# La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Low · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [La Roche-Posay](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/la-roche-posay)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for dry skin; the cleansers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers mild exfoliation for your dry or flaky skin due to salicylic acid and glycerin, which help to hydrate and gently remove dead skin cells.
- The presence of zinc PCA aids in decongesting pores, providing excellent cleansing benefits for acne-prone skin.
- The formula is safe for your dry skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and contains soothing components like glycerin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Low (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Micro-Exfoliating Lha, Zinc Pca, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical nicotinamide plus an antibacterial adhesive agent and zinc-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid combined with adapalene significantly reduced noninflammatory acne lesions by the second week of therapy compared to placebo with adapalene in patients with moderate acne vulgaris. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Capryloyl salicylic acid peel reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation comparably to glycolic acid peel in 44 female volunteers, with no statistically significant differences between the two treatments. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146601/))
- Combining a salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acid facial serum and mask improved closed comedones and acne severity significantly more than serum alone in adults with acne over 8 weeks, with no adverse reactions reported. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36999489/))
- Parity was demonstrated between an OTC BPO 5.5% formulation with lipohydroxy acid and tretinoin cream 0.025% versus prescription clindamycin 1%-BPO 5% gel and tretinoin cream 0.025% in participants with mild to moderate acne vulgaris at 12 weeks. ([Cutis, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22838094/))
- Zinc PCA inhibits UVA-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 production through suppressed AP-1 activation and enhances type I collagen synthesis by increasing SVCT2 mRNA expression in cultured normal human dermal fibroblasts. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21834944/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this cleanser is highly praised by users with oily and acne-prone skin for its ability to significantly reduce breakouts and control excess sebum without being overly harsh. While most find it effective for smoothing texture and deep cleaning, a subset of users experiences dryness, purging, or irritation, particularly those with sensitive skin barriers.

- Liked: Clears acne (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Deep clean (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation and redness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Purging phase (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your skin clean. Start using it daily right away since your skin is not sensitive.
- Apply this cleanser as the very first step in your morning routine and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Follow with your toner and moisturizer afterwards.
- Gently massage a small amount of cleanser onto your face using soft circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Apply this cleanser on slightly damp skin for a comfortable and refreshing wash. This helps maintain your skin's natural moisture while cleansing away dirt.
- Avoid getting the cleanser directly into your eyes to prevent any irritation. Do a simple patch test before your first use to ensure your skin likes it.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser a weak match for dry skin?

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is a weak match for dry skin because its exfoliating and acne-clearing ingredients may be too stripping. Dry skin needs a cleanser that provides deep hydration and barrier support through essential ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, or niacinamide to maintain moisture levels without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a poor fit for dry skin?

Salicylic acid and sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate make this cleanser a weak match for dry skin because they can strip away natural oils and cause irritation. Dry skin needs a cleanser with essential ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, and niacinamide to support the moisture barrier and provide hydration without irritation.

### What does Salicylic Acid do for dry skin?

Salicylic acid is generally not a good fit for dry skin, as it is meant to clear out pores and remove dead skin rather than hydrate. Because dry skin needs soothing and moisture rather than exfoliation, a product for dry skin needs nourishing ingredients like urea to lock in moisture and keep the skin soft.

### What does Lipohydroxy Acid do for dry skin?

Lipohydroxy acid is a peeling ingredient that is likely too strong and drying for dry skin, which needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and barrier-restoring creams rather than deep pore-clearing acids.

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

This cleanser is used in the morning and evening steps of your routine for dry skin. A mild cleanser paired with a moisturizer helps improve visual dryness and clinical scores in dry skin.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol, but because it is a weak match for dry skin, it may cause extra dryness when paired together. Use a gentle cleanser with added ceramides and glycerin alongside a hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin feeling soft and comfortable.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in your morning and evening routines, though it is a weak match for dry skin. Dry skin needs a gentle, hydrating cleanser with nourishing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and prevent tightness.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores since it contains zinc PCA to help decongest them, but reviewers note it may leave dry skin feeling stripped or dry. A cleanser for dry skin needs extra hydrating ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid to keep skin soft and prevent moisture loss.
Sources: [The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/)

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

This cleanser is generally too strong for the thin skin around the eyes and works best for body breakouts when followed by a rich hydrator. Cleansers for dry skin need gentle, hydrating ingredients and barrier-supporting components like glycerin to prevent tightness and moisture loss.
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 dry skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$19.39 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.59 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE IN Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/torriden/dive-in-cleansing-foam/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$20.00 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.59 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$23.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.09 at Amazon
- SPF: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.35 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.59 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.09 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.35 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.59 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-skin) — High fit — A$35.50 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$28.48 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$26.09 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Glycerin, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid, Zinc Pca, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol
## 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/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/effaclar-medicated-gel-cleanser/for/dry-skin