# Medicube Red Foam Cleanser for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/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: [Medicube](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/medicube)
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.

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

## Why this fit

- High suitability for your oily skin is provided by salicylic acid and Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, which help decongest pores and potentially regulate sebum production.
- Glycerin and Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E offer general cleansing benefits and soothing effects, contributing to a comfortable experience.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no identified risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of beneficial components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Combining azelaic acid and matrine in dissolving microneedles at a 1:1 molar ratio achieved higher skin permeability, synergistic antibacterial rates above 95%, and no skin irritation compared to commercially available azelaic acid gel. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34284096/))
- 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/))
- Co-amorphous salt of ursodeoxycholic acid and matrine incorporated into dissolving microneedles enhanced aqueous solubility, skin permeation, growth-inhibitory effects against Cutibacterium acnes, and anti-inflammatory activity compared to single-component groups and topical gel in a murine acne model. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42025655/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- A topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced air pollution-induced skin pigmentation and proinflammatory gene expression ex vivo, and improved skin aging signs in 40 healthy adult females after 90 days of daily use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/))
- 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/))
- The cytotoxic effect of sodium lauryl sulphate on normal human keratinocytes was significantly decreased when combined with cocamidopropyl betaine, Tween 20, and Tween 80 at concentrations well below the critical micelle concentration. ([Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677096/))

## What reviewers say

Users with oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin highly rate this cleanser for its deep pore cleansing and sebum control. Most users report clearer skin and reduced breakouts, though some find it slightly drying if their skin barrier is compromised or not sufficiently oily.

- Liked: Deep cleansing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective acne control (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on sensitive (often mentioned)
- Liked: Rich lather (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying or stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Difficult to rinse (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Medicinal scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (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

### What makes Medicube Red Foam a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Medicube Red Foam Cleanser is a great fit because salicylic acid and Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract help clear out pores and manage excess oil on your skin. Glycerin and Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E also bring soothing effects to keep your face comfortable while cleansing.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/)

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

Salicylic acid and Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract make this cleanser a great fit by helping to clear out pores and keep oil levels balanced. Glycerin and Vitamin E also add soothing effects to keep your skin 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/)

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

Salicylic acid helps clear breakouts and keeps oily skin balanced by reducing oil levels and calming inflammation. It is well suited for oily, acne-prone skin because it targets pimples while helping keep the skin hydrated and protected.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

### What does Sophora Root Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Sophora root extract helps calm redness and manage breakouts on oily, acne-prone skin. When paired with azelaic acid, it also helps fight blemish-causing bacteria while keeping your skin comfortable.
Sources: [European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34284096/)

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

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening routine as the main cleansing step. It helps clear pores and manage oil while keeping your skin comfortable, and it is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by applying the cleanser first to clean your skin, and following with your retinol treatment afterwards. This routine helps clear out pores while keeping your skin comfortable, as the salicylic acid works alongside gentle ingredients to minimize irritation.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine for oily acne-prone skin. It contains salicylic acid and soothing ingredients that help keep pores clear and maintain comfort without causing irritation.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [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 is a great fit for oily acne-prone skin because salicylic acid and Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract help clear out pores and may help control oil. Vitamin E adds a soothing effect and is unlikely to clog pores.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/)

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

This cleanser is intended for facial use and may be too strong for the very thin skin around the eyes, though it can be used on body skin like the back where skin is thicker. When using it on oily skin, it helps clear out pores and manage oil without causing irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

### 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 50.50 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B073ZBXSJD?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Glycol Distearate, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Disodium Edta, Lauric Acid, Magnesium Nitrate, Magnesium Chloride, Myristic Acid, Sodium Chloride, Stearic Acid, Water, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E, Potassium Hydroxide, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Peg-8 Beeswax, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Bht, Methylisothiazolinone, Cocamide Dea
## 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/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)