# Principia Gel de Limpeza GL-01 for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Caution fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Caution · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Principia](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/principia)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A poor match for dry skin; the cleansers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Low suitability for dry skin as salicylic acid and sodium laureth sulfate can strip natural oils and exacerbate dryness, while menthol may cause irritation. The formula offers moderate cleansing and exfoliation, which can be too drying for your skin concerns.
- The presence of salicylic acid provides some pore decongestion, but its keratolytic action is not ideal for dry or flaky skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/acne-prone-skin): Low
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Gluconate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Menthol

## What the research says

- Treatment with sodium lauryl ether sulfate emulsion increased transepidermal water loss and skin surface pH while reducing stratum corneum hydration and natural moisturizing factor content compared to diacyl phospholipid emulsions and controls, irrespective of UVA irradiation, in eight healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/))
- Squamometry successfully detected subclinical skin surface alterations and discriminated between the irritating effects of sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate on human skin using an open assay model. ([Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11278060/))
- Skin irritation potential of surfactant mixtures in 13 human subjects was dose dependent, with the highest irritation observed in formulations containing sodium laureth sulfate, lauryl glucoside, and cocamide DEA together. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503452/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Coadministration of 40% topical L-menthol with 10% trans-cinnamaldehyde reduced spontaneous pain intensity, neurogenic inflammation, primary and secondary mechanical hyperalgesia, and heat hyperalgesia, but not cold hyperalgesia, in 14 healthy volunteers. ([The Journal of Pain, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27260636/))
- Topical application of menthol-based cooling gel decreased intramuscular temperature by 1.9 °C and increased cutaneous blood flow by 0.3 ml/min in healthy males compared to placebo gel. ([International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30038834/))
- Cooling skin temperature or applying topical menthol reduced histamine-induced itch intensity and flare diameters in healthy male volunteers. ([Neuroscience Letters, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7624016/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this cleanser is highly regarded for oily and acne-prone skin, effectively managing oil and reducing breakouts without over-drying. Users frequently praise its generous volume and active ingredients for visibly improving skin texture and oiliness over time.

- Liked: Excellent oil control (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Great cost-benefit (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective acne treatment (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle but deep cleaning (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant texture/smell (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Eye burning (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Pump/Packaging issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your skin clean. Start using it daily right away since your skin is not sensitive.
- Apply this cleanser as the very first step in your morning routine and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Follow with your toner and moisturizer afterwards.
- Gently massage a small amount of cleanser onto your face using soft circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Apply this cleanser on slightly damp skin for a comfortable and refreshing wash. This helps maintain your skin's natural moisture while cleansing away dirt.
- Avoid getting the cleanser directly into your eyes to prevent any irritation. Do a simple patch test before your first use to ensure your skin likes it.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with the Principia GL-01 cleanser for dry skin?

Lovi advises caution because salicylic acid and sodium laureth sulfate can strip natural oils and worsen dryness, while menthol may cause irritation. A cleanser for dry skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/), [Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11278060/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a poor fit for dry skin?

Salicylic acid and sodium laureth sulfate make this cleanser a poor fit because they strip natural oils and dry out your skin, while menthol may cause irritation. Cleansers for dry skin need hydrating and soothing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to support the moisture barrier.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/), [Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11278060/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for dry skin?

Salicylic acid is generally not a good fit for dry skin, as it is meant to clear out pores and remove dead skin rather than hydrate. Because dry skin needs soothing and moisture rather than exfoliation, a product for dry skin needs nourishing ingredients like urea to lock in moisture and keep the skin soft.

### What does Glycerin do for dry skin?

Glycerin helps dry skin by drawing in moisture and keeping it locked in, which makes the skin feel much softer and smoother. It also supports your natural skin barrier to stop water from escaping easily. A product for dry skin needs extra ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing plant extracts to truly calm and hydrate dry patches.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine for dry skin. However, because it contains salicylic acid and strong cleansers that may strip natural oils and worsen dryness, dry skin needs a gentle cleanser that focuses on mild cleansing and nourishing ingredients instead.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

Using this cleanser with retinol requires caution, as it may strip natural oils and cause irritation on dry skin. To help prevent further dryness, a cleanser of this type needs soothing and moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and ceramides.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a poor match for dry skin because its ingredients can strip natural oils and cause irritation. If you choose to use it, limit it to just a few times a week or replace it with a gentle, hydrating cleanser that includes nourishing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to keep your skin soft and smooth.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores since it contains salicylic acid to help clear them out, but it may worsen dryness and flaking on dry skin. A cleanser for dry skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like glycerin and mild cleansers that wash away dirt without stripping away natural oils.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/), [Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11278060/)

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

This cleanser may be too harsh for the thin skin around your eyes and dry skin on your body, as its ingredients can strip natural oils and cause irritation. Dry skin of this type needs a gentle, fragrance-free wash with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or ceramides to keep it soft and comfortable.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$30.56 at Amazon
- [ETUDE Soonjung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/etude/soonjung-ph-6-5-whip-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$25.96 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Tata Harper Repairative Moisturizer](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/tata-harper/repairative-moisturizer/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$162.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$38.00 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Fresh Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-poremizing-fresh-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$22.09 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Tata Harper Repairative Moisturizer](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/tata-harper/repairative-moisturizer/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$162.00 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Fresh Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-poremizing-fresh-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$22.09 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Tata Harper Repairative Moisturizer](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/tata-harper/repairative-moisturizer/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$162.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Sorbeth-450 Tristearate, Peg-9 Cocoate, Peg-32 Distearate, Peg-175 Distearate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Menthol, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/principia/gel-de-limpeza-gl-01/for/dry-skin