# Anua Heartleaf + BHA Pore Deep Cleansing Foam for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/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 Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Anua](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/anua)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/cleansers)

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 cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and pore decongestion for your oily skin, as salicylic acid and houttuynia cordata extract work to gently remove impurities and soothe inflammation. Willow bark extract further supports pore deep cleansing, making it suitable for managing oiliness and breakouts.
- The formula provides general hydration and cleansing benefits, which are supportive for your primary concerns of acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- 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/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Heartleaf, Bha Beta Hydroxy Acid, Salicylic Acid, Quercetin, Centella Asiatica Extract

## What the research says

- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- Quercetin loaded composite nanofibers achieved a skin deposition of 28.24%, higher antibacterial efficacy against Propionibacterium acne compared to quercetin alone, safety on skin fibroblastic cells, and a reduction of 61.2% in inflammatory, 14.7% in comedonal, and 52.9% in total acne lesions in acne patients. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34801653/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Quercetin phospholipids 1% cream significantly reduced UV-, histamine-, and chemical-induced skin erythema (-10.05%) and mean wheal diameter in 30 healthy human volunteers, showing comparable efficacy to 1% dexchlorpheniramine cream. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27013898/))
- Quercetin-loaded niosomes formulated with Span60-RH40 at a 9:11 mass ratio improved quercetin solubility, photostability, sustained release, and transdermal penetration, yielding a skin retention 2.95 times higher than quercetin solution. ([Molecules, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31238562/))
- Optimized rutin-loaded glycerosomes formulated into a nanosunscreen gel demonstrated sustained drug release, greater skin permeation, good antioxidant activity, and better epidermal retention compared to the dermis, indicating high safety, stability, and sun protection factor values for topical administration. ([Gels, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37754433/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- Quercetin directly targeted JAK2 and PKCδ, suppressed UV-induced MMP-1 and COX-2 expression, and prevented collagen degradation in human skin tissues compared to untreated UV-exposed skin. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31652815/))
- Topical treatment with quercetin-3-O-glycosides, particularly isoquercitrin, reduced proinflammatory cytokine expression, skin lesions, and epidermal hyperplasia in an AD mouse model. ([Inflammation, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39808370/))
- Topical administration of liposomes co-loaded with quercetin and resveratrol reduced tissue damage, oedema, and leukocyte infiltration in a mouse model of skin lesion. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27609664/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this cleanser is highly effective for oily and acne-prone skin, with users frequently noting its ability to deeply cleanse pores and reduce sebaceous filaments. Many also appreciate its texture-improving qualities and rich lather. Some users with dry or sensitive skin report it can be drying or irritating, and a moderate number experienced breakouts or purging upon initial use.

- Liked: Deep pore cleansing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Rich foaming lather (often mentioned)
- Liked: Calms acne/redness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritating to sensitive skin (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it daily to help clear your breakouts.
- Apply this cleanser as the first step in the morning and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Follow it with your toner and moisturizer.
- Gently massage a small amount of the cleanser onto your face using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help clean deeply and remove excess oil. This works best for oily skin types.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does anua Heartleaf + BHA work for oily acne-prone skin?

This cleanser works moderately well for oily acne-prone skin, as salicylic acid and heartleaf help gently clear pores and calm redness while managing breakouts. It is unlikely to irritate your skin, though cleansers that rate higher for this skin type need soothing ingredients like Niacinamide or probiotics alongside ceramides to balance oil and support clarity without causing dryness.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid, heartleaf, and willow bark extract make this cleanser a good fit because they help gently clear out pores, manage oiliness, and soothe breakouts without irritating the skin. To work best for oily acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs soothing and effective ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, or probiotics that balance oil, maintain clarity, and ensure safe, irritation-free daily cleansing.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Heartleaf helps calm red, irritated skin and keeps breakouts under control by fighting acne-causing bacteria. It is unlikely to irritate oily skin and may reduce swelling from blemishes.
Sources: [Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27023331/), [Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36495375/)

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

BHA helps clear up breakouts and keeps oily skin balanced by reducing excess oil and calming redness. It works deep inside pores to clear away dirt and oil while keeping skin smooth and comfortable.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening skincare routines as the first or second cleansing step. To better manage oily acne-prone skin, this type of cleanser also needs ingredients like salicylic acid and soothing plant extracts to deeply clear pores and calm breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by using the cleanser first and applying retinol afterwards. Because this cleanser exfoliates your skin, you may want to start slowly to avoid dryness or irritation.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser works fine for your oily acne-prone skin, though an ideal product for this skin type typically includes balancing ingredients like salicylic acid, soothing plant extracts, and gentle hydrators used daily. It helps clear pores and manage oiliness without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

This cleanser may occasionally cause breakouts or drying for your oily acne-prone skin, as some reviewers experience stripped skin and clogged pores. To work well for this skin, a product of this type needs soothing plant extracts and gentle salicylic acid to keep pores clear without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Can I use this cleanser around the eyes or on my body?

You can use this cleanser on your body, but it is best to avoid the thin, delicate skin directly around your eyes. A cleanser for this skin needs a very gentle, fragrance-free formula with calming and hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 at Amazon
- [Eminence Organic Skin Care Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/eminence-organic-skin-care/clear-skin-probiotic-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 140.26 at Amazon
- [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Low pH Gel Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-low-ph-gel-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 44.75 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 145.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon
- SPF: [Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dear-klairs/all-day-airy-sunscreen/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 95.14 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 36.08 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B0BVV8BNYJ?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Salicylic Acid, C12-14 Pareth-12, Octyldodeceth-16, Melaleuca Alternifolia Extract Tree, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Quercetin, Pentylene Glycol, Willow Bark Extract, Oenothera Biennis Flower Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Disodium Edta, Tocopherol, Ceramide Np, Butylene Glycol, Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Potassium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/anua/heartleaf-bha-pore-deep-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)