# Dermalogica ultracalming™ cleanser 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/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-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: [Dermalogica](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/dermalogica)
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 with Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine, effectively removing impurities without causing irritation. Glycerin provides some humectant action to maintain hydration, though it does not offer significant oil control.
- While the formula is safe for your oily skin, it lacks specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to directly address your concerns with acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your skin due to the absence of harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Citric Acid

## 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/))
- Sodium cocoyl isethionate micelles are too large to penetrate stratum corneum aqueous pores, resulting in significant steric hindrance that prevents skin barrier perturbation and explains its skin mildness. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- A novel composition containing salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, HEPES, glycolic acid, citric acid, and dioic acid showed similar tolerance and efficacy compared with clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in subjects with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23545907/))
- Daily treatment with a facial serum containing multiple acids reduced post-inflammatory hyperchromia lesion grade and number by 29.4% at 56 days, and decreased skin oiliness by 30.7% at 7 days in Brazilian patients with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/))
- Topical 20% citric acid lotion increases viable epidermal thickness and dermal glycosaminoglycan content in sun-damaged skin compared to vehicle alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9256916/))

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

- Topical application of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 enhanced collagen synthesis and SPTSSA gene expression while reducing melanin synthesis, Staphylococcus aureus biofilm, and Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, leading to clinical improvements in skin moisture, color, spots, wrinkles, UV spots, and porphyrins in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- A novel emulsion containing niacinamide, lens esculenta seed extract, and white willow bark extract effectively improved acne, blackheads, and conspicuous facial pores in 30 subjects with oily skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38140770/))

## What reviewers say

Users consistently report that it effectively reduces redness and fortifies the skin barrier, leaving it hydrated. Many note that it is too mild to remove heavy makeup or sunscreen on its own, often requiring a double-cleanse routine.

- Liked: Extremely gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor makeup removal (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Safe for eyes (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture preference (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 Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser work for oily acne-prone skin?

Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser cleans your oily skin safely, but it lacks ingredients to directly target breakouts. A cleanser for this skin needs soothing and effective ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides, or probiotics and salicylic acid.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

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

Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, and Glycerin help this cleanser remove impurities gently while maintaining hydration. Because it lacks specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to target breakouts, an oily acne-prone skin type needs a cleanser with ingredients like Niacinamide, ceramides, or probiotics to balance oil and clear blemishes.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate do for oily acne-prone skin?

Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate is a gentle cleansing ingredient that helps wash away excess oil and dirt from oily acne-prone skin without stripping away essential moisture. Cleansers with mild ingredients like this are unlikely to damage the skin barrier, keeping your skin feeling clean and soft.
Sources: [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728695/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25899676/)

### What does Cocamidopropyl Betaine do for oily acne-prone skin?

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a cleansing ingredient that helps wash away dirt and excess oil from oily, acne-prone skin, though it may occasionally cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. This type of skin needs gentle cleansers and oil-reducing ingredients that clear pores while keeping the skin barrier healthy and calm.

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

This cleanser goes in your morning and evening routine as the main cleansing step, and in your weekly routine right before the makeup remover and enzyme powder. It safely removes impurities without causing irritation, though oily acne-prone skin also needs specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to directly address breakouts.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol as part of your routine, applying the cleanser first to remove impurities before following with your retinol treatment. This cleanser is safe for your skin, but because it lacks ingredients like salicylic acid for breakouts, your routine for oily acne-prone skin needs a dedicated acne treatment to help clear blemishes.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day in the morning and evening as part of your daily routine. It washes away dirt and oil gently without causing irritation, though oily acne-prone skin needs specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to directly target breakouts.

### 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 is safe for your skin and removes impurities without irritation, though it lacks specialized ingredients like salicylic acid to directly address acne. An acne-prone cleanser of this type needs targeted ingredients like salicylic acid to clear blemishes and help control oil.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

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

You can safely use this cleanser on your body and around your eyes because it is gentle and well tolerated by the skin in those areas. However, because the skin on the body and the thin skin around the eyes have very different thicknesses, you may need a specialized product to target specific concerns in those spots.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum, limonene, linalool, and citral).

## 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$108.00 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00D58RWPU?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Sephora: CA$69.00 (https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/ultracalming-cleanser-P423127?skuId=2002368)
Prices checked 15 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Glycol Distearate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Parfum, Limonene, Linalool, Citral
## 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/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/ultracalmingtm-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin