# The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Toner for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/glycolic-acid-toner/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: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/the-inkey-list)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/toners)

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.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other toners fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your oily skin, as glycolic acid helps to renew the skin and manage excess sebum, while Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract provides soothing benefits.
- Witch hazel water further aids in managing oiliness, making it a functional choice for your concerns.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Witch Hazel, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract

## What the research says

- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- A Hamamelis virginiana leaf extract increased LOXL1 expression twofold, decreased elafin synthesis, restored functional elastic fibers, reduced nonfunctional elastin aggregates, decreased wrinkles, and improved skin firmness. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30052192/))
- Hamamelis bark proanthocyanidins strongly increased the proliferation of cultured human keratinocytes and reduced transepidermal water loss and erythema formation in SLS-irritated skin, whereas the polysaccharide fraction had no effect. ([Phytochemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11684194/))
- Witch hazel bark extract and hamamelitannin showed pronounced anti-inflammatory activity, supported keratinocyte migration in a wound healing assay, and inhibited Staphylococcus aureus growth, whereas their skin microbiota metabolite ellagic acid stimulated inflammatory mediator release. ([Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40819781/))
- Topical application of 1,3-propanediol at various concentrations, alone or combined with butylene glycol and/or glycerol, increased skin hydration and reduced trans epidermal water loss in 30 healthy female subjects over an 8-hour period, with the 15% concentration and the addition of glycerol providing greater benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/))
- A mixture of propanediol, xylitol, and caprylic acid demonstrated in vitro antimicrobial activity against C. acnes and S. aureus, reduced 5-alpha reductase expression, and decreased skin oiliness, porphyrin, and inflammatory lesions in participants over 28 days. ([Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34771112/))
- Sustainable cosmetic products formulated with renewable PDO-based emulsifiers showed equivalent performance in sensory and moisturization evaluations compared to those formulated with petroleum-derived PEG-based emulsifiers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29465392/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently praise this toner as a potent and affordable exfoliant that effectively smooths rough texture and minimizes the appearance of pores, particularly for oily or congestion-prone skin. Due to its high 10% glycolic acid concentration, it is often described as too harsh for sensitive skin types, with some users reporting stinging or irritation.

- Liked: Smoother skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Great value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces pores & acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens complexion (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation and stinging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too strong/drying (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Purging/Breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Small packaging (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start using your exfoliating toner once a week and slowly increase frequency if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your exfoliating toner after cleansing and before your moisturizer or other treatments.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin with your hands. Avoid any harsh rubbing .
- Apply the exfoliating toner on clean and completely dry skin to ensure the best results .
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and always use daily SPF while using exfoliating active products.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Toner work for oily acne-prone skin?

This toner works moderately well for oily skin, as glycolic acid helps renew the skin and manage excess oil while witch hazel aids in controlling shine. Because other products fit this skin type better, an ideal product for oily acne-prone skin needs ingredients that provide gentle exfoliation and calming extracts to effectively target blemishes and balance oil without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/)

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

Glycolic acid, witch hazel, and Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract make this toner a good fit by helping to renew your skin, manage excess oil, and provide a calming feel. An oily acne-prone skin type needs a formulation rich in gentle exfoliating acids and calming extracts that effectively target blemishes and pore texture while keeping the skin balanced.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Glycolic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and soothing breakouts. It exfoliates the surface to keep pores clear and leaves the skin feeling smooth.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24447110/)

### What does Witch Hazel do for oily acne-prone skin?

Witch hazel helps calm redness and balances irritated skin by reducing inflammation and soothing acne-prone areas. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may support clearer skin when used in your routine.
Sources: [Phytochemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11684194/), [Antioxidants, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35740016/)

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

This toner goes into your evening routine as a cleansing toner, starting at once a week and slowly building up if your skin handles it well.

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

You can use this toner with retinol on different nights or spaced well apart to keep your skin calm, because using two strong treatments together may cause irritation. On nights you use both, apply this toner first, let it absorb fully, and then follow with your retinol.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start using this toner once a week, and if your oily acne-prone skin handles it well and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often. Oily acne-prone skin needs products with exfoliating acids and oil-managing ingredients like glycolic acid and witch hazel to renew the skin and control excess oil.

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores, but it may cause some mild purging or breakouts when you first start using it as your skin adjusts to the exfoliation. A product for oily acne-prone skin needs soothing ingredients like witch hazel and plant extracts to help manage oil and keep breakouts under control.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/)

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

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol).

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Missha Skin Peeling Pad](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/skin-peeling-pad/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$38.65 at Amazon
- [BE THE SKIN BHA+ Pore Zero Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/be-the-skin/bha-pore-zero-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — S$21.70 at YesStyle

## 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
- 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
- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$39.68 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sg: S$30.49 (https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B07GLHC5J9?tag=lovi-care-web-product0e-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycolic Acid, Propanediol, Witch Hazel Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Alcohol, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Betaine, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
## 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/glycolic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/glycolic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/glycolic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/glycolic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/glycolic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/glycolic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/glycolic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/glycolic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin