# The INKEY List PHA Toner for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/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: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/the-inkey-list)
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 gluconolactone and niacinamide, which offer keratolytic action and seboregulation respectively to address oily shine.
- The presence of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice provides soothing benefits, complementing the mild pore-refining and oil-controlling effects.
- The formula is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Pha Polyhydroxy Acid, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin

## 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/))
- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- Lactobionic acid produced better skin performance with a lack of skin irritation and barrier impairment compared to glycolic acid in 77 healthy volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/))
- A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provided antiaging benefits comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimen while demonstrating enhanced mildness and better tolerance in subjects. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002657/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- Gluconolactone and tartaric acid significantly lower transepidermal water loss and erythema after sodium lauryl sulphate challenge compared to vehicle, untreated control, and glycolic acid in healthy subjects. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9470910/))
- Gluconolactone treatment significantly increased facial skin hydration in 16 healthy women, with no significant differences between 10% and 30% solutions. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33769633/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with sensitive and dry skin frequently praise this toner for its ability to gently smooth texture and reduce redness without causing irritation. A moderate number of users note a sticky finish, while a low number find the formula too mild for visible results.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Helps acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too mild (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliating toner once a week at first, then increase frequency only if your skin feels fine.
- Apply the exfoliating toner after cleansing and before your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press a few drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin and let it dry.
- Apply the exfoliating toner on clean and dry skin for the best results.
- Avoid the eye area and always use sunscreen during the day.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The INKEY List PHA Toner a great fit for oily skin?

This toner is a great fit for oily skin because gluconolactone helps clear pores and niacinamide controls oil to reduce shine. Aloe vera adds a soothing touch, and the gentle formula is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

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

This toner is a great fit for oily skin because gluconolactone helps manage excess oil and niacinamide helps control shine. Aloe vera juice also soothes the skin while keeping the formula gentle and safe from irritation.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/)

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

Polyhydroxy Acid helps oily skin by balancing oil production and lowering skin pH while remaining very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation. This type of ingredient works best when it also includes calming and purifying ingredients to keep pores clear and skin smooth.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37335807/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily skin by significantly reducing excess oil production and shine. It is well tolerated and may improve skin texture without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

This exfoliating toner is a great fit for your oily skin and goes in your evening routine as a cleansing toner after your cleanser. It helps clear away oily shine and refines pores without irritation thanks to its soothing ingredients.

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

You can use this exfoliating toner with retinol by using them on alternate nights or separating them into different routines to avoid irritation. This gentle formula helps manage oily shine and keeps skin calm, making it a safe addition when balanced carefully with stronger treatments.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

### How often should I use this toner?

Start by using this toner once a week, and if your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps your skin adjust safely without irritation.

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

This toner is a great fit for oily skin and is unlikely to cause breakouts, as reviewers rarely report them and the formula includes soothing aloe vera to help keep skin calm. Its gentle ingredients clear away dead skin without harshness, making it very safe for daily use.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Pixi Glow Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/pixi/glow-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 56.52 at Amazon
- [Rodial Vitamin C Brightening Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/rodial/vitamin-c-brightening-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 159.05 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Vita C Plus Brightening Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/missha/vita-c-plus-brightening-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 113.45 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 232.00 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B09PP2VLGP?tag=lovisa02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/oily-skin