# SkinMedica Facial Cleanser for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

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

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

Works for dry sensitive skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your dry and sensitive skin, as Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate and Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine help decongest pores, while glycerin and panthenol provide some humectant action.
- The formula offers general hydration and cleansing benefits, but lacks specialized ingredients to fully address your dry or flaky skin concerns.
- The product is safe for your 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/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate

## What the research says

- 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 new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- 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/))

## Why other cleansers fit dry sensitive skin better

- Phytosphingosine increased filaggrin metabolism and skin hydration in human skin by stimulating filaggrin biosynthesis and degradation leading to natural moisturizing factor formation. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28936777/))
- In 50 participants with sensitive skin, a Ceramide NP C15-containing emollient improved skin barrier function with a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss and induced modest changes in skin microbiota compared to the vehicle. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758783/))
- A lipid mixture enriched by ceramide NP with fatty acids of diverse chain lengths significantly improved skin barrier recovery rate, stratum corneum integrity, and hydration compared to a vehicle cream in healthy adult male volunteers with corticosteroid-impaired skin. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34348350/))

## What reviewers say

This cleanser is highly regarded for its gentle, hydrating, and effective cleansing properties, particularly by users with sensitive, dry, and post-procedure skin. Most users find it leaves their skin soft and calm, with many reporting improvements in texture and clarity. A significant number of reviews mention its high price point as a drawback.

- Liked: Gentle and hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective daily cleanse (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good value (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Makeup removal (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Scent concerns (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your face fresh. Start slowly once a day if your dry skin feels sensitive at first.
- Apply your cleanser first thing in your routine before any toner or moisturizer. Follow the usual steps for your AM or PM daily routine.
- Gently massage the cleanser onto your face using soft circular motions. Avoid harsh rubbing to protect your dry skin.
- Apply the cleanser to slightly damp skin to help it clean gently without stripping moisture. This method is very safe for sensitive and dry skin types.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and avoid the delicate eye area. Always do a patch test before using the product for the first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SkinMedica Facial Cleanser work for dry sensitive skin?

SkinMedica Facial Cleanser works moderately well for dry sensitive skin by clearing pores while providing some moisture, though it lacks specialized ingredients to fully address dryness. Cleansers of this type need a rich blend of hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and skin health.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

Glycerin and panthenol make this cleanser a fit by providing moisture to help soothe your dry and sensitive skin. Because this cleanser offers only moderate benefits, a product for this skin needs ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and other barrier-repairing ingredients to fully address dryness.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### What does Glycerin do for dry sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps dry sensitive skin by drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it there, making the skin soft and smooth. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving how well the skin holds onto water. This type of skin needs ingredients that boost hydration and repair the barrier without causing stinging.
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/)

### What does Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract do for dry sensitive skin?

Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract helps keep dry sensitive skin calm and soft by adding soothing moisture. This ingredient is unlikely to cause irritation and supports your skin barrier.

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

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening routines as the first or second step to wash your face gently without irritation. Because your dry and sensitive skin needs extra help to stay comfortable, this type of product should ideally be paired with rich hydrators and soothing oils to truly tackle flakiness.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol, applying the cleanser first to clean your skin before putting on your retinol treatment. A cleanser for this skin needs barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides and rich hydrators to keep dry skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in the morning and evening as part of your routine. It is safe for your skin, but because it lacks specialized ingredients for dry or flaky skin, this skin type needs extra rich moisturizers and barrier-repairing ingredients to stay smooth and comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry sensitive skin. Its mild cleansing ingredients help clear pores without adding heavy oils.

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

You can use this cleanser on your body and around your eyes, as the formula is safe for your skin with no risks of irritation. For this dry and sensitive skin, a cleanser of this type needs extra soothing oils and rich moisturizers to fully address flakiness.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-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-sensitive-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-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$25.96 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$38.00 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Parfum, Blue 1 Ci 42090, Ci 47005
## 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/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinmedica/facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin