# SkinMedica Facial Cleanser for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-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: [SkinMedica](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/skinmedica)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your combination skin, as glycerin and panthenol provide humectant action to balance hydration, but lacks specialized ingredients to effectively address oily shine concerns.
- The cleansing agents, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate and Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, offer effective pore decongestion for your oily shine.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients for your combination skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate

## What the research says

- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- 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/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))

## Why other cleansers fit combination skin better

- 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/))

## What reviewers say

This cleanser is highly regarded for its gentle, hydrating, and effective cleansing properties, particularly by users with sensitive, dry, and post-procedure skin. Most users find it leaves their skin soft and calm, with many reporting improvements in texture and clarity. A significant number of reviews mention its high price point as a drawback.

- Liked: Gentle and hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective daily cleanse (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good value (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Makeup removal (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Scent concerns (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser AM and PM as part of your daily routine. Start 3×/week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this cleanser as the very first step in your morning routine and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening.
- Gently massage a small amount of cleanser onto your skin using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- For the best results , apply the cleanser directly onto slightly damp skin to help lift away excess oil.
- 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

### How well does SkinMedica Facial Cleanser work for combination skin?

SkinMedica Facial Cleanser offers moderate suitability for combination skin because glycerin and panthenol balance hydration, but it lacks specialized ingredients to effectively control oily shine. A cleanser for this skin needs ingredients that safely manage oil and maintain moisture without causing irritation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for combination skin?

Glycerin and panthenol help balance hydration by drawing in moisture, while cleansing agents like disodium laureth sulfosuccinate and cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine effectively decongest pores in oily areas. A cleanser for combination skin needs soothing and hydrating ingredients to maintain moisture, along with components that balance oil production and clarify the complexion without causing irritation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Glycerin do for combination skin?

Glycerin helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by pulling moisture in and keeping it there. It improves hydration and supports your skin barrier, which is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract do for combination skin?

Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract helps keep combination skin calm and balanced without feeling heavy. It provides light moisture while supporting your skin against daily stress. This type of skin benefits most from antioxidant-rich plant extracts that soothe dry patches while keeping oily zones clear.

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

SkinMedica Facial Cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine as your cleanser step. It is unlikely to cause irritation on combination skin, but to better balance oily shine, this skin type needs a cleanser that also includes ingredients that specifically target excess oil.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine before applying retinol, since it is unlikely to cause irritation on combination skin. To properly care for combination skin, a product of this type needs additional ingredients that specifically manage oily shine.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. It is very safe and unlikely to cause irritation, making it gentle enough for daily use.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on combination skin, as it contains gentle cleansing agents that effectively clear pores without harsh irritation. However, because it lacks specialized ingredients to control oily shine, combination skin needs a cleanser that also balances oil while maintaining moisture.

### 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 skin directly around the eyes. A cleanser for combination skin needs gentle ingredients like glycerin and panthenol to keep skin soft, along with targeted ingredients to control oily shine.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 44.75 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 140.26 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/combination-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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 179.45 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Parfum, Blue 1 Ci 42090, Ci 47005
## 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/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin (this page)