# Neutrogena Hydro Boost Exfoliating Cleanser for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/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 Arab Emirates.

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

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.

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

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your combination skin due to the presence of glycolic acid and lactic acid, which offer good keratolytic action and desquamation regulation for effective exfoliation.
- These acids provide moderate exfoliation for your acne and blemishes, aiding in smoothing texture and clearing pores.
- The formula is safe for your acne-prone skin, as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Glycerin

## What the research says

- A combination of dermapen and glycolic acid peel significantly decreased acne scar grades and resulted in higher patient satisfaction compared to either monotherapy in 30 patients. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- Incorporating 1, 2, and 5 percent papain into starch- and carboxymethyl cellulose-based films preserved proteolytic and skin exfoliation activity while improving mechanical properties and water solubility compared to control films, with immobilized enzyme maintaining stability for up to 90 days. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36652986/))
- 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/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- Topical papain treatment may slightly decrease pain within 30 minutes in humans stung by Chrysaora chinensis compared to placebo. ([Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26827260/))
- Reflux extraction of Carica papaya leaves yielded higher antioxidant capacity and superior in vitro wound-healing activities including fibroblast proliferation, cell migration, and collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts compared to ultrasonic-assisted extraction and agitation. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31991676/))
- Carica papaya leaf extracts obtained via supercritical fluid and conventional methods demonstrated antioxidant and cytoprotective effects on skin fibroblasts against oxidative stress, driven by their respective lipophilic and hydrophilic constituents. ([Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33803330/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this cleanser is frequently praised for its gentle exfoliation, leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed, particularly for those with combination and dry skin. A moderate number of users report it causes dryness or tightness, and a low number of users with sensitive skin experienced irritation or breakouts, suggesting the exfoliating agents and fragrance may be too potent for reactive skin types.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing feel (often mentioned)
- Liked: Softens texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes dryness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective/gentle (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Irritation/breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it.
- This cleanser is the first step in your morning routine and the second step after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Always follow up with a toner and moisturizer .
- Gently massage a small amount of the cleanser onto your face in circular motions. Avoid harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help it work effectively against breakouts. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water .
- Avoid the immediate eye area and do a patch test before your first use to check for any sensitivity.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Neutrogena Hydro Boost Exfoliating Cleanser a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This cleanser is a great fit because it contains glycolic acid and lactic acid, which gently lift away dead skin cells to help clear pores and smooth out rough texture. It also features fruit extract to support exfoliation while keeping your acne-prone skin safe from harsh ingredients that might cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

This cleanser is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because it contains glycolic acid and lactic acid, which help clear pores and smooth out rough texture. It also features papaya fruit extract to gently remove dead skin cells while keeping your skin calm and safe from harsh irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/), [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36652986/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps acne-prone skin by soothing irritation, calming redness, and keeping the skin balanced without clogging pores. When combined with targeted ingredients like zinc oxide, it may also help reduce breakouts.
Sources: [Biomedicines, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41007718/), [Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Glycolic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and breakouts. It also helps fade dark spots left behind by acne and controls skin oiliness, with very few side effects when used properly.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24447110/)

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

This cleanser fits well into an acne-prone routine as a morning face wash or evening makeup remover step. Glycolic and lactic acids help clear pores and smooth texture, while avoiding harsh ingredients that may cause irritation.

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by using the cleanser first in your routine to clear your pores, followed by your retinol treatment. Using this gentle exfoliating approach helps smooth your skin texture while maintaining a safe profile that is unlikely to cause irritation when paired with your treatments.
Sources: [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/)

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this cleanser once a week, and if your skin feels comfortable and you like the results, you can carefully use it more often. This gentle exfoliation helps smooth texture and clear pores while keeping your skin calm.
Sources: [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/), [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36652986/)

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

This cleanser is a great fit for acne-prone skin and is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it features gentle exfoliating acids that help clear pores and smooth texture without harsh ingredients that irritate skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30548170/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

You should avoid using this cleanser around the eyes, as the skin there is very thin and may easily become irritated by its exfoliating acids. It is generally fine to use on the body, though the thick skin there may not respond as quickly as facial skin.
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 acne-prone skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 at Amazon
- [PURITO Defence Barrier pH Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/purito/defence-barrier-ph-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 51.32 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE IN Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/torriden/dive-in-cleansing-foam/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 59.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 91.81 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 92.70 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 161.59 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B073VX6DFH?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Dodecenylsuccinate Starch, Acrylates Crosspolymer-4, Cellulose, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
## 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/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)