# Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Superior · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/toners)

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

One of the best toners for acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination, acne-prone skin as niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate provide effective seboregulation and hydration, addressing your concerns about breakouts and blemishes.
- The inclusion of chamomile flower extract and panthenol further soothes and supports your skin barrier, enhancing overall skin health and comfort.
- This formula is safe for your skin, with no reported irritation risks and a composition that actively calms inflammation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Glycerin, Ceramides, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate

## What the research says

- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this toner is highly recommended for oily and combination skin types, effectively controlling sebum and providing lightweight hydration without a sticky feel. Users frequently report smoother skin texture and a noticeable reduction in pore appearance. Some users find pore size reduction to be highly effective, while others report minimal changes. A small number of users experienced breakouts or irritation, and some felt the product was too expensive for the results achieved.

- Liked: Lightweight hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Balances oily skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Minimizes pore appearance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective on pores (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts/irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging leaks (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Pricey for value (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your hydrating toner in your AM and PM routine. Start 3x a week and work up to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply your hydrating toner after cleansing and before your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the hydrating toner into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the hydrating toner on slightly damp skin to help it absorb better.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Toner one of the best fits for acne-prone skin?

This toner is one of the best fits for acne-prone skin because niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate control excess oil and add hydration to help with breakouts. Chamomile flower extract and panthenol also calm inflammation and support the skin barrier for overall comfort.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate make this toner a great fit by providing effective oil control and hydration to help manage breakouts and blemishes. Ingredients like chamomile flower extract and panthenol also calm inflammation and support your skin barrier for lasting comfort.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Niacinamide helps acne-prone skin by reducing both inflamed and uninflamed breakouts and calming redness. It is also very helpful for keeping oily skin balanced by cutting down on excess oil production, and it is well tolerated by most people.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/), [Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38725769/)

### What does Glycerin do for acne-prone skin?

Glycerin helps keep acne-prone skin hydrated and calm without clogging pores or feeling heavy. It supports the skin barrier so it stays soft and smooth while handling everyday treatments.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31840548/)

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

This hydrating toner is used after cleansing in your morning routine, and after cleansing and masks in your weekly routine. It helps balance oil and adds lightweight hydration without irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

You can use this hydrating toner with retinol by applying the toner first to damp skin and following with your retinol treatment once it absorbs. This helps keep your skin calm and hydrated while lowering the likelihood of dryness or irritation from the retinol.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this toner?

This hydrating toner is well-suited for your acne-prone skin and can be used daily in your morning routine. Niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate help balance oil and keep your skin hydrated, while chamomile and panthenol help calm inflammation and support your skin barrier.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on acne-prone skin. Its ingredients help calm inflammation and control oil, and reviewers rarely report irritation or breakouts.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £13.98 at Amazon
- [belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/belif/aqua-bomb-hydrating-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £21.00 at Amazon
- [Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/mizon/snail-repair-intensive-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £33.70 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £8.13 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £11.90 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £30.37 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07P7VZ2J9?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Adenosine, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract Chamomile Flower Extract, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Sodium Pca, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Oleth-10, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Citrate, Xanthan Gum, Trisodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin