# Shiseido Complete Cleansing Microfoam for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/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: [Shiseido](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/shiseido)
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

- Suboptimal compatibility with dry or flaky skin as Sodium Laureth Sulfate can strip natural oils, and the formula lacks sufficient humectants like Glycerin and Betaine to effectively combat dryness.
- It offers moderate cleansing benefits for pore decongestion, but the overall hydration and soothing effects are minimal for your dry skin concerns.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin): Low (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/acne-prone-skin): Low
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract, Rice Germ Oil, Hydrolyzed Silk

## What the research says

- Treatment with sodium lauryl ether sulfate emulsion increased transepidermal water loss and skin surface pH while reducing stratum corneum hydration and natural moisturizing factor content compared to diacyl phospholipid emulsions and controls, irrespective of UVA irradiation, in eight healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/))
- Squamometry successfully detected subclinical skin surface alterations and discriminated between the irritating effects of sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate on human skin using an open assay model. ([Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11278060/))
- 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/))
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) treatment decreases lipid membrane chain conformational order and stiffness leading to increased water sorption and diffusivity, whereas sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) treatment increases lipid membrane conformational order and stiffness with increased water sorption capacity driven by its hygroscopic nature. ([Langmuir, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24359219/))
- A Hamamelis virginiana leaf extract increased LOXL1 expression twofold, decreased elafin synthesis, restored functional elastic fibers, reduced nonfunctional elastin aggregates, decreased wrinkles, and improved skin firmness. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30052192/))
- Hamamelis bark proanthocyanidins strongly increased the proliferation of cultured human keratinocytes and reduced transepidermal water loss and erythema formation in SLS-irritated skin, whereas the polysaccharide fraction had no effect. ([Phytochemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11684194/))
- Witch hazel bark extract and hamamelitannin showed pronounced anti-inflammatory activity, supported keratinocyte migration in a wound healing assay, and inhibited Staphylococcus aureus growth, whereas their skin microbiota metabolite ellagic acid stimulated inflammatory mediator release. ([Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40819781/))
- Bacterial cellulose wound dressing containing silk sericin and PHMB improved wound quality and reduced pain compared to Bactigras in patients with split-thickness skin graft donor-site wounds. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30302557/))
- A bacterial nanocellulose wound dressing incorporating polyhexamethylene biguanide and sericin showed no skin irritation in healthy volunteers and significantly promoted wound healing with lower wound size and higher collagen formation in full-thickness rat wounds compared to controls. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26796543/))
- Topical application of sericin gels increased skin intrinsic moisturization, hydroxyproline content, and epidermal hydration while decreasing transepidermal water loss and skin impedance in healthy human volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17168872/))

## Why other cleansers fit dry skin better

- Treatment with sodium lauryl ether sulfate emulsion increased transepidermal water loss and skin surface pH while reducing stratum corneum hydration and natural moisturizing factor content compared to diacyl phospholipid emulsions and controls, irrespective of UVA irradiation, in eight healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- Transgenic cucumber expressing poly-γ-glutamic acid synthesis genes increased water content by 6-14%, reduced water loss by 11-12%, decreased facial wrinkles and roughness by 19.58% and 24.97%, decreased skin melanin by 5.27%, and improved facial elasticity in human skin and zebrafish compared to controls. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38336313/))

## What reviewers say

This cleanser is highly praised for its dense, luxurious foam that effectively removes light makeup and impurities without stripping the skin. Most users report that it leaves their skin feeling soft and hydrated. However, some users find it requires a second cleanse for heavy or waterproof makeup.

- Liked: Hydrating and gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective for daily use (often mentioned)
- Liked: Luxurious foam texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Struggles with makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Oily residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Scent sensitivity (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 Shiseido Complete Cleansing Microfoam a weak match for dry skin?

Shiseido Complete Cleansing Microfoam is a weak match for dry skin because ingredients like sodium laureth sulfate can strip natural oils, and the formula lacks enough hydrating ingredients to prevent dryness. A cleanser for dry skin needs ingredients that effectively cleanse without stripping moisture, along with rich hydrating agents and soothing extracts.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is a poor fit for dry skin because it may strip natural oils and increase moisture loss. Cleansers for dry skin need ingredients that effectively cleanse without stripping moisture, along with rich hydrating agents and soothing extracts.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

### What does Glycerin do for dry skin?

Glycerin helps dry skin by drawing in moisture and keeping it locked in, which makes the skin feel much softer and smoother. It also supports your natural skin barrier to stop water from escaping easily. A product for dry skin needs extra ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing plant extracts to truly calm and hydrate dry patches.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

### What does Sodium Laureth Sulfate do for dry skin?

Sodium laureth sulfate is a cleansing ingredient that is poorly suited for dry skin because it may dry out the skin surface and weaken your natural skin barrier. This type of skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and cleansers with mild surfactants that protect moisture levels and leave skin feeling soft and smooth.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503452/)

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

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening routine, but a cleanser for dry skin needs extra moisturizing ingredients to prevent stripping natural oils.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

This cleanser is a weak match for dry skin because ingredients like Sodium Laureth Sulfate may strip natural oils and dry you out further. If you use it with retinol, dry skin needs a gentle, hydrating cleanser with extra nourishing oils and rich moisture-locking ingredients to prevent irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a weak match for your dry skin because its ingredients may strip your natural oils and leave your skin feeling dry. To care for dry skin, a cleanser needs gentle cleansing agents along with plenty of moisture-restoring ingredients like extra glycerin and rich plant oils.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores, but it may dry out your skin further because it contains a strong detergent that can strip away natural oils. A cleanser for dry skin needs to be extra gentle and packed with rich moisturizers and humectants to keep skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

This cleanser is a weak match for dry skin because its detergent can strip natural oils, and a product of this type needs extra moisture-attracting ingredients and gentle plant oils to keep dry skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

It contains fragrance (parfum and linalool) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- [Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Meltaway Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dr-dennis-gross/hyaluronic-marine-meltaway-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$62.40 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Calming Low pH Foaming Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-low-ph-foaming-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — A$20.79 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, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Peg-8 Glyceryl Isostearate, Peg Ppg-14 7 Dimethyl Ether, Ethylhexylglycerin, Triethylhexanoin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol Denat, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Bht, Linalool, Rice Germ Oil, Tocopherol, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract, Betaine, Hydrolyzed Silk
## 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/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shiseido/complete-cleansing-microfoam/for/dry-skin