# MISSHA The First Essence 5X for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [MISSHA](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/missha)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/serums)

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

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your oily skin as niacinamide and yeast extract ferment work synergistically to regulate oil production and strengthen your skin barrier, addressing your concerns with acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The inclusion of bifida lysate ferment further enhances barrier resilience and texture, complementing the primary ingredients for improved overall skin health.
- The formulation is safe for your skin, with no reported irritation risks due to the absence of harsh components and the presence of soothing agents.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Yeast Extract Ferment, Bifida Lysate Ferment, Ceramide Np, Extreme Α Ferment, Ct

## What the research says

- Topical application of Bifida Ferment Lysate strengthens the skin barrier function by upregulating barrier and antimicrobial peptide genes, exhibiting strong antioxidant properties, and decreasing inflammatory cytokine secretion in vitro. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218728/))
- 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/))
- Topical treatment of nicotinamide, alone or in combination with other active ingredients, reduces the progression of skin aging and hyperpigmentation in clinical trials while being well tolerated. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/))
- 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/))
- Topical moisturizers improved skin barrier function and surface moisture, while a postbiotic moisturizer with yeast extract uniquely supported microbiome balance and modulated biomarkers of skin barrier, structure, and inflammation in participants and ex vivo explants exposed to environmental aggressors. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37763018/))
- A maintenance therapy with a cosmeceutical formulation containing hydroxyphenoxy propionic acid, ellagic acid, yeast extract, and salicylic acid over 20 weeks significantly improved even skin tone, spot intensity, spot size, and overall hyperpigmentation in 33 healthy subjects with moderate facial dyspigmentation. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25844613/))
- A methanol yeast extract increases proliferation and migration while decreasing entrance into senescence and apoptosis phases in 3T3 fibroblast cells. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25898765/))
- Topically formulated tea polyphenols show some benefit in reducing sebum secretion and treating acne vulgaris compared to baseline or control. ([Antioxidants, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28036057/))
- Topical application of tannase-converted green tea extract (TGE) significantly improved skin wrinkle indices and self-assessed wrinkle reduction compared to normal green tea extract (NGE) in human subjects over 8 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23725307/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently praise this essence for its lightweight, fast-absorbing hydration that visibly improves skin texture and radiance, often describing a healthy glow after consistent use. Some users report breakouts, likely due to fermented ingredients or niacinamide, and a segment of long-time fans express disappointment with the 5th generation reformulation, finding it less potent than previous versions.

- Liked: Lightweight & fast (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightening & glow (often mentioned)
- Liked: Texture improvement (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & fragrance-free (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Reformulation disappointment (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts & irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lack of visible results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging quality (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Missha The First Essence 5X a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Missha The First Essence 5X is a great fit because niacinamide and yeast extract ferment work together to control oil and strengthen your skin barrier against breakouts. Bifida lysate ferment also helps improve your skin texture and resilience, while soothing agents keep the formula safe and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218728/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### Which ingredients make this essence a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide and yeast extract ferment make this essence a great fit by working together to control oil and strengthen your skin barrier. Bifida lysate ferment also helps improve your skin texture and resilience without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218728/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oil production, calms redness, and is unlikely to irritate oily, acne-prone skin while improving blemishes. Clinical tests show it reduces excess oil and helps clear up both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/)

### What does Yeast Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Yeast Extract helps calm and strengthen oily acne-prone skin by supporting natural defenses and reducing irritation. It is unlikely to clog pores and may help keep the skin feeling balanced throughout the day.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218728/)

### Where does this essence go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying the treatment first and following with your retinol product. This helps balance oil and strengthen your skin barrier while minimizing potential irritation risks.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this treatment in your evening routine. It is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because niacinamide and yeast extract ferment help control oil and soothe breakouts without irritation, while bifida lysate ferment strengthens your skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218728/), [International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/)

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This essence is a great fit for oily acne-prone skin because niacinamide and yeast extract ferment help control oil and strengthen your skin barrier. It has a safe profile with soothing ingredients, meaning breakouts and irritation are unlikely.
Sources: [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clean-and-clear/persa-gel-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$25.46 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [Dr. Ceuracle Tea Tree Purifine 95 Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dr-ceuracle/tea-tree-purifine-95-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$36.36 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [TROIAREUKE H+Cocktail Purifying Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/troiareuke/h-cocktail-purifying-ampoule-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$41.48 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- YesStyle: S$33.71 (https://www.yesstyle.com/en/missha-time-revolution-the-first-essence-5x-150ml/info.html/pid.1053712807?curr=SGD&rco=SG)
Prices checked 13 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Yeast Extract Ferment, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Bifida Lysate Ferment, Sodium Pca, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Xanthan Gum, Ceramide Np, Hydrogenated Lecithin
## 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/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/oily-acne-prone-skin