# Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/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.

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few cleansers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin and acne concerns is provided by niacinamide, which helps regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, complemented by glycerin for essential hydration.
- The cleansing agents, cocamidopropyl betaine and disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, effectively remove impurities and excess oil, supporting your goal of managing breakouts.
- The formula is safe for your skin, as it contains soothing ingredients and lacks harsh or irritating components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Panthenol, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- The cytotoxic effect of sodium lauryl sulphate on normal human keratinocytes was significantly decreased when combined with cocamidopropyl betaine, Tween 20, and Tween 80 at concentrations well below the critical micelle concentration. ([Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677096/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily and acne-prone skin find this cleanser highly effective at removing excess oil and preventing breakouts. Most users report it balances deep cleaning with gentleness, though some with combination or sensitive skin mention it can be drying if used too often.

- Liked: Effective oil control (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good lather/texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces acne (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Medicinal smell (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Poor makeup removal (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

### What makes Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

This cleanser is a great fit because niacinamide helps balance oil and calm redness, while glycerin keeps your skin comfortably hydrated without feeling heavy. Its gentle cleansing agents wash away extra oil and impurities to help manage breakouts without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

This cleanser is a great fit because niacinamide helps regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, while glycerin provides essential hydration without feeling heavy. Additionally, gentle cleansing agents like cocamidopropyl betaine effectively remove excess oil and impurities to help manage breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oil production, calms redness, and is unlikely to irritate oily, acne-prone skin while improving blemishes. Clinical tests show it reduces excess oil and helps clear up both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/)

### What does Panthenol do for oily acne-prone skin?

Panthenol helps regulate sebum, improves skin hydration, and reduces redness and irritation in oily acne-prone skin. It is well tolerated and may support barrier recovery without causing adverse reactions.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/)

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

This cleanser is used both morning and evening as the first step of your routine before applying toners, treatments, and moisturizers. Using a mild cleanser twice a day helps remove excess oil and impurities while keeping your skin calm and hydrated.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by applying the cleanser first on damp skin, rinsing thoroughly, and then following with your retinol treatment once your face is completely dry. This gentle cleansing step helps remove excess oil and impurities without stripping your skin, creating a clean base that is unlikely to react poorly with your retinol product.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin and can be used daily in both your morning and evening routines. It features niacinamide and gentle cleansing agents that effectively remove excess oil and impurities while helping to manage breakouts and keep your skin calm.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on oily acne-prone skin, as its ingredients help clear away excess oil and impurities while calming irritation. However, because it can feel drying for some people, it may occasionally lead to irritation if your skin barrier becomes too dry.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/)

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

This cleanser is gentle enough for the body, but take care when using it near the eyes since that skin is very thin and sensitive. The soothing ingredients help keep skin calm and comfortable without causing irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum, citronellol, geraniol, and linalool).

## 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$17.97 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B007RWWWR8?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$23.29 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/cetaphil-oily-skin-cleanser/p/CV04?variantCode=772618532050)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Pantolactone, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Parfum, Amyl Cinnamal, Citronellol, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool, Sodium Chloride, Citric 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/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cetaphil/oily-skin-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin