# Cetaphil Oil Control for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/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: [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 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 cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your oily skin, as sodium lauroyl sarcosinate and salicylic acid help decongest pores and provide supportive benefits for acne and breakouts.
- Camellia sinensis leaf extract and aloe provide antioxidant and soothing properties, which are beneficial for maintaining healthy skin.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## 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
- [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 (this page)

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Salicylic Acid

## What the research says

- 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 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/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))

## 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 as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it daily to help clear your breakouts.
- Apply this cleanser as the first step in the morning and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Follow it with your toner and moisturizer.
- Gently massage a small amount of the cleanser onto your face using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help clean deeply and remove excess oil. This works best for oily skin types.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Cetaphil Oil Control Cleanser work for oily acne-prone skin?

Cetaphil Oil Control Cleanser offers moderate cleansing for oily acne-prone skin, as its ingredients help clear pores and calm breakouts safely without irritation. For the best fit on this skin type, a cleanser needs soothing and effective ingredients like Niacinamide, Ceramides, or probiotics to balance oil production and maintain clarity while cleaning.
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/)

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

This cleanser is a good fit for oily acne-prone skin because sodium lauroyl sarcosinate and salicylic acid help decongest pores, while camellia sinensis leaf extract and aloe soothe the skin. To work best for this skin type, a product of this type needs soothing and effective ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, probiotics, or glycerin.
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 Glycerin do for oily acne-prone skin?

Glycerin helps keep oily acne-prone skin hydrated without feeling heavy. It draws moisture into the skin while supporting the skin barrier so it stays soft and balanced.
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 oily acne-prone skin?

Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is a cleansing ingredient that helps wash away excess oil, but it may decrease ceramides and alter the skin microbiome on oily, acne-prone skin. Because of this, an oily, acne-prone skin cleanser needs gentle surfactants and moisturizing ingredients that clean the skin without weakening its barrier or stripping away healthy lipids.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/), [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728695/)

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening steps of your routine before applying toners, treatments, and moisturizers. An average-fitting product for oily acne-prone skin needs deep pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid and soothing plant extracts to keep skin calm and clear without irritation.

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by applying the cleanser first and following it with your retinol treatment. This cleanser is unlikely to irritate your oily acne-prone skin, but to give you the best fit, a product of this type needs stronger blemish-fighting ingredients and barrier-repairing components like ceramides.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in your morning and evening routines. It helps clear pores and calm breakouts while keeping your skin comfortable, but oily acne-prone skin often needs stronger oil control and deeper pore-clearing ingredients to get the best results.
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/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it contains salicylic acid to help clear out pores, but an average fit for your oily acne-prone skin means it would work better with added ingredients like clay or niacinamide to thoroughly control excess oil and shine.
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/)

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

This cleanser is safe to use on the body, but it is generally best to avoid applying salicylic acid cleansers directly around the delicate eye area. A product of this type needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and non-irritating cleansers to safely care for thin skin.
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 oily acne-prone skin

- [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
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.98 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/oily-acne-prone-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/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
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-acne-prone-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/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cetaphil/oil-control/for/oily-acne-prone-skin