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Licorice pH Balancing Essence Mist

Licorice pH Balancing Essence Mist

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A milky-textured, pH-balanced essence mist (pH 5.5) with 10% licorice water that instantly hydrates, soothes irritation, and brightens dull skin. Delivers an ultra-fine spray packed with fermented extracts, centella asiatica, bamboo water, and hyaluronic acid for a dewy, luminous glow anytime, anywhere.

pH 5.5 Balanced 10% Licorice Water Cruelty-Free No Parabens No Alcohol No Sulfates Reef Safe Hypoallergenic Tested
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
100ml / 3.38 fl oz
Price
~$24.00
pH Level
5.5
Type
Essence Mist
Key Active
Licorice Water 10%
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

10% Licorice Water Brightening

Glabridin in licorice root inhibits tyrosinase activity, helping to reduce dark spots and even skin tone for a brighter, more luminous complexion over time.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Milky-Watery
Scent
Light Herbal-Citrus
Absorption
Instant (5-10 sec)
Finish
Dewy

10% Licorice Water Brightening

Glabridin in licorice root inhibits tyrosinase activity, helping to reduce dark spots and even skin tone for a brighter, more luminous complexion over time.

Multi-Layer Hydration

Bamboo water, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan, and saccharomyces ferment filtrate work together to deliver hydration at multiple skin depths.

pH 5.5 Skin Barrier Support

Mildly acidic formula matches skin's natural pH to maintain acid mantle integrity, support barrier function, and keep skin calm after cleansing.

3-in-1 Versatile Use

Works as an essence after toner, a hydrating midday pick-me-up over bare skin or makeup, and a finishing spray for a dewy makeup look.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains bergamot fruit oil (photosensitizing essential oil) and AHA-containing plant extracts (sugarcane, lemon, orange). Consult your dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not fungal acne safe. Contains saccharomyces ferment filtrate, yeast extract, royal jelly extract, lecithin, and triethylhexanoin — all known malassezia triggers.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 1/5. Water-based, lightweight formula with no heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. Very low risk of causing breakouts for most skin types.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Hypoallergenic tested. Free from parabens, alcohol, sulfates, and silicones. Centella asiatica and oat extract provide additional soothing benefits.

Essential Oil Alert

Contains Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, which can cause photosensitivity. Always use sunscreen when incorporating this product in your daytime routine.

Retinol & Vitamin C Compatible

No harsh actives that conflict with retinol or vitamin C. Can be layered before or after serums containing these ingredients without issues.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Water 10%Proven

The star ingredient. Licorice root water contains glabridin and liquiritin, two compounds clinically shown to brighten skin by inhibiting melanin production and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Brightening: Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase activity, reducing hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Glycyrrhizin provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that help calm redness and irritation.
  • Antioxidant: Flavonoids in licorice root protect skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure.

Saccharomyces Ferment FiltrateProven

A galactomyces-family ferment rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It enhances skin's natural moisture factor and supports cellular renewal for a smoother, brighter complexion.

  • Hydration: Contains natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) that boost skin hydration levels.
  • Brightening: Fermented yeast extracts improve skin luminosity and reduce dullness with regular use.
Not suitable for fungal acne (malassezia) — fermented ingredients can feed malassezia yeast.

Bambusa Vulgaris (Bamboo) WaterPromising

Bamboo water is naturally rich in minerals and amino acids. It provides lightweight, lasting hydration while soothing skin and helping to lock in moisture beneath the surface.

  • Mineral-rich: Contains potassium, magnesium, and silica to nourish and strengthen the skin barrier.
  • Moisture retention: Helps prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL) for sustained hydration.

Centella Asiatica Leaf WaterProven

Known as "cica" in K-beauty, centella asiatica is clinically proven to promote wound healing, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin barrier. One of the most well-researched soothing ingredients in skincare.

  • Soothing: Madecassoside and asiaticoside calm irritation and reduce redness in sensitive skin.
  • Barrier repair: Stimulates collagen synthesis and supports skin healing processes.

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic AcidProven

A low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper than standard HA, attracting and binding water molecules to plump skin from within.

  • Deep hydration: Smaller molecular size allows penetration into deeper skin layers for plumping from within.
  • Skin plumping: Can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, visibly reducing fine lines.

Beta-GlucanProven

A powerful polysaccharide known for its ability to calm irritation and provide deep, lasting hydration. Often compared to hyaluronic acid for its moisture-binding capacity.

  • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and helps calm stressed, reactive skin.
  • Moisture binding: Comparable to hyaluronic acid for hydration with additional soothing properties.

34 ingredients

Water, Bambusa Vulgaris Water, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Water, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Methylpropanediol, Triethylhexanoin, Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin), 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glycerin, Cellulose Gum, Centella Asiatica Leaf Water, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Algae Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Cordyceps Sinensis Extract, Yeast Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Cynara Scolymus (Artichoke) Leaf Extract, Pteris Multifida Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Beta-Glucan, Polyquaternium-51, Fructooligosaccharides, Lecithin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid

FREE FROM: Parabens, Alcohol (Ethanol), Sulfates, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Artificial Colorants, Propylene Glycol, Formaldehyde Releasers, Phthalates, Nitrogen Gas Propellants
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Essence Mist
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Use after toner as an essence step, or spritz throughout the day over makeup for a hydration boost. Pair with Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner for best results. Suitable for AM & PM routines.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Shake Well

The milky formula contains oils and water-based ingredients that separate. Shake the bottle vigorously before each use to blend the layers evenly.

2

Hold & Spray

Hold the bottle approximately 20 cm (8 inches) from your face. Close your eyes and spray 2-3 pumps evenly across your face in a sweeping motion.

3

Pat to Absorb

Gently pat the mist into your skin with clean fingertips until fully absorbed. This helps the active ingredients penetrate rather than simply sitting on the surface.

4

Follow Up

Continue with your serum and moisturizer. For midday use, simply mist and pat — no follow-up products needed. Can also be used as a makeup setting spray.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have dull, uneven skin tone and want a brightening boost
  • Your skin gets dehydrated throughout the day, especially in air-conditioned environments
  • You want a multi-use product: essence + midday mist + setting spray
  • You have sensitive skin that reacts to harsh products
  • You want to restore pH balance after cleansing
  • You love a convenient, spray-on hydration format for on-the-go use

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne — this product contains multiple ferment and yeast-derived triggers
  • You are highly sensitive to essential oils (contains bergamot oil)
  • You prefer completely fragrance-free formulas
  • You need a heavy-duty moisturizer — this is a lightweight hydrating mist, not a cream replacement
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding and want to be extra cautious
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight mist formula absorbs instantly without leaving residue or adding shine. Provides hydration without heaviness.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides a nice hydration boost but will need a richer moisturizer on top. Best used as a layering step, not a standalone moisturizer.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across oily and dry zones. Hydrates without clogging the T-zone or leaving dry patches parched.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Hypoallergenic tested with soothing centella and oat extracts. Contains bergamot oil — patch test recommended for very reactive skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and anti-inflammatory licorice help calm breakouts. However, not suitable for fungal acne specifically.

08

Results timeline

8-12 WEEKS
Immediately

Instant Hydration & Refresh

Skin feels immediately hydrated, refreshed, and plumped. The ultra-fine mist delivers a visible dewy glow and helps calm any surface irritation on contact.

95% noticed instant hydration
1-2 Weeks

Improved Skin Texture

Skin starts to feel smoother and more supple with consistent use. The fermented extracts and hyaluronic acid begin to strengthen the moisture barrier, reducing rough patches.

80% noticed softer skin
4-6 Weeks

Visible Brightening & Tone Evening

Licorice root's brightening effects become noticeable as glabridin reduces melanin production over time. Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to fade, and overall complexion appears more radiant.

70% noticed brighter skin tone
8-12 Weeks

Calmer, More Resilient Skin

Long-term use shows reduced redness, fewer reactive episodes, and a more balanced skin tone. The pH-balancing and soothing ingredients help build a stronger, healthier skin barrier over time.

65% noticed reduced redness
09

Ratings by platform

800+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
350+
Reviews
Main complaint: Oil residue can settle on hair if sprayed carelessly; bottle needs shaking before each use
iHerb
4.7
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 100ml size runs out quickly with daily use; some wish for a larger bottle option
YesStyle
4.6
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users report the bergamot scent is more noticeable than expected for a "no fragrance" product
Olive Young
4.5
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Milky texture can feel slightly oily on very oily skin if too many layers are applied
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Ultra-fine mist nozzle delivers an exceptionally even, luxurious spray
  • Instantly hydrates and gives a dewy, glowing complexion
  • Soothes redness and calms irritated skin on contact
  • Versatile 3-in-1 use: essence, midday refresh, and makeup setting spray
  • pH 5.5 formula supports healthy skin barrier
  • No gas propellant — eco-friendly pump spray
  • Lightweight enough to layer without pilling
  • Brightening effect noticeable within weeks of regular use

Criticized

  • Must shake before every use — oil separates to the bottom
  • 100ml bottle is small for a mist product; runs out fast
  • Contains bergamot essential oil — not ideal for photosensitive or fragrance-averse users
  • Not fungal acne safe due to fermented ingredients
  • Milky oils can leave residue on hair if not careful with spraying
  • May not be hydrating enough on its own for very dry skin types
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
65% Match
Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater
$7.00
Budget Pick

A simple hydrating mist with rosewater and aloe — no fermented extracts, licorice, or active brightening ingredients. Much more basic formula but great for refreshing. Bigger bottle (4 oz) at a fraction of the price.

70% Match
Benton Honest TT Mist
$14.00
Budget Pick

Another K-beauty mist with tea tree and centella for soothing. Lacks the licorice brightening and fermented extract benefits, but is a solid pick for calming irritated skin at a lower price point.

80% Match
Fundamental Ampule Mist
$22.00
Similar Price

75% green tea concentrate with amino acids and hyaluronic acid. Similarly essence-like mist texture with skincare benefits. Fragrance-free and more suitable for very sensitive skin. Lacks licorice brightening but offers comparable hydration.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE

Mario Badescu Rosewater Spray

Key Ingredient Rosewater + Aloe
Size 118ml
pH Level Not specified
Brightening No
Fungal Acne Safe Varies by formula
Fragrance-Free No (Rose fragrance)
Fundamental Ampule Mist
Key Ingredient 75% Green Tea
Size 125ml
pH Level Not specified
Brightening Mild (Green Tea)
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Mist Toner
Key Ingredient Astragalus Extract
Size 200ml
pH Level ~5.0
Brightening No
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed. Can be stored in the refrigerator for an extra refreshing spritz.

Packaging

Brown-tinted plastic spray bottle with ultra-fine mist nozzle. No gas propellant — uses a mechanical pump spray for eco-friendly dispensing.

Travel Friendly

Yes, 100ml is within TSA carry-on liquid limits. Lightweight, leak-proof spray bottle fits easily in handbags and travel pouches.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. The formula contains Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, a photosensitizing essential oil, and mild AHA-containing botanical extracts (sugarcane, lemon, orange fruit extracts). While none of these are among the most restricted pregnancy ingredients (retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone), the essential oil content warrants caution. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before adding this product to your routine during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several known malassezia triggers including Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Yeast Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Lecithin, and Triethylhexanoin (a fatty acid ester). These ingredients can feed the malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider fungal-acne-safe alternatives like the Dear, Klairs Fundamental Ampoule Mist or Pyunkang Yul Mist Toner instead.

Yes, this mist is compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. It does not contain any harsh actives that would conflict with these ingredients. In fact, its soothing, hydrating formula can help buffer the irritation sometimes caused by strong actives. Apply your active serum first, wait for absorption, then mist for a hydration boost. Note: the mist contains mild AHA botanical extracts (sugarcane, lemon), but in very low concentrations unlikely to cause over-exfoliation.

This mist works well for all skin types but is especially excellent for oily and combination skin due to its lightweight, non-greasy formula. It also suits sensitive skin (hypoallergenic tested) and acne-prone skin (low comedogenic rating of 1/5). Dry skin types will benefit from its hydrating properties but may need to layer a richer moisturizer on top. The only skin condition it is not recommended for is fungal acne.

Hydration results are immediate — you will feel and see a dewy glow after the first use. For brightening and dark spot reduction, expect to see visible results within 4-6 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Redness reduction and overall skin tone evening typically become noticeable after 8-12 weeks. For best results, pair with the Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner and Advance Serum.

In a full routine, use it as Step 3 after cleanser and toner, replacing or supplementing your essence step. Spray, pat in, then follow with serum and moisturizer. It can also be used throughout the day as a midday hydration boost — simply mist over bare skin or makeup, no follow-up products needed. It doubles as a makeup setting spray for a dewy finish.

This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is water-based with no heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. The licorice root extract also has anti-inflammatory properties that may actually help calm existing breakouts. However, individual responses vary — if you have extremely acne-prone skin, patch test first.

The recommended period after opening (PAO) is 12 months. Since this is a 100ml spray bottle, most users with daily AM/PM use will finish it within 2-3 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity. Always shake before use, as the formula's milky, oil-water blend separates naturally over time.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Essence Mist is a standout K-beauty mist that goes far beyond basic hydration. With 10% licorice water, fermented extracts, and centella asiatica, it delivers genuine brightening and soothing benefits in a convenient spray format. The ultra-fine mist nozzle is genuinely luxurious, and the pH 5.5 formula supports healthy skin barrier function. It loses points for not being fungal acne safe and for containing bergamot essential oil, which may bother fragrance-sensitive users. But for those seeking a versatile, multi-use essence mist that hydrates, brightens, and soothes, this is one of the best options in the K-beauty mist category.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 6 ingredient(s):
Citric Acid Hyaluronic Acid Madecassoside Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Ceramide NP
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Citric Acid Hyaluronic Acid Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 9 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Panthenol Citric Acid Hyaluronic Acid Madecassoside Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract Asiaticoside Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Sodium Hyaluronate
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
61% 38%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 39 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 Unknown
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
0
Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil
0 Unknown
Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate
Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS