# Cetaphil Oil Control for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [Cetaphil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/cetaphil)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/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

- Suitable for combination skin as salicylic acid and glycerin help balance oil production and hydration, offering moderate cleansing benefits for oily skin.
- Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate aids in pore cleansing, though specialized ingredients for managing oiliness are not present.
- The product is safe for your combination 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/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/dry-skin): Warning
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Warning
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Salicylic Acid

## 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/))
- Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate in facial cleanser decreased prokaryotic microbial alpha diversity, altered prokaryotic microbiome structure, increased phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine, and decreased ceramides on facial skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/))
- 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/))
- Coacervates formed from mixed micelles of sodium lauroylsarcosinate and cocamidopropyl betaine with cationic guar gum exhibited a dense porous structure with high viscoelastic modulus under strong electrostatic interactions, and a looser mesh structure with lower viscoelasticity and enhanced skin adsorption under weakened interactions. ([Soft Matter, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38980096/))
- 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/))

## 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

Based on a very large amount of data, this 2-in-1 moisturizer and sunscreen is widely praised by users with oily and acne-prone skin for its ability to hydrate without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Many appreciate its lightweight, matte finish. A significant number of users report that the formula can cause severe stinging if it gets into the eyes.

- Liked: Lightweight texture (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Stings eyes (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective sun protection (often mentioned)
- Liked: Acne-friendly formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating but light (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Leaves white cast (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Formula consistency (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Greasy finish (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (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 Cetaphil Oil Control Cleanser work for combination skin?

Cetaphil Oil Control Cleanser works for combination skin by using salicylic acid and glycerin to balance oil and hydration, though other products fit this skin type better. A cleanser for combination skin needs exceptional safety with no risk of irritation, ingredients that effectively balance oil and maintain hydration for oily shine, and hydrating and barrier-repairing components that address both oily and dry areas.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

Salicylic acid and glycerin help balance oil production and hydration for your combination skin, while sodium lauroyl sarcosinate aids in deep pore cleansing. To fit this skin type even better, a cleanser of this type needs specialized ingredients for managing oiliness alongside barrier-repairing elements that hydrate dry areas.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/)

### 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 Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate do for combination skin?

Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate in a facial cleanser helps clean combination skin, but it may leave dry areas feeling dry and increase skin dryness because it affects skin lipids and the microbiome. A product for this skin needs gentle, balanced cleansers that wash away oil without stripping moisture or disrupting the skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/)

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

This cleanser fits into a combination skin routine as the morning cleanser, and as the second cleanser in the evening after removing makeup.

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol, applying it before your retinol step to wash your face. It is unlikely to irritate your skin, though combination skin also needs specialized ingredients to manage oiliness effectively.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

Use this cleanser daily as part of your morning and evening routine. It helps balance oil and hydration for combination skin, though this skin type generally benefits most from cleansers that also provide specialized oil-control ingredients.

### 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 because its ingredients help clean out pores and balance oil, though combination skin sometimes needs extra ingredients specifically targeted to keep oily areas completely clear.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/)

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

This cleanser works safely on your body, but you should avoid using it directly around your eyes because the skin there is much thinner and more delicate. A product of this type needs extra gentle, hydrating ingredients to care for the thin eye area safely.
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 combination skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Low pH Gel Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-low-ph-gel-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.83 at Amazon
- [Eminence Organic Skin Care Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eminence-organic-skin-care/clear-skin-probiotic-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$69.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$16.77 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00BMJTPEU?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$25.79 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/cetaphil-dermacontrol-oil-control-moisturizer-spf-30/p/BB_772618251203?variantCode=772618251203)
Prices checked 12 Oct – 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Acrylates Copolymer, Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Disodium Edta, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Salicylic Acid
## 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/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/combination-skin