# Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Saudi Arabia.

Brand: [Sulwhasoo](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/sulwhasoo)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

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

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your oily skin due to alcohol and camellia sinensis leaf extract, which offer mild astringent and antioxidant properties to help manage oiliness and provide general skincare benefits. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate further enhance hydration, supporting your skin's moisture balance.
- Honey and nelumbo nucifera flower extract contribute to soothing effects, which are beneficial for maintaining comfortable skin.
- The formula is safe for your oily skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and has a low risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/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 low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- 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/))

## 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 in your AM and PM routine every day to keep skin fresh.
- Apply this product after cleansing and before your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the hydrating toner into your skin and let it absorb.
- Apply the hydrating toner on slightly damp skin to help it absorb better.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your very first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water a great fit for oily skin?

This hydrating toner is a great fit for your oily skin because alcohol and green tea extract help manage oiliness, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep your skin hydrated without feeling heavy. Honey and flower extracts also soothe your skin to keep it comfortable, and the formula is safe with a low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/)

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

This toner is a great fit for oily skin because alcohol and green tea extract help manage excess oil, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep moisture balanced. Honey and lotus flower extract also help calm the skin, and the formula has a low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps oily skin by reducing extra oil and sebum production without causing irritation. Clinical studies show it successfully balances oil levels while keeping the skin comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/)

### What does Honey do for oily skin?

Honey helps oily skin by drawing in moisture and calming breakouts. It also has antimicrobial effects that help keep skin clear and balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24305429/), [Current Microbiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41963586/)

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

Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water goes after your cleanser and before your moisturizer in both your morning and weekly routines. It helps manage oiliness while keeping your skin balanced and comfortable.
Sources: [Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/)

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

You can use this hydrating toner before your retinol treatment to help keep your oily skin balanced and comfortable. Its soothing and hydrating ingredients are unlikely to cause irritation when layered with active treatments.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use it?

This hydrating toner is a great fit for your oily skin and is designed for daily use as part of both your morning and weekly routines. It helps manage oiliness while keeping your skin hydrated and comfortable, and it has a very low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/)

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

Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water is unlikely to clog pores, cause breakouts, or lead to purging on oily skin. Its formula lacks heavy ingredients and has a low risk of irritation, helping to maintain a comfortable balance.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 81.67 at Amazon
- [COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/full-fit-propolis-synergy-toner/for/oily-skin) — High fit — SAR 30.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/beauty-of-joseon/ginseng-essence-water/for/oily-skin) — High fit — SAR 40.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 36.33 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 39.70 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 46.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sa: SAR 282.62 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B09VPBR3LT?tag=lovisa02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## 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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/for/oily-skin