# La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/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: [La Roche-Posay](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/la-roche-posay)
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

- Offers moderate suitability for your combination skin as glycerin provides humectant action and niacinamide helps regulate sebum, though it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control on your oily areas.
- The cleansing agents, sodium laureth sulfate and coco-betaine, effectively cleanse pores, supporting your goal of managing oily shine.
- 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/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water, Shea Butter, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Coco-Betaine

## 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/))
- Balneotherapy with thermal water altered specific skin microbiota at genus and species levels in healthy female volunteers compared to tap water, which produced no significant microbiome changes. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36983902/))
- Malaysian thermal spring water as an adjunct to standard acne therapy improved skin hydration, reduced dryness and stinging, enhanced overall tolerability, and improved the acne disability index in patients with mild to moderate acne. ([The Medical Journal of Malaysia, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38553920/))
- A 2% Sphingomonas xenophaga ferment extract cream applied twice daily for 4 weeks significantly decreased facial vascular disorder scores compared to vehicle in 86 Caucasian female subjects, alongside dose-dependent inhibition of pre-kallikrein activity in vitro. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40545753/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## 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

A small minority experience breakouts or find the scentless formula has a faint chemical odor.

- Liked: Gentle & non-stripping (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fragrance-free (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Versatile use (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts or reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Low lather (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Not moisturizing enough (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant natural 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 Lipikar Wash AP+ work for combination skin?

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ works moderately well for your combination skin because glycerin keeps it hydrated and niacinamide helps control oil, though it lacks enough ingredients for complete oil control on your oily areas. A cleanser for this skin needs ingredients that safely balance oil production, keep both dry and oily zones hydrated, and thoroughly clean pores without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin and niacinamide make this cleanser a good fit for combination skin because glycerin keeps skin hydrated and niacinamide helps control oil. It is unlikely to irritate your skin, but a cleanser for combination skin needs better oil-balancing ingredients and strong oil control for oily areas.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Prebiotic Thermal Water do for combination skin?

Prebiotic Thermal Water helps balance and comfort combination skin by supporting the natural skin microbiome. This type of product needs soothing minerals and friendly prebiotics to keep dry areas hydrated and oily zones calm.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36239004/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41524133/)

### What does Shea Butter do for combination skin?

Shea butter helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by supporting the skin barrier and providing gentle moisture. This ingredient is unlikely to clog pores when used in balanced amounts, helping to calm dry areas while keeping the oily zones comfortable.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29280987/)

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

This cleanser goes in your morning and evening routine, used as the first step before applying toners, treatments, and moisturizers. A cleanser of this type for combination skin needs extra ingredients that help control oil on your oily areas.
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 in your routine before applying retinol, as it safely cleans pores without harsh ingredients. A cleanser for this skin needs gentle cleansing agents and ingredients that help manage oily shine while keeping the skin comfortable.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in your morning and evening routines as it safely cleans pores, though combination skin needs extra oil-control ingredients for optimal balance on oily areas.

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your combination skin, as complaints about breakouts are low and it is free of harsh ingredients. However, because it has an average fit for this skin type, it needs extra oil-controlling ingredients to properly balance your oily areas.

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but you should be cautious around the eyes since facial cleansers may sometimes cause stinging in that thinner area. A cleanser for combination skin needs gentle surfactants to clean without stripping, alongside balanced hydrators and oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide to keep both dry and oily zones comfortable.
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$25.95 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01LTGM28G?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$25.95 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/la-roche-posay-lipikar-huile-lavante-ap-fragrance-free/p/BB_3337875853484?variantCode=3337875853484)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Coco-Betaine, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Niacinamide, Acrylates Copolymer, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Cocamide Mea, Disodium Edta, Glycol Distearate, Mannose, Polyquaternium-11, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Vitreoscilla Ferment
## 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/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-wash-ap/for/combination-skin