# Medicube Red Cleansing Oil for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/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: [Medicube](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/medicube)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/makeup-removers)

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 pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your oily skin and acne concerns, as Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Extract and Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf provide mild exfoliation and antimicrobial effects to help manage breakouts and oiliness.
- The formula effectively removes makeup and impurities due to Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, though it lacks stronger ingredients for optimal oil control.
- The product is safe for your skin, with Squalane and Jojoba Seed Oil offering soothing benefits and no risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Jojoba Seed Oil, Oil Tree Leaf, Macadamia Seed Oil, Juglans Regia Seed Oil

## What the research says

- Topical 5% tea tree oil gel significantly improved total acne lesions and acne severity index compared to placebo in 60 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, showing 3.55 times and 5.75 times greater efficacy respectively. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/))
- Lactobacillus-fermented Chamaecyparis obtusa reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 65.3% compared to 38.2% with tea tree oil in 34 patients over 8 weeks, demonstrating superior efficacy, faster onset, and safety. ([Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25228478/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical application of jojoba wax reduced LPS-induced secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα by approximately 30% and increased the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid compared to untreated skin in an ex-vivo human skin organ culture model. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Topical jojoba oil application in male mice decreased exercise-induced pro-inflammatory gene expression (Il-1b and Il-6 in soleus, Il-1b in gastrocnemius) compared to untreated exercised mice. ([Biomolecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41154623/))
- Nanolipidgel formulations with argan or jojoba oil and humectants demonstrate good sensory attributes, instrumental properties, and moisturizing efficacy for cosmetic application. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24772476/))
- Topical herbal treatments including lemon balm, olive leaf extract, propolis, and sage-rhubarb cream reduce pain, swelling, lesion size, and healing time in patients with herpes labialis compared with placebo or acyclovir. ([Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40526027/))
- Topical oleuropein formulations reduced erythema, transepidermal water loss, and blood flow by approximately 22%, 35%, and 30% in healthy volunteers with UVB-induced erythema. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18377620/))
- An oil-in-serum formulation containing olive extract standardized in hydroxytyrosol improved skin barrier function and significantly reduced hyperpigmentation in participants with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after 45 days of application. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41507660/))
- Enzymatically interesterified fats based on mutton tallow and walnut oil produced emulsions that resulted in greater skin moisturization compared to non-interesterified fat and received positive sensory evaluations from 83 respondents. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25319767/))
- Walnut oil significantly promoted wound healing and reduced healing time in rats with skin defect wounds compared to vaseline gauze, accompanied by decreased inflammation, increased capillary formation, lower NF-kB expression, and higher EGF, TGF-β1, and MMP-1 expression. ([Die Pharmazie, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30522556/))

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

- Epigallocatechin-3-gallate significantly improved acne in patients compared to the control side during an 8-week clinical trial. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/))
- Topical application of tocopherol succinate ethosomal gel decreased erythema, melanin, and sebum levels while improving moisture content and skin elasticity in 34 human women. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38268219/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this cleansing oil is highly recommended for users with acne-prone and sensitive skin due to its gentle, non-comedogenic formula that effectively removes makeup without causing irritation. Many appreciate its lightweight, water-like texture. Some users find the consistency too runny and messy, and opinions vary on its ability to remove deep blackheads compared to heavier cleansing oils.

- Liked: Acne-safe, gentle (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective makeup removal (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Runny consistency (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Leaves residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Medicinal scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Mild cleansing (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine to clear away impurities. Start by using it 3×/week before working up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser and toner. Follow it with your usual cleansing steps to ensure all residue is thoroughly washed away.
- Gently press a small amount of the makeup remover onto your face using soft cotton pads. Avoid harsh rubbing to prevent irritating your blemishes and active breakouts.
- Apply the makeup remover on completely dry skin to effectively break down excess oil and makeup. Clean away thoroughly before moving on to the next skincare steps .
- Do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well. Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Medicube Red Cleansing Oil work for oily acne-prone skin?

Medicube Red Cleansing Oil works moderately well for oily acne-prone skin, as it removes makeup effectively and helps manage breakouts with mild exfoliation and soothing ingredients. To best fit this skin type, a product of this type needs strong oil control ingredients, lightweight hydration that does not clog pores, and targeted breakout-fighting components.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/)

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

Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Extract and Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf make this cleanser a good fit because they provide mild exfoliation and antimicrobial effects to help manage breakouts and oiliness. Squalane and Jojoba Seed Oil also offer soothing benefits with no risk of irritation.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/)

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

Squalane may help keep oily skin soft and smooth, but oxidized squalene can trigger inflammation in acne-prone skin. Because of this, oily acne-prone skin needs lightweight, non-greasy ingredients that balance moisture without clogging pores.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

### What does Jojoba Seed Oil do for oily acne-prone skin?

Jojoba seed oil helps calm oily, acne-prone skin and may reduce blemishes when used regularly as part of your routine. Studies show it helps lower skin inflammation and supports a clear, balanced complexion.
Sources: [Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/), [Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/)

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

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your cleanser, or as a weekly step before your cleanser, to help melt away makeup and impurities. This type of product needs stronger ingredients for optimal oil control to better manage oily skin and breakouts.

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

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine before your cleanser and treatment, but this skin type needs stronger ingredients for optimal oil control and breakout management.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine as the first step to take off makeup and impurities. This type of product needs stronger oil control ingredients to fully meet the needs of oily acne-prone skin.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to cause irritation and feels soothing on your skin, though it may leave a light residue. A product of this type needs stronger oil control ingredients to better manage breakouts and oiliness on oily acne-prone skin.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.99 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Wipes](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/gentle-makeup-removing-wipes/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$9.97 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [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
- 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

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Hydrogenated Poly C6-14 Olefin, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Polysorbate 20, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Squalane, Jojoba Seed Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Juglans Regia Seed Oil, Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil Oat Kernel Oil
## 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/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin