# CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/cerave)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/makeup-removers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your oily skin as Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil provides some emollient action, but it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control.
- The formula effectively removes makeup and impurities with ethylhexyl palmitate and peg-20 glyceryl triisostearate, though it does not contain specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to target your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your oily skin with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Jojoba Seed Oil, Tocopherol

## What the research says

- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Topical application of jojoba wax reduced LPS-induced secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα by approximately 30% and increased the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid compared to untreated skin in an ex-vivo human skin organ culture model. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/))
- Topical jojoba oil application in male mice decreased exercise-induced pro-inflammatory gene expression (Il-1b and Il-6 in soleus, Il-1b in gastrocnemius) compared to untreated exercised mice. ([Biomolecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41154623/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## Why other pre-cleansers fit oily acne-prone skin better

- Epigallocatechin-3-gallate significantly improved acne in patients compared to the control side during an 8-week clinical trial. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this balm is highly recommended by users with sensitive and dry skin for its effective makeup removal without stripping moisture. While most users find it excellent for all types of makeup, a significant number of reviews mention the small product size relative to its price and a plastic-like smell despite the product being fragrance-free.

- Liked: Hydrating and non-stripping (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Small size, poor value (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective makeup removal (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes blurry vision (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Leaves oily residue (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (sometimes noted)

## How to apply

- Use this makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine to clear away impurities. Start by using it 3×/week before working up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser and toner. Follow it with your usual cleansing steps to ensure all residue is thoroughly washed away.
- Gently press a small amount of the makeup remover onto your face using soft cotton pads. Avoid harsh rubbing to prevent irritating your blemishes and active breakouts.
- Apply the makeup remover on completely dry skin to effectively break down excess oil and makeup. Clean away thoroughly before moving on to the next skincare steps .
- Do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well. Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does the CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm work for oily acne-prone skin?

This cleanser balm works okay for oily acne-prone skin because it removes makeup well without irritating, though it lacks oil control or breakout-fighting ingredients. A better match for this skin needs soothing hydrators and ingredients that target excess oil and blemishes.
Sources: [Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/)

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

Jojoba seed oil helps make this cleanser a decent fit by offering some softening action, while ceramides help protect your skin barrier. However, because it lacks oil-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid, an oily acne-prone skin type needs a cleanser with ingredients that clear excess oil and target breakouts.
Sources: [Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/)

### What do Ceramides do for oily acne-prone skin?

Ceramides help keep oily acne-prone skin calm and smooth by strengthening the skin barrier and locking in moisture. Since acne-prone skin often has lower levels of these natural lipids, adding ceramides helps reduce irritation, redness, and moisture loss. A product for this skin type needs barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides and gentle hydrators to prevent dryness and balance oil.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41749022/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37605504/)

### What does Ceramide AP do for oily acne-prone skin?

Ceramide AP helps restore the skin barrier, which is often weakened and deficient in ceramides when dealing with acne. Because acne-prone skin needs a strong barrier and balanced oil levels to prevent breakouts, this ingredient works best alongside lightweight, non-greasy hydrators and oil-controlling extracts.
Sources: [Cureus, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40385800/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29851147/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your cleanser, and as part of your weekly routine. To better fit oily acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to target breakouts and blemishes.

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

You can use this makeup remover before your cleanser in the evening before applying retinol, as it is unlikely to irritate your skin. A product of this type for oily acne-prone skin needs ingredients that help control oil and target breakouts.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this makeup remover in the evening whenever you wear makeup, as it works well for oily acne-prone skin while lacking targeted ingredients for breakouts. To get better results for this skin type, a product of this type needs specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to target acne.

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

This cleanser is safe for your oily skin and is unlikely to cause irritation, but it leaves an oily residue and does not contain salicylic acid or other ingredients to target acne and breakouts. To fit oily acne-prone skin well, a makeup remover of this type needs acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid for oil control.
Sources: [Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.99 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Wipes](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/gentle-makeup-removing-wipes/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$9.97 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$22.79 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/cerave-hydrating-cream-to-foam-cleanser-makeup-remover-an/p/EG95?variantCode=3606000569072)
Prices checked 17 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polyethylene, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Water, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Simmondsia Chinensis Jojoba Seed Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopherol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, Benzoic Acid, Peg-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
## 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/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/makeup-removing-cleanser-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin