# Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water 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/uk/p/sulwhasoo/essential-balancing-water/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 the United Kingdom.

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers high suitability for your oily skin due to alcohol and Camellia Sinensis leaf extract, which provide astringent and antioxidant benefits to help manage oiliness and protect against environmental stressors.
- The inclusion of glycerin and honey offers excellent hydration, supporting your skin's moisture balance without exacerbating oiliness.
- The product is safe for your skin, as it contains soothing ingredients like honey and licorice root extract and lacks harsh or irritating components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Honey, Licorice Root Extract, Goji Berries, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin feels fine.
- Apply your hydrating toner after cleansing and before putting on your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the hydrating toner into your skin with your hands. Let it ⏱absorb for a minute before adding your next product.
- Applying the hydrating toner on slightly damp skin helps your face absorb it better. This keeps your oily skin balanced and hydrated.
- Be sure to avoid the eye area when applying. Do a patch test before your first use to check for any reaction.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water is a great fit because alcohol and green tea extract help manage oiliness and protect against environmental stress. Glycerin and honey offer hydration to balance moisture without making your skin oily. It is also safe and calming for your skin thanks to honey and licorice root extract.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This toner is a great fit because alcohol and green tea extract help manage oiliness, while glycerin and honey provide hydration without making your skin oily. It is also safe and comforting for your skin thanks to soothing ingredients like licorice root extract.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

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

Honey helps calm oily acne-prone skin and may fight breakout-causing bacteria. It acts as a gentle, safe option that is unlikely to cause irritation while keeping the skin balanced.
Sources: [Current Microbiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41963586/), [International Journal of Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38013499/)

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

This hydrating toner fits into your morning routine right after your cleanser and before your moisturizer. It provides lightweight hydration and helps manage oiliness without feeling heavy or clogging pores.

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

Yes, you can use this hydrating toner with your retinol treatment by applying it right after cleansing and before your retinol. Using hydrating layers helps keep your skin balanced and is unlikely to cause irritation when paired with stronger treatments.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use this toner?

You can use this hydrating toner daily in your morning routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. It helps manage oiliness while keeping your skin balanced and hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily acne-prone skin, as it contains soothing ingredients like honey and licorice root extract alongside lightweight hydrators that keep your skin balanced without extra heaviness. It also features green tea extract and alcohol, which help manage oiliness and protect your skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

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

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [SNP Prep Peptaronic Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/snp-prep/peptaronic-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £15.99 at Amazon
- [Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/isntree/hyaluronic-acid-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — £13.81 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/ginseng-essence-water/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £11.63 at Lookfantastic

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £27.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United Kingdom has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

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