# REN Clean Skincare ClearCalm Non-Drying Acne Treatment Gel for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [REN Clean Skincare](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/ren-clean-skincare)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/serums)

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.

A great choice for combination skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your combination skin, this product effectively treats oily shine with salicylic acid and willow bark extract, which work to exfoliate and regulate sebum production. The moderate concentrations of salicylic acid and lactic acid provide excellent pore decongestion and treatment for acne.
- Pinus pinaster bark extract and chlorella vulgaris extract offer additional antioxidant benefits and skin conditioning.
- The formula 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/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Willow Bark Extract, Sandalwood Oil, Thymus Vulgaris Oil Leaf, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract

## 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/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- Bioactive lipid nanocarriers co-loaded with willow bark or ivy leaf extracts and UV-filters provided pronounced UVA photoprotection up to an SPF-equivalent value of 13 and a maximum in vivo skin hydration effect of 97% when prepared with pomegranate oil. ([Nanomaterials, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889587/))
- A topical serum containing 0.5% salicin applied twice daily reduced visible signs of skin aging, including wrinkles and tactile roughness, in 30 female subjects over 12 weeks compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20883292/))
- A novel emulsion containing niacinamide, lens esculenta seed extract, and white willow bark extract effectively improved acne, blackheads, and conspicuous facial pores in 30 subjects with oily skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38140770/))
- Topical East Indian sandalwood oil applied twice daily resulted in complete resolution of molluscum contagiosum lesions in 90% of subjects within twelve weeks without side effects. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29103323/))
- A 3D-printed sodium alginate-gelatin-Santalum album oil hydrogel scaffold demonstrated antibacterial activity, improved fibroblast viability, and enhanced full-thickness wound healing with reduced scar formation in rat models compared to control groups. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39756601/))
- Melasolv application twice daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced the melanin index and improved the size and color intensity of pigmented spots in Southeast Asian women compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33533074/))
- Gel-phosphatidylcholine-thymol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers increased skin hydration, decreased water loss, and reduced skin sebum in healthy volunteers compared to baseline. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38142012/))
- Thyme oil encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles and formulated as a hydrogel demonstrates excellent antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties suitable for treating inflammatory skin disorders such as acne vulgaris. ([Gels, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38391479/))
- Lipid extracts of Chlorella vulgaris and Arthrospira platensis protect Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts against UVA-induced oxidative stress and 2-propanol-induced IL-6 expression in vitro. ([Food Science and Technology International = Ciencia Y Tecnologia de Los Alimentos Internacional, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39033441/))
- Oral and topical administration of ROQUETTE Chlorella sp. at higher doses significantly reduced skin inflammation scores and improved the healing process and duration of skin wounds in mice compared to untreated models. ([Anti-inflammatory & Anti-allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24965517/))
- Resilient factor (RF, an aqueous extract fraction of Chlorella) suppressed PMA- and UVB-induced MMP1 production, protein, and gene expression, prevented UVB-suppressed elastin protein, and increased pro-collagen mRNA expression in human skin fibroblasts compared to untreated controls. ([European Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18474460/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this treatment is praised for its gentle, non-drying formula that effectively reduces redness and inflammation without causing flaking. It is excellent for sensitive skin and preventing new breakouts, though some users find it works too slowly on active blemishes compared to stronger alternatives.

- Liked: Non-drying & gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces redness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Works under makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow or weak results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Medicinal scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Rare irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes REN ClearCalm Non-Drying Acne Treatment Gel a great fit for combination skin?

This product is a great fit for your combination skin because it uses salicylic acid and willow bark extract to clear oily shine and decongest pores. It also includes pinus pinaster bark extract and chlorella vulgaris extract to provide antioxidant benefits and condition your skin safely without harsh 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/)

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

Salicylic acid and willow bark extract make this treatment a great fit by clearing oily shine and unclogging pores on combination skin. Additional ingredients like lactic acid, pinus pinaster bark extract, and chlorella vulgaris extract help treat acne and condition the skin without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

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

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Willow Bark Extract do for combination skin?

Willow bark extract helps balance oily areas by reducing excess oil and calming redness without drying out the skin. It also supports smoother, softer texture and helps keep pores clear across different facial zones.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Planta Medica, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30690691/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine, after cleansing and before your moisturizer. You can start using it once a week and then use it more often if your skin handles it well.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol, but it is best to apply retinol in your nighttime routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, while keeping this acne treatment for separate days or times to prevent irritation. The formula is safe for your skin with no harsh ingredients that typically trigger severe reactions.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

Use this treatment in your evening routine once a week to start, and if your skin handles it well, you may carefully use it more often. This product helps clear pores and treat oily shine with salicylic acid and willow bark extract, while being safe for your skin with no harsh ingredients.
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 treatment clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This treatment is a great fit for your combination skin because salicylic acid and willow bark extract help clear pores and regulate oily shine without harsh ingredients that cause 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/)

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

It contains fragrance (farnesol) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$52.32 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$639.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Salicylic Acid, Caprylyl Capryl Glucoside, Salix Nigra Bark Extract Willow Bark Extract, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Sodium Benzoate, Xylitol, Propanediol, Sandalwood Oil Wood, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glucose, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate, Thymus Vulgaris Oil Leaf, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Sodium Surfactin, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Farnesol
## 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/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/ren-clean-skincare/clearcalm-non-drying-acne-treatment-gel/for/combination-skin