673866/))
- Topical cream containing 0.2% Cordyceps militaris polysaccharide extract was safe and achieved over 70% overall preference in 20 female volunteers. ([Fungal Biology and Biotechnology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698182/))
- A cordycepin/chitosan hydrogel dressing served as a quicker re-epithelization of skin wounds and an apparent increasing collagen deposition compared with chitosan hydrogels in vivo. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31067486/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, users describe this essence as a masterpiece of Hanbang skincare, providing immediate plumping effects and a visible reduction in fine lines, best suited for dry, mature, or fatigued skin. It restores a youthful radiance and vitality that other products fail to achieve, though its prohibitive price is a significant drawback.

- Liked: Luxurious texture (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Prohibitive price (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Immediate plumping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Potent ingredients (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Sophisticated scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Difficult to purchase (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too rich for oily (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Whoo HwanYu Essence a great fit for combination skin?

This moisturizing treatment is a great fit for your combination skin because Panax Ginseng Root Extract and velvet extract hydrate and improve skin elasticity. The formula also provides helpful moisture and soothing care while maintaining a safe profile without harsh ingredients that may cause irritation.
Sources: [Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31257296/), [Journal of Ginseng Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28123324/)

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

Panax Ginseng Root Extract and velvet extract make this essence a great fit for your combination skin because they help hydrate, calm, and improve skin elasticity. The formula also features shea butter and ceramides to keep skin smooth and protected against moisture loss without causing irritation.
Sources: [Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31257296/), [International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/)

### What does Ginseng Root Extract do for combination skin?

Ginseng root extract helps keep combination skin smooth and firm by supporting collagen and locking in moisture. It also helps calm the skin and keeps it looking bright and even.
Sources: [Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16890388/), [Journal of Ginseng Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28123324/)

### What does Cordyceps Sinensis Extract do for combination skin?

Cordyceps Sinensis Extract helps balance combination skin by calming inflammation and supporting the skin barrier. It is unlikely to cause irritation and works well to keep dry and oily areas comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40762221/)

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

This treatment is used in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though some treatments may also be used in the morning or twice a day. Putting treatments in the evening helps provide simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this moisturizing treatment with retinol by applying it before your retinol to help strengthen your skin barrier and reduce dryness. This product supports better tolerance of retinoids by keeping the skin hydrated and comfortable.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22648223/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is intended for your evening routine as part of Lovi's recommended regimen for combination skin. Daily application of moisturizers and treatments helps improve hydration, skin barrier function, and elasticity over time.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

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

This moisturizing treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on combination skin, as it has a very safe profile and lacks harsh ingredients that trigger irritation. The formula hydrates and calms your skin while helping to keep your barrier strong without causing breakouts.
Sources: [Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31257296/), [International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/)

### Can I use this serum around the eyes or on my body?

This moisturizing treatment is suitable for use around the eyes, though the skin there is among the thinnest on the body and requires careful application. The formula's ingredients, such as Panax ginseng root extract, squalane, and ceramide NP, provide deep hydration and support skin elasticity without causing irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31257296/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $30.00 at Amazon
- [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $17.90 at Amazon
- [su:m37º Secret Essence Double Concentrate](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/su-m37o/secret-essence-double-concentrate/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $29.99 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
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 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

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

## Ingredients

Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Pca Dimethicone, Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone, Trehalose, Polygonum Multiflorum Root Extract, Sucrose Polystearate, Isostearyl Isostearate, Butylene Glycol, Velvet Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Dimethicone, Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Cordyceps Sinensis Extract, Caprylyl Trimethicone, Algae Extract, Beeswax, Saussurea Involucrata Extract, Panthenol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Dimethiconol, Phytosteryl Isostearyl Cetyl Stearyl Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Asparagus Cochinchinensis Root Extract, Polygonatum Officinale Root Extract Rhizome, Stearic Acid, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, C14-22 Alcohols, Squalane, Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Trifolium Pratense Leaf Extract, Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract, Juglans Regia Seed Extract, Tuber Melanosporum Extract, Ceramide Np, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glycosphingolipids, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract, Triethylhexanoin, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Extract, Panax Ginseng Stem Extract Leaf, Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Clove Flower Extract, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Arachidyl Glucoside, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Poria Cocos Sclerotium Extract, Thymus Vulgaris Extract, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Extract Apricot Kernel Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Cyperus Rotundus Root Extract, Mica, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Schizandra Chinensis Fruit Extract, Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Anemarrhena Asphodeloides Root Extract, Chaenomeles Sinensis Fruit Extract, Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract, Polygonum Aviculare Extract, Prunella Vulgaris Leaf Extract, Cuscuta Japonica Seed Extract, Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract, Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract, Eucommia Ulmoides Bark Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract, Titanium Dioxide Ci 77891, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Lindera Strychnifolia Root Extract, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Poncirus Trifoliata Fruit Extract, Atractylodes Lancea Root Extract, Atractylodes Japonica Extract Rhizome, Prunus Persica Kernel Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Seed Powder, Ganoderma Lucidum Stem Extract Mushroom Stem Extract, Dimocarpus Longan Fruit Extract, Amomum Xanthioides Seed Extract, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Extract, Bambusa Textilis Stem Extract, Tricholoma Matsutake Extract, Glycereth-20, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Cholesterol, Peg-10 Rapeseed Sterol, Glycine Seed Extract Soybean Seed Extract, Trisodium Edta, Iron Oxides Ci 77491, Perilla Ocymoides Leaf Extract, Platycodon Grandiflorum Root Extract, Trichosanthes Kirilowii Root Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Belamcanda Chinensis Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Eriobotrya Japonica Leaf Extract, Schizonepeta Tenuifolia Extract, Tussilago Farfara Flower Extract, Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract
## 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/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-history-of-whoo/hwanyu-essence/for/combination-skin